For all the aspiring future doctors who are currently giving NEET entrance examination, it is a need to know what other career paths to choose other than MBBS. The most recent famous being BUMS. At the end of this article you will be knowing all the important info like the syllabus, course duration, books, further education, colleges, etc.
Stick to the end to read the entire BUMS overview!
An Overview of BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery)
1. Introduction to BUMS
The Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) is a professional undergraduate degree in Unani medicine, one of the oldest systems of alternative healing. Rooted in Greek-Arabic medical traditions and enriched by Indian practices, Unani emphasizes balance in the body’s humors and uses natural therapies. The course equips students with both traditional medical knowledge and modern medical sciences, preparing them to serve as healthcare professionals in this field.
2. Course Structure
The BUMS program is generally 4.5 years long, including 4 years of academic study and a 6-month mandatory internship.
Anatomy, Physiology, Unani fundamentals Para-clinical Subjects: Pathology, Pharmacology, Toxicology Clinical Subjects: Medicine, Surgery, Gynecology, Pediatrics (with Unani emphasis) Unani Specializations: Ilmul Advia (Pharmacology of Unani drugs), Moalijat (Medicine), Kulliyat (Basic principles), and Tahaffuzi wa Samaji Tib (Preventive and Social Medicine) The course blends classical Unani practices with modern diagnostics, making graduates skilled in both traditional and contemporary approaches.
3. Eligibility Criteria
To apply for BUMS, candidates typically need:
Educational Qualification: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology as core subjects
Minimum Marks: Usually 50% aggregate (relaxation for reserved categories as per government norms)
Entrance Exam: NEET-UG is the common requirement in most colleges.
Language Requirement: Knowledge of Urdu/Arabic/Persian is preferred in some institutions, as many Unani texts are in these languages.
4. Career Opportunities after BUMS
Graduates have multiple career options:
Medical Practice: Register as a Unani physician and practice in clinics or hospitals
Government Jobs: Opportunities in AYUSH departments, research centers, public health services
Academics: Teaching positions in Unani colleges after postgraduation
Research & Pharma: Work in herbal drug research, formulation, or pharmaceutical industries
Entrepreneurship: Open private clinics, wellness centers, or herbal product businesses
With the growing popularity of AYUSH systems worldwide, BUMS graduates are seeing rising demand in both India and abroad.
5. Top Colleges Offering BUMS
Some reputed institutions for pursuing BUMS in India include:
Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh
Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM), Bengaluru
Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College, Aligarh
State Ayurvedic and Unani Colleges (various states run recognized institutes).
Admission is mostly through NEET-UG counseling under the AYUSH quota.
6. Conclusion
The BUMS degree is more than just an academic pursuit—it’s an entry into a holistic healthcare system that has served humanity for centuries. With structured learning, a blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, and expanding career horizons, BUMS is a strong option for students passionate about alternative medicine. For those drawn to healing through natural approaches, it can be both a rewarding career path and a meaningful way to contribute to healthcare.