An MD (Doctor of Medicine) is a postgraduate degree pursued after MBBS, focusing on general medicine and preparing doctors for broader clinical practice. It usually lasts 2–4 years. In contrast, a DM (Doctorate of Medicine) is a super-speciality, postdoctoral degree pursued after MD, lasting 3 years and offers expertise in highly specialised fields like Cardiology, Neurology or Oncology. MD graduates typically start with an average salary of ₹8 LPA, while DM specialists earn around ₹10 LPA. The choice depends on whether you want general medical practice (MD) or advanced specialisation (DM).
Once you complete your MBBS degree, the next step in your medical journey can feel confusing. Should you pursue an MD (Doctor of Medicine) or a DM (Doctorate of Medicine)? Both degrees are prestigious, but they serve different purposes in shaping your medical career. While an MD is a postgraduate degree focusing on general medicine and broader clinical knowledge, a DM is a super speciality postdoctoral degree designed for deep expertise in a specialised medical field.
In this blog, let’s break down the difference between MD and DM in terms of meaning, eligibility, duration, scope and future opportunities to help you make an informed choice.
MD vs DM: Overview
Here’s a quick comparison table that highlights the difference between MD and DM:
| Particulars | MD (Doctor of Medicine) | DM (Doctorate of Medicine) |
| Meaning | Postgraduate degree in medicine | Super-speciality postdoctoral degree |
| Level of Education | Master’s (after MBBS) | Doctorate (after MD) |
| Eligibility | MBBS or equivalent | MD or equivalent |
| Scope of Practice | General medical practice | Specialised care & consultancy |
| Duration | 2–4 years | 3 years |
| Academic Roles | Teaching, general research | Research & advanced teaching |
| Hospital Roles | Physician, general specialist | Super-specialist consultant |
| Average Starting Salary (India) | ₹8 LPA per year | ₹10 LPA per year |
| Popular Degrees | MD in Pediatrics, General Medicine, Radiology, Psychiatry | DM in Neurology, Cardiology, Oncology, Gastroenterology |
Read also: What’s the Difference Between MD and MBBS?
What Is an MD?
An MD (Doctor of Medicine) is a postgraduate degree pursued after MBBS. It focuses on building strong theoretical and clinical knowledge in medicine, preparing doctors to practice as physicians or specialists in a broad range of medical fields.
- Duration: 2–4 years (depending on country and institution)
- Level: Postgraduate degree
- Focus: General medicine, diagnosis, patient management
- Who Can Pursue? MBBS graduates
Popular MD Specialisations:
- MD in General Medicine
- MD in Pediatrics
- MD in Radiology
- MD in Psychiatry
- MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology
- MD in Dermatology
- MD in Pathology
- MD in Anesthesiology
- MD in Community Medicine
Related: MD in USA for Indian Students: Fees, Admission, Eligibility & Requirements
What Is a DM?
A DM (Doctorate of Medicine) is a super-speciality medical degree pursued after completing an MD. It provides in-depth, research-focused knowledge in a specific branch of medicine and prepares doctors to become experts and consultants in that area.
- Duration: 3 years
- Level: Postdoctoral super-specialisation
- Focus: Advanced expertise in a specialised field
- Who Can Pursue? MD graduates
Popular DM Specialisations:
- DM in Cardiology
- DM in Neurology
- DM in Nephrology
- DM in Gastroenterology
- DM in Endocrinology
- DM in Pulmonary Medicine
- DM in Rheumatology
- DM in Medical Oncology
- DM in Immunology
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for MD
- MBBS degree from a recognised medical institution
- Entrance exam qualification (NEET PG in India or equivalent abroad)
- Good academic record
- Interview and/or practical tests (varies by university)
Eligibility for DM
- MD degree in a relevant field
- Entrance exam qualification (NEET SS in India or equivalent abroad)
- Strong academic and clinical background
- Some institutions require prior work or research experience
Top Universities for MD and DM Degrees (Global)
| University | QS World Ranking 2024 | Average Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
| Harvard University, USA | 4 | $69,300 |
| University of Oxford, UK | 3 | $37,637 |
| Stanford University, USA | 5 | $58,746 |
| Johns Hopkins University, USA | 28 | $62,850 |
| University of Cambridge, UK | 2 | $12,367 |
| Karolinska Institutet, Sweden | 10 (2023) | $36,519 |
| Imperial College London, UK | 6 | $63,227 |
| University of California, Los Angeles | 29 | $49,559 |
| University of California, San Francisco | 8 (by subject) | $52,606 |
Future Scope After MD vs DM
The scope of MD and DM differs significantly based on their level of expertise:
Career Options After MD
- Clinical practice as a physician
- Teaching and research in medical colleges
- Hospitalist roles in general care
- Healthcare administration
Career Options After DM
- Super-specialist consultant (e.g., cardiologist, neurologist)
- Research and advanced teaching roles
- Leadership positions in specialty hospitals
- Opportunities in global healthcare institutions
Salary Difference:
- MD graduates in India earn an average starting salary of ₹8 LPA
- DM graduates usually start with ₹10 LPA or more, depending on their specialisation
MD or DM: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between MD and DM depends on your career goals:
- If you want to start practicing earlier and keep options open → MD is the better choice.
- If you want to specialise deeply in one area and become an expert consultant → DM is the way forward.
- Many doctors pursue MD first, then DM, combining general and specialised expertise for long-term growth.
Conclusion
The key difference between MD and DM lies in the level of study and scope. An MD makes you a specialist doctor, while a DM makes you a super-specialist. If you’re looking for flexibility and a broad career path, MD is a good option. If you want expertise, prestige, and higher salaries, DM is the right choice. Many doctors pursue both for long-term career growth.
Still confused about whether to choose MD or DM after MBBS? Don’t worry—your career path deserves clarity. Connect with our expert counsellors today and get personalized guidance for your medical journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which degree is higher, MD or DM?
DM is higher than MD. MD is a postgraduate degree after MBBS, while DM is a postdoctoral super-speciality pursued after MD.
2. Can I do DM without doing MD first?
No, you cannot. An MD or equivalent postgraduate medical degree is mandatory before applying for DM.
3. What is the duration of MD and DM courses?
MD typically takes 2–4 years, while DM is usually 3 years long.
4. Is MD equivalent to a PhD?
In some countries, MD is considered equivalent to a PhD in medical sciences, but in India, MD is a postgraduate degree, not a doctorate.
5. Which is tougher, MD or DM?
Both are challenging, but DM is considered tougher because it involves super-specialisation and research-focused training.
6. Can MD doctors perform surgery?
No, MD graduates cannot perform surgeries. They are trained for medicine. For surgery, one must pursue MS (Master of Surgery) or super-speciality surgical courses.
7. Which entrance exam is required for MD in India?
Admission to MD in India is through NEET PG conducted by NBE.
8. Which entrance exam is required for DM in India?
DM admissions in India require NEET SS (Super Speciality exam) conducted by NBE.
9. What is the starting salary of MD doctors in India?
On average, MD doctors earn around ₹8 LPA at the start, depending on their speciality and hospital.
10. What is the salary of DM doctors in India?
DM doctors usually earn ₹10–15 LPA, with higher packages in super-specialities like cardiology and oncology.
11. Can I pursue MD abroad after MBBS in India?
Yes, you can. Many Indian students pursue MD in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Germany after clearing the respective entrance exams (USMLE, PLAB, etc.).
12. Is DM compulsory after MD?
No, DM is not compulsory. Many doctors practice successfully with only an MD, while others choose DM for higher expertise.
13. Which has more scope in India, MD or DM?
MD offers broader career opportunities, but DM doctors have higher demand in super-speciality hospitals due to their niche expertise.
14. Do MD and DM doctors get teaching opportunities?
Yes. MD graduates can teach in medical colleges as faculty, while DM graduates often teach at super-speciality institutes.
15. Can DM doctors practice general medicine?
Yes, DM doctors can practice general medicine, but they are primarily recognised for their super-speciality expertise.
16. Which specialisation is best in MD?
Some of the most popular MD specialisations are General Medicine, Pediatrics, Radiology, Psychiatry, and Dermatology.
17. Which specialisation is best in DM?
Top DM specialisations include Cardiology, Neurology, Nephrology, Gastroenterology, and Oncology.
18. Can I do research after MD?
Yes. MD graduates can pursue medical research, join teaching roles, or continue with DM for further expertise.
19. What is the global recognition of MD and DM?
An MD is widely recognised internationally, while DM is primarily recognised in India and a few other countries. To practice abroad, licensing exams may be required.
20. Which should I choose—MD or DM?
Choose MD if you want a broad practice with flexible career options. Opt for DM if you want to become a super-specialist in a focused medical field.