Difference Between MD & MBBS

MBBS stands for B achelor of M edicine- B achelor of S urgery, while MD stands for D octor of M edicine.

What is MBBS?

MBBS is an undergraduate, first professional degree in medicine. MBBS courses are designed to train students in all fields of medicine.

T he courses include Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Applied Medical Biochemistry, Applied Pharmacology, Human Pathology, Human Microbiology, Otolaryngology, Dermatology, Pediatrics and even General Surgery. Although it varies between countries, a MBBS degree is typically completed in 4 and a half years. In most countries, the student is required to complete an internship before being awarded the degree in order to demonstrate sufficient exposure. This is so that the students have a qualified amount of practical exposure.

What is MD?

MD is a Masters/Postgraduate degree. A candidate becomes eligible for MD only after successfully completing a MBBS degree. Some countries consider a MD degree a professional doctorate for surgeons and physicians (i.e U.S.A and, Phillipines). Others, consider it a research degree equal in value to a Ph. D.

Therefore, a student completes a MD after the MBBS to obtain training on a specialization of choice. MD specializations include pediatrics, gynecology, obstetrics, ophthalmology, dentistry and the like. An MD is expected to gradually make the student a specialist in the Medical branch of choice. MD degrees are typically completed in 2 years. Various universities and colleges across the world mandate a submission of a dissertation and thesis as a program requirement.

Medical Degree in the US Vs India

MBBS (India) MD (US)
Curriculum After 10+2 students must take an entrance test such as PMT, CBSE or AFMC etc. A passing score allows admission into the MBBS program. A MBBS graduate can practice medicine independently or pursue a MD or MS post graduate degree. Pre-Med (four years of Undergraduate program), MD program (Four years) and USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1, 2 & 3).
Admission Requirements Passing 10+2, or equivalent thereof Undergraduate degree or four years of study, preferably from a US accredited institution.

International students have at least four years of study after 10+2, to apply for a MD program in the US.

Type of Degree Undergraduate double degree;

General medical degree

Masters/Postgraduate Degree
Completion 4 and a half years 2 years

Completion of a Pre-Med program does not allow one to become a doctor or guarantee admission into medical school, but it is a prerequisite to begin a MD program. The field of medicine is extremely competitive. Students are encouraged to maintain high undergraduate Grade Point Averages (GPA) to secure admission.

United States
In the United States, the first professional medical degree is known as Doctor Of Medicine (MD.) A student must complete a 4 year Undergraduate degree in order to pursue a MD. Upon completing undergraduate studies, the graduate is expected to successfully pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT.) before moving on to the 4 year MD degree. The extensive training and grueling evaluation is expected to prepare students to take on to the nuances and complexities of medicine.

India and United Kingdom

In India and United Kingdom, MD is an advanced academic degree in the field of medical science, similar to a doctorate or a PhD. In India students begin with a MBBS degree. It's completion denotes the kind of training required to be approved as a licensed physician. A MD degree represents a higher post-graduate degree for specialty training. Only medical graduates with MBBS degrees are only eligible to pursue a MD degree. After successfully completing a 3 year study and the respective exam, both practical and theoretical; that a candidate would be conferred with the MD degree.

The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), requires full disclosure of all medical education credentials including MBBS graduate school records and any other degrees thereafter.

The International Medical Education Directory (IMED) lists and provides information on thousands of medical schools around the world and includes the title of the medical degree awarded in different countries. IMED is maintained by the Foundation for Advancement of Medical Education and Research (FAIMER).