Paediatrics Courses: Duration, Admission Process & Scope

Have you ever seen a doctor handling a crying child with a smile, calmness, and confidence? That’s a paediatrician – a specialist in child health. In today’s world, paediatrics is more than just treating childhood illnesses. It’s about nurturing future generations. The demand for paediatricians in India is growing fast, thanks to rising awareness about child health, better access to healthcare, and increasing population. If you're passionate about working with children and want a career that's both rewarding and respected, paediatrics might be your calling.

Check out different paediatrics courses below.

👶 What is Paediatrics?

Paediatrics is a branch of medicine that deals with the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. A paediatrician is a medical doctor who manages the physical, behavioral, and mental health of children from birth till 18 years of age.

💡 Why Choose a Career in Paediatrics?

Working in paediatrics is like becoming a child's superhero. Not only do you get to cure diseases, but you also play a vital role in their overall development. Here's why it’s a great choice:

• Emotionally Rewarding: You’re helping kids live healthier lives.

• High Demand: India needs more trained paediatricians.

• Stable Career: Consistent job opportunities in both public and private sectors.

• Good Work-Life Balance: Some branches of paediatrics offer relatively manageable hours.

🎓 Types of Paediatrics Courses in India

➡️ Undergraduate Courses

• MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery): This is the first step. During MBBS, you learn the basics of all specializations, including paediatrics.

➡️ Postgraduate Courses

• MD in Paediatrics: This is the most sought-after specialization after MBBS for those who want to become paediatricians.

• DNB Paediatrics: Offered by the National Board of Examinations, equivalent to MD in most institutions.

➡️ Diploma Courses

• DCH (Diploma in Child Health): A shorter 2-year course for basic specialization in paediatrics.

➡️ Fellowship & Certificate Programs

• Fellowship in Neonatology

• Fellowship in Paediatric Cardiology

• Fellowship in Paediatric Neurology

➡️ Online & Short-Term Courses

• Offered by institutions like Apollo Medvarsity, IAP, etc., for practicing doctors looking to upskill.

⏳ Duration of Paediatrics Courses

Course Type	Duration
MBBS	5.5 years
MD in Paediatrics	3 years
DCH	2 years
DNB Paediatrics	3 years
Fellowship Programs	1-2 years
Certificate Courses	6 months – 1 year

✅ Eligibility Criteria

For MBBS

• Must have completed 10+2 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

• NEET-UG qualification

For MD/DNB Paediatrics

• MBBS degree from a recognized university

• NEET-PG or INI-CET qualification

For Super-Specialty (DM/Fellowship)

• MD/DNB in Paediatrics

• Entrance tests or direct interview (based on program)

📝 Admission Process

Step 1: Qualify NEET UG

• Required for MBBS admission

Step 2: Apply to Medical Colleges

• Based on NEET UG rank

Step 3: Complete MBBS

• Graduate and register with Medical Council

Step 4: Appear for NEET PG or INI-CET

• For MD or DNB Paediatrics

Step 5: Counseling and Admission

• Allotment based on rank, preferences, and category

🏫 Top Colleges for Paediatrics in India

• AIIMS, Delhi

• Christian Medical College, Vellore

• Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh

• Maulana Azad Medical College, Delhi

• Kasturba Medical College, Manipal

These institutions are known for their excellent paediatrics departments, research opportunities, and quality teaching.

🧠 Skills Required to Succeed in Paediatrics

Being good with kids isn’t enough—you also need:

• Strong Communication Skills – to explain treatment to both kids and parents

• Patience and Calmness – children can be unpredictable!

• Empathy – treating a child involves emotional support

• Analytical Thinking – accurate diagnosis is key

📘 Curriculum Overview

MBBS Stage

• Basics of child health covered in community medicine and paediatrics postings

MD Paediatrics

• Advanced training in:

  • Neonatology

  • Paediatric infections

  • Vaccinations

  • Growth and development

  • Paediatric emergencies

Clinical Rotations

• NICU (Neonatal ICU)

• PICU (Paediatric ICU)

• General OPD/IPD

💼 Career Opportunities After Paediatrics Courses

• Government Hospitals – As paediatric officers or consultants

• Private Hospitals & Clinics – High-paying jobs

• Academia & Research – Join as medical faculty or research fellow

• NGOs/UNICEF/WHO – Community and global health projects

• Start Your Own Practice – Open a paediatric clinic

🧑‍⚕️ Job Roles and Designations

• General Paediatrician

• Neonatologist (newborn specialist)

• Paediatric Cardiologist

• Paediatric Neurologist

• Paediatric Intensivist

• Academic Professor in Paediatrics

💰 Salary Expectations

Experience Level	Average Salary (INR/Month)
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000
Senior Consultant	₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000+

Note: Salaries vary by location, hospital type, and specialization.

⚠️ Challenges in the Field of Paediatrics

• Dealing with critical or terminally ill children

• Emotional burden for doctors and families

• Odd working hours, especially in emergency care

• Managing anxious parents

🔮 Future Scope and Advancements in Paediatrics

The future of paediatrics looks bright with:

• Sub-specializations like paediatric gastroenterology, endocrinology

• Tele-paediatrics – Remote consultations growing rapidly

• Child Psychiatry & Developmental Paediatrics

• Advancements in Neonatal Care

🔚 Conclusion

Paediatrics isn’t just a career—it’s a responsibility. You’re not just treating kids; you’re shaping healthy futures. With rising awareness, technological advancements, and healthcare access, paediatrics is evolving into a dynamic and rewarding field. Whether you're planning to start with MBBS or go for a specialization, there's a vast and meaningful journey waiting for you in this branch of medicine.

❓ FAQs

1. Is Paediatrics a good career in India?

Yes, with increasing child population and healthcare awareness, paediatrics offers great job security, emotional satisfaction, and income.

2. What is the difference between MD Paediatrics and DCH?

MD is a 3-year postgraduate degree with deeper clinical training, while DCH is a 2-year diploma suitable for general practice.

3. Can I become a Paediatrician without MBBS?

No. MBBS is mandatory as the foundational course to pursue any paediatrics specialization in India.

4. What is the highest-paying paediatric specialty?

Neonatology and Paediatric Cardiology are among the highest-paying sub-specialties in paediatrics.

5. Is NEET compulsory for Paediatrics?

Yes. NEET-UG is required for MBBS and NEET-PG for MD/DNB Paediatrics.