Options other than MBBS

All hope is not lost for those who did not score well in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), the results of which were announced on Friday last. There is a plethora of options  for students to choose from.

Educationists say that there are many alternative courses that students can explore.

“For students looking at courses other than MBBS or BDS, there are plenty of other courses in the medical field. The most popular options are biotechnology, radiology and pharmaceutical based ones,” explains educationist, Pavittra Aroon.

In the past, most of the medical aspirants would choose biotechnology, but now, with more options available, they can  also land a lucrative job depending on the course they choose.

She further adds, “Students need to keep in mind that the courses they choose need to be progressive, something that would hold relevance 15-20 years from now. With the niche fields like occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical lab technology or an interdisciplinary programme like environmental science coming up, students can still qualify to work in an occupation associated with the medical field. Most of these begin with an undergraduate degree. Those who want  to study further can always pursue a masters. Genology, genetic engineering, molecular biology etc could be the options.” A degree in Ayurvedic Science, BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics, BSc in Biological Sciences, BSc in Forensic Sciences, BSc in Psychology and Physiotherapy, are already popular among students. The Madras University, MOP Vaishnav College, Ethiraj College  and WCC offer these courses.

Dr Alagar Raja, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Saveetha Medical College, says, “Students who pass out with a BE in Biomedical Engineering,  get placed in corporate hospitals, as there is a good demand. Many private institutes offer courses in Orthotics and Prosthetics and are in demand.” According to him another good option is to pursue BSc Nursing, as offers scope to work abroad. Compared to the earlier trend, there are more males who are joining these courses.

Students can opt for a regular bachelors degree in tissue engineering, dialysis technology, Radiology, MRI technology and can find placement in private hospitals, say experts.   Raja further says that before joining an institution, a student must do enough research to ensure that the courses are recognised.