Tuesday, December 18, 2007

What is the scope of MSc in medical microbiology in India?

Medical M.Sc (Master of Science) courses in medical subjects including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Pharmacology are offered by several medical colleges across India under the faculty of Medicine. There are few non-medical institutions, which offer this degree under the faculty of science. The number of institutions offering these courses have declined over the recent years. Not many are aware of its value and utility. The fee structure has been on the rise ever since I took my admission in 1993.

I shall concentrate only on M.Sc in medical microbiology only. Even though this is a postgraduate (PG) course, some people have difficulty in accepting it so. Typically, any PG course lasts only for two years but medical M.Sc courses are offered in many medical colleges for three years. The first year is dedicated entirely to learning medical subjects like Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry just the way first year MBBS students do. The only difference lies in Anatomy where brain and limbs are not included in the syllabus. After the student clears the first year, he/she can then proceed to the subject of specialty, which lasts for two years. 

Update: Medical M.Sc course were originally included in the first schedule of the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956. Medical colleges (up to 1980s) used to seek permission from the Medical Council of India (MCI) for starting medical M.Sc courses. Mysteriously, MCI has washed its hands off from these courses, with no trace of any such decision (in gazette or by law). UGC, however recognizes medical M.Sc as a two-year course. Kasturba Medical College (Manipal University), which used to offer medical M.Sc as a three-year course has cut it down to two-year course thereby taking away the 'medical' component of the first year in basic medical sciences.

During the two-years of the second part of the study, the student has to take up 2-3 internal assessment examination and undertake a dissertation. The course, curriculum and system of examination are exactly similar to that of MD a course. The only difference between M.Sc and MD course is the duration, MD students get three years to study the same portion. During the course, the student has to present subject and culture seminars besides undertaking a research work leading to submission of dissertation. In some colleges dissertation may not be compulsory. In few other colleges, research methodology and teaching skills are also taught to the students. At the end of two years, a final examination would be held, consisting of theory and practical examination. Practical examination is held for three days and the examiner panel consisting of internal as well as external examiners. The pattern of examination is same that of MD examination. The successful candidate is then awarded a Masters degree in Medical Microbiology and a certificate is given to this effect at convocation.

The options these students have next is limited. Unreserved candidates securing 60% or above and reserved candidates with 55% can pursue higher education by undertaking a doctoral study (Ph.D). Clearance of UGC CSIR/NET and Gate exams with good results would be added benefit as they would be given preference in universities. A regular scholarship too would be given. A student can pursue Ph.D in any institution or university of choice as long as it is recognized by UGC. MCI doesn't involve itself in this process. A Ph.D obtained from non-medical (health) universities will not be recognized by MCI for teaching jobs. Those not interested in Ph.D or unable to purse may opt for other studies such as bioinformatics, clinical research, medical transcription, biotechnology, genetics etc. Other less desirable study options include computer courses. Students not interested in further studies can find employment in diagnostic laboratories, call centers, pharmaceutical companies or biotech companies. If you are lucky you could land a technician job at any hospital in Gulf. Or worse, one can join a medical college as a teacher.

Scope of M.Sc students joining in medical colleges as faculty: In simple words, there is no scope at all. There was a time when there were no takers for pre- and para-clinical subjects like microbiology by MBBS graduates, the M.Sc degree holders were then in demand. Now almost every college has full admission to MD microbiology. Each year 20-30 MD students pass out of medical colleges from Karnataka alone and the number of M.Sc students from both the colleges too is almost same. With so many MD degree holders around, the scope for M.Sc degree holders is scarce. Many institutions are not appointing M.Sc degree holders these days. They are appointed to the non-teaching posts of tutors or demonstrators. After three years, these candidates are elgible to be promoted as Assistant Professors (even without Ph.D), which is wrongly and unjustly denied in several institutions. MCI's approach in this regard has been inconsistent and confusing. It has recognized medical M.Sc persons (without Ph.D) with three years of expereince as tutors/demonstrators as assistant professors but insists on Ph.D in its website. In the general body meeting of MCI, it was adopted that Ph.D should not be made compulsory for the post of Assistant Professor but the same has not appeared yet in the gazette. In simple words, a M.Sc faculty can not expect any growth in medical college without a Ph.D. The pay package in private institutions too may vary with the degree, where M.Sc degree holders may be underpaid.  The discrimination between M.Sc and MD degree holders is intense and many times unhealthy. A M.Sc degree holder is branded as "non-medico" and is looked down upon in many cases.

It makes sense that a person with no teaching experience has no eligibility to be an examiner. While MSc's are considered perfectly capable of teaching undergraduates, they are not considered capable of examining students. What extra skill does one need to be an examiner? Only Ph.D holders are allowed to be examiners. How does a research study on a narrow topic can confer upon an M.Sc teacher a "skill" to become an examiner? The reasons for not letting MSc's become examiners are more than what meets the eye. It is simply a denial of opportunity in order to consider themselves (MDs) superior to MSc's.

Clinical diagnostics is an integral part of medical M.Sc in Microbiology. Like MDs, the students are taught about the etiology, disease pathogenesis, and its laboratory diagnosis (including specimen collection & transport, principle & procedure of diagnostic tests and interpretation). After the degree is obtained one can practice in clinical diagnostic microbiology as a consultant. People opposed to this degree have launched campaign and lobbying to prevent medical M.Sc from practicing diagnostic microbiology. NABL, which recognizes medical M.Sc (with or without Ph.D) as signatory for diagnostic laboratories, is under pressure to withdraw this recognition. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has brought out an act (Clinical Establishment Act), whose guidelines (although not applicable all over India) has unjustly denied any role for medical M.Sc degree holders in diagnostic laboratories. This essentially means that medical M.Sc graduates are not allowed to practice what they have learned.

How does one become bigger than the other? There are two ways to do this; a) outgrow and outperform the others, b) don't let others perform/grow by denying them opportunities. It is obvious that the second one is felt more appropriate. People want "differences" and how do you create differences? By denial of all opportunities and benefits.

Government has a policy of upliftment of backwards by promoting them via reservations. But what is happening in the medical education is quite the opposite. When the need of the hour is to unite and serve the education with a common goal, the system ends up creating differences. The differences are not only highlighted but every attempt is made to keep the difference not only intact but also to widen it. While the motto should have been to "live and let live", the scenario is quite unlike that. 

There is no denial that the two these two groups are not the same. A demand for equality is also uncalled for. Both these come from different backgrounds and different UG degree. Hence, the concept of superiority of MDs over MSc's is bound to occur. There is no point challenging their superiority or demanding equal status. But it is disheartening to see the denial of opportunities just to make these differences obvious. Agreed that the graduate degrees of both these groups are different but the post graduate degrees are qualitatively the same. When the nature of work is based on the PG degree and not UG degree, why should there be discrimination? The discrimination (if any) should be on merits and not based on UG degree. This is exactly similar to the caste based discrimination, race based discrimination that exists in the society. We now have a new “degree based discrimination”, what I call "academic apartheid". When rights are demanded, MSc's are often told bluntly that they already have been given more than what they deserve.  When the education sector itself is infested with this kind of academic apartheid, we can't expect much change to occur in the society.

Summary:
Do not pursue M.Sc in any medical subjects and if you must undertake M.Sc course, then; pursue higher studies, do a PhD and never join a medical college as teaching faculty.

Caution: No degree is good or bad. It is up to the individual what one can achieve with it. The purpose of putting up this article is to highlight the ground reality of the value medical MSc has in medical institutions. There is indeed better prospects outside it.

Please don't post questions seeking guidance as they will not be entertained anymore.

If you still want to join this course, you are either stupid or a very enterprising individual. Make your choice carefully! If you have read this far, I suggest you read the comments at the bottom of this page.

Last updated: 14th March, 2017

124 comments:

Varun said...

thanx im a M.sc pass out in medical microbiology and i wil follow this so i will not look for medical college but i m looking a job in which i can pursue my PhD in there it self or can do Phd .

Anonymous said...

thnx,Iav done M.Scin Medical Microbiology....U have guided...look forward to it

Unknown said...

thak u,bt i need scope of Msc physiology plz tell me,send me ur msg to drmani.ayurveda@gmail.com.plz

Unknown said...

can u please tell us the difference between M.Sc Microbiology and M.Sc Medical Microbiology? What are the colleges in India that provide degrees in M.Sc Medical Microbiology and which authority recognizes these M.Sc Medical degrees cos MCI does not? How to diffrentiate it from M.Sc Microbiology for legal purposes?Because we all are MD Microbiologists and M.Sc Microbiology(NOT MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY) candidates are getting backdoor entry in Medical Colleges. Please provide this information if you can.

Sridhar said...

Smriti, There are several medical colleges in India that offer MSc in medical microbiology. If MD from same college is recognized, then MSc too would be recognized by the MCI. MSc (non-medical) degrees obtained from non-medical institutions are NOT recognized by MCI and their appointment in medical colleges are also not recognized. If such degree holders are appointed by colleges, they will not be accepted by MCI. MSc in medical subjects are fully qualified and accepted by MCI. Without a PhD, they can be promoted upto Assistant Professors and with PhD, they can be promoted upto Professor (but not HOD). Hope this is clear.

Prakash said...

thank u sir..one of my friend is studying in BSc sixth semester with biochemistry,microbiology and botany as the options.He is interested to continue his study in medical microbiology.I will ask him to contact u..thank u sir..plese tell me about future options with above combination..

Sridhar said...

Mr Prakash, I would ask your friend to stay away from doing MSc in any medical subject (including microbiology). Ask him to read www.microrao.com/msc.htm for more information.
If he still wants to go for it, ask him to continue till PhD and stay away from medical colleges.

joseph ALUGU'S said...

thak u sir its nice words for me ....i am also in your way, i completed msc medical microbiology in AP NTR university
i did not join in teaching profession......but the diagnostic field is very dull ....so i am in dilamo..plz guide me

Sridhar said...

Joeshp, No degree is good or bad; it is up to you what you do with your degree. I strongly suggest all to keep away from teaching jobs. Diagnostics are interesting if one gets hand to do all. If you are asked to report culture with just one culture plate and a gram stain, it really gets boring. This happens in private non-accredited labs. Go ahead and do a PhD, you will never repent that. Join some biotech companies and start as a trainee. Try your hands at clinical research. Good luck to you.

narayanan said...

dear sridhar.
i read your blog,ur so much depressed,why we m.sc's so called nonmedicos, can make an association and fight for our rights legally.
narayanan m.sc medical anatomy

Sridhar said...

Narayan/Madhan,
Anybody who is not a doctor is a "non-medico", that's simple. Discrimination is always there. Even among doctors,clinical people differentiate themselves from non-clinical and para-clinical people. It is part of life. It is undeniable that MSc's have been discriminated for no fault of theirs. Yes, we urgently need an association. Join my orkut community & hopefully we can start something. http://www.orkut.co.in/Main#Community.aspx?cmm=38983033

Unknown said...

Sir, I have completed MSc in medical microbiology and teaching in a Govt. Medical College in UP as an adhoc lecturer. I want to pursue PhD and have permission from the department. I would like to know whether i can register in PhD in microbiology department of any university and do my research work at medical college in clinicals. my co-supervisor will be a medical professional from SPM department. please tell me whether the above combination is valid to be a lecturer in medical college or not. Also, is it necessary to register in a department which pursues MSc/PhD in Medical microbiology? I would be obliged if you can provide me the list of the universities/ Medical colleges preferably in UP/Delhi from which i can get PhD in medical microbiology.

Unknown said...

the most hopeless and worst course which is offered by the medical colleges is noyhing but M.sc.medical courses.if u want to pursue this course then u should have the fowlloing features.
1.dare to be get insulted by doctors
2.dare to frustate ur self.
3dare to know ur self trhat even a single pharmaceutical compANY IS NOT ATLEST AWARE OF UR COURSE
finally dare to get suicide.

Sridhar said...

Ashok,
You can do your PhD in your own institution if it is recognized for PhD studies by your university. Remember that it must be a medical university recognized by MCI. You need a guide and co-guide recognized by the university, the rules and regulations for which are given by the university themselves. In order to find more about it, contact the university where you intend to do PhD. For a list of institutions, use RTI (right to information) Act and obtain the information directly from the MCI. Good luck to you.

malini said...

dear sir,
Is there strong scope in biotech companies and pharma companies for medical microbiology

Sridhar said...

Malini, There is a scope but not definitely NOT strong. In Pharma sector MDs are preferred to MScs. Keep away from medical MSc courses.

Unknown said...

sir i have gone through ur matter.Really i have cleared many doubts of mine with your matter.Iam a physiotherapy final sem student and planning for MSC medical in anatomy.sir plz tell me the positive and negative abt this.i want to settle as a professor

Unknown said...

sir, i m a BAMS graduate (Ayurvedic Doctor) and am planning to pursue M.Sc Medical in may be Anatomy or Pharmacology. i do not want job in companies which r highly tense and insecure. i prefer teaching line and am also prepared to go for Ph.D later. i want to see myself as a professor in a medical college. will i too be called a non-medico, after all i am a doctor. plz guide me sir, am i going right ....?

Unknown said...

sir,
presently m just doin my graduation in micro from sp university....and i want to opt for msc in medical microbiology..i heard tht microbiology doesnt have good scope in india..and abroad has the whole cream for micro..so wht should i do?? whr should i do it from? pls advice me

Sridhar said...

charlespranay, when you have already gone through the article, why would you want to pursue a medical Msc? Stay away from it, if you can. You might be taken as a teacher in a medical college just because there is urgent requirement in many new colleges but mind you, when you start facing discrimination for not being a doctor, you will feel very sorry. Are you ready for that?

Harpreet, I am not sure about the "non-medico" tag for a BAMS background. Even though you have an ayurvedic degree and then if you obtain MSc, you will NEVER be equivalent to MBBS, MD. There will be discrimination because you have neither of the two; MBBS & MD.

Jenny, you are right, there is not much scope in India, but with a PhD, there are opportunities here as well as abroad. I'd advice you to stay away from any medical MSc and any kind of job in a medical college.

Unknown said...

sir thank u for the advice...so now m a bit confused as i was plannin for msc in medical micro...so wht i must do now? msc micro or biotech?? ..and m also interested for pursueing phd....pls guide me...

Sridhar said...

Jenny, Go for biotech and you could do PhD in biotech also. STAY AWAY FROM MEDICAL MSc COURSES.

Unknown said...

Hi,

I am presently working in a medical school in London. I have a M.Sc., in Anatomy from University of Madras.
I graduated in 1997 and have been working ever since in medical schools in India and abroad. I agree with you totally on the discrimination that exists in medical schools in India.
I have also taught in medical schools in Libya, Russia, Malaysia, Caribbean and the UK. I was a Gold Medalist in my M.Sc., and was very popular with students that I have taught in India and abroad.

The difference in the mindset between the medical faculty abroad and in India is enormous and incomparable. Medical faculty here including clinicians seek out help from us (so called "non-medicos") while trying to solve clinical problems. This attitude is what that keeps me working here and inspires me to do much better in my field. I visit India every year and have seen that the situation in medical schools in India has become worse.

I would advice every one of you (so called "non-medicos")who read this blog to get out of India, if you want to achieve something in life. India has more than 300 medical schools, which is the highest number of medical schools for a country in the world. Yet, the contribution of India to medical research is NOTHING. This is because the medical schools in India primarily appoint MEDICOS as faculty who dont have a clue what research is all about.

Unknown said...

thanks for ur advice sir....but cant i do msc in micro???? as now i have liked the subject and want to abide in it...is microbiology still considered to be not good at all....

Unknown said...

sir,can u plz tell me weather i should opt for msc microbiology or botany in kurukshetra university...m really confused n dont noe much about the job prospects of microbiology.i have got only one day to decide...plz help me out.

Sridhar said...

Sridharan, I am glad to read your comments, it is an eye-opener for all wannabe medical MSc's.
Jenny, nobody can or even should stop you from learning what you like. Go for what you like. The point of this blog is to highlight the plight of MSc's in medical field. If you can stay away from medical colleges, you'd be probably happy.
Shalini, I can't help you much on this. You've not mentioned if it is medical or general microbiology you are talking about. I comment only on Medical MSc. Botany is "almost a dead subject", what job can you expect from that? May be I am not aware of it.

saichinnu said...

hi
i did my m.sc pharmacology. i want to do ph.d in pharmacology. plese sujjest me universities which r offering phd

shyam said...

hello sir.I am Shyamtanu Datta, an M.Sc. in (Medical) Molecular biology & Human Genetics from Manipal University.I read your blog recently. you have not mentioned about this branch in your blog. Do we have the same fate like other branches as u mentioned..Can we apply in any medical colleges?

Sridhar said...

Saichinnu, you must inquire with regional medical universities for PhD if you are looking for job in medical college otherwise there are several univerisities across India where you can do PhD. I am not aware of any but you may search for it on google.

Shyam, Manipal university keeps coming out with newer medical MSc courses every now and then. Hence I was not aware of your course. Since Molecular biology & Human Genetics are not specialty subject in MBBS curriculum, you may not have any role to play there. Look towards biotechnology and clinical research areas.

Unknown said...

i hv passed my MSc Medical Anatomy in july 2009,its course duration is 3yrs & 6mnths
nw wat i do first
Phd in govt institute or job in private medical or dental college.

Aditi

Sridhar said...

Aditi,
This is something you have to decide according to your priorities. New colleges are coming up, anatomists will be in demand, you can get better income as you can bargain salaries in private colleges. Some govt. colleges offer very good salaries. It is better to do PhD while in employment. If you join a govt. college you may get to do PhD on deputation with salary, something which you can't expect in a private college. Sooner or later, go for PhD if you want promotion.

Madame Aurore said...

sir, i am currently doing b.sc in microbiology from university of calcutta. ur blog has been a very helpful one as i was plannig to do
masters in medical microbiology. sir, would opting for biotech in my masters be a good option? and can u pls tell me something about clinical research... details and scope??

Sridhar said...

Aroure, Its probably a good decision that you deferred from taking up MSc in medical microbiology. Biotech appears good but there is competition from engineering since they too offer biotech. Clinical research appears promising, as far as I know it is being offered as a diploma course. Please research on these before you take a decision and not rely on opinion of a few people.

Unknown said...

sir actually i am bechalor in prosthetics and orthotics in DU university & i want to do msc anatomy what is the scope for me aftr completing this and are the main institues plz tell me

Unknown said...

hello sir

Iam perciving my bachelor degree in microbiology, iam in final year now ,iam very much intrested to join the medical microbiology for the msc. But after going through this article iam bit confused sir, after my msc for sure iam going for the doctrate degree .If so are there any chances that i can do well in this field ... and sir please can u tell me some good colleges for msc medical microbiology in the near by states of karnataka.

Sridhar said...

To Priyanka and Neha, The intention behind putting up this blog is to inform the people the risks associated with medical Msc in India. If you have read and understood the content and yet you would want to go for it, then good luck to you. I would personally recommend against joining any medical MSc courses. The course is not bad, people treat you bad.

Unknown said...

sir..
i just heard about integrated phd...do u think that is good? i know m asking something apart from this blog..but i thought u would be best in guiding..so my apologies for it..do u know any colleges providing integrated phd in microbiology??pls help..

Sridhar said...

I am really sorry Jenny, I have no idea regarding integrated PhD in microbiology. I heard IISC Bangalore offers integrated PhD, but I have no other details.

Unknown said...

yes it is true that MDs are always preferred in our field. i want to make it clear that M.Sc. are equally/more capable. usually bright B.Sc. take up these courses while MDs who cannot get clinical subjects opt for these. it is time we reason the MCI people that why are they ruining bright Life Sciences students in this way.they should provide us a solution in this regard. i have seen many of the passed out students doing nothing much but still graduates are lined up for the admission.i pity for them.why a course should exist without any scope.its high time we should do something to save ourselves and others.let us all register ourselves to an organization to bring notice in higher authorities,make awareness and also to provide the existing qualified M.Sc. Medicals some opportunities.

dhruva said...

guys its really true that mscs have less oportunity than MDs in medical microbiology.Its really better to join any other course coz there is no scope atall in any msc medical field.
I have completed my msc medical microbiology from good university in karnatka this year but till now no job.

sonu said...

sir im student of bsc.general microbiology and i want do msc so in which field i do msc which will make me prestigious and as well as help to earn job qiuckly and i did bsc from nepal kathmandu.

dhruva said...

dear sonu ,its true that msc have no scope,but now a days msc in agriculture have good scope.u have more chance in research & many more, or u can go for MBA either in finance or hr or whatever your interest.

Akins said...

sir,
i completed my b.sc nursing....i have an idea of doing my m.sc in physiology.i have gone through ur information which clearly implies tat there s no scope..can u pls tell me the other career oppurtunities in the field of physiology

Anonymous said...

sir,im doing my final yr Bsc.,micro in bharathiyar university. im interested to pursue my pg in medical micro. wat i have to do right now?

Sridhar said...

Padma, the purpose of this blog as well the other article www.microrao.com/msc.htm is to highlight the current position of MSc in any medical subject. The description is based on experiences of several individuals who have done medical MSc and are suffering. If you want to join them, it is upto you. My role here is to create public awareness.

sangeea said...

sir i want to know wether i can join m.sc medical related courses in kmc.me in sixth sem plz help me sir

Sridhar said...

Sangeetha, I am surprised that even after reading the content of this blog you are asking this question. I can only discourage from joining any medical MSc courses.

Unknown said...

thanx for information i m msc med. microbiology student of mgm med. college mumbai.

Anonymous said...

tan-q u sir, i wud like 2 ask 1 tng. i m dng b.sc biotech wit botany,micro,biotech combination.
wat've 2 do--m.sc medical micro,m.b.a,any computer cur's & i cmpltd medical lab technician. ple gide me sir.

Sridhar said...

Venkatesh, you have to make a careful decision about your future. I can't influence your decision. This forum is only to let people know the shortcomings of Medical MSc degrees. I can only warn you to stay away from it.

Unknown said...

i passed BMLT from vidyasagar university. afterthat i decided for doing msc in med.microiology. but after readind this article , i got confused, plz, tell me what should i do?can u tell me about MMLT ? what is the prospect of it? if i go for msc in general microbiology, is it right decision? plz help me sir.send me ur msg to maji.sayani@gmail.com

dhruva said...

dear venktesh
firsty always explain cleary yur matter,without any short words ,always explain in full sentences.

Second thing is that it will be better i u make you career in plant biotech meaming ,go for Msc,Plant biotech, career in medical field especially in india ,is really very very less.

naveen said...

hi sir this is naveen cherian completed M.sc medical microbiology under NTRuniversity ,khammam, mamamta medical college. presently am doing job in Private dental college as lecturer .Is there any chance of doing PHD with job in medical college in India. plz giv the information erumalla@yahoo.co.in .
09966092238

Sridhar said...

Naveen, there are several universities that offer part-time PhD programs. Enquire with the university where you wish to pursue PhD. The place where you work must be recognized for PhD work; it must have a MCI recognized PG center. Cross check it with university.

Unknown said...

hi
i have done M.Sc in medical microbiology. n i want to do PhD with want to keep subject of clinical research so please guide me about it. where it done or can i apply there as a external like i will do practical in my city laboratory or hospitals and submit where from guide?

Anonymous said...

hie...m bsc biotechnology hons. student from punjab university...i m planning to do msc in food technology...can u pls guide me??

Sridhar said...

Prashant, there are steps involved in PhD. If you are already employed in a medical college which is recognized for PG studies, you can register for full-time or part-time PhD under the same university. If you are not working in any institution, you will have to work full time only, provided the university has infrastructure or funds for the same. If you can manage to get funding by clearing UGC/CSIR/NET exams and get scholarship, you will have to approach research centres and request them to accept you for PhD study. First, identify the university, institution, guide and topic and then proceed.

Rashu,
MSc in food technology is still better than medical MSc.

Unknown said...

hi m working in medical college as demonstrator and it has become more tough for M.Sc. medical micro past out to make career in medical colleges due to the new rules imposed by MCI. PhD is a must to grow and we have MDs to compete with us.in starting we are treated equally with MBBS though they know only 25% knowledge compared to us. the best thing is to not misguide the coming generation that M.Sc. medical micro is better than other general M.Sc.if you are someone who wants to grow....don't just end up with M.Sc. Medical micro do something which is technology related in which we can compete face to face with your ability.otherwise will end up fighting the discremination and finish your life.if you want to do M.Sc. medical then do anatomy or physiology but not micro.....

AB said...

well!your account on scope of msc. medical microbiology is indeed an eye opener.Keep up he go9od work u r doing by letting people know.
i have completed my bsc.in microbiology from calcutta university was thinking of pursuing msc.medical biotechnology,please advice at shuvolinamukherjee@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

Sir,
Your article is really an eye opener.I have recently completed my BSc in medical microbiology and now want to do MSc. I still need your advice.Should I opt for MSc in general microbiology or MSc in Biotech would be a better option? Please send your advice at shailjarn1@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Hello sir
I've completed my pg in medical microbiology and am now thinking abt pursuing further studies in clinical research.But am getting frequent feedback from friends that the industry is dull nowadays and hasnt got much of a scope.Sir could u pls guide me on this matter.

Sridhar said...

Avishek & Shailaja, I think MSc biotechnlogy has better scope than medical MSc. You must consult those who have already undergone this course.

Janaki, clinical research has not performed as well as expected but I believe it will pick up. Don't take my word for granted, consult those who are already in it.

Unknown said...

hello sir i m sonam currently in final year of bsc.medical microbiology. i just read your blog. u have suggested not to pursue msc. in medical courses. can u tell me the other options for msc.after doing bsc. in medical microbiology. i m interested in research field,but many suggested me not to join research line as it makes difficult for u to handle your personal and professional life due to very hectic schedule and work load.please suggest me what should i opt for?

Sridhar said...

Sonam, it is up to you to make right choices. With MSc in medical microbiology you have extremely limited job opportunities if you want to stay away from research. General microbiology has better job prospects than medical microbiology.

ankita said...

Hi
I hav done B.Sc medical microbiology and further want to pursue masters in med microbiology followed with phd.But could not find a suitable college/institute from wher i would pursue..Can u please suggest me some well known instutions/colleges.(preferences in Delhi or nearby would b convenient)
Thanking you
ANKITA DUTTA

Unknown said...

m working as demonstrator in department of anatomy in private medical college under low pay even being MSc. want to move abroad either on job basis or 4 Phd. kindly guide me.

Unknown said...

sir thanq for the advice...nw m bit confused as i was plannin for m.sc in medical mb..i jst complete my b.sc micro..so,wht i must do nw?can u pls tell me wht r the colleges in india that provides m.sc medical mb..where shld i do it frm....pls guide me..sir..

Sridhar said...

Ankita, I can only discourage you from taking up MSc in medical subjects. I am not aware of institutes which offer medical MSc courses outside Karnataka. I can only vouch for KMC located at Manipal and Mangalore because their standards are really good. CMC vellore (Tamil Nadu) too has good quality. Many other colleges have very poor standards. There are several universities in India where you can pursue PhD.

Aditi, I am sorry I am not aware of positions for MSc in Anatomy outside India. Currently, there is requirement for Anatomy as many new medical colleges are coming up. But, being a non-medico, you might get underpaid and exploited. There are very few colleges that offer PhD in Anatomy, visit several universities' websites and find out.

Sujatha, I have always discouraged anyone from taking up medical MSc microbiology. Just because you have done medical BSc, does not mean that you have no choice but to do medical MSc. You still have many options. You can do MSc in many other disciplines.

shajimonachu said...

hi, sridharji, thanks for educating younger generation! as am a victim of the system you are righly explained i really appreciate ofr this blog .many a times what i have seen is those who just missed the MBBS or BDS seat , joined these medical Msc courses ,and many in them are so good and intelligent , that it happened to be a bad choice in their career . As you have rightly pointed out the disparity in a medical college and from the MCI, future prospectus is restricted in a medical college for MSc's. it would be interesting to know that, many of my batch mates who have done the course , infact forgot that they have done such a course , and completely shifted to other fields,having undergone all thses in the initial stage itself. And as i told earlier as they were all above average students , they could achieve hights in the new field. so i too sincerly advice any young crowd COMING AKING ABOUT DOING THIS COURSE,i tell them , if your target is only to get into the medcal collge as a faculty be prepared for all these irritations . Any way let me come to a help i need it from you, my institution which is in a govt setup is detaining me in lecturer post irrespective of me having 12 years of teaching in the field after my Msc in medical faculty . And MCI website also not very clear on the fact what you have mentioned here , that msc medical faculty with a 3 years of teaching experience can be ASSTPROF . kindly get me any documental evidence or any office memo of MCI based on this! ONCE AGAIN , THANKS FOR SHARING !PLS REPLY WITH UR EMAIL ID , IF YOU CAN HELP ME.

WITH REGARDS
SM

Unknown said...

hi shajimon, u r absolutely right

thank for valuable information!!

Unknown said...

its worst pg i allready done with job less

Unknown said...

Sridhar ,even iam in the same track as you ,3 yrs experienced in medical college in AP.
i appreciate your blog as you poured upon the facts together .
your experience is like a mirror image of mine.
Acquiring medical ph.D is also not that easy becoz only few guides are available that too M.D guides..problems again repeat.
I suggest all not to waste time joining in medical courses.
santoshi

Kimbo said...

You have no idea how frustrated I'm after reading this article. Alright, I have completed my B.sc in Med. microbiology, and now after one year of my futile and hopeless Jobs which was leading me to no were; also to get rid of those daily hectic schedule, I was planning to study Med. micro in India, and here with this article my dreams are foiled, and as I was already in deep quagmire of my no were life..now :-( damn! no words at all..Hey, Mr. sridar guide me my mentor with your boon and medical blasphemy words..what do I do now? Ms.c. in ???Which subject will i be eligible for? I think mine sub. has more scope than that of Bio-tech, aprt from bio-tech which sub. will i eligible for? ...and off course there is ample of chances for Phd in microbiology for developing countries provided by other developed countries..I have no fear for phd, but for masters I have no idea what to do and where to go even In India. I recently got rejected for USA only reason was 3 and half years degree low scores blah blah. So damn! frustrated.

narayanan said...

sridhar,is it true that mci going to remove m.sc faculties from all medical colleges by 2013,even those with ph.d?there is a talk in my college at chennai.any clarification?plz.
narayankumar.

Sridhar said...

Narayanan, I don't have clear picture regarding the same. It is however quite possible because there is intense lobbying against MSc degree holders' role in medical colleges. When there was shortage of staff, they hired MSc degree holders, now that there are plenty of doctors available, MSc degree holders are no longer required. MCI may only recommend that further intake of MSc degree holders be stopped but it can't call for dismissal of existing employees. That would be illegal. It is in the best interest of youngsters to stay away from this course and to stay away from medical institutions for employment.

ajay said...

sir,
i am b.pharm graduate having GATE/GPAT score. i got 3rd rank in MSc pharmacology entrence in PONDICHERRY UNIVERSITY.and it has nominal fee.
can i go in pharmaceutical companies after doing Msc pharmacology.
and is it better for me?

Unknown said...

RESPECTED SRIDAR SIR......I M A B.A.M.S. DOCTOR APROACHING 40. I WANT TO PURSUE M.SC.MEDICAL PATHOLOGY WHICH IS RECENTLY STARTED IN NIMS UNIVERSITY JAIPUR. PLZ SUGGEST ME ...CAN I START MY PATHO LAB AFTER THIS....CAN I SIGN REPORTS...PLZ GIVE ME INFORMATION IF U KNOW ABT THIS...I M VERY CONFUSED...ONLY FEW DAYS LEFT FOR ADMISSION....THNX

Sridhar said...

Ranjeev, Msc in clinical pathology is a relatively newer course, I am not sure if it has recognition by MCI or other bodies. Pathology is primarily practiced by MD or secondarily by Diploma holders. I am not sure if hospitals would accept BAMS/MSc as clinical pathologist or at least they may take more time to accept them. Are you willing to take that risk is the question you have to ask yourself. Do a survey of hospitals and find out if they are willing to hire the services of BAMS/MSc as clinical pathologist before taking a decision.

Ajay, technically you should get a job in pharma industry but ask a person who has done the course and found a job in pharma industry. I am not the right person to comment on that.

SRIDHARAN MANAVALAN said...

Hi everyone,

I haven't been here for a long time. I read few posts and can understand the anxiety and confusion that you have in choosing your career. Let me tell you this, if you are determined to succeed and love science there are a zillion options available to you. I understand that the medical schools in India are highly biased towards and non medical teachers and the behaviour of your medical colleagues are obnoxious. I graduated from the faculty of medicine, University of Madras with a M.Sc, in Anatomy in 1997. I worked for about 6 years in Indian medical schools and left India looking for greener pastures abroad. I have taught anatomy in almost more than half a dozen nations around the globe and have finally landed in US. I am now the
Chair of Basic Medical Sciences at a University in Florida and almost a dozen MDs work under me. I dont think it is an achievement of any sort, but just wanted to let you know that you are not discriminated against for not being a Medical doctor while teaching basic medical sciences. It is very unfortunate that India/ns don't recognize your knowledge and skills. I know that almost all of you in this forum are highly motivated and knowledgeable. Choose your career, do what is required (Competitive exams like GRE / TOEFL) and succeed. My best wishes to all of you.

KALYAN PANIGRAHI said...

I m doing msc in medical microbiology in SRM university . I read ur blog sir . As u say there is bright future in countries like usa and uk . so i m interested to go abroad for my phd. my point is that "Is toefl exam is necessirily required to go abroad for further studies"

naveen said...

tofel must for some universities .

mittu said...

i read your article and totally agree as i am going through the same situation.i took msc pharmacology degree from manipal.now left with no hope.the department has left out many dark and distressing moments due to the inequality and discrimination we have faced. don't ever join medical msc.

gayatri said...

hello sir,
u have given good information i am a bds graduate i am in a state where i need some pg so pls tell me which is better msc clinical research or msc medical microbiology i should be in a stage to earn my living
gayatri

Unknown said...

hello sir this is suganya i completed my ug in microbiology and i got seat in madras unv but i didnt continued my studies bcoz there is no job oppourtunity in chennai and i would like to purse mba is it right decision as a women can able to withstand in this field or else can i join b.ed but surely i wont study msc because ur blog gave me clear idea ofcourse tht is awarness for peoples waiting for ur suggestion kindly reply me sir

Unknown said...

hello sir, am grduate in microbiology and i was also thinking of doing Msc in medical micro but after reading this article am confused.what if i want to go in pharma industry instead of medical colleges as lecturers,is it better?is the condition same if i persue with Msc in just microbiology

Unknown said...

u can do M.Sc. medical Micro if only u have chance to enter medical college as tutor, JRF in DBT and ICMR projects or qualify net exam to become lecturer in UGC colleges or universities and if u r ready to waste one extra year above normal M.Sc. the waste of one extra year just give u a chance to enter medical college nothing else but after doing PhD in medical college u r higher than MD but just M.Sc. medical is equivalent to MBBS in almost all the colleges in INDIA.M.Sc. medical anatomy, physiology n biochemistry has easier career struggle both in India n abroad. if u really desire to enter medical college then micro will have tougher competition.

ponnoos said...

sir , i completed my degree in Bsc Zoology. And gt first class . I gt a chance to do msc in medical anatomy. After reading this post am in big dilemma . What wil i do. msc in zoology or msc in medical anatomy. I dnt knw Sir . i want a job immediately . . and i dnt like to be a tutor . . What wil i do ? Pls help .

Unknown said...

would it beneficial to apt molecular or immunology ...??? kindly have ur say

Unknown said...

sir ihave done bsc mlt and planning for msc medical pharmacology? what is the scope of it, as i have also read ur blog related to msc medical.. , sir i want to ask u tell me any good course for me n can u tell me any course n procedure in abroad,,?

pranu said...

Respected sir, what I read till now were absolutely true. I have done my M.S.c in medical microbiology & such kind of discrimination by M.D's is not fare.I feel pity on these M.D's. May god bless them with human morals and show mercy on them. Thanks to god that I didn't become an inhumane M.D.(Those who showed discrimination)

Unknown said...

Sir i am student of Msc medical microbiology in mmu,mullana.plz tell me this course recognized by MCI or other body..plz me about the body.

Unknown said...

Sir
i a, student of msc medical microbiology in mmu, mullana(ambala)
plz tel me this course is recognizes by MCI or other any body.

Ankita das said...

I want to know the future details like job orientation about m.sc in medical physiology from srm university,chennai.

Siddarth6 said...

i am a B.Sc MLT and M.Sc Medical Microbiology graduate from KMC Manipal,karnataka. Can anyone pass me any information of necissity/mandatory getting certificates officialy registered by any body....like for example the B.Sc nurses get registered to Nursing council of india.

Unknown said...

Once after completing the Msc medical microbiology in the deemed uni can we pursue Phd in any other country, will the degree be recognised and accepted by them ?
as i have no interest in becoming a faculty nor to work in a hospital.

Unknown said...

i am doing M.Sc. in medical microbiology .
can i apply for NET-JRF
what are other fields of scope??

Unknown said...

well this article is an eye opener indeed anyways..
if not India which is the other best country to study medical microbiology and also get employed there itself??

Unknown said...

sir i'm doing medical microbiology. i'm in 2nd year now in KMC mangalore. i read this blog n got so frustrated. i want to know what are the options left for me? is it good to do phd from manipal university?

Unknown said...

sir i'm doing medical microbiology. i'm in 2nd year now in KMC mangalore. i read this blog n got so frustrated. i want to know what are the options left for me? is it good to do phd from manipal university?

nimmy said...

i have completed M.sc med.micro and i am in a medical college as tutor.can i register ph.d as part time now?

Sivasubramaniyan said...

sir.am shiva from chennai, i am doing second year msc medical microbiology.now i would like to do mbbs instead of phd. is there possible ..

Unknown said...

Hello sir m doing bsc microbiology...I have found many scopes in it ...I just wanted to know which course is best to persue ..and what placement would I'll be getting in that particular course

Unknown said...

Thanks for sharing ideas with the studies of medical microbiology. How about doing Msc Clinical Research? Is it having good scope in the Indian healthcare sector?

Unknown said...

sir i m manikandan from chennai i did my B.Sc in microbiology. i want to do medical microbiology in my P.G some are saying bio informatics having much scope than the medical microbiology. i m from very ordinary family my dad was working as a turner for the past 35 years so i want to take my family. I beg you to guide in the right way please sir....

Unknown said...

I have just completed 12th grade now m confused to what to do either microbiology or pharmacy
Which has better scope

Unknown said...

hello,sir iam studying bsc in microbiology don't know what to do after that so that i can get a good job.frds suggest me to do mba is that good plzz help

Anita Uniyal said...

I am in great confusion after reading this article about either to do msc in microbio or not.. Rightnow i am persuing bsc from CBZ.. Why its not good to opt teaching in a medical college?? Is there any difficulties while seeking a job after doin this course??

Unknown said...

sir .. i want to pursue Msc in medical mircrobiology ..i m fond of teaching n also good at it..i really look upto education field as my only passion..so will u pls guide me which branch of microbiolgy should i opt for or in which subject should i do my post grad..i will b currently completing my BSc in next month..pls guide me sir ..thanking u in anticipation

aishwarya said...

Sir, I am pursuing mbbs right now and i'm pretty worried about my next step after mbbs, as i dont want to have a career like other regular mbbs students which consists setting up clinics or working in private hospitals after their respective post graduation courses. Till now i was pretty sure with my next step that was Ms in Medicine Microbiology which is no longer on the top of my list after reading this post and comments following it. Research area has always intrstd me( which medicinie icrobiology clearly had, but lack of scopes dissapointed me) . Can u please guide me and suggest me some different and interesting courses and their scopes in INDIA and ABROAD too, which can be pursued after MBBS. And also, i want to know that if courses you wil be telling me is pursued from abroad, am i going to have a better future for my self? ( please suggest me all the possible courses after MBBS and PG too so that i can take a right decision for my life and future).

aishwarya said...

Siva, Sorry but This choice is next to impossible. After pursuing a post grad. Course, you can't pursue an undergraduate course, can you? No, not at all. I dont have much idea about what next course u can pursue aftr your Msc but i am 110% sure about this thing that u cant pursue MBBS now

reneegade said...

I did my B.sc nursing n I'm working in an hospital. Is it possible for me to do M.sc in medical microbiology?? Scopes available thereafter. Plz help.

Unknown said...

respected sridhar sir., thanx for providing information about msc medical microbiology.
i am about to start my college, bsc microbiology. i am not intrested in teaching in hospitals..nor i am worried about earning money. i want to do research all through my life. all those who are confused ,.. i would like to say that... follow your instincts. do what you are good at..we should not worry about earning money, as it can be earned through several ways. make yourself big, knowledgeable ... if india wont give chance its intelligent citizens (scientists) we have a world waiting abroad. most of our scientists are working abroad, just because they dont get what they are really made for in india.
lastly i would like to say, just do what you are good at... be best in your field.. and then you will never regret.

Unknown said...

what is the scope for medical biotechnology ??

Unknown said...

irrespective of comments above... i would still like to continue with only one point..! its only a insult we must bare but love towards the subject may lead you to better place..! all we need is patience and acceptance mode.! thanx for being a best guide for all of us. indeed world is too big for big knowledge..! do what your innate says, definitely you will be attain fruitful results for your work... aall iss well..

Unknown said...

hello sir,this is mahesh i read your blog.i completed my graduation in b-pharmacy. i want to do msc in medical courses like anatomy and physiology to becames a professor in medical colleges or pharmacy colleges,beacuase i am not interested in m-pharmacy. but after read your blog. i am totally confused i dont know what i have to do . please help me sir.and what are the other courses i can do which has a bright future. please help me sir
my mail id:mahesh.rajulapati@gmail.com
mobile:8096230066

Unknown said...

Boss why should not we report to the education minister to stop all these neusance created by mci and ugc, and not to waste the efforts of youth.government must notify this issue .......

Unknown said...

We Should repot this issue to the education minister and notify them to "must not waste the youth " in m.sc medical courses.

Unknown said...

Hello sir, i have completed my bds. I want to do msc in medical microbiology.i will carry on my dental practice and i want to do the msc course.i want to do this course as there are many clinics in my city which do not fare well.. is it a better option and what is the job scope after doing msc in medical microbiology..

Unknown said...

I truly appreciate just perusing the greater part of your weblogs. Basically needed to advise you that you have individuals like me who value your work. Certainly an incredible post.
bsc biotechnology

Unknown said...

Sir,
I m currently doing B.Sc (H) Microbiology. I wish to take up M.Sc in a subject so that i can get a job after M.Sc.(A good one with atleast Rs.50,ooo/- per month)
Plz suggest me something. I can do anything for that.
Aashita

riyaa.n said...

Your blog is reaalllly nice!
M a bsc student studying microbiology, chemistry n botany. I will opt for microbiology in third year.but for msc. I had planned medical microbiology..but your article makes me rethink it!
Doesnt Msc medical.micro hav no scope abroad?

Anonymous said...

thnx for your valuable suggestion

Unknown said...

I think M.Sc Microbiology is a better option than MSc medical microbiology.. medical microbiology is a part of Microbiology only.. after MSc medical options are very limited.. but after Pure microbiology one can get into any field including Diagnostics. In MSc microbiology u will get touch of every microbiology parts.. including medical microbiology.. in last but not least joining medical college is like u are going to spoil your carrier

Unknown said...

There is no future of any M.Sc. degree whether its done in Microbiology or medical microbiology. Its just a frozen intellectual conformity and the mind numbing sycophancy of MCI and other medico people sitting on higher post who dont want to give any recognition to M.Sc. degree. That is the reason they have divided us among the terminology issues. have you seen any such complication with any M.D. Is the medical terms mentioned in Microbiology during MBBS or MD. All those who are working in Hospitals or medical diagnostic centre are treated like slave by these people. Its a high time that all M.Sc. should get unite in our cause of awakening this government that either give us recognition or shut down all M.Sc. microbiology courses.
They must be some council for us also as exist for medico, nursing and pharmacist.
There must be some registration number for all who pass M.Sc or Ph.D. and it should be recognised by MCI or any other body.
If we will not understand the seriousness of this issue at this juncture, we will always face the problem of hatred discrimination by medicos.