Doctorate of Medicine Course Syllabus & Subjects 2025is designed to provide advanced clinical knowledge and research training in various super-specialty fields like Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology, Nephrology, and Gastroenterology. The curriculum typically includes core theoretical subjects, clinical postings, seminars, case presentations, and dissertation work. Students gain an in-depth understanding of disease mechanisms, diagnostic techniques, and advanced treatment protocols. Electives and practical training focus on specialisation-specific skills, such as interventional procedures, medical imaging, and critical care. This three-year postgraduate program is ideal for doctors aiming to achieve super-specialty expertise and contribute to cutting-edge medical research and patient care in their chosen field.
Doctorate of Medicine Course Syllabus & Subjects 2025 are curated to offer in-depth expertise in super-specialty medical disciplines. It is an advanced medical degree requiring three years to complete and earn a degree. Referred to as a super-speciality course, the DM or Doctorate of Medicine course requires students to have completed their postgraduate medical program after their undergraduate medical course. Therefore, the Doctorate of Medicine course syllabus and subjects cover a well-designed guideline of knowledge to enhance and boost the skills of the individuals pursuing this program. Doctorate of Medicine can be pursued in various specialisations, including Cardiology, Nephrology, Neonatology, Medical Oncology, and much more.
Since the Doctorate of Medicine (DM) is a degree, the course syllabus and subjects covered will be unique to each specialisation. Each specialisation will focus on providing information about that particular specialisation alone. On this page, we have highlighted some of the subjects and topics covered across many specialisations for aspirants to compare.
The Doctorate of Medicine (DM) is a 3-year postdoctoral super-specialty medical degree pursued after MD/MS. Here’s an overview of the course.
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Course Name | Doctorate of Medicine (DM) |
Course Level | Postdoctoral/Super-Specialty |
Duration | 3 Years |
Eligibility | MD/MS/DNB in a relevant medical specialty |
Admission Process | Through national-level exams like NEET SS, INI SS |
Specialisations Offered | Cardiology, Oncology, Hematology, Neonatology, Neurology, Gastroenterology, etc. |
Learning Methodology | Research-based, case study-driven, and clinical practical exposure |
Curriculum Format | Year-wise theory, clinical postings, thesis submission, and final exams |
Assessment Methods | Internal assessments, logbook evaluations, research publication, and final exam |
Colleges | PGIMER, AIIMS Delhi, JIPMER Puducherry, Christian Medical College, etc. |
DM in Medical Course Fee | INR 5,000 – INR 20 Lakh (varies by institute and specialisation) |
DM in Medical Salary | INR 3.3 LPA – INR 40 LPA (depends on specialisation and experience) |
Also Read: Top DM Colleges in India 2025
Compared to the MBBS program, the Doctorate of Medicine (DM) focuses more intensively on hands-on clinical training and research work. Spanning three years, the DM syllabus is designed to build advanced expertise in medical sciences through in-depth study of subjects like Anatomy, Pathology, Biochemistry, and Microbiology. Here’s a detailed syllabus.
Doctorate of Medicine 1st Year Syllabus
The following table highlights the semester-wise Doctorate of Medicine syllabus for the 1st year:
Semester 1 | |
---|---|
Applied basic science knowledge | Diseases concerning General Medicine |
Recent Advances in Medicine | |
Semester 2 | |
Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology | Diagnostic investigation and procedures |
Doctorate of Medicine 2nd Year Syllabus
The following table highlights the semester-wise Doctorate of Medicine syllabus for the 2nd year:
Semester 3 | |
---|---|
Monitoring seriously ill patients | Counselling patients and relatives |
Ability to teach undergraduate students | |
Semester 4 | |
Ability to carry out research | Ward patient management |
OPD patient management |
Doctorate of Medicine 3rd Year Syllabus
The following table highlights the semester-wise Doctorate of Medicine syllabus for the 3rd year:
Semester 5 | |
---|---|
Long and short topic presentations | Ward rounds, case presentations, and discussions |
Clinico-radiological and clinicopathological conferences | |
Semester 6 | |
Journal conferences | PG case presentation skills |
Research review |
Also Read: Top DM Colleges in Tamil Nadu 2025
Varying, not only between courses but also between universities, the subjects covered for each DM specialisation will be different, focusing on enhancing the knowledge and understanding of the candidates in a particular field of medicine. Listed below are some of the subjects that may be covered by medical colleges across India for some of these popular specialisations.
DM in Cardiology Subjects
Check out the table below to understand the common subjects in a DM Cardiology course offered by colleges in India.
Subject | Description |
---|---|
Basic Subjects | Covers foundational topics such as Applied Anatomy, Development Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, and other cardiovascular system-related basic sciences essential for advanced cardiology study. |
Clinical Cardiology | Focuses on diseases and disorders like Coronary Artery Disease, Rheumatic Heart Disease, Cardiac Arrhythmias, Heart Failure, Systemic Hypertension, Tumors of the Heart, and Pregnancy-related Heart Disease. |
Invasive Cardiology | Involves hands-on training in right and left heart catheterisation, coronary angiography for adults and children, and interpretation of hemodynamic parameters. Includes temporary pacemaker insertion. |
Non-invasive Techniques | Covers non-invasive diagnostic methods including Holter monitoring, routine and advanced radiography (CT, MRI), Electrocardiography (ECG), and Stress Testing through treadmill and nuclear techniques. |
Research Projects | Students are expected to engage in one or more research projects during the course. The type and scope are determined by institutional, academic and clinical requirements. |
DM in Medical Oncology Subjects
The table below highlights some of the common topics and subjects in DM in Medical Oncology courses in India.
Subject | Description |
---|---|
Basic Science in Oncology | Covers cancer pathology, metastasis, epidemiology, chemotherapy drugs, clinical trials, imaging, vascular access, drug delivery, and screening methods essential for understanding cancer biology and treatment foundations. |
Clinical Oncology (Medical) | Includes diagnosis and treatment of genitourinary, endocrine, gynecological cancers, mesotheliomas, lymphomas, unknown primary cancers, and oncological emergencies with a focus on clinical decision-making. |
Recent Advances in Oncology | Focuses on new drugs, targeted therapies, molecular biology, treatment side effects, supportive care, bone marrow issues, and improving cancer patient outcomes through modern approaches. |
DM in Haematology Subjects
Here are some of the subjects covered in DM in Hematology that candidates may be asked to complete during the three years of the course in India.
Curriculum | Description |
---|---|
Core Topics | |
Introduction to Clinical Hematology | Covers basic concepts, diagnostic principles, and clinical evaluation methods in hematology. |
Nuclear Medicine | Introduces nuclear imaging and radioisotope techniques for diagnosing blood and bone marrow diseases. |
Red Cell Enzymopathies | Focuses on enzyme deficiencies in red blood cells, causing hemolytic anemia. |
Megaloblastic Anemia | Discusses anemia caused by folate and B12 deficiencies affecting RBC development. |
Abnormal Hemoglobins | Studies structural and genetic variations like sickle cell disease and thalassemia. |
Overview of Megakaryopoiesis | Explains the process of platelet formation and related developmental disorders. |
Qualitative Platelet Disorders | Covers functional platelet disorders despite normal platelet counts. |
Disorders of Hemostasis and Thrombosis | Explores bleeding and clotting disorders, including hemophilia and thrombophilia. |
Immunohematology | Involves blood grouping, cross-matching, and antibody screening in transfusion science. |
Disorders of White Cells | Covers leukemias, lymphomas, and other diseases affecting white blood cells. |
Sub Topics | |
Overview of Normal Hemostatic Mechanism | Explains physiological clotting and bleeding control processes. |
Laboratory Methods in Hematology | Provides training in CBC, bone marrow tests, coagulation studies, and flow cytometry. |
Principles of Nuclear Medicine in Hematology & Oncology | Discusses applications of nuclear medicine in diagnosing and managing hematologic and oncologic diseases. |
Cytogenetics of Acute Leukemias | Studies chromosomal abnormalities and genetic markers in leukemia subtypes. |
Reactive Lymphocytosis | Reviews benign causes of lymphocyte increase, often infection or immune-related. |
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia | Covers diagnosis, staging, and treatment of CLL in adult patients. |
Disorders of the Spleen | Discusses conditions like hypersplenism and splenomegaly impacting blood cells. |
Hemophilia | Explores inherited clotting factor deficiencies leading to spontaneous bleeding episodes. |
Bone Marrow Failure Syndrome | Covers disorders causing reduced marrow function like aplastic anemia. |
Complications of Blood Transfusion | Discusses risks including transfusion reactions, infections, and alloimmunisation. |
Hodgkin Disease | Explains the pathology, classification, and management of Hodgkin lymphoma. |
DM in Neonatology
Listed in the table below are the topics and subjects in DM in Neonatology that students are required to clear in India.
Subject | Description |
---|---|
Basic Sciences | Covers fetal and neonatal immunology, growth patterns, renal physiology, metabolism, pharmacology, electrolyte balance, and neonatal adaptation with focus on developmental biology and physiological transitions post-birth. |
Perinatology | Involves fetal monitoring (clinical/electronic), managing high-risk pregnancies, fetal interventions, and understanding the fetal origins of adult diseases through perinatal diagnostics and care. |
Body Systems | Covers system-wise neonatal care including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, GI, metabolic, hematologic, infections, surgical issues, ophthalmology, dermatology, and orthopaedics in neonates. |
Transport of Neonates & Neonatal Procedures | Deals with safe neonatal transport, emergency care during transfer, and common procedures required for critical neonates in NICU or emergency settings. |
Neonatal Assessment and Follow-up | Teaches assessment of gestational age, neonatal reflexes, behaviors, and structured follow-up plans for at-risk or previously critical newborns. |
Neonatal Resuscitation and Ventilation | Focuses on emergency care, including advanced neonatal resuscitation protocols and ventilation strategies in delivery rooms and intensive care units. |
General Topics | Covers research methods, medical ethics, teaching methodology, and the use of IT in neonatology for evidence-based practice, clinical documentation, and academic development. |
Also Read: College of Medicine and JNM Hospital (CMJH), Nadia, West Bengal
To gain admission into the Doctorate of Medicine (DM in Medical) program, candidates must appear for competitive entrance exams conducted either by medical colleges or respective state authorities. A minimum of 50% marks is typically required for eligibility. Below are the key entrance exams accepted for DM course admissions.
NEET SS: NEET SS entrance exam syllabus is based on the curriculum of MD/MS/DNB in relevant specialties. It includes core clinical topics, case scenarios, diagnostic procedures, recent advances, and subspecialty-based MCQs for each super-specialty.
INI SS: INI SS entrance exam syllabus covers subject-specific questions from the qualifying MD/MS/DNB course and department-specific clinical scenarios, research methodology, and recent advances in medical science. It is structured by AIIMS New Delhi and other INIs.
The Doctorate of Medicine textbooks give students both a broad overview of the subject matter and an in-depth exploration of their particular area of expertise, enabling them to gain a thorough understanding of the subject. Some of the important Doctorate of Medicine books are:
Name of the Book | Author Name |
---|---|
Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine | J. Larry Jameson, Anthony S. Fauci |
Braunwald’s Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine | Douglas L. Mann, Douglas P. Zipes |
Adams and Victor’s Principles of Neurology | Allan H. Ropper, Martin A. Samuels |
Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics | Robert M. Kliegman, Joseph St. Geme |
Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease | Vinay Kumar, Abul Abbas, Jon Aster |
Bailey & Love’s Short Practice of Surgery | Norman S. Williams, P. Ronan O’Connell |
The Emperor of All Maladies | Siddhartha Mukherjee |
When Breath Becomes Air | Paul Kalanithi |
Also Read: MD Course
The differences between each DM course offered by Indian medical colleges can also be seen through the course structures. As each course is designed around different programme objectives, the course structure will vary accordingly. Listed below is the course structure for Doctorate of Medicine courses available in India.
Component | DM in Cardiology | DM in Medical Oncology | DM in Hematology | DM in Neonatology |
---|---|---|---|---|
Duration | 36 Months | 36 Months | Clinical: 21M, Lab: 9M, Allied: 3M, Elective: 3M (Total 36M) | Newborn: 27M, Essential: 6M, Optional: 3M (Total 36M) |
Learning | Journal clubs, clinical/practical training | Clinical & lab training | Lectures, case studies, seminars, conferences | Self-directed, journal clubs, seminars, clinical discussions |
Research | 1–2 research projects | 1–2 dissertations (clinical & lab-based) | 1–2 dissertations (clinical/lab as per college) | 1 thesis + 2 papers + presentations; attend seminars/conferences |
Teaching | College-specific | UG/PG teaching (may be required) | Not specified | UG, nursing, PG pediatric students |
Assessment | Theory, practical, viva; additional tests if required | Theory, clinical tests, viva | Final year: theory, practical, dissertation | Continuous internal + final evaluation |
No, only selected NMC-recognised and well-established institutes such as AIIMS, JIPMER, PGIMER, CMC Vellore, and other accredited medical colleges offer DM courses. These institutes must meet infrastructure, faculty, and clinical training requirements to be authorised to conduct super-specialty programs.
The DM entrance syllabus includes advanced topics from the MD curriculum, applied basic sciences, clinical problem-solving, recent medical advances, and specialty-specific questions. NEET SS and INI SS both follow structured, MCQ-based patterns aligned with post-MD competency expectations.
There is generally no upper age limit for DM course admissions, though applicants must fulfill the academic requirements and qualify for the relevant entrance exams. However, some government or institutional policies may impose age considerations in specific quotas or service-based postings.
Major entrance exams include NEET SS, INI SS, and institute-level exams by AIIMS, JIPMER, and PGIMER. These tests assess knowledge based on the MD/MS curriculum and specialty-focused clinical scenarios. Qualifying for these exams is mandatory for admission into any DM or super-specialty medical course.
To be eligible for a DM program, candidates must hold an MD, MS, or DNB degree in the relevant specialty from a recognised institution. Additionally, they must score at least 50% marks and qualify for entrance exams like NEET SS, INI SS, or institute-specific tests.