MD vs MS: Key Differences, Pros and Cons, and Financing with Doctor Loan

Learn key differences between MD and MS, compare pros and cons, and explore doctor loan options from Bajaj Finserv.
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2 min read
28 May 2025

As a medical professional, deciding between an MD or MS is a pivotal choice that shapes your career. Understanding the differences can help you tailor your education, ensuring that you acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for your desired medical path. Beyond the conventional distinctions, delve into the academic, clinical, and research-oriented aspects of these courses to make an informed choice that align with your career aspirations.

Key differences between MD and MS

The table below outlines the key differences between MD and MS courses to help you understand the structure, scope, and outcomes of each. This comparison will assist you in making an informed decision when choosing between MD vs MS.

Parameters

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Master of Surgery (MS)

Duration

2 to 3 years

3 years

Fees

4,00,000 to 20,00,000 per annum

8,00,000 to 20,00,000 per annum

Eligibility

MBBS with at least 50% marks and a valid NEET PG score

MBBS with at least 50% marks and a valid NEET PG score

Domain of Study

Internal medicine subjects like Physiology, Anatomy, Pathology, Radiology

Surgical disciplines like Orthopaedics, Cardiology, ENT, General Surgery

Entrance Examination

NEET PG

NEET PG, JIPMER PG

Career Options

Physician, Paediatrician, Radiologist, Pathologist, Obstetrician

Surgeon, Cardiologist, Oncologist, Plastic Surgeon, ENT Specialist

Higher Studies Scope

PhD in Medicine

M.Ch in a specialised surgical field

This breakdown of MD vs MS can help you align your academic choices with your career aspirations, depending on whether you prefer clinical specialisation or surgical expertise.

MD: The pros and cons

If you’re considering a career in the medical field, here are some pros and cons of pursuing an MD that you should keep in mind:

Aspect

Pros

Cons

Focus

Offers a broad range of non-surgical medical specialities

Limited exposure to surgical procedures

Versatility

Provides opportunities in research, teaching, and various medical specialities

May not offer extensive hands-on surgical experience

Opportunities

Opens doors to careers in research, academia, and medical advancement

Continuing education is necessary

Duration

3 years

Requires a significant time commitment

Work hours

Tends to offer more predictable hours, allowing for a better work-life balance

Certain specialities have long hours and may lead to stress and burnout

Competition

Varies based on the chosen speciality

Competition may impact your chances

Career path

Ideal for general practitioners and specialists in non-surgical medical fields

 

 

MS: The pros and cons

For those considering a career in surgical specialities, here are the pros and cons of pursuing an MS:

Aspect

Pros

Cons

Focus

Perform surgical procedures to address illnesses and injuries

 

Versatility

Encompasses medical technologies and interventions specific to each speciality

Difficult to keep up with advancing technology

Opportunities

Abundant opportunities in surgical practice, including private practice, hospitals, and clinics

Fewer options in research and academia

Duration

3 years

Rigorous training required

Work hours

Work hours can be demanding and unpredictable

Challenges in maintaining work-life balance and possibility of burnout

Competition

Lesser competition compared to MD

 

 

Key factors to consider when choosing between MD and MS

Now that you’ve explored the pros and cons of both MD and MS as career options, the decision should become clearer. However, beyond weighing these advantages and disadvantages, there are other important factors to consider. Your choice should align with your personal interests, career ambitions, and how you envision your future in medicine. Reflect on the following:

  • Personal interests: Consider what aspect of being a doctor excites you the most. Are you drawn to performing surgical procedures, or do you find the art of diagnosis and internal medicine more appealing? Your passion in these areas will greatly influence your success as either a physician or surgeon.
  • Career goals: Think about how your decision will shape your long-term career. Do you see yourself involved in teaching or research later on? Additionally, factor in the financial implications of the speciality you're considering and how it may affect your future.
  • Mentorship and guidance: Seek advice from mentors, senior doctors, and peers who can offer valuable insights based on their experiences. If possible, shadow a professional in your chosen field to gain first-hand exposure to what it’s like working in that speciality.

Financing your MD and MS dreams with Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan

Pursuing a postgraduate medical degree, whether it's MD or MS requires not just academic dedication but also strong financial planning. The journey through MD vs MS is demanding, both in terms of time and cost. To support aspiring medical professionals in meeting these financial obligations, the Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan offers a tailored solution designed specifically for the needs of doctors.

Whether you’re planning to specialise in internal medicine (MD) or enter a surgical field (MS), this loan can ease the burden of tuition fees, living expenses, exam preparation costs, or even setting up a small clinic post-graduation.

Why choose Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan?

  • Loan Amount up to 80 lakh: Easily cover tuition, hostel, coaching, or equipment expenses without compromising on your education.

  • Convenient repayment tenures: Choose from terms ranging from 1 to 8 years, depending on your financial comfort.

  • Fast disbursal: Get the required funds in your bank account within just 48 hours* of approval.

  • No collateral required: Keep your personal and family assets secure while funding your education.

The loan is designed to be accessible to most medical professionals. The doctor loan eligibility criteria include:

  • Indian citizenship

  • Age between 22 and 80 years (at loan maturity)

  • A CIBIL score of 685 or higher

With minimal documentation and a fully digital application process, you can focus on your MD or MS coursework while your financing needs are taken care of smoothly.

Planning your finances also means understanding the total cost of borrowing. Check the transparent doctor loan interest rate and associated charges before applying. This helps you compare and make an informed decision between MD vs MS in terms of educational costs and funding.

The Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan is more than just a financial product, it’s a stepping stone that empowers you to choose your medical path with confidence, whether it’s MD, MS, or even higher specialisations in the future.

Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan: Paving the way for medical excellence

Financing your medical education is a crucial aspect of your journey towards becoming a specialised medical professional. Bajaj Finance recognises this need and offers Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan, designed to provide financial support to medical professionals like you.

Here’s why the Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan is the perfect solution for you:

1. High loan amounts of up to Rs. 80 lakh.

2. Flexible tenures ranging from 1 year to 8 years.

3. Swift disbursal within 48 hours*.

4. Easy eligibility criteria.

  • Indian citizenship is a prerequisite for eligibility
  • CIBIL Score equal to or higher than 685
  • Applicants must fall within the age bracket of 22 years to 80 years

The Bajaj Finserv Doctor Loan is your reliable partner in achieving your medical career goals.

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Frequently asked questions

Which is better MS or MD?

The choice between MS and MD largely depends on an individual's interests and career goals. MS (Master of Surgery) focuses on surgical techniques, while MD (Doctor of Medicine) is more research-oriented. So, choosing between MS and MD depends on whether you want to specialize in surgeries or research and diagnosis.

Which is hard MD or MS?

Both MS and MD require a significant amount of dedication and hard work, but the level of difficulty depends on an individual's interests and aptitude. MS is more hands-on and technically challenging, while MD is more research-oriented and requires critical thinking skills. The difficulty level of both courses can be subjective and varies from person to person.

Can a person do both MD and MS?

Theoretically, yes, a person can pursue both MD and MS, as they are two different postgraduate qualifications. However, doing so can be challenging and time-consuming. MD focuses on non-surgical fields like general medicine and internal medicine, while MS is designed for surgical specialities. While it’s possible for someone to switch fields after completing one degree, pursuing both MD and MS is uncommon and requires a high level of dedication, as it demands mastering two distinct sets of skills.

How much time does it take to complete MD or MS?

Typically, both MD and MS courses require three years of postgraduate study after completing an MBBS degree. During this period, students undergo intensive training in their chosen specialities, with MD focusing on non-surgical specialities such as internal medicine, while MS is centred on surgical fields. Along with theoretical knowledge, practical hands-on training and clinical exposure are essential components of the program, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future careers in medicine.

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