5.5Year
Medical

Paediatrics

Medical 5.5 Year 4.7 Average Rating


Starting From

₹250,000 /- Per Year


About Course


Paediatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. This specialty focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of childhood diseases, as well as the growth and development of young patients. Paediatricians are healthcare professionals who specialize in this field and are trained to understand the physical, emotional, and social needs of children from birth to adolescence. Paediatrics is a multidisciplinary area of medicine, often intersecting with various other fields like neonatology, paediatric surgery, and paediatric cardiology, to name a few.

The field of paediatrics encompasses a wide range of conditions, from common illnesses such as the flu or ear infections to chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or congenital disorders. Paediatricians are trained not only to treat physical illnesses but also to provide preventive care through vaccinations, health screenings, and advice on proper nutrition, physical activity, and overall child development. They also play a crucial role in providing emotional support to children and families when dealing with more severe or long-term conditions.

In addition to general paediatrics, there are specialized fields within this domain, such as neonatology, which deals with the care of newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with serious medical conditions. Other sub-specialties include paediatric cardiology, paediatric neurology, and paediatric endocrinology, which focus on specific organ systems and conditions affecting children. Paediatricians may work closely with specialists in these fields to ensure comprehensive care for their patients.

The training to become a paediatrician typically requires completion of a medical degree followed by a paediatrics residency program, where doctors gain hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced practitioners. For those interested in further specialization, additional fellowship programs are available. In addition to treating patients, paediatricians also work to promote child health education and advocate for policies and initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of children at both local and national levels.

Paediatrics is a highly rewarding yet challenging field, as it requires not only advanced medical knowledge but also the ability to interact with children and their families in a compassionate and effective manner. Paediatricians must be able to address the unique concerns that arise in caring for young patients, as children are not simply small adults but have distinct health needs that require specialized care.

As the world faces new challenges in healthcare, such as the rise of chronic conditions in children and the increased focus on mental health, paediatrics will continue to evolve to meet the needs of younger generations, ensuring that children lead healthy, fulfilling lives.


Course Scope


The scope of Paediatrics is vast and promising, with numerous opportunities for professionals in various healthcare settings. As the field is dedicated to the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents, paediatrics plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of the younger population. The scope extends across general practice, specialized fields, research, and education, providing a wide range of career opportunities.

1. Growing Demand for Paediatric Care

With an increasing focus on child health and the rise in chronic conditions affecting children, there is a growing demand for trained paediatricians. This field is essential in combating childhood diseases, vaccination programs, and prevention of long-term health issues like obesity, asthma, diabetes, and neurological conditions. Additionally, with rising awareness about mental health, paediatrics is evolving to incorporate child psychology and mental health care as integral aspects of child health.

2. Specialization in Paediatrics

Paediatrics offers a wide range of sub-specializations, allowing professionals to focus on specific areas of child health. Some of the key specialized fields include:

  • Neonatology: Focusing on the care of newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with congenital health issues.
  • Paediatric Cardiology: Specializing in diagnosing and treating heart conditions in children.
  • Paediatric Endocrinology: Dealing with hormonal issues and growth disorders in children.
  • Paediatric Neurology: Focusing on neurological conditions affecting children, such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and developmental disorders.
  • Paediatric Infectious Diseases: Dealing with infectious diseases in children, including emerging diseases and vaccination programs.
  • Paediatric Surgery: Focusing on surgical procedures specifically for children, such as those for congenital abnormalities or traumatic injuries.

These specialized fields offer numerous career avenues, ranging from clinical practice to academic research and teaching.

3. Research and Innovation in Paediatrics

Research plays an integral role in advancing paediatrics, with numerous breakthroughs in areas like pediatric pharmacology, genetic disorders, and personalized medicine. The scope of research in paediatrics is vast, ranging from developing new treatments for childhood diseases to investigating child-specific factors in the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Paediatricians can pursue careers in clinical research or work in collaborations with pharmaceutical companies and universities to develop innovative solutions for children's healthcare.

4. Work Environments

Paediatricians have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings, which expands their career opportunities:

  • Hospitals and Healthcare Institutions: Paediatricians can work in hospitals, medical centers, or specialty clinics where they treat children for routine care, emergencies, or long-term illnesses.
  • Private Practice: Paediatricians can set up private practices, offering personalized healthcare services to children and their families.
  • Public Health Organizations and NGOs: Paediatricians play a crucial role in healthcare policy, child immunization programs, and public health campaigns aimed at improving child health at the community or national level.
  • Academia and Teaching: Paediatrics offers opportunities for teaching at medical schools, training the next generation of healthcare professionals.

5. Career Growth and Opportunities

With increasing emphasis on child healthcare worldwide, paediatrics offers a high potential for career growth. Paediatricians who pursue advanced degrees, fellowships, or super-specialization in specific areas of child health are in high demand. Additionally, those interested in working in international health organizations or with NGOs focused on maternal and child health will find numerous opportunities.

Conclusion

The scope of paediatrics is continually expanding, providing numerous avenues for professionals to specialize, conduct research, and contribute to the overall health of children. Whether in clinical practice, research, or education, the field offers varied and rewarding career paths. As the global population of children continues to grow, the demand for paediatric expertise will remain high, ensuring a stable and promising future for those pursuing careers in this field.


Course Syllabus & Subjects


1. Undergraduate (MBBS) Subjects

In an undergraduate MBBS program, paediatrics is introduced in the later years, and students are expected to have a foundational understanding of general medicine and surgery before specializing in paediatrics.

  • Basic Paediatrics: Introduction to the growth, development, and common diseases in children.
  • Immunology: Study of the immune system and its role in preventing childhood diseases.
  • Neonatology: The study of the care of newborns, especially those who are premature or have birth defects.
  • Child Development and Psychology: Understanding the psychological and social development of children.
  • Nutrition and Child Health: Focus on the nutritional needs of children and its impact on health and development.
  • Paediatric Emergencies: Handling emergency situations like trauma, infections, or allergic reactions in children.
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases: Study of common childhood infections such as chickenpox, measles, and respiratory infections.
  • Paediatric Pharmacology: Understanding how medications are absorbed, metabolized, and administered to children safely.

 

2. Postgraduate (MD/MS in Paediatrics) Subjects

The postgraduate program is more advanced, allowing students to specialize in various areas of paediatrics. Students will receive extensive training through clinical rotations and lectures on specific conditions affecting children.

  • Advanced Paediatric Medicine: In-depth study of diseases and conditions affecting children, including congenital and acquired conditions.
  • Paediatric Cardiology: Diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases in children.
  • Paediatric Neurology: Focus on neurological disorders like epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.
  • Paediatric Endocrinology: Study of hormonal disorders in children, including growth disorders and diabetes.
  • Neonatology: Intensive care for newborns, especially premature infants and those with complex health issues.
  • Paediatric Infectious Diseases: Treatment of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and viral infections.
  • Paediatric Surgery: Surgical interventions for congenital anomalies, birth defects, and trauma in children.
  • Growth and Development: Monitoring physical and cognitive growth, including the prevention and management of developmental disorders.
  • Child Nutrition and Health: Focus on pediatric nutrition, including managing malnutrition, obesity, and eating disorders.
  • Paediatric Rheumatology: The study of autoimmune diseases in children, such as juvenile arthritis.
  • Ethics in Paediatrics: Understanding the ethical considerations when treating children, including consent and treatment decision-making.

 

3. Super-specialization (DM/M.Ch. in Paediatrics) Subjects

For super-specialization, subjects are tailored to specific fields of paediatrics. For instance:

  • Neonatal Intensive Care: Advanced management of newborns in critical care.
  • Paediatric Cardiology: In-depth treatment and management of pediatric heart conditions.
  • Paediatric Surgery: Specialized surgical techniques and procedures specific to children.
  • Paediatric Haematology and Oncology: Diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancers in children.
  • Paediatric Rheumatology: Focusing on autoimmune conditions and inflammatory diseases in children.

 

4. Research and Academic Subjects

In addition to clinical subjects, many paediatrics courses, particularly at the postgraduate level, include research-oriented subjects to prepare students for roles in medical research.

  • Paediatric Research Methodology: Study of research methods, clinical trials, and data analysis in paediatrics.
  • Epidemiology of Paediatric Diseases: Understanding the spread and prevention of diseases among children in populations.
  • Medical Ethics and Legal Issues in Paediatrics: Legal considerations and ethical issues when dealing with child patients.

Questions about the Paediatrics?

Let our experts provide the answers – talk to us today!


Course Eligibility


Eligibility for Paediatrics Course:

To pursue a career in Paediatrics, one must complete specific educational qualifications and training programs. The eligibility requirements vary depending on the level of education you wish to pursue, such as undergraduate, postgraduate, or specialization courses. Below are the general eligibility criteria for each level:

1. Undergraduate Level (MBBS - Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery)

To pursue a career in paediatrics, aspiring students must first complete an undergraduate medical degree, MBBS, which is the foundation for becoming a paediatrician.

Eligibility:

  • Completion of 12th grade (Higher Secondary) with subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • A minimum percentage (usually 50-60%) in the 12th-grade examination, depending on the institution.
  • Clear the medical entrance exams like NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) in India, NEET-UG, or other equivalent exams, as admission to medical colleges is based on these scores.

Duration: 5.5 years (including 1 year of internship).

After completing the MBBS degree, candidates can opt for paediatrics by taking the relevant postgraduate (MD or MS) courses.

 

2. Postgraduate Level (MD or MS in Paediatrics)

After obtaining an MBBS degree, aspiring paediatricians must pursue a Postgraduate Medical Degree (MD/MS) in Paediatrics to specialize in the field.

Eligibility:

  • Completion of MBBS from a recognized medical college.
  • A valid score in the NEET-PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates) or other entrance exams required by medical institutions.
  • Some institutions may have additional requirements such as work experience or interviews.

Duration: 3 years.

During the postgraduate program, students receive extensive training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing childhood diseases, and they gain clinical experience through hospital rotations.

 

3. Super-specialization (DM or M.Ch. in Paediatrics)

For those who wish to specialize further in paediatrics, options like DM (Doctorate of Medicine) or M.Ch. (Master of Chirurgical) are available in sub-specialties like Paediatric Cardiology, Paediatric Surgery, Neonatology, and others.

  • Eligibility:
    • Completion of MD in Paediatrics or an equivalent postgraduate degree.
    • A valid score in the super-specialization entrance exams, which may vary across institutions.
  • Duration: 3 years.

 

4. Fellowship and Certification Courses in Paediatrics

Fellowships and short-term certifications are available for specialized areas within paediatrics, such as paediatric neurology, paediatric cardiology, and neonatology.

Eligibility:

  • Completion of MD in Paediatrics or equivalent.
  • Some institutes may require prior clinical experience in the field before offering these fellowship programs.

Duration: Varies from 1 to 2 years.


Course Level


1. Undergraduate Level: MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery)

  • Duration: 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship)
  • Course Overview: The undergraduate medical degree, MBBS, serves as the foundational course for anyone wanting to pursue a career in Paediatrics. While paediatrics is not the focus at this stage, students receive basic training in general medicine and surgery, which is essential for understanding the health issues children may face. Paediatrics is introduced in the later years of the program, where students begin learning about common childhood illnesses, growth and development, neonatology, and vaccination programs.
  • Eligibility: Completion of 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. Admission is based on national or state-level entrance exams like NEET-UG.

 

2. Postgraduate Level: MD/MS in Paediatrics

  • Duration: 3 years
  • Course Overview: After completing the MBBS degree, medical graduates can specialize in Paediatrics through a Postgraduate MD/MS course. This level involves extensive clinical training, allowing students to learn advanced diagnostic techniques, treatment methods, and preventive healthcare for children. Postgraduates receive hands-on experience in areas such as neonatology, paediatric cardiology, paediatric endocrinology, and paediatric surgery, among other subspecialties.
  • Eligibility: Successful completion of MBBS and qualification through NEET-PG (National Eligibility Entrance Test for Postgraduates) or equivalent entrance exams.

 

3. Super-Specialization Level: DM/M.Ch. in Paediatrics

  • Duration: 3 years
  • Course Overview: For those who wish to further specialize in a specific area of Paediatrics, super-specialization options like DM (Doctorate in Medicine) in Paediatric Cardiology, Paediatric Neurology, or M.Ch. (Master of Chirurgical) in Paediatric Surgery are available. These advanced programs provide expertise in treating complex pediatric conditions. This level also includes training in advanced techniques, research, and leadership within the medical field.
  • Eligibility: Completion of an MD in Paediatrics or equivalent degree, along with a valid score in the entrance exams for super-specialization programs (such as NEET-SS).

 

4. Fellowship and Certification Programs

  • Duration: Typically 1-2 years
  • Course Overview: After completing the postgraduate degree, students can opt for fellowship or certification programs in highly specialized fields of Paediatrics such as Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Paediatric Rheumatology, or Neonatal Intensive Care. These programs provide advanced training and are ideal for paediatricians who wish to work in highly specific areas of child healthcare.
  • Eligibility: Completion of MD in Paediatrics or equivalent qualification.

Confused about the course content?

Get clarity from our experts – start the conversation!



Similar Courses


MD - PaediatricsPaediatrics

Recruiters


Top Recruiters:

1. Government Hospitals and Institutions

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS): Known for providing high-quality healthcare and medical education, AIIMS is one of the top employers for paediatricians, offering roles in both clinical care and research.

Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS): Based in Patna, this government-run institution hires paediatricians for various roles, including clinical services and teaching.

State-run Medical Colleges and Hospitals: Many state government hospitals across India, such as those in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi, regularly recruit paediatricians for their healthcare and medical education departments.

National Health Service (NHS), UK: The NHS is a leading recruiter for paediatricians in the UK, offering opportunities in pediatric wards, neonatal units, and paediatric clinics.

2. Private Hospitals and Healthcare Providers

Fortis Healthcare: A well-known healthcare provider with hospitals in various cities across India, Fortis recruits paediatricians for both clinical and teaching roles.

Max Healthcare: A prominent healthcare provider with several multi-specialty hospitals, Max Healthcare hires paediatricians for a variety of pediatric specialties.

Apollo Hospitals: One of the largest healthcare chains in India, Apollo Hospitals recruits paediatricians for roles in paediatric departments, neonatal units, and research.

Medanta – The Medicity: A leading hospital chain with a focus on advanced pediatric care, Medanta provides various opportunities for paediatricians.

3. International Healthcare Providers

Cleveland Clinic (USA): A global healthcare provider, Cleveland Clinic offers positions for paediatricians in various pediatric specialties and is known for its research in paediatrics.

Mayo Clinic (USA): With a world-class paediatric division, Mayo Clinic is an excellent employer for paediatricians specializing in advanced pediatric care and research.

Kaiser Permanente (USA): A leading health system in the US, Kaiser Permanente recruits paediatricians for its pediatric care units and research projects.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP): One of the largest and most renowned children’s hospitals in the world, CHOP provides diverse opportunities for paediatricians in clinical care, research, and teaching.

4. Research Institutes and Universities

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR): ICMR recruits paediatricians for research roles, particularly in the field of child health, immunization, and infectious diseases.

National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (NIRRH): NIRRH offers research opportunities for paediatricians interested in child development, health, and reproductive health.

World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO hires paediatricians to contribute to global health initiatives, vaccination programs, and child health advocacy worldwide.

5. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Save the Children: This international NGO hires paediatricians for roles in child health programs, immunization, and emergency care in underserved regions.

UNICEF: As a part of global child health initiatives, UNICEF recruits paediatricians for research, health policy advocacy, and healthcare provision in developing countries.

Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières): MSF hires paediatricians for international missions, providing healthcare in conflict zones and underserved areas.

6. Teaching and Academia

Medical Colleges and Universities: Educational institutions like Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, Kasturba Medical College, and King’s College London employ paediatricians as faculty members for teaching and research.

Indian Medical Association (IMA): IMA collaborates with hospitals and medical schools, providing teaching and training opportunities for paediatricians across India.

7. Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies

Novartis: Pharmaceutical companies like Novartis offer roles for paediatricians in the development of drugs specifically designed for children’s health.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK): GSK hires paediatricians for research and development roles, focusing on pediatric vaccines and treatments.


Don't let doubts hold you back.

Connect with our experts to resolve any course questions!

Popular Courses

Btech Computer Science
Btech Civil Engineering
MBA Banking Management
MA History
Top Exams

Popular Courses

Btech Computer Science
Starting at -/₹144,555
Btech Civil Engineering
Starting at -/₹23,000
MBA Banking Management
Starting at -/₹NaN
MA History
Starting at -/₹140,000
BA Philosophy
Starting at -/₹10,000
BS Bio Engineering
Starting at -/₹54,000

Popular Colleges

Army College of Dental Sciences - [ACDS], Secunderabad
State: Secunderabad, Telangana

Army College of Dental Sciences - [ACDS], Secunderabad

Apply Now
Institute of Advanced Management Research - [IAMR], Ghaziabad
State: Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh

Institute of Advanced Management Research - [IAMR], Ghaziabad

Apply Now
International Institute of Fashion Design - [INIFD], Pune
State: Pune, Maharashtra

International Institute of Fashion Design - [INIFD], Pune

Apply Now
Indian Institute of Forest Management - [IIFM], Bhopal
State: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Indian Institute of Forest Management - [IIFM], Bhopal

Apply Now
Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology, New Delhi
State: New Delhi, Delhi NCR

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management & Catering Technology, New Delhi

Apply Now
ICFAI Business School - [IBS], Kolkata
State: Kolkata, West Bengal

ICFAI Business School - [IBS], Kolkata

Apply Now

© 2025 DekhoCampus Inc. All Rights Reserved.