Diploma in Dermatology is a specialized two-year medical course focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions related to the skin, scalp, hair, and nails. The course covers subjects such as skin biology, dermatological disorders, infections, cosmetic dermatology, and clinical dermatology. Students also gain expertise in dermatopathology, laser treatments, and aesthetic procedures. For those opting for a distance learning mode, the course duration extends to three years.
Admission to the Diploma in Dermatology program is primarily based on the NEET-PG entrance exam, which is required for securing a seat in top medical institutions. Direct admissions based on previous academic performance are limited. Some of the leading colleges offering this course include Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College, Pondicherry University, and Jaipur National University. The course fee varies depending on the institution, typically ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 12,00,000.
Graduates of the Diploma in Dermatology program have promising career opportunities in both private and government healthcare sectors. They can work as dermatologists, consultant dermatologists, or cosmetologists in hospitals, clinics, and skincare centers. The starting salary for freshers in this field generally ranges between INR 6,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 per annum as a fresher, with higher earning potential as experience and specialization increase.
Diploma in Dermatology Course Highlights
Given below are some of the basic key highlights for the Diploma in Dermatology course:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Diploma in Dermatology |
| Course Level | Postgraduate Diploma |
| Duration | 2 years (Full-time) / 3 years (Distance mode) |
| Eligibility | MBBS degree with a one-year compulsory internship |
| Admission Process | Entrance-based (NEET-PG, AIIMS PG, JIPMER PG, PGIMER) or merit-based in select institutions |
| Course Mode | Full-time / Distance learning / Online (in select institutions) |
| Top Colleges | Dr. BR Ambedkar Medical College, Pondicherry University, Jaipur National University |
| Average Course Fee | INR 50,000 – 12,00,000 (varies by institution) |
| Key Subjects | Skin biology, common skin disorders, hair and nail treatment, dermatological diseases, clinical practice |
| Career Opportunities | Dermatologist, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist |
| Average Salary | INR 6,00,000 – 12,00,000 per annum for freshers |
| Future Scope | Work in hospitals, private clinics, research, or setup private clinics; Opportunities to work abroad with additional qualifications |
What is a Diploma in dermatology?
A diploma in dermatology is a two-year postgraduate program designed for MBBS graduates who have completed a one-year mandatory internship. The course provides in-depth training in diagnosing and managing dermatological conditions, including inflammatory skin diseases, autoimmune disorders, and skin infections. It also covers dermatopathology, procedural dermatology, and cosmetic treatments such as chemical peels, botox, and laser therapy.
Typically lasting 1–2 years, this course provides in-depth knowledge of dermatological conditions, cosmetic dermatology, venereology (sexually transmitted diseases), leprosy, and dermatopathology. It combines theoretical learning with practical training, enabling graduates to work as dermatology consultants, clinical dermatologists, or cosmetologists in hospitals, clinics, and skincare centers. This diploma serves as a quicker alternative to an MD in Dermatology while still offering significant career opportunities in the field.
Why Pursue a Diploma in Dermatology Course?
Diploma in dermatology is studied by practicing physicians. It is a course that provides ample opportunities to candidates who want to settle in this specific medical profession of dermatology. The global dermatology market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 10% in the coming years, creating numerous job opportunities in hospitals, private clinics, pharmaceutical research, and the cosmetic dermatology industry.
Diploma in Dermatology Admission Process 2025
Admission to diploma in dermatology is through entrance exams which are carried out at national as well as state level. Students have to clear the common medical PG entrance exams such as NEET-PG and some of the colleges carry out their entrance exam to fill up seats for students.
Merit Admissions
Some colleges take admissions for Diploma in Dermatology on the basis of merit. Below are the steps to be taken to apply for this course:
- Go to the official college website and find the application form.
- Enter all the details as mentioned in the identity proofs.
- Upload the documents as specified in the application form
- Next, there would be some update from the college about the admission. They may request the student to appear for GD or a personal interview.
- Carry all the documents during the visit to the college and the decision will be taken on the basis of merit of the candidates.
Entrance based admissions
Students who want to pursue a diploma in dermatology have to appear for the qualifying exam in order to be admitted to the college. If the candidate clears the entrance exam then he will be requested to appear for the next round of selection.
Diploma in dermatology Entrance Exams
Following is list of nation- level entrance exams conducted in India for admission to Diploma in Dermatology course:
| Entrance Exam | Conducting Authority | Registration Period | Exam Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEET-PG 2025 | National Board of Examinations (NBE) | 3rd week of May, 2025 | 2nd week of August, 2024 |
| AIIMS INI-CET 2025 | All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) | March 18, 2025 – April 12, 2025 | May 18, 2025 |
| JIPMER PG 2025 | Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) | February 14, 2025 | May 18, 2025 |
| PGIMER 2025 | Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) | March 12, 2025 | July 2025 (Tentative) |
Diploma in Dermatology Eligibility
Following are the eligibility criteria to be met by students wishing to pursue a Diploma in Dermatology:
- Those students who want to study Diploma in Dermatology must have an MBBS degree along with one year of internship.
- Students must possess class 10th certificate and class 12 certificate with Biology, Physics, and Chemistry as major subjects.
- 50% marks in 12th class along with MBBS course is also required for admissions.
Diploma in Dermatology Colleges In India
Following is a list of some colleges in India offering Diploma in Dermatology:
| College Name | Location | Approximate Course Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College | Bangalore, Karnataka | 8,50,000 |
| Pondicherry University | Puducherry | 4,50,000 |
| Jaipur National University | Jaipur, Rajasthan | 2,00,000 |
| Madras Medical College | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | 1,12,000 |
| Vinayaka Missions University | Salem, Tamil Nadu | 12,40,000 |
| Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research | New Delhi | 2,00,000 |
| Maulana Azad Medical College | New Delhi | 16,00,000 |
| Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | 16,00,000 |
Diploma in Dermatology Syllabus
The Diploma in Dermatology syllabus is mostly similar throughout all colleges. Given below is the semester wise breakdown of subjects at Vinayaka Missions University, Tamil Nadu.
| Semester | Subjects |
|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Skin Biology and Physiology |
| Basic Pathology of Skin Diseases | |
| Common Dermatological Disorders | |
| Diagnostic Techniques in Dermatology | |
| Semester 2 | Infectious Diseases of Skin |
| Dermatopathology | |
| Skin Disorders in Different Age Groups | |
| Clinical Dermatology Practicals | |
| Semester 3 | Hair and Nail Disorders |
| Skin Systemic Diseases | |
| Cosmetic Dermatology | |
| Procedural Dermatology (Lasers, Peels, etc.) | |
| Semester 4 | Skin Cancers and Pigmentation Disorders |
| Advanced Dermatological Therapies | |
| Oral Lesions and Mucosal Diseases | |
| Research Methodology and Case Studies |
Diploma in Dermatology vs MD Dermatology
Diploma in dermatology is a course of 2 years duration. Whereas, MD course stands for Doctor of Medicine and is for 3 years duration and it is a post-graduation course. The following tables show you the difference between a diploma in dermatology and an MD dermatology course.
| Criteria | Diploma in Dermatology | MD in Dermatology |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Diploma in Dermatology | Doctor of Medicine in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy (MD DVL) |
| Duration | 2 years (3 years for distance mode) | 3 years |
| Eligibility | MBBS + 1-year compulsory internship | MBBS + NEET-PG qualification |
| Admission Process | Entrance exams like NEET-PG, some institutes offer merit-based admission | NEET-PG is mandatory for all admissions |
| Curriculum Focus | Covers fundamental dermatological concepts, common skin disorders, and basic cosmetic procedures | More extensive, covering advanced dermatology, venereology, leprosy, surgical and cosmetic procedures |
| Depth of Study | Basic to intermediate level | Advanced level, including clinical research and surgical dermatology |
| Career Opportunities | Dermatologist, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Skincare Specialist | Dermatologist, Venereologist, Leprologist, Researcher, Professor, Senior Consultant |
| Employment Areas | Private and government hospitals, clinics, cosmetic dermatology centers | Hospitals, research institutes, academia, specialized dermatology centers |
| Average Salary | INR6,00,000 - INR12,00,000 per annum for freshers | INR10,00,000 - INR25,00,000 per annum |
| Further Studies | Can pursue MD Dermatology for higher specialization | Can go for DM (super-specialization) in Dermatology or other advanced fellowships |
| Ideal For | MBBS graduates looking for a shorter, career-oriented specialization | MBBS graduates aiming for an in-depth specialization and higher career prospects |
Diploma in Dermatology Job Prospects
Diploma in Dermatology students can work in multiple positions. Here is the list of a few jobs offered after pursuing a diploma in dermatology along with average salary over a period of 10+ years:
| Job Role | Description | < 5 Years Experience | 5-10 Years Experience | > 10 Years Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatology Technician | Assists dermatologists in clinical procedures and patient care. | INR 9,00,000 | INR 13,00,000 | INR 19,00,000 |
| Skin Care Specialist | Provides skincare treatments and advice to clients. | INR 8,00,000 | INR 13,00,000 | INR 21,00,000 |
| Dermatology Assistant | Supports dermatologists with administrative and clinical tasks. | INR 11,00,000 | INR 19,00,000 | INR 26,00,000 |
| Cosmetologist | Performs cosmetic procedures and advises on beauty treatments. | INR 13,00,000 | INR 21,00,000 | INR 31,00,000 |
| Clinical Researcher | Conducts research on dermatological treatments and products. | INR 16,00,000 | INR 28,00,000 | INR 36,00,000 |
Diploma in Dermatology Future Scope
A Diploma in Dermatology offers diverse career opportunities in the fields of skincare, cosmetology, and medical research. Graduates can work in pharmaceutical companies, dermatology clinics, and aesthetic centers or contribute to the field by writing medical journals and blogs. Other pathways available after completing this diploma include:
- Pursuing higher education, such as an MD in Dermatology, to gain advanced expertise.
- Enrolling in short-term certification courses in dermatology to stay updated with industry advancements.
- Starting an entrepreneurial venture by establishing a skincare clinic or launching a personal skincare brand.
Diploma in Dermatology FAQs
Can I get a Diploma in Dermatology without holding an MBBS degree?
No, a Diploma in Dermatology is a postgraduate-level specialized course for which candidates must hold an MBBS degree and complete a one-year mandatory internship. This guarantees that students possess a basic knowledge of general medicine before they specialize in dermatology.
Is NEET-PG necessary for admission to a Diploma in Dermatology?
The majority of colleges and universities demand that candidates pass NEET-PG to secure admission into a Diploma in Dermatology. Nevertheless, some colleges and universities might provide direct admissions on the basis of merit or marks secured in earlier academic qualifications. It is advisable to verify the particular admission requirements of the college or university you want to apply to.
Is it possible to pursue a Diploma in Dermatology through distance learning?
Yes, it is possible to take a Diploma in Dermatology through distance education in some universities. But in this mode of course, the duration is usually longer, three years instead of the normal two years. Because dermatology includes practical training and clinical exposure, distance learning will not be as hands-on as a regular full-time course.
Do online courses leading to a Diploma in Dermatology exist?
Some websites and institutions provide diploma or certification courses in dermatology. But these might not be the same as a medical college Diploma in Dermatology. Online courses might give extra information, but without clinical training, they cannot help one practice as a professional.
Can I start my own dermatology clinic after a Diploma in Dermatology?
Yes, once they have finished a Diploma in Dermatology, professionals can open their own dermatology clinics. But they need to acquire the required licenses and approvals as mandated by the medical regulatory bodies. Most diploma holders prefer to gain experience by working in hospitals or private dermatology clinics before opening their own practice.
Which countries provide the best career prospects for Diploma in Dermatology graduates?
Other nations such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia demand a lot of dermatologists and provide great career prospects. These professionals might still have to complete extra licensing and qualification requirements for practice in these nations. Before applying for a job abroad, it is worth investigating the respective requirements for foreign medical professionals.
