MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology also known as MD DVL is a 3-year postgraduate medical degree in skin, STDs, and leprosy. This specialization provides medical graduates with detailed diagnostic and treatment expertise to address skin conditions, cosmetic issues, and infectious diseases. It blends clinical exposure, research, and advanced training, making it one of the most coveted specializations in India.
Candidates should have an MBBS with a one-year internship and must qualify for NEET-PG. Entry is through the NEET-PG score and counseling at the national or state level. Some of the leading institutes offering the course are AIIMS, PGIMER, JIPMER, and government medical colleges across India provide this course. The fees for MD DVL ranges from INR 3,600 and INR 19,50,000 based on the institute.
Postgraduates can work as dermatologists, cosmetologists, or STD specialists in hospitals, private clinics, or medical colleges or open their own practice. Starting salaries range from INR 8 to 20 LPA, depending on skills, location, and experience.
Table of Contents
- MD DVL Key Highlights
- What is MD DVL?
- Why Study MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology?
- Who Should Study MD DVL?
- MD DVL Eligibility Criteria
- MD DVL Entrance Exams 2025
- MD DVL Colleges in India
- MD DVL Admission Process 2025
- MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Syllabus
- Career Opportunities after MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology
- MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology FAQs
MD DVL Key Highlights
Here are some of the basic key highlights for MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology:
What is MD DVL?
MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology is a clinical postgraduate degree in India that provides advanced-level medical training for skin-related diseases and conditions, sexually transmitted infections, and leprosy. The curriculum combines fundamental science with practical experience diagnosing and treating dermatologic and venereal diseases.
Students get exposure to clinical dermatology, dermatopathology, cosmetic dermatology, and dermatosurgery. The course is a combination of academic and clinical rotations, with doctors training for hospital and private practice.
Why Study MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology?
MD specialization in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology is perfect for those with a keen interest in dermatologic care and aesthetic treatments. It’s worth opting for because:
- You become clinically expert in treating skin diseases, leprosy, and STDs.
- Great career options in clinical practice, cosmetic dermatology, or academia.
- Urban centres demand growth for Botox, lasers, fillers, etc.
- Improved work/life balance versus surgical and emergency-based specialties.
- Availability of research, publication, and ultra-specialized fellowships in India and abroad.
Who Should Study MD DVL?
MD Dermatology course is ideal if you
- Have done MBBS and want to specialize in skin and cosmetic care.
- Are looking for a specialty with a high level of patient interaction and visible outcomes.
- Want to balance clinical work with a stable lifestyle.
- Dream of establishing their own medical or aesthetic practice.
- Are passionate about innovation and new technologies in skin and cosmetic medicine
MD DVL Eligibility Criteria
To apply for Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology course, candidates must meet the following:
- Hold a recognized MBBS degree with completion of a one-year rotating internship.
- Have a permanent or provisional registration with the Medical Council of India or State Medical Council.
- Qualify NEET-PG with a competitive rank.
- Participate in central or state-level counseling for seat allotment.
MD DVL Entrance Exams 2025
Admission to MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology in India is through the NEET-PG exam.
MD DVL Colleges in India
Here are some of the most reputed colleges and universities offering the MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology course in India:
MD DVL Admission Process 2025
Admission to MD DVL is based on the entrance exams scores such as NEET PG. Being a Postgraduate course pursued after an MBBS course, universities might take interviews. Given below is the step by step admission process at AIIMS Delhi through the INI-CET.
Step 1: The student first need to register for the INI-CET. After registering, appear in INI-CET by AIIMS for MD/MS admissions.
Step 2: Wait for the INI-CET result and obtain your rank.
Step 3: Now, register for the INI-CET counseling through the official AIIMS portal.
Step 4: Choose Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology as your preferred specialization during the choice-filling round.
Step 5: Now, the next step is for the document verification and seat confirmation fee payment, if allotted.
Step 6: Report to AIIMS New Delhi or allotted AIIMS campus and complete admission formalities.
Documents Required:
- INI-CET Scorecard
- MBBS degree and mark sheets
- Internship completion certificate
- Medical Council registration certificate
- Photo ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport)
- Caste/EWS certificate (if applicable)
MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Syllabus
MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology is a 3 year course for which the syllabus is more or less similar in all the institutes. For reference, the syllabus of AIIMS Delhi is given below:
Career Opportunities after MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology
There are various high-profile jobs that a MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology can lead you to. Here are a few, along with their top recruiters:
MD Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology FAQs
Can I open a clinic after an MD in DVL?
Yes, once you do your MD and register with the medical council, you can open a dermatology clinic. Most graduates have set up practices specializing in dermatology or cosmetology in metro and Tier-1 cities.
How competitive is MD dermatology via NEET-PG?
It’s one of the highest preferences among NEET-PG aspirants because of its lucrative career and lifestyle. MD Dermatology cut-offs are usually very high, particularly for reputed government colleges. Good academic preparation is necessary to win a seat.
Can I practice abroad after an MD in dermatology from India?
Yeah. Most countries accept Indian MDs once they clear local licensing exams such as PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA), or AMC (Australia), for instance. Certain nations even provide dermatology fellowships that extend international professional opportunities.
