Ph.D Ayurveda: Admission 2025, Eligibility, Fees, Colleges, Syllabus, and Careers

• Updated on  Jul 31, 2025, by Dharti Bhadla

PhD in Ayurveda is a research-oriented Doctorate degree program with 3 to 5 years duration. The course curriculum, duration, examination, admission, fees, etc varies greatly among different universities and research centres. In this article, you will get the key highlights of the course, its general requirement for admission and completion of the PhD degree, some best colleges to register with, and career scope after PhD Ayurveda.

 

Basic eligibility to pursue PhD Ayurveda is having at least 55% or equivalent CGPA in MSc/MD/MS or M.Phil degree. However, M.Phil is not mandatory to enrol in PhD programs. Aspirants can consider qualifying UGC/CSIR NET, SET, GATE, AYUSH NET or ICAR NET examination for admission to PhD Ayurveda. Some colleges/universities also conduct their own entrance exam followed by an interview and a project proposal.

 

All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA); New Delhi, National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA); Jaipur, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Nashik, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur, etc are some of the best places where Ayurveda related research and development occurs in collaboration with national research centers, hospitals, as well as government-funded projects.

 

Table of Contents

  1. Ph.D Ayurveda Key Highlights
  2. What is a Ph.D Ayurveda?
  3. Why Study Ph.D in Ayurveda?
  4. Who should study Ph.D Ayurveda?
  5. Ph.D Ayurveda Eligibility Criteria
  6. Ph.D Ayurveda Entrance Exams
  7. Ph.D Ayurveda Colleges in India
  8. Ph.D Ayurveda Admission Process 2025
  9. Ph.D Ayurveda Syllabus
  10. Ph.D Ayurveda Vs. PhD Medicine
  11. Ph.D Ayurveda Job Opportunities in India
  12. Ph.D Ayurveda FAQs

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Key Highlights

The key highlights of PhD Ayurveda are tabulated below.

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Ayurveda

Course Level

Doctorate

Duration

3 to 5 years

Course Type

Full-Time or Part-Time

Admission Process

University-specific or National level like UGC NET, CSIR NET, GATE, AYUSH NET) followed by Personal Interview (PI) / Research Proposal presentation

Eligibility Criteria

55% in Masters degree (M.Sc. MD/MS or M.Phil)

Course Fees

INR 15,000 to INR 3,50,000

Top Colleges

All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), National Institute of Ayurveda, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Banaras Hindu University, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, D.Y. Patil University, etc

Job Profiles

Ayurvedic Doctor/Vaidya, Research Associate/Scientist, Professor/Lecturer, Drug Scientist, Unit Head (Pharmaceuticals), Pharmacy Manager, Medical Head, Consultant, Holistic Nutritionist, Health Policy Advisor

Top Recruiters

Ayurvedic specialty centers (Panchakarma, Ksharsutra, Netra), Government/Private Hospitals, Ayurvedic Clinics, National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), National Ayush Mission, Ayurvedic Resorts, Academic Institutions, Pharmaceutical Industries, Herbal Product Manufacturing Companies, Research Institutes, and Wellness Industry.

Average Salary in India

Entry-Level: INR 2.5 - 6 LPA

 

Mid-Level: INR 5 - 12 LPA

 

Senior-Level: INR 10 - 15 LPA

 

What is a Ph.D Ayurveda?

A PhD in Ayurveda is a doctorate degree focused on advanced research and scholarly contributions to the ancient Indian system of medicine. The program aims to develop highly skilled researchers, academicians, and practitioners who can further the understanding and application of Ayurvedic principles in healthcare.

 

PhD program involves a mandatory coursework, research design, experimentation and data collection, analysis, research writing and publication, thesis writing. PhD scholars are required to attend conferences and present their work. They may have to deliver lectures to UG/PG students.

 

After completing PhD Ayurveda one can work in Clinical Research, Academics, Industrial Research, and Public Health Sectors.

 

Why Study Ph.D in Ayurveda?

PhD in Ayurveda is pursued by those aiming to become leaders and innovators in the field of traditional Indian medicine. Perks of pursuing PhD Ayurveda are as follows.

  • PhD Scholars get a fellowship from Government or University.
  • A PhD in Ayurveda is one of the prestigious degrees, which opens a door for highly reputed jobs as a Professor or Scientist.
  • One can contribute to the existing knowledge by publishing their novel research work.
  • PhD Ayurveda offers a chance to develop a novel treatment strategy for a certain medical condition.

 

Who should study Ph.D Ayurveda?

PhD Ayurveda can be pursued by those interested in deep research in ancient Indian systems of medicine, validation, standardization.

  • People who are highly motivated to conduct research for human welfare and medical science should pursue PhD in Ayurveda.
  • Those looking to work in Academics must pursue PhD Ayurveda as teaching positions in College/Universities require PhD qualification for Assistant or Associate Professor’s role.
  • People looking to work on Drug Development or Formulation and Quality/Safety aspects should opt for PhD Ayurveda as it enhances promotion opportunities in the Pharma/Ayurveda industry.

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Eligibility Criteria

PhD Ayurveda eligibility criteria is as mentioned below.

  • Aspirants must have cleared Master’s degree in Ayurveda or Relevant field.
  • A minimum of 55% or an equivalent CGPA is required in PG degree.
  • Candidates must have qualified a common entrance exam or university-specific entrance exam.
  • Candidates will have to present their research proposal, based on which final selection will be made.

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Entrance Exams

PhD Ayurveda admission is strictly based on entrance exam merit. Aspirants can consider any of the below mentioned exams as they are widely accepted for PhD programs.

Exam Name

Application Date

 

(Tentative)

Exam Date

 

(Tentative)

Application Fee

UGC NET (December 2025 Cycle)

September/October 2025

December 2025

General: INR 1150

 

OBC-NCL/EWS: INR 600

 

SC/ST/PWD: INR 325

CSIR NET (December 2025 Cycle)

September/October 2025

December 2025 (likely in the last week)

General/EWS: INR 1150

 

OBC-NCL: INR 600

 

SC/ST/PwD: INR 325

AIAPGET 2026 (All India Ayush Post Graduate Entrance Test)

May - June 2026

July 2026

General/OBC: INR 2,700 - 3,000

 

SC/ST/PwD: INR 1,350 - 1,500

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Colleges in India

PhD Ayurveda is offered by several research institutes and universities as tabulated below. Also, one can explore hospitals to collaborate with for Ayurvedic research and Development.

College Name

Location

Average Course Fees

Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA)

Jamnagar, Gujarat

INR 50,000

Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

INR 10,000

Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth

Pune, Maharashtra

-

All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA)

Delhi, New Delhi

INR 20,000

Sanskriti University

Semri, Uttar Pradesh

INR 4,10,000 (full time)

 

INR 4,50,000 (part time)

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University

Jheepasani, Rajasthan

-

Uttarakhand Ayurved University

Dehradun, Uttarakhand

-

Also read about PhD Biotechnology

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Admission Process 2025

PhD Ayurveda admission process is online through an official admission portal of a particular university. It generally opens when PhD positions/vacancies or JRF vacancies are available in research centers or universities. Some private universities offer PhD admissions every year. Given below is a step-wise admission process followed by Uttarakhand Ayurved University.

 

Step 1. Aspirants have to fill out an application form considering the available seats and research projects at the university.

 

Step 2. In the application form, aspirants have to mention their area of interest and SOP for research.

 

Step 3. Applicants have to upload all original documents in the prescribed format and pay an application fee to submit the application.

 

Step 4. Upon submission, the University will verify the candidature and call for an entrance exam. Those with a SET/NET qualification or JRF positions will be exempted from this university-specific entrance exam.

 

Step 5. Upon examination, shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview. At this time, candidates have to propose their research idea in front of a research committee.

 

Step 6. After the interview, selected candidates will be called for the counselling and supervisor allotment process.

 

Step 7. Registration in PhD programs is mutually done by aspirant and potential supervisor.

 

Step 8. Once the supervisor is allocated and accepted by the aspirant, admission/registration is made by paying initial fees.

 

Step 9. Post fee payment, the university will issue a registration letter and aspirants can start working on their project.

 

Documents Required:

  • Original Marksheet of 10th and 12th grade
  • UG and PG degree certificates.
  • School Leaving Certificate
  • Caste Certificate (if applicable)
  • Birth Certificate
  • ID Proof (Aadhar/ PAN/ Passport)
  • Passport-size Photograph
  • Entrance exam scorecard
  • Signature
  • SOP

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Syllabus

PhD Ayurveda is a research-oriented program. It does not have a specific syllabus as other Master’s programs. However, PhD Scholars will have to undertake mandatory coursework as per the guidelines of UGC and AYUSH. Coursework subjects vary greatly, depending on the research project, research requirement, university policies, available faculties, and facilities.

Coursework Subjects

Research and Publication Ethics

Research Methodology

Academic Writing and Presentation Skills

Research Seminar

Recent Advances in Concerned Specialty & Applied Aspects

Elective/Optional Courses (Advanced Sanskrit for text interpretation, Specific statistical software training, Quality control and standardization of Ayurvedic drugs, History of Ayurveda and its evolution, etc)

Click to read more about PhD Pharmacology

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Vs. PhD Medicine

PhD Ayurveda and PhD Medicine are both similar research programs done in the medical science domain. However, Ayurveda differs from Medicine in certain areas of focus and specialisations.

Particular

PhD Ayurveda

PhD Medicine

Focus

Deep research into the ancient Indian system of medicine, validation, standardization, and application of Ayurvedic principles; integration of traditional knowledge with modern science.

Advanced research in modern medical sciences; development of innovative treatments, diagnostics, and healthcare practices.

Major Subjects

Core: Research Methodology, Biostatistics, Scientific Writing.

 

Specialisations: Ayurveda Samhita & Siddhanta (philosophy), Kriya Sharir (physiology), Rachana Sharir (anatomy), Dravyaguna (pharmacology/materia medica), Rasa Shastra & Bhaishajya Kalpana (pharmaceutics), Kayachikitsa (internal medicine), Rog Nidan (pathology), Panchakarma, Swasthavritta

Core: Research Methodology, Biostatistics, Medical Ethics, Clinical Trials.

 

Specialisations (depending on research area): Oncology, Cardiology, Neurology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Public Health, Genetics, Epidemiology, Clinical Research, etc.

Eligibility

Master's degree (MD/MS) in a relevant Ayurvedic subject

Master's degree (MD/MS) in a relevant medical specialty, or MSc in Medical Science (e.g., Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Microbiology)

Duration

3 to 5 years

3 to 5 years

Career Path

Ayurvedic Doctor, Research Associate/Scientist, Professor/Lecturer in Ayurvedic colleges, Drug Scientist in herbal pharmaceutical industries, Quality Control Expert, Integrative Medicine Consultant, Health Policy Advisor, Wellness Consultant

Research Scientist (biomedical, pharmaceutical, clinical), Professor/Lecturer in medical colleges/universities, Medical Science Liaison, Public Health Expert, Epidemiologist, Clinical Research Associate/Manager

Recruiters

Ayurvedic colleges and universities, National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), AYUSH Ministry, Private Ayurvedic hospitals & clinics, Herbal pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Dabur, Himalaya, Baidyanath),

AIIMS, PGIMER, other government and private medical colleges and universities, Pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Cipla, Dr. Reddy's, Sun Pharma), Biotechnology firms, Clinical Research Organizations (CROs), Hospitals

 

Ph.D Ayurveda Job Opportunities in India

PhD Ayurveda leads to a career in Research as well as academics. THose interested in teaching can apply for Assistant Professor positions in universities. The table below summarizes some ideal PhD Ayurveda jobs for your reference.

Job Title

Recruiters

Experience Level

Average Salary (INR)

Ayurvedic Doctor

Private Ayurvedic Clinics & Hospitals, Government Hospitals (AYUSH wing)

Entry-Level (Post-PhD): 0-2 years

 

Mid-Level: 3-7 years

 

Senior/Consultant: 8+ years

Entry: 3.5 - 7 LPA

 

Mid: 7 - 12 LPA

 

Senior/Consultant: 12 - 25+ LPA

Research Scientist / Research Associate

Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), ITRA, etc

Research Associate: 0-3 years

 

Scientist: 3-8 years

 

Principal Investigator: 8+ years

Associate: 4 - 8 LPA

 

Scientist: 8 - 15 LPA

 

Principal Investigator: 15 - 25+ LPA

Professor / Lecturer

Government & Private Ayurvedic Colleges/Universities

Assistant Professor/Lecturer: 0-5 years (post-PhD)

 

Associate Professor/Reader: 5-10 years

 

Professor: 10+ years

Assistant Professor: 6 - 10 LPA

 

Associate Professor: 10 - 18 LPA

 

Professor: 15 - 25+ LPA (As per UGC/Government pay scales)

Drug Scientist

Dabur India Ltd., Himalaya Wellness Company, Patanjali Ayurved, Baidyanath, Vicco Laboratories, Emami, Charak Pharma, Zandu, etc.

Entry-Level: 0-3 years

 

Mid-Level: 3-7 years

 

Senior/Manager R&D: 7+ years

Entry: 4 - 7 LPA

 

Mid: 7 - 12 LPA

 

Senior/Manager: 12 - 20+ LPA

 

Ph.D Ayurveda FAQs

Is research publication mandatory for PhD Ayurveda?

No, research publication is not mandatory to complete a PhD Ayurveda as UGC have discontinued such rules from recent guidelines. However, some private universities still require at least 2 publications in SCOPUS-indexed journals for a quality PhD.

How many exams are there in PhD Ayurveda?

There are no exams during PhD Ayurveda programs for assessment. However, there will be some coursework assessment during the initial period of PhD. The degree is issued after a successful defense of PhD work and viva along with thesis approval and submission.

Is PhD Ayurveda available in Part time mode?

Generally, a PhD in Medical or Life Science domain is not allowed to pursue as a Part time PhD but Sanskriti University offers a part time PhD in Ayurveda. Aspirants are advised to check the eligibility and fees for the same as it may differ from the regular PhD Ayurveda program.

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