MD Physiology: Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility, Fees, Colleges, Careers

• Updated on  Aug 06, 2025, by Kanishka

An MD in Physiology is a postgraduate medical degree that focuses on the study of human body functions and mechanisms at various levels. It is a fundamental branch of medical science that explores how various body systems work to maintain health and homeostasis. The program includes theoretical coursework and practical laboratory training, emphasising experimental techniques, research methodology, and critical analysis.

 

To be eligible for the MD Physiology, the candidates must have completed their bachelor's degree in MBBS with at least 50% aggregate marks from a recognised university. The admission process relies on an entrance procedure like NEET PG, along with a personal interview round.

 

Some of the popular MD Physiology colleges and universities like Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham – Deemed University, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Santosh Deemed to be University, and Sharda University. The average fee for the MD Physiology ranges between INR 45,000 – INR 10,00,000.

 

MD Physiology career paths include Medical college professor, clinical physiologist, research scientist, biomedical scientist, pharmaceutical researcher, health consultant, medical writer, laboratory technologist, academic research fellow, and sports science physiologist. The average salary you can earn after earning the degree of MD Physiology ranges between INR 5 LPA – INR 20 LPA.

 

Table of Contents

  1. MD Physiology Highlights
  2. What is an MD in Physiology?
  3. Why study an MD in Physiology?
  4. Who should study an MD in Physiology?
  5. MD Physiology Eligibility Criteria
  6. MD Physiology Entrance Exams
  7. MD Physiology Colleges in India
  8. MD Physiology Admission Process 2025
  9. MD Physiology Syllabus
  10. MD Physiology Vs MD Anatomy Course Comparison
  11. MD Physiology Job Opportunities in India
  12. MD Physiology FAQs

 

MD Physiology Highlights

Given below are some of the basic key highlights for the MD Physiology:

Parameters

Details

Course Name

MD Physiology

Full-Form

Doctor of Medicine in Physiology

Course Level

Post-Graduation

Duration

2 years

Course Type

Full-Time

Eligibility Criteria

The candidate must have completed their bachelor's degree in MBBS with at least 50% aggregate marks from a recognised university.

Admission Process

Entrance exams (NEET PG)

Course Fees

INR 4500 to INR 19 Lakh

Top colleges

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham – Deemed University, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Santosh Deemed to be University and Sharda University.

Recruiting Areas

AIIMS, PGIMER, Maulana Azad Medical College, CMC Vellore, Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, Max Healthcare, ICMR, CSIR, DRDO, National Institute of Immunology, Biocon, Wockhardt, Cipla, Sun Pharma, Lupin

Top roles

Medical college professor, clinical physiologist, research scientist, biomedical scientist, pharmaceutical researcher, health consultant, medical writer, laboratory technologist, academic research fellow, and sports science physiologist.

Average Salary Offered

INR 5 LPA to INR 20 LPA

 

What is an MD in Physiology?

An MD in Physiology is a postgraduate medical degree that focuses on the study of human body functions and mechanisms at various levels. It is a fundamental branch of medical science that explores how various body systems work to maintain health and homeostasis. The program includes theoretical coursework and practical laboratory training, emphasising experimental techniques, research methodology, and critical analysis.

 

Graduates with an MD in Physiology often pursue careers in academic medicine, research, healthcare teaching, and specialised medical fields, contributing to advancements in medical science and improved patient care.

 

Why study an MD in Physiology?

Given below are some points on why you should pursue an MD in Physiology. Let’s have a look at them:

  • An MD in Physiology offers a comprehensive understanding of the human body's functions, bridging the gap between biological sciences and clinical practice.
  • It is essential for medical research, clinical diagnosis, and developing new treatment methods.
  • This degree enhances analytical thinking and the application of scientific principles to solve complex medical problems.
  • It opens numerous career pathways beyond traditional clinical roles, such as working as faculty members in medical colleges, conducting research in biomedical research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare organisations.
  • The focus on experimental techniques and research methodology hones skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and critical thinking.
  • Ultimately, those seeking a comprehensive understanding of human biology to improve diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare innovations are the perfect candidates for an MD in Physiology.

 

Who should study an MD in Physiology?

Here are some of the points on who should pursue the MD Physiology course:

  • An MD in Physiology is a highly rewarding specialisation for medical graduates and healthcare professionals interested in understanding the fundamental biological processes governing the human body.
  • This specialisation is particularly beneficial for those aspiring to build careers in medical research, academic teaching, or clinical practice.
  • Students who enjoy laboratory work, experimental research, and data analysis will thrive in this program, which demands both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
  • Medical graduates aiming to contribute to medical science advancements or educate future doctors and healthcare professionals should consider pursuing an MD in Physiology.
  • It is also suitable for those working in interdisciplinary fields like pharmacology, biomedical engineering, and healthcare technology development.

 

MD Physiology Eligibility Criteria

To get enrolled in the MD Physiology program, applicants are required to meet certain eligibility criteria. Given below is the eligibility criterion commonly set by all the institutions offering the MD Physiology program in India:

  • Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and a master's degree with at least 50% marks from a recognised university, or an equivalent qualification.
  • The selection process will prioritise candidates with prior experience in the health and development sector.
  • Candidates with professional degrees are also eligible at many institutes, provided they have good academic records.
  • The admission is generally based on various national-level entrance exams like NEET PG or any other university-specific entrance exam.

 

MD Physiology Entrance Exams

Given below is the MD Physiology entrance exam, along with the application date and application fees.

Entrances

Application Date

Exam Date

Application Fees

NEET PG 2026

April 2026

June - July 2026

General/OBC: INR 3,500.

 

SC/ST/PwD: INR 2,500.

 

MD Physiology Colleges in India

Given below are the top colleges in India offering MD Physiology courses.

Institute Name

Location

NIRF Ranking (Medical)

Total Course Fees (Approx)

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham – Deemed University

Ettimadai, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

7

INR 16,10,600

Teerthanker Mahaveer University

Moradabad

97

INR 6,500

Santosh Deemed to be University

Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh

-

INR 2,25,000

Sharda university

Delhi NCR

86

INR 29,31,348

 

MD Physiology Admission Process 2025

MD Physiology admissions can be accessed through either the entrance examination mode or direct admission through a quota. The admission process at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham – Deemed University is mentioned below:

 

Step 1: Visit the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham – Deemed University admissions official site and choose the MD Physiology.

 

Step 2: Fill in the online application form with all the necessary details, upload scanned images of your photograph and signature, and pay the application fee online.

 

Step 3: Choose your admission mode: With a valid NEET PG Score.

 

Step 4: Complete the application and print it out for your records.

 

Step 5: Confirm that the NEET PG scores are valid and received.

 

Step 6: Wait for the release of merit lists: Each NEET PG, AIIMS PG and PGIMER participant has a separate merit list prepared by AIIMS Delhi.

 

Step 7: If shortlisted, go to the official site to see whether you have been selected, and follow the process for admission confirmation.

 

Step 8: Confirm your seat by paying the admission fee.

 

Step 9: Complete the document verification as per the institute's requirements.

 

Step 10: Now, receive the details regarding the commencement of classes after completing the formalities.

 

Documents Required:

  • 10th and 12th mark sheets.
  • Graduation Marksheets
  • Aadhar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Migration certificate
  • Character certificate
  • School Leaving Certificate
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Signature.
  • Caste Certificate (If any)
  • Income proof

 

MD Physiology Syllabus

The syllabus for the MD Physiology is similar in all three institutes offering the course; however, a few subjects or duration may vary, but core subjects remain the same in all. Given below is the MD Physiology syllabus from Santosh Deemed to be University, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh:

Modules

Paper-I: General and Cellular Physiology, including Genetic Basis and Historical Perspectives:

Paper-II: Systemic Physiology (system providing transport, nutrition, and energy), including comparative Physiology.

Paper-III: Systemic Physiology (system concerned with procreation, regulation, and neural control)

Paper IV: Applied Physiology, including recent advances

Practical and oral examination

Viva-voce examination should include the following components

Objective Structured Practical Exam (OSPE)/ Spotting

Theoretical discussion (General and systemic Physiology)

Problem-solving exercises about Clinical Physiology

Teaching techniques

Performing and reporting two special laboratory investigations

Thesis

Two animal experiments (one long and one short) illustrating mechanisms, physiological concepts, and their applications to humans. (Subject to the current regulations of the Government of India regarding animal usage).

Eminent Physiologists (Foreign/Indian)

Two human experiments (one long and one short), dealing with clinical physiology as would have a significant bearing on human health and patient care.

Journals (Indian/Foreign)

Micro-teaching session for assessing communication skills.

Recent advances

 

MD Physiology Vs MD Anatomy Course Comparison

Here is a detailed comparison table between MD Physiology and MD Anatomy based on various important aspects:

Aspects

MD Physiology

MD Anatomy

Duration

3 years

3 years

Major Focus

Study of normal functions and mechanisms of the human body, including cellular, tissue, organ, and system-level physiology.

Study of the structure of the human body, including gross anatomy, histology, embryology, and neuroanatomy.

Eligibility

MBBS degree with internship completion and registration with the Medical Council.

MBBS degree with internship completion and registration with the Medical Council.

Admission process

Through entrance exams like NEET-PG or institutional exams.

Through entrance exams like NEET-PG or institutional exams.

Career opportunities

Teaching faculty in medical colleges, clinical physiologists, researchers in medical and biomedical sciences, and roles in pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

Teaching faculty in medical colleges, forensic experts, clinical anatomists, researchers in medical sciences, and roles in allied health fields like radiology and surgery training.

Skills

Analytical and experimental skills in physiology, interpretation of physiological data, and research methodology.

Dissection skills, spatial understanding of body parts, microscopic tissue analysis, and application of anatomy in clinical practice.

Top recruiters

Medical colleges, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare organisations.

Medical colleges, forensic departments, hospitals, research centres, and medical publishing houses.

Salary

Approximately INR 6-12 lakh per annum (varies with experience and location).

Approximately INR 6-14 lakh per annum (varies with experience and location).

 

MD Physiology Job Opportunities in India

MD Physiology graduates can work in top hospitals, private clinics, research institutions, teaching, healthcare consultancy, and government health services across India. Given below are the job opportunities in India.

Roles

Experience level

Top recruiters

Average Salary

Medical College Professor

1- 2 years

AIIMS, PGIMER, Maulana Azad Medical College, CMC Vellore

INR 15 LPA to INR 17 LPA

Clinical Physiologist

1- 2 years

Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, Max Healthcare

INR 15 LPA to INR 17 LPA

Research Scientist

1- 2 years

ICMR, CSIR, DRDO, National Institute of Immunology

INR 6 LPA to INR 7 LPA

Biomedical Scientist

1- 2 years

Biocon, Wockhardt, Cipla, Serum Institute of India

INR 6 LPA to INR 7 LPA

Pharmaceutical Researcher

1- 2 years

Sun Pharma, Lupin, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals

INR 15 LPA to INR 17 LPA

Health Consultant

2- 4 years

Practo, Medanta, private clinics

INR 6 LPA to INR 7 LPA

Medical Writer

3- 4 years

IQVIA, TCS, Wipro, MedGenome

INR 4 LPA to INR 6 LPA

Laboratory Technologist

1-2 years

SRL Diagnostics, Thyrocare, Metropolis Healthcare

INR 4 LPA to INR 5 LPA

Academic Research Fellow

1-2 years

National Institutes of Health, various medical universities

INR 5 LPA to INR 6 LPA

Physiologist in Sports Science

1-2 years

Sports Authority of India, Indian Olympic Association

INR 5 LPA to INR 6 LPA

 

MD Physiology FAQs

What skills beyond academic knowledge does an MD Physiology graduate develop during the course?

MD Physiology graduates develop transferable skills in the modern healthcare ecosystem, including critical thinking, analytical skills, communication, teaching, time management, ethical awareness, and collaboration. They sharpen their analytical skills through hypothesis-driven research, develop communication and teaching skills through microteaching, and develop ethical awareness through responsible research. These competencies make MD Physiology holders adaptable professionals in academia, industry, or healthcare delivery, making them valuable in various settings.

Can MD Physiology graduates contribute to public health and policy-making?

MD Physiology graduates have a profound understanding of body functions and disease mechanisms, which is crucial for public health initiatives. They can design community health programs to prevent lifestyle-related diseases like hypertension and diabetes. They also analyse physiological risk factors in epidemiological research and collaborate with policymakers to develop evidence-based guidelines for health promotion, occupational safety, and environmental health standards.

What are the prospects of MD Physiology graduates pursuing interdisciplinary careers?

MD Physiology graduates are well-suited for interdisciplinary careers that combine medicine, technology, and research. They can work with bioengineers to develop medical devices, apply machine learning to physiological data for predictive health models, and excel in pharmaceutical R&D. They can also pursue careers in sports science, rehabilitation technology, and artificial intelligence-driven health diagnostics. This versatility allows them to thrive in emerging sectors that require a combination of biology, technology, and clinical insight.

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