A Postgraduate Diploma in Child Health (PGDCH) is a 1-2 year course for medical graduates with an MBBS degree, focusing on paediatrics or child health. It requires an internship and can be offered full-time, part-time, or online.
PG Diploma in Child Health eligibility criteria is that the candidate must have completed their bachelor's degree with at least 50% aggregate marks from a recognised university. Admission for this course is based on the entrance examination scores; students need to clear national entrance exams such as NEET PG.
The average PG Diploma in Child Health course fees range from INR 5000 – 2,00,000, depending on the institute type. Some of the popular universities/ colleges offering PG Diploma in Child Health include Madras Medical College, GSVM Medical College, Lady Hardinge Medical College, AIIMS, Government Medical College, IGNOU, Coimbatore Medical College, Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, and Armed Forces Medical College.
PG Diploma in Child Health offers various roles such as general paediatrician, neonatal care specialist, medical officer, consultant paediatrician, public health specialist, pediatric emergency officer, school health program officer, child health research associate, pediatric clinic owner, and medical lecturer. The average salary ranges from INR 10 LPA to INR 15 LPA. The roles are available in Apollo Hospitals, Max Healthcare, Fortis, Rainbow Hospitals, Cloudnine, Motherhood Hospital, government hospitals, private hospitals, multispecialty clinics, state education departments, NGOs, ICMR, WHO, UNICEF, academic institutions, and self-employed/entrepreneurial roles.
Table of Contents
- PG Diploma in Child Health Key Highlights
- What is a PG Diploma in Child Health?
- Why study a PG Diploma in Child Health?
- Who should study a PG Diploma in Child Health?
- PG Diploma in Child Health Eligibility Criteria
- PG Diploma in Child Health Entrance Exams
- PG Diploma in Child Health Colleges in India
- PG Diploma in Child Health Admission Process 2025
- PG Diploma in Child Health Syllabus
- PG Diploma in Child Health Job Opportunities in India
- PG Diploma in Child Health FAQs
PG Diploma in Child Health Key Highlights
Given below are some of the basic key highlights for the PG Diploma in Child Health:
What is a PG Diploma in Child Health?
A Postgraduate Diploma in Child Health (PGDCH) is a postgraduate medical diploma course focusing on the healthcare and treatment of infants, children, and adolescents, typically pursued by medical graduates with an MBBS or equivalent, aiming to specialise in paediatrics or gain in-depth knowledge in child health.
The PG Diploma in Child Health typically lasts 1-2 years and requires an MBBS degree from a recognised medical council/university, along with completion of an internship, and can be offered full-time, part-time, or online.
The program aims to equip doctors with clinical and theoretical knowledge to effectively manage common pediatric illnesses, promote child development, and address preventive and community-based pediatric care.
Why study a PG Diploma in Child Health?
Given below are some points on why you should pursue a PG Diploma in Child Health. Let’s have a look at them:
- It is a valuable postgraduate qualification for medical professionals specialising in pediatric healthcare.
- Focuses on pediatric care, providing doctors with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on training in treating infants, children, and adolescents, covering essential areas like nutrition, immunisation, growth monitoring, and pediatric diseases.
- It is typically shorter than an MD in Paediatrics, offering quick specialisation for professionals seeking quick training.
- The course enhances medical practitioners' credentials, allowing for higher-paying jobs in hospitals, clinics, and NGOs, including general pediatricians, child health consultants, and medical officers.
- It is in high demand in rural and urban settings due to the shortage of pediatric specialists in India and other developing countries, particularly in primary healthcare centres and semi-urban areas.
- It is a valuable course for professionals in public health and NGOs, preparing them to contribute to community health programs focusing on maternal and child welfare.
Who should study a PG Diploma in Child Health?
Here are some of the points on who should pursue the PG Diploma in Child Health course:
- Medical professionals aiming to develop expertise in pediatric care. It is particularly beneficial for MBBS graduates who wish to specialise in child healthcare, offering a quicker and more focused alternative to a full MD in Paediatrics.
- Doctors in Rural or Semi-Urban Areas with the necessary skills to provide comprehensive child healthcare in areas with limited paediatricians, thereby addressing the shortage.
- Medical Officers in Public Health, who work in community health programs, immunisation drives, and maternal and child health missions.
- Those aiming to work with NGOs or global health organisations, demonstrating specialised child health training, adding value to their careers.
- IMGs seeking a recognised pediatric qualification, particularly in countries with shorter specialisation paths for local pediatric training or licensure.
PG Diploma in Child Health Eligibility Criteria
To get enrolled in the PG Diploma in Child Health program, applicants are required to meet certain eligibility criteria. Given below is the eligibility criterion commonly set by all the institutions offering the PG Diploma in Child Health program in India:
- Bachelor’s degree in related discipline.
- Candidates must have at least 50% aggregate marks from a recognised board.
- Candidates must pass entrance exams like NEET PG and participate in group discussion and personal interview rounds for the final selection phase.
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PG Diploma in Child Health Entrance Exams
Given below is the PG Diploma in Child Health entrance exam, along with the application date and application fees.
PG Diploma in Child Health Colleges in India
Given below are some of the best colleges in India offering the PG Diploma in Child Health course.
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PG Diploma in Child Health Admission Process 2025
PG Diploma in Child Health admissions can be accessed through either the entrance examination mode or direct admission through a quota. The admission process at the Madras Medical College, is mentioned below:
Step 1: Visit the Madras Medical College, Chennai admissions official site and choose the PG Diploma in Child Health.
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 Madras Medical College, Chennai(NEET PG) score.
Step 4: Complete the application and print it out for your records.
Step 5: Appear for the NEET PG.
Step 6: Wait for the release of merit lists: Each NEET PG participant has a separate merit list prepared by the Madras Medical College, Chennai
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 requirement.
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
PG Diploma in Child Health Syllabus
Given below is the PG Diploma in Child Health Syllabus from Coimbatore Medical College:
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PG Diploma in Child Health Job Opportunities in India
PG Diploma in Child Health 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.
PG Diploma in Child Health FAQs
How to get admission in a Good PG Diploma in Child Health College?
To secure admission to the Good PG Diploma in Child Health College, research the exam pattern and type of questions to prepare effectively. Compare colleges based on factors like ranking and location to determine the best study location. Practice mock tests to improve speed and finish the exam on time. Stay informed about important dates and current affairs related to your field to provide a good answer. Voice your opinions in personal interviews or group discussions to ensure you are well-prepared. Avoid shying away from voicing your opinions in personal interviews or group discussions.
What is the scope of the PG Diploma in Child Health?
A PG Diploma in Child Health (PGDCH) is a promising diploma for medical graduates, particularly in countries focusing on maternal and child healthcare. It equips graduates with specialised skills to diagnose, treat, and manage pediatric conditions, making them valuable assets in public and private healthcare sectors. Graduates can work as general paediatricians, neonatal care specialists, or emergency care doctors in hospitals, child clinics, and community health centres. There is also demand in government programs like the National Health Mission and international NGOs like UNICEF and WHO. Entrepreneurs can establish their own pediatric practice or child wellness centres.
Is a PG Diploma in Child Health a professional course?
A PG Diploma in Child Health (PGDCH) is a postgraduate medical course designed for MBBS graduates seeking specialised knowledge and practical skills in paediatrics and child healthcare. Emphasising hands-on clinical training and real-world case management, it prepares doctors for effective work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. The diploma qualifies individuals for positions as pediatric consultants, child health specialists, and medical officers in the public and private sectors.
What are the skills learned in the PG Diploma in Child Health Course?
The PG Diploma in Child Health (PGDCH) course provides students with clinical, diagnostic, and interpersonal skills for providing comprehensive pediatric care. Key skills include pediatric diagnosis, treatment, neonatal care, vaccination, growth monitoring, emergency care, nutritional assessment, communication, public health awareness, record keeping, medical documentation, and ethics. These skills are essential for managing common childhood illnesses, infections, developmental disorders, and acute conditions. Students also learn about community-based child health programs and participate in school health initiatives.
What are the additional job prospects of a PG Diploma in Child Health degree?
A PG Diploma in Child Health (PGDCH) offers numerous job opportunities in public health, education, research, and administration. Graduates can work as medical officers in government health missions, NGOs, and international agencies like UNICEF, WHO, and Save the Children. They can also enter research roles, participate in studies on child nutrition, vaccination efficacy, and epidemiology. Academics can work as lecturers or trainers in paramedical and nursing colleges. With experience, professionals can move into hospital administration, health program coordination, or establish their child wellness clinics, combining medical practice with community outreach.
