A Postgraduate Diploma in Orthopedics or PG Diploma in Orthopaedics is a 2 year specialized medical program designed for MBBS graduates who want to create expertise in diagnosis, treatment and management of musculoskeletal conditions. This course focuses on the practical training in areas such as fracture management, joint replacement, bone infection and spinal injuries. It mixes surgical skills, clinical exposure and classroom learning to develop merit in both acute and chronic orthopedic conditions.
Candidates who are interested in pursuing this course must have an MBBS degree, with a minimum of 50% total marks from a recognized institute and complete a year of internship. Most of the admissions are provided on the basis of national level examinations such as the NEET PG, however, some of the private institutions may also conduct their own exams or even offer seats based on merit. The average course fee varies depending on the institute.
A few main subjects that are included in the course curriculum are Diagnostic Imaging in Orthopaedics, Dislocations and Subluxations, Bone and Joint Infections, and many more. Students gain widespread hands-on experience in surgical procedures, ward duties, OPDs and emergency rooms. The program aims to prepare professionals for real -world challenges, especially given India’s rising rates of road accidents and bone-related disorders.
Some of the career opportunities after completion of the course include job roles like Orthopedic Surgeon, Medical Officer, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, Senior Resident Orthopedics. Graduates can work in public and private hospitals, trauma centers and orthopedic clinics. Some can even pursue high qualifications such as MS Orthopaedics or DNB.
Table of Contents
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Key Highlights
- What is a PG Diploma in Orthopaedics?
- Why Study PG Diploma in Orthopaedics?
- Who Should Pursue PG Diploma in Orthopaedics?
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Eligibility Criteria
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Entrance Exams 2025
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Colleges in India
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Admission Process 2025
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Syllabus
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Job Opportunities in India
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics vs PG Diploma in Sports Medicine
- PG Diploma in Orthopaedics FAQs
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Key Highlights
Below are the key highlights of the PG Diploma in Orthopaedics courses:
What is a PG Diploma in Orthopaedics?
A Pg Diploma in Orthopedics is a medical course designed specifically for MBBS graduates who want to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of bones and joint disorders. It mainly focuses on basically managing the fractures, spinal injuries, arthritis and many other musculoskeletal conditions through non-surgical and surgical techniques.
The syllabus emphasizes hands-on training in trauma care, orthopedic processes and rehabilitation techniques, which are often conducted in hospital settings under expert supervision. This is ideal for doctors who aim to make a career in orthopedics without committing a long MS degree.
Why Study PG Diploma in Orthopaedics?
A PG diploma in Orthopedics is a program focused on therapy and surgical treatment of bone, joint and musculoskeletal disorders. It prepares students for rehabilitation through trauma care, orthopedic consultation and clinical training on hands and rehabilitation through case-based learning. There are some reasons related to why study PG diploma in Orthopedics course:
- The course emphasizes real-world application and supervised surgery, which independently enhances confidence in performing the orthopedic processes.
- There is often a shortage of experts in rural areas, whereas, these diploma holders take the leading roles in trauma care and orthopedic outreach programs.
- More than 6 million Indians were affected by osteoporosis, where 80% of them were women, while 30% of women after postmenopausal, from the West, where bone health is a growing concern. PG Diploma in Orthopedics trains doctors to manage and treat this widespread scenario, addressing a critical healthcare need.
- With an aging population, the demand for orthopedic care such as arthritis and joint degeneration is increasing, creating a long -term career value.
- Orthopedics are important in trauma settings, and this course trains the candidates to make important decisions that directly affect the patient's survival and mobility.
Who Should Pursue PG Diploma in Orthopaedics?
A PG Diploma in Orthopaedics trains doctors in treating bone injuries, fractures and joint disorders. It suits those interested in surgical and trauma care. Ideal for MBBS graduates looking for practical orthopedic skills.
Below are few pointers related to the best-fit candidates who should pursue a PG Diploma in Orthopaedics course:
- The MBBS graduates seeking early specialization: Those who want a specialization in orthopedics without committing to a full 3 year MS program can choose to pursue this diploma.
- Rural healthcare practitioners: Doctors working in rural or underserved areas where bone injuries and trauma are very common can enhance their skills to provide a better service to the community.
- Healthcare workers in high-injury areas: Those working in areas with frequent accidents or physical labor injuries will find orthopedic expertise highly practical and impactful.
- Healthcare professionals who want surgical exposure: People with a passion for bones, joints and ligaments will benefit from the practical and operative training provided.
- Aspiring private clinic owners: The doctors planning to open their own clinics with attention to musculoskeletal care can use this diploma to create reliability and expertise.
- The candidates preparing for future DNB or MS studies: Those who are willing to pursue the MS or a DNB in orthopedics can utilize this diploma course to gain basic experience and clinical exposure.
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Eligibility Criteria
To pursue the PG Diploma in Orthopaedics course, the applicant needs to meet certain criteria, without which admission into this course may be difficult. Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria for pursuing PG Diploma in Orthopaedics:
- Educational Qualification: Completing an MBBS degree from a Medical College or institution recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI), which is now known as the National Medical Commission (NMC).
- Internship: Completing a one-year compulsory rotation internship in an educational institution or any other institution recognized by MCI/NMC. Some colleges may require it before the course starts.
- Registration: Candidates should have a permanent or provisional registration certificate of MBBS qualification issued by NMC/MCI or State Medical Council.
- Minimum marks: MBBS requires a minimum of 50% total marks, although it may vary on the basis of the institution.
- Entrance Examination: Institutes require students to qualify for the postgraduate medical entrance examination, such as NEET PG or INI-CET. Admission is usually based on the marks obtained in these exams and a later counselling.
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Entrance Exams 2025
Candidates who want to pursue the PG Diploma in Orthopaedics course typically require to appear for the entrance exams, and also few colleges conduct personal interviews. Some of the entrance exams for PG Diploma in Orthopaedics are given below:
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Colleges in India
In India, there are very few institutions offering PG Diploma in Orthopaedics courses with specific admission requirements. The course includes trauma care, bone disorders and surgical techniques, which focuses on the practical orthopedic skills. The fee structure may vary by college and location.
Some of the PG Diploma in Orthopaedics in India that offers this courses or courses related to Orthopaedics are given below:
Click to know about Master of Surgery in Orthopaedics
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Admission Process 2025
The admission procedure which is involved for pursuing an PG Diploma in Orthopaedics courses at PSG Institute of Medical Sciences & Research includes the following stages:
Step 1: Pass NEET PG exam: To continue with the course, you have to take the NEET PG exam and pass.
Step 2: Go to the college website: Go to the admission section of the official PSG IMSR website.
Step 3: Register online: In this step, you have to register on the college entry portal to make a profile.
Step 4: Fill out the application form: Enter all your personal, academic, and contact details accurately, as asked.
Step 5: Payment application fee: Pay the required fee online through the link provided.
Step 6: Upload the document: According to the instructions, submit scanned copies of your mark sheet, certificate, and photo.
Step 7: Save one print copy: Download or print the form completed for your future reference.
Documents Required:
- Educational Certificates
- Identity Proof like Aadhar card, passport, or other valid government-issued ID
- Address Proof
- Passport sized photographs
- Caste/Category Certificate (if applicable)
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Syllabus
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics programs across institutions cover core topics like fractures, joint disorders, and spinal injuries, with minor variations by university. The course emphasizes surgical and clinical training, preparing graduates for roles in hospitals, trauma care, and orthopaedic practice.
Some of the subjects that are covered under the curriculum by National Medical Commission (NMC) are as follows:
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics Job Opportunities in India
Graduates with a PG Diploma in Orthopaedics can work in hospitals, trauma centers, rehabilitation clinics, and private practice. They often manage bone fractures, joint disorders, and musculoskeletal injuries, gaining expertise in surgical procedures and patient care, which prepares them for specialized roles in orthopaedic and emergency medicine.
Some of the job opportunities after completing PG Diploma in Orthopaedics courses are as follows:
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics vs PG Diploma in Sports Medicine
PG Diploma in Orthopedics focuses on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of bone, joint and spinal cord disorders, which prepare students for roles in hospitals, trauma centers and orthopedic clinics. However, PG Diploma in Sports Medicine emphasizes on the prevention, management and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries along with increase in medicines and performance. It is better for sports teams, careers with fitness centers and as advisors in athletic healthcare and rehabilitation settings.
PG Diploma in Orthopaedics FAQs
Can PG Diploma holders perform the surgeries?
Yes, a few basic and emergency orthopedic surgeries are taught to diploma holders. However, based on the hospital's policy and experience, surgical privileges may differ. MS holders may be preferred for the advanced or academic roles.
Can a candidate pursue a DNB or MS after a diploma?
Yes, by further qualifying for the tests or by lateral entrance, a diploma holder can pursue the DNB or MS. Some institutes offer a bridge course or seat upgrade on the basis of merit. This way allows career growth and great academic advancement.
What type of surgery is taught during this course?
Students are trained in fracture fixation, joint dislocation management, minor spinal surgeries and organ deformity improvement. Hands-on experience is provided under proper supervision. Exposure for surgical devices and emergency care is integral.
What skills are taught and developed through this program?
Students gain skills in diagnosis, surgical techniques, patient management, emergency care and rehabilitation. It also develops decision-making, teamwork and communication in clinical settings. Accurate and quick responses are important characteristics learned.
What are the challenges during the course?
Managing the emergency cases, long working hours, surgical skills and academic pressure are some of the common challenges. Stress management and strong mentorships help them to overcome.
What support system is provided during the course?
Most colleges offer a mentorship, peer learning, clinical guidance and faculty supervision. Access to libraries, case discussions, and surgical workshops is provided. Students are encouraged to learn from real-time clinical cases.