D.Pharm vs B.Pharm: Nowadays, a career in pharmacy has become highly popular. Its scope has expanded significantly in fields like medicine, research, drug manufacturing, and education. Due to the growing demand in the pharmaceutical sector in India, the need for pharmacy graduates has also increased. In India, there are three main courses offered to build a career in the pharmaceutical industry: Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm), Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm), and Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm).
In this article, we will discuss the differences between D.Pharm and B.Pharm, course details, fees, career options, and which course may be better suited for you.
What is Pharmacy?
Pharmacy involves the preparation, distribution, and proper usage of medicines. It includes knowledge of drug composition, effects, and application. Professionals working in this field are known as pharmacists or druggists. To become a pharmacist, one needs to pursue an undergraduate course — the two main options being B.Pharm and D.Pharm.
D.Pharm vs B.Pharm: A Brief Comparison
| Category | D.Pharm | B.Pharm |
|---|---|---|
| Course Name | Diploma in Pharmacy | Bachelor of Pharmacy |
| Education Level | Undergraduate | Undergraduate |
| Course Type | Diploma | Degree |
| Duration | 2 years | 4 years |
| Internship | No | No |
| Specialization | No | Yes |
| Eligibility | 12th (PCB) with 55% | 12th (PCB) with 55% |
| Admission Process | State-level entrance exam, merit-based | National/State-level entrance exams |
Course Curriculum for D.Pharm and B.Pharm
D.Pharm Key Subjects:
- Pharmaceutics
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Pharmacognosy
- Biochemistry and Clinical Pathology
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Health Education
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Drug Store and Business Management
- Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy
B.Pharm Key Subjects:
- Pharmaceutical Analysis
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
- Basic Electronics and Computer Applications
- Industrial Pharmacy
- Pharmaceutical Jurisprudence
Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
Some top colleges offering D.Pharm and B.Pharm courses:
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad
- Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
- Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani
- JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty and Mysore
- Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai
- Punjab University, Chandigarh
- Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Fees for D.Pharm and B.Pharm
Fees vary from college to college. Here are a few examples:
Jamia Hamdard University:
- D.Pharm: ₹80,000 per year
- B.Pharm: ₹1,20,000 per year
Manipal College:
- D.Pharm: ₹60,000 per year
- B.Pharm: ₹2,85,000 per year
DIPSAR:
- D.Pharm: ₹12,085 per year
- B.Pharm: ₹22,385 per year
Career Options After D.Pharm
- Pharmacist in hospitals
- Drug Inspector in government hospitals
- Opening a personal medical store
- Working in a pharmaceutical company
- Continuing further studies in B.Pharm
Career Options After B.Pharm
- Drug Inspector or Food Inspector
- Research Analyst
- Jobs in government or defense sector
- Pharma Consultant
- Faculty in pharmacy colleges
- Higher education like M.Pharm or MBA
Which Course is Better?
The better course depends on your interests and career goals.
- If you want to enter the pharmacy field quickly and start working in less time, D.Pharm might be the right choice for you.
- If you’re interested in research, working in the industry, or pursuing higher education, then B.Pharm is a better option.
Conclusion
Pharmacy is an excellent career choice with many opportunities for growth. Both D.Pharm and B.Pharm have their own advantages. If you’re looking to start your career quickly, you can begin with D.Pharm and later move on to B.Pharm. On the other hand, if your goal is to get into research, government jobs, or reach higher positions, B.Pharm provides a strong foundation.
Before choosing a course, consider your interests, goals, and future plans carefully.
