A Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS) is a professional degree that focuses on the Unani system of medicine, which is one of the oldest forms of traditional medicine. Rooted in the teachings of Hippocrates and Galen, Unani medicine has been practiced for centuries and continues to be a vital part of alternative and holistic healthcare systems, especially in India, the Middle East, and South Asia.
With an increasing demand for alternative and herbal medicine, BUMS graduates have diverse career opportunities in both government and private sectors. Whether you want to practice medicine, enter research, work in the pharmaceutical industry, or start your own business, there are numerous avenues to explore.
This article discusses various career paths available after completing a BUMS degree and how you can make the most of your education.
1. Clinical Practice as a Unani Doctor
One of the most common career choices for BUMS graduates is clinical practice. After obtaining registration from the respective medical council, a BUMS graduate can work as a Unani physician in a hospital, clinic, or wellness center.
- Government Hospitals & Clinics: The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) runs many government hospitals where Unani doctors are in demand. BUMS graduates can apply for government medical officer positions.
- Private Practice: Many Unani practitioners open their own clinics and offer treatments based on herbal and natural remedies. With growing awareness about holistic medicine, private practice can be a highly rewarding career.
- Unani Health Centers & Wellness Clinics: Many wellness centers, alternative medicine clinics, and holistic healing centers hire Unani doctors to provide treatments for chronic diseases, lifestyle disorders, and general health issues.
2. Career in Government & Public Sector
The government sector offers excellent job opportunities for BUMS graduates through various healthcare programs and organizations.
- Government Jobs under AYUSH: The Indian government has a dedicated department, Ministry of AYUSH, which focuses on promoting traditional medicine. BUMS graduates can work as medical officers, research officers, and health consultants under this department.
- Public Health Sector: Many national health programs employ Unani professionals to promote natural healthcare solutions for diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and respiratory disorders.
- Teaching & Academics in Government Colleges: If you have an interest in teaching, you can pursue a Master’s degree (MD in Unani) and apply for lecturer or professor positions in government and private medical colleges.
- Pharmacist in Government Unani Dispensaries: There are government-run Unani pharmacies where BUMS graduates can work as pharmacists or quality control officers to ensure that Unani medicines are prepared and dispensed properly.
- Railways & Armed Forces Medical Services: Organizations such as Indian Railways, ESIC (Employee State Insurance Corporation), and Armed Forces recruit Unani medical professionals for healthcare services.
3. Research & Development (R&D) in Unani Medicine
If you have a passion for scientific research, then a career in research and development (R&D) can be an exciting path.
- Unani Drug Research: Many pharmaceutical companies and government bodies like Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) hire BUMS graduates for clinical research and drug development.
- Developing Herbal & Natural Medicines: The growing interest in herbal and natural remedies means that Unani researchers are in demand for formulating, testing, and improving Unani-based treatments.
- Postgraduate Studies in Research: Pursuing an MD in Unani Medicine or a Ph.D. can lead to opportunities in Unani medical research institutions and universities.
4. Career in the Pharmaceutical Industry
The pharmaceutical industry has a huge market for herbal, Ayurvedic, and Unani medicines. Many Unani graduates find well-paying jobs in this field.
- Production & Manufacturing: Work in the manufacturing units of Unani medicine companies, ensuring that medicines are prepared according to traditional methods and quality standards.
- Quality Control Officer: BUMS graduates can work in quality assurance and control departments to monitor the safety and effectiveness of Unani medicines.
- Pharmacovigilance: Monitoring the effects of Unani drugs and ensuring they meet safety standards.
- Medical Representative (MR): BUMS graduates can work as medical representatives for pharmaceutical companies, promoting Unani products to doctors and hospitals.
Popular companies hiring Unani professionals include:
- Hamdard Laboratories
- Dabur
- Baidyanath
- Zandu Pharmaceuticals
5. Teaching & Academic Career
Many BUMS graduates pursue teaching after completing higher education like MD (Unani) or Ph.D. in Unani Medicine.
- Lecturer/Professor: You can work as a faculty member in Unani medical colleges and universities.
- Trainer in Alternative Medicine Institutes: Many health and wellness institutes conduct short-term courses in herbal medicine, naturopathy, and alternative healing, requiring experienced Unani professionals as trainers.
6. Entrepreneurship & Business Opportunities
For those with an entrepreneurial mindset, there are multiple opportunities to start your own business related to Unani medicine.
- Unani Medicine Manufacturing: Start a herbal medicine production unit and sell Unani products like oils, syrups, tablets, and powders.
- Unani Wellness Centers & Spas: With growing interest in holistic wellness, setting up a wellness spa, herbal therapy center, or yoga studio combined with Unani treatments can be a lucrative business.
- Online Consultation & E-Pharmacy: Many doctors now offer online consultations and sell Unani medicines through e-commerce platforms.
