Completing MBBS is a huge achievement, but for most young doctors, the real question begins right after graduation: What are the best jobs for doctors after MBBS in Pakistan? Should you go for specialization, join academia, move into research, or aim for opportunities abroad?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the different postgraduate pathways, local and foreign exams, the benefits of doing a master’s, teaching and research careers, and the salary structure of doctors in Pakistan.
1. Options for Jobs for Doctors: postgraduate training pathways
The most common route after MBBS is specialization. Pakistan offers several pathways:
FCPS (Fellowship of College of Physicians & Surgeons)
- Duration: 4–5 years.
- Entry through FCPS-I exam, followed by training and FCPS-II.
- Specialties include Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Radiology, Dermatology, Cardiology, etc.
- Recognized in Pakistan, the Middle East, and some other countries.
- Learn more at the CPSP Official Website.
MD / MS (University Programs)
- Equivalent to FCPS, but run by universities like KEMU and UHS.
- Duration: 4–5 years, includes research thesis.
- Highly preferred for teaching careers in medical universities.
MCPS (Membership of CPSP)
- Duration: 2 years.
- Specialties include Family Medicine, Anesthesia, and Radiology.
- Good option for doctors who want to start practice earlier.
Diplomas (DCH, DGO, DTCD, etc.)
- Duration: 1–2 years.
- Focused training in Pediatrics, Gynecology, Chest Diseases, etc.
- More popular in smaller cities and towns.
2. Clinical and teaching Jobs for Doctors after MBBS in Pakistan
Clinical Practice
- General Practitioners (MBBS only): Work in clinics or rural setups. Income is modest compared to specialists.
- Specialists (FCPS/MD/MS): Work in hospitals or private practice. Their salaries and respect are much higher.
Teaching & Academia
Many doctors dream of becoming Assistant Professors in medical colleges. Requirements:
- Postgraduate qualification (FCPS, MD, MS).
- 2–3 years of teaching + clinical experience.
- Publications in recognized journals.
From Assistant Professor, one can grow to Associate Professor and Professor with higher pay and prestige.
3. Research and non-clinical Jobs for Doctors after MBBS in Pakistan
Not every doctor wants to do hardcore clinical practice. Other rewarding paths include:
Research & Public Health
- Popular degrees: MPH, MSc Epidemiology, M.Phil, PhD.
- Opens jobs in NGOs, WHO, UNICEF, and government health programs.
- Growing demand for public health experts after COVID-19.
Non-Clinical Fields
- Hospital administration (MBA in Healthcare Management).
- Pharmaceutical industry (drug trials, medical affairs, marketing).
- Medical writing, journalism, and policy-making.
4. Benefits of doing a Master’s after MBBS in Pakistan
Why should you pursue a master’s degree after MBBS?
- Expands your career beyond clinics into academia, research, and leadership.
- Highly valued for teaching positions.
- Helpful for securing foreign scholarships.
- Opens careers in public health and global organizations.
5. Foreign Jobs for Doctors after MBBS in Pakistan
Many doctors look abroad for better training and pay.
United States – USMLEhttps://www.usmle.org/
- Steps: USMLE Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 3.
- Passing leads to residency. Salary: $60,000–120,000/year.
- Official resource: USMLE.org.
United Kingdom – PLAB / MRCP / MRCS
- PLAB allows entry into the NHS.
- MRCP/MRCS are direct specialization pathways.
- Starting salaries: £30,000–50,000/year.
- Details at GMC UK.
Middle East (UAE, KSA, Qatar, Oman)
- Exams: Prometric, DHA, HAAD, MOH.
- Tax-free salaries: PKR 600,000 – 1,200,000/month.
Australia – AMC Exam
- AMC Part 1 (MCQs) + Part 2 (Clinical).
- IELTS/OET required.
Canada – MCCQE
- Exams: MCCQE Part I & II.
- Long process but offers stable residency.
6. Doctor salary scale in Pakistan (2025 estimates)
Government Sector (Monthly)
- House Officer: PKR 60,000 – 90,000
- Medical Officer: PKR 120,000 – 180,000
- Postgraduate Resident: PKR 150,000 – 220,000
- Assistant Professor: PKR 250,000 – 350,000
- Professor: PKR 500,000 – 800,000+
Private Sector (Monthly)
- General Practitioner: PKR 70,000 – 150,000
- Specialist: PKR 300,000 – 600,000+
- Top Consultants: PKR 1,000,000+ with private practice
Conclusion: choosing the best career options after MBBS in Pakistan
Deciding on the right career options after MBBS in Pakistan is crucial for young doctors. From FCPS, MD/MS, and teaching pathways to foreign exams like USMLE, PLAB, and AMC, the choices are diverse. Clinical practice offers financial growth, teaching offers stability, and research/public health opens global opportunities.
Also find our blog on Doctors pathway to the UK: https://careerbyali.com/doctors-pathway-to-uk-jobs/
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