Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy [DDVL] Colleges, Admission Process, Entrance Exams, Syllabus, Specialisations, Job Profiles, Scope, Salary 2023

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Sounak Banerjee

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DDVL full form is Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy and it is a 2-3 years diploma course studying about the disorders of skin and its appendages, and about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This paramedical course focuses on various skin-related diseases, their preventive measures and the required medical and surgical approach towards them.

Go through the full list of Top DDVL Colleges in India

For the UG diploma course in DDVL, a 10+2 education or equivalent with Biology as a subject is the primary criterion for eligibility. Meanwhile, an MBBS degree with a passing percentage is required for the PG diploma course.

The admission to DDVL course is based on the entrance exam scores. NEET UG scores are used for UG diploma, while NEET PG is used for PG Diploma DDVL course. 

Some of the many subjects taught in this program include Clinical Dermatology, Papulosquamous diseases, Disorders of epidermal appendages and related disorders, Inflammatory and neoplastic disorders of the dermis, etc. It studies skin changes due to mechanical and physical factors, Photomedicine, and photobiology and photo immunology in relation to skin.

DDVL students can find high-profile jobs in both private and public sectors. Some careers include Cosmetic Dermatologist, Medical Dermatologist, Dermatology Consultant, and Venereologist. 

Average starting salary proffered is INR 3,00,000 - 9,00,000 which may increase with the number of years of experience.

After completing DDVL, graduates can opt for an MBBS after the diploma or PG diploma graduates can go for an MD Dermatology Venereology and Leprosy.

DDVL Course Highlights

Course Level Graduation/Post-graduation
Full Form  Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy
Duration 2-3 years
Examination Type  Unit System
Eligibility
  • For UG Diploma: 10+2 education or equivalent with Biology and an aggregate of 50% marks.
  • For PG Diploma: MBBS degree or an equivalent degree approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI)
Admission Process Entrance Exam Based 
Average Course Fee (INR) INR 15,000 - 10,00,000 
Average Salary Package (INR) INR 3,00,000 - 9,00,000 
Top Recruiting Companies The Advisory Board Company, Hindustan Unilever LTD., Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., ATLAS Healthcare, Abbot, Alkem, Aurobindo Pharma, BioClinica, Biocon LTD., Cipla
Job Position Medical Representative, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Medical Dermatologist, Dermatology Consultant, and Venereologist, College Lecturer, 

DDVL: What is it about?

  • Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy or DDVL is a branch of medicine that studies intricately about skin and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). 
  • It involves a detailed scrutiny of disorders on skin and its appendages (nails and hair). 
  • Students may learn to manage common skin disorders through the UG level diploma, while PG level diploma graduates may be able to consult the cosmetic needs of skin. 
  • The curriculum involves both medical and surgical aspects. Students may learn to remove scars and extra growth on skin, and treat any unusual behaviour on skin and its appendages like psoriasis, eczema, scalp allergies, and skin allergies. 
  • Subjects of focus include Dermatopathology, Dermatosurgery, Leprosy, and Venereology. Surgical procedures like Botox, laser hair removal, hair transplant and collagen injections are also practiced in the curriculum.

What is DDVL

Why Should You Study DDVL?

  • Students learn to diagnose and treat various skin diseases, cosmetic dermatological problems, leprosy, and STDs, especially AIDS.
  • Opportunity to manage medical emergencies concerning skin, leprosy and venereal diseases.
  • Students can learn and develop preventive measures against communicable and venereal diseases as well as against leprosy.
  • Students may investigate the underlying causes of skin diseases and its appendages.
  • Contenders may develop approachable and acceptive behaviour towards patients suffering from skin and venereal diseases.
  • Most DDVL programs are provided by medical institutions and hence, may provide many facilities to practise and perform minor surgeries.
  • Aspirants gain necessary knowledge and laboratory skills to work in medical and paramedical organisations.

What is the Admission Process for DDVL?

  • Mostly, entry into a DDVL course is gained through an entrance exam and percentage of merit achieved by the candidate. 
  • Most institutes look into the score gained in NEET PG entrance examination. Some institutes may look into other entrance examination scores.
  • Institutes follow a common selection procedure, though the cut-off mark set depends on the institutions.
  • Relaxation of a fixed percentile is allowed to candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer), differently abled, and other categories.

Selection procedure consists mainly of three steps-

  • Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted depending on their NEET PG/AIIMS PG/other accepted entrance exam score and by their academic records. 
  • Personal Interview (PI): After being shortlisted, aspirants get into the Group Discussion/Personal Interview (PI) round, where their competence, critical thinking and communication skills are tested.
  • Final Selection: After the PI round, a fixed number of candidates are selected, who are now eligible to be admitted to the respective institute.

After a student is entitled to be admitted to a university, they are expected to submit the following documents to the management of the school.

  • Marksheets of grade X and XII.
  • NEET PG/AIIMS/the corresponding entrance exam admit card, score card and rank letter (if opting for the PG diploma course).
  • Six passport size photographs.
  • Character certificate
  • Reservation certificate (if any).
  • Self-attested copies of various identity verification documents.
  • Domicile certificate
Admission Process

Read more on Kasturba Medical College Admission Process

What is the Eligibility Criteria for DDVL Course?

  • Candidates who have completed their 10+2 schooling or equivalent, with an aggregate of 50% marks are eligible to enroll for the UG Diploma program.
  • Subjects taken during higher secondary schooling must include Biology.
  • An MBBS or an equivalent degree recognized by Medical Council of India (MCI) with a minimum of 50% marks, for the PG Diploma.
  • Institutions requiring an entrance exam for admission may take into account both the entrance exam score as well as previous academic records. The cut-off mark for the examination is decided by each institution.
  • Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer), differently abled, and other categories shall get a relaxation of 5% of marks.
  • Letters of recommendation can also be favourable to the candidate.

Also, go through the Eligibility criteria for NEET PG 2023

Which are the Popular Entrance Exams for DDVL Course?

  • Various entrance exams are conducted by the central government, which are commonly accepted, and by certain universities.
  • Different schools may look into the scores gained in the exams of their choice.

Important dates to be noted:

Entrance Exams Application Dates Exam Dates
AJEE To be Announced To be Announced
AIIMS Nursing Exam To be Announced To be Announced
NEET Second week of January 2023 - Last week of February 2023 May 7, 2023
NEET PG

January 7, 2023 – January 27, 2023

March 5, 2023
MNS Entrance Exam

May 11 to 31, 2023

July 2023

How to Prepare for DDVL Entrance Exams?

Each entrance exam is held between 3 and 3 ½ hours duration and their maximum marks are different. Nonetheless, their pattern is similar and students may prepare for any of the exams with some common methods. Given below is the exam pattern for NEET PG.

Section Subjects No. Of Questions
Part - A Anatomy 17
Physiology 17
Biochemistry 16
Total 50

Part - B
Pathology 25
Pharmacology 20
Microbiology 20
Forensic Medicine 10
Social and Preventive Medicine 25
Total 100


Part - C
General Medicine with Dermatology Venereology & Psychiatry 45
General Surgery with Orthopedics, Anaesthesia & Radio Diagnosis 45
Obstetrics and Gynaecology 30
Paediatrics 10
ENT 10
Ophthalmology 10
Total 150

Here we have discussed only the broader aspect of the questions paper. To read about NEET Question Paper in detail, visit NEET PG Exam Pattern page. 

Other details:

  • Every correct answer is awarded 4 marks. Maximum marks for NEET PG is 1200.
  • Questions are of objective type.
  • There are negative markings of 1 each for every wrong answer.
  • Medium of Examination: English only.
  • Examination syllabus is mostly based on the MBBS curriculum, though the examination patterns are different.

Preparation Tips:

  • Candidates must start their preparation months in advance as there is an extensive amount of knowledge to be obtained.
  • Students must get familiar with MCQ-based exams by practicing mock or previous question papers.
  • Contenders must take the decision of preparation through self-study or through coaching classes.
  • Some of the best coaching centres for PG medical entrances are Dr Bhatia Medical Coaching Institute, Delhi Academy of Medical Sciences (DAMS), Institute of Advanced Medical Studies (IAMS), and Speed Medical Centre.

You can get the sample papers of NEET PG Exam from NEET PG Sample Papers page. 

Various reference books and guides are available in bookstores and online shops. Some of them are:

Name of Book Author
The Next Level of Preparation NEET PG Crystal Clear 2016-2020 Thameem Saif & Apurv Mehra
Review of Pharmacology Gobind Rai Garg
Self Assessment & Review Obstetrics Sakshi Arora Hans
Self Assessment & Review Gynecology Sakshi Arora Hans
Review of Pediatrics and Neonatology Taruna Mehra, Apurv Mehra, Meenakshi Bothra Gupta
AIIMS Essence 2015 - 2019 Pritesh Singh
Orthopedics Quick Review (OPQR) Apurv Mehra
PGI Chandigarh Manoj Chaudhary, Hemalatha Patel Chaudhary
Medicine Simplified  Dr. Mukesh Bhatia. 

How to get Admission in a Good DDVL College?

  • Since some colleges enroll students on the basis of merit for a UG diploma, candidates are advised to procure high percentages, especially in Biology, in their higher secondary schooling.
  • Scoring a percentile more than the required cut-off can help in being shortlisted right away. 
  • Students must take note of the cut-off mark decided by each college and work hard enough to achieve that score in the entrance exams.
  • Practice for an entrance exam must not stop just because one has tackled some mock question papers. 
  • There is still room for improvement and candidates must keep practicing consistently.
  •  Students must upgrade their communication skills, critical thinking and current awareness, as these are some of the criteria being tested during this round.
  • Participation and certification in various extra-curricular activities such as clubs, sports, and NGO volunteering can be an addendum to the list of merits.
  • Be updated about the dates of registration and examination, and apply before the deadline.
  • Always be aware about current affairs.

What are the Subjects Taught in DDVL Syllabus?

The following table gives a unit-wise syllabus followed in the curriculum for DDVL:

Semester I Semester II
Introduction - Historical Aspects and Epidemiology Epidermal skin tumors
Comparative dermatology  Anatomy and organization of human skin
Tumours of the skin appendages Disorders of skin color
Diagnosis of skin diseases Histopathology of the skin-general principles 
Lichen planus and Lichenoid disorders Melanocytic Naevi and Malignant melanoma
Functions of Skin Disorders of sweat glands
Disorders of connective tissue Disorders of the sebaceous glands
Clinical immunology and allergy Bullous eruptions
Inflammation Naevi and other developmental defects
Semester III Semester IV
Neonatal Dermatoses  Prenatal diagnosis of skin disease
Genetics and Genodermatoses Pruritus
Rosacea, Flushing, and Perioral Dermatitis Eczema, Lichenification, Prurigo and Erythroderma
Atopic dermatitis  Disorders of blood vessels
Purpura Neurobiotic disorders
Contact dermatitis Diseases of the veins and arteries including leg ulcers
Irritants and Sensitizers Histiocytosis
Cutaneous vasculitis Urticaria
Occupational dermatoses Mastocytosis
Reactions to mechanical and thermal injury Disorders of lymphatic vessels

Which Books are Important for DDVL Students?

Some important books to refer while pursuing a Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy:

Book Author
Dermatology in General Medicine Thomas B. Fitzpatrick
Dermatology Jean L. Bolognia
IADVL Concise Textbook of Dermatology Lalit Kumar Gupta
Sexually Transmitted Diseases King K. Holmes
Venereal Diseases Ambrose King and Claude Nicol
Dermatology, Venereology, Leprology Cosmetology and AIDS Ramesh Bansal
Handbook of Leprosy W H Jopling
Leprosy Robert C Hastings
Indian Journal of Leprosy Hind Kusht Nivaran Sangh (Indian Leprosy Association)
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology Medknow Publications (Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists)

Which are the Top Colleges Offering DDVL Course?

Below is a list of some of the top medical colleges offering a DDVL program:

College City Average Course Fee 
Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Cochin INR 7,00,000 
Kasturba Medical College Manipal INR 15,00,000 
Aligarh Muslim University Aligarh  INR 32,265
University College of Medical Sciences New Delhi INR 60,000
JSS Medical College Mysore INR 18,00,000 
Kasturba Medical College Mangalore INR 28,10,000
Dr. D Y Patil Vidyapeeth Pune INR 28,00,000
M S Ramaiah Medical College Bengaluru INR 8,54,000
Annamalai University Chidambaram  INR 14,85,000
Top Colleges for DDLV

Source: College Websites 

DDVL College Comparison

Given below are the comparisons between a few of the best colleges supporting a DDVL program:

Parameter Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Cochin Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi
Overview Inaugurated in 1998 and accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), the institute is equipped with modern amenities and computerised facilities which helps medical education and treatments to reach utmost efficiency. Established in 1953 and recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI), the college provides many medical courses out of which the MBBS degree is internationally recognized, and includes many exchange programs with various countries including US, Canada and Netherlands. Instituted in 1971 and affiliated to the University of Delhi, the medical university cum hospital has many laboratory services and other medical facilities through which various medical programs up to research can be achieved.
Average Course Fee  INR 7,00,000  INR 15,00,000  INR 60,000
Average Placement Package  INR 5,00,000  INR 8,00,000  INR 4,00,000 
Top Recruiting Companies The Advisory Board Company, Hindustan Unilever LTD., Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., RGF, National Instruments Corporation, General Electric Company, Fractal, ATLAS Healthcare Abbot, Alkem, Aurobindo Pharma, BioClinica, Biocon LTD., Cipla, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Eris Life Sciences, GSK Pharma Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital ( LNJP), University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS)
DDVL College Comparison

Source: College Websites 

Can DDVL be Completed Through Distance Education?

Availability of distant/online diploma courses in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy is quite rare since they involve performing experiments and surgical procedures, and may require the candidate's attendance on campus for their final examinations.

  • Students can be admitted through online application provided that they fit the usual eligibility criteria.
  • Only Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai offers a distance DDVL learning. The course fee is let known only upon request.
  • Aspirants should keep in mind that a distance DDVL is considered lower than a regular DDVL.

Course Comparison

Sometimes the students get confused between two similar courses and can't understand which one to choose. So, here we have compared two courses which are closest to DVL, so that you can make a better choice. 

DDVL vs DNB DVL 

While DDVL stands for Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, DB DVL full form is Diplomate in National Board in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy.

  • Course objectives are the same for both courses and so are the job positions acquired.
  • Candidates are enrolled into DNB by the score achieved in DNB-CET entrance test conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), while candidates are chosen for DDVL on the basis of score in NEET PG.
  • DNB DVL is awarded by the NBE under the Union Ministry of Health, India, following a centralised admission system and so, is considered superior than an MD/MS and a DDVL.
Parameter DDVL DNB in DVL
Qualification Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy Diplomate in National Board in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy
Overview  DDVL is a diploma course which deals with diseases of skin, Venereology and Leprosy. The course includes detailed study of the diseases, medication and treating methods.  This is also a diploma course in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, and covers similar topics as DDVL. The only difference is that it is an DNB certified course and hence holds a greater value than DDVL. 
Course Objective Study focusing on various characteristics and diseases occurring on skin and its appendages; STDs, and leprosy, and learning to treat them medically and surgically. Study focusing on various characteristics and diseases occurring on skin and its appendages; STDs, and leprosy, and learning to treat them medically and surgically.
Duration 2-3 years 3 years
Eligibility
  • For UG Diploma: 10+2 education or equivalent with Biology and an aggregate of 50% marks.
  • For PG Diploma: MBBS degree or an equivalent degree approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI)
  • An MBBS degree or an equivalent recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI) with an aggregate of 50% of marks.
  • Pass the DNB-CET entrance exam conducted by the NBE, and the counselling/interview session.
Average Course Fee  INR 15,000 - 10,00,000 INR 36,000 - 2,40,000 
Average Salary  INR 3,00,000 - 9,00,000  INR 5,00,000 - 15,00,000 
Job Positions Medical Representative, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Medical Dermatologist, Dermatology Consultant, and Venereologist, College Lecturer Medical Representative, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Medical Dermatologist, Dermatology Consultant, and Venereologist, College Lecturer
DDVL vs DNB DVL

Source: College Websites 

DDVL vs DVD 

  • Both have the same curriculum, though DVD gives higher chances of acquiring an occupation along with a higher salary.
  • Both follow an entrance-based selection, that is, based on score achieved in NEET PG.
Parameter DDVL DVD
Qualification Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy Diploma in Venereology and Dermatitis
Overview  DDVL is a diploma course which deals with diseases of skin, Venereology and Leprosy. The course includes detailed study of the diseases, medication and treating methods.  This course is a diploma course which deals only with Venereology and skin diseases. This course does not involve Leprosy. 
Course Objective Study focusing on various characteristics and diseases occurring on skin and its appendages; STDs, and leprosy, and learning to treat them medically and surgically. Study focusing on various characteristics and diseases occurring on skin and its appendages; STDs, and leprosy, and learning to treat them medically and surgically.
Duration 2-3 years 2 years
Eligibility
  • For UG Diploma: 10+2 education or equivalent with Biology and an aggregate of 50% marks.
  • For PG Diploma: MBBS degree or an equivalent degree approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI)
  • For UG Diploma: 10+2 education or equivalent with Biology and an aggregate of 50% marks.
  • For PG Diploma: MBBS degree or an equivalent degree approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI)
Average Course Fee  INR 15,000 - 10,00,000 INR 20,000 - 70,000 
Average Salary  INR 3,00,000 - 9,00,000  INR 6,00,000 - 10,00,000 
Job Positions Medical Representative, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Medical Dermatologist, Dermatology Consultant, and Venereologist, College Lecturer Skin Specialist, Dermatology Professor, Medical Representative, Therapy Manager – IVF Artificial Reproduction, Clinical Application specialist
DDVL VS DVD

Source: College Websites 

Which Job Profiles and Salary Trends are Available for DDVL Candidates?

  • A wide range of careers await, in both private and public sectors, to those who have graduated in DDVL.
  • Some popular employment sectors a reHospitals, Integrative healthcare clinics, Public health clinics, College health centers, Natural apothecaries, Military, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetic companies, etc. 

Brief descriptions of some jobs/careers are given in the table below:

Job Position Description Average Annual Salary 
Cosmetic Dermatologist Treats skin disorders as well as help improve the appearance of skin and its appendages such as hair and nails, through medication and surgery.  INR 8,00,000 
Venereologist Diagnoses and treats sexually transmitted diseases, including the medical and surgical aspects. INR 6,00,000 
Leprologist Studies leprology and examines the nature and origin of leprosy, as well as diagnoses and treats leprosy. INR 6,00,000 
Dermatology Professor Teaches dermatology and related subjects to medical students as well as conduct their own research on dermatology, venereology and leprosy. INR 7,50,000
Therapy Manager – IVF Artificial Reproduction Assists and oversees many therapy procedures and operations, especially in IVF technique of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). INR 5,00,000 
Salary Trend Graph for DDVL

What is the Future Scope After DDVL?

  • UG diploma graduates can opt for an MBBS degree or an equivalent degree approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI).
  • PG diploma graduates can proceed to take an MD in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, or even an MD in Pathology.
  • Graduates can also take up alternative diploma courses like Diploma in Venereology and Dermatitis (DVD) and Diplomate in National Board (DNB) in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy.
  • Aspirants may take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to carry on with their studies in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia and the Caribbean Islands.
  • Graduates may get many chances of internships at hospitals, in which a minimum of 2 years of work experience can ensure faster job procurement.
  • Dedicated training can lead to acquiring some of the most high-profile jobs such as cosmetic dermatologist, surgical dermatologist, and therapy manager.

DDVL FAQs

Ques. Is an MBBS and a DDVL enough to become a dermatologist?

Ans. Though these are definitely prerequisites, other important steps such as a one-year internship, a state license examination certification, and a residency program in Dermatology have to be taken to establish a career in Dermatology. Aspirants can also take up an MD in Dermatology, additional diplomas and/or certification courses to increase the chances of a smooth career.

Ques. What is the minimum duration for an internship and a residency program?

Ans. Internships should span for at least 2 years and duration for a residency program must be a minimum of 5 years.

Ques. Is it difficult to get a job in the dermatological field?

Ans. Considering the very few number of vacancies for dermatology in medical institutions, especially in the government sector, and the increased number of seats for MD, acquiring a job is quite difficult nowadays.

Ques. Is dermatologist a high-earning job?

Ans. Compared to other medical fields like Orthopedics, Radiology and Anaesthesia, jobs in Dermatology have a lesser pay yet appreciable, though the pay in the government sector is almost the same.

Ques. What are the advantages of being a dermatologist?

Ans. A dermatologist does not have to work night shifts and does not have to face emergencies, which makes their schedule less-hectic. One can start a private practice with a minimum budget since it does not require many instruments or equipments. Dermatologists having skills in surgical works can opt for jobs involving requiring minor surgeries such as micro-needling, chemical peels and tattoo removal.

Ques. Can a dermatologist carry out surgical procedures like hair transplant?

Ans. Yes. Dermatologists have the liberty to carry out surgeries concerning the skin and its appendages. Graduands must make sure that they get enough practice during the residency period.

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