Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
The Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy (DDVL) is a postgraduate medical diploma course which deals with the diagnosis & management of skin disorders, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), & leprosy. This course is meant for MBBS graduates who are interested in specializing in dermatological and venereological medicine. Both theoretical and practical clinical training are provided through the program, enabling students to develop skills in managing skin-related ailments and cosmetic dermatology surgeries.
The course is approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI) & is conducted by some prestigious medical colleges & institutions in India. It offers great career opportunities in hospitals, skin care clinics, research institutes, and private practice.
Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
Course Name |
Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy (DDVL) |
Duration |
2 years (full-time) |
Level |
Postgraduate Diploma |
Eligibility |
MBBS or equivalent degree from a recognized university |
Admission Process |
Entrance exam or merit-based (colleges differ) |
Approved by |
NMC/MCI |
Internship |
Compulsory clinical training while studying |
Mode |
Full-time, on-campus |
Focus Areas |
Skin conditions, leprosy, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), cosmetic dermatology |
Average Course Fee |
1.5 – 6 lakhs (college-dependent) |
Career Roles |
Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Venereologist, Researcher, Lecturer |
Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
Candidates need to meet the following for admission to the DDVL course:
Educational Qualification
Must have completed MBBS from a recognized university or institution approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) or Medical Council of India (MCI)
Internship
Completion of a 1-year rotatory internship is necessary before the commencement of the course.
Registration
Candidates must have permanent or provisional registration with the State Medical Council or NMC.
Entrance Exam
Admission is usually through NEET PG, although some colleges might have a direct entrance or merit-based direct admission.
Key Dates for Admission 2025
Application Start Date: January 2025
NEET PG 2025 Exam Date: March 2025
Results Announcement: April 2025
Counseling Begins: May-June 2025
Classes Commence: August 2025
Note: Dates may change as per official announcements.
Top Colleges Offering DDVL in India
Here are some of the top colleges offering Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy:
1. AIIMS, New Delhi
2. PGIMER, Chandigarh
3. Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi
4. Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
5. Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune
6. King George's Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow
7. Madras Medical College, Chennai
8. Grant Medical College, Mumbai
9. Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute, Bangalore
10. IPGMER, Kolkata
Application Procedure for Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
The process of applying for DDVL is usually as follows:
1. Register for NEET PG:
Go to [https://nbe.edu.in](https://nbe.edu.in)
Enter personal and academic information
Upload documents as required
Pay the fee
2. Attend the Entrance Exam:
Study hard for NEET PG
Your MBBS-level knowledge is being tested
3. Verify Merit List & Counseling:
According to your rank, attend counseling rounds
Choose DDVL and your desired colleges
4. Document Verification & Admission:
Submit original documents & pay fee for admission
Secure your seat & begin the academic year
Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy Admission Procedure
Entrance-Based Admission
The majority of colleges admit students on the basis of NEET PG scores post counseling.
Merit-Based Admission
Some private colleges offer admission on the basis of academic merit and personal interviews.
Counseling
Organized by Medical Counseling Committee or concerned state counseling committees
Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy Syllabus
Semester I
Introduction - Historical Aspects & Epidemiology
Comparative dermatology
Tumours of the skin appendages
Detection of skin diseases
Lichen planus & Lichenoid disorders
Functions of Skin
Diseases of connective tissue
Clinical immunology and allergy
Inflammation
Semester II
Epidermal skin tumors
Anatomy & organization of human skin
Diseases of skin color
Histopathology of the skin-general principles
Melanocytic Naevi & Malignant melanoma
Disorders of sweat glands
Diseases of the sebaceous glands
Bullous eruptions
Naevi and other developmental defects
Semester III
Neonatal Dermatoses
Genetics and Genodermatoses
Rosacea, Flushing, & Perioral Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis
Purpura
Contact dermatitis
Irritants and Sensitizers
Cutaneous vasculitis
Occupational dermatoses
Reactions to mechanical & thermal injury
Semester IV
Prenatal diagnosis of skin disease
Pruritus
Eczema, Lichenification, Prurigo & Erythroderma
Disorders of blood vessels
Neurobiotic disorders
Diseases of the veins & arteries including leg ulcers
Histiocytosis
Urticaria
Mastocytosis
Disorders of lymphatic vessels
Career and Scope
On successful completion of DDVL course, candidates can pursue various career options:
Job Profiles
Dermatologist
Cosmetologist
Venereologist
Leprologist
Medical Officer in Dermatology Department
Academic Lecturer / Professor
Clinical Research Associate
Areas of Employment
Government and private hospitals
Multi-specialty skin care clinics
Cosmetic and laser centers
Research labs and pharmaceutical companies
NGOs and leprosy control initiatives
Medical schools and universities
Telemedicine websites
Salary Range
Fresher: 5 –8 LPA
Experienced Specialist: 10 –25 LPA
Private clinic doctors can earn much more based on location and clients.
Why Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy?
Here's why DDVL is an attractive career option for many MBBS graduates:
High Demand: With growing skin-related diseases and aesthetic consciousness, dermatologists are on demand.
Diverse Specialization: Encompasses dermatology, venereology (STDs), and leprosy – three specialized areas.
Lucrative Career: Excellent potential for high earnings in both private and government sectors.
Self-Practice Opportunities: Start your own dermatology or cosmetic center.
Cosmetology Edge: Increased cosmetic surgeries provide an added advantage to DDVL professionals.
Research & Teaching Scope: Excellent choice for those who have a passion for medical teaching and research.
Short Duration: 2-year duration is shorter than an MD, with good job prospects.
FAQ's
Q1. What is the full form of DDVL?
DDVL means Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy.
Q2. What is the eligibility for DDVL?
MBBS degree with 1-year internship and valid registration with MCI/NMC
Q3. Is NEET PG compulsory for admission?
Yes, all well-known colleges demand NEET PG for DDVL admission.
Q4. How long is the course?
The duration of the course is 2 years and it entails practical training in a clinic.
Q5. Can I become a Dermatologist after DDVL?
Yes, you are eligible to become a dermatologist after finishing the course of DDVL and registering.
Q6. Which is better, DDVL or MD Dermatology?
MD is a degree course and more theoretically oriented, but DDVL also makes you eligible to work as a skin specialist in most environments.
Q7. What is the salary after DDVL on average?
The initial salary is between 5 –8 LPA, which later goes up with experience and specialization.
Q8. Do government jobs follow DDVL?
Yes, there are many central and state government health departments that hire dermatology diploma holders.
Q9. Is DDVL approved by MCI/NMC?
Yes, if completed from a recognized college/institute, it is approved and valid throughout India.
Q10. Can I start a clinic after DDVL?
Yes, you can start your own dermatology or cosmetology clinic.
Conclusion
Diploma in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy (DDVL) is a very rewarding and valued medical diploma course that leads to diverse career opportunities in dermatology, cosmetology, venereology, and leprosy control. As more and more awareness increases among people regarding skin care and cosmetic treatments, professionals here have high demand, good salaries, and flexible work.
If you are an MBBS graduate who wants to specialize in skin and sexually transmitted diseases without going for a full MD, DDVL is the best course for you.