Handling children isn’t easy. When it comes to their health, the task becomes even more complicated. This is mainly because children often cannot clearly express their discomfort or symptoms. Moreover, there is no way to confirm whether their descriptions accurately reflect what they are experiencing. That is why becoming a pediatrician is both challenging and highly respected.
As a practicing paediatrician, your recognition multiplies with global certifications. Two of the major international certifications that are most sought after by doctors for specialisation in the the field of paediatrics and child health is the Membership of Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH) and the Fellow of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan (FCPS). Both the certifications evaluate theoretical knowledge in paediatrics as well as the expertise of doctors in handling the clinical cases related to child health. Moreover the preparation journey for these detailed examinations provides the doctors with extensive clinical experience and strengthens their critical decision making abilities.
Difference between MRCPCH and FCPS-Paediatrics
Even though both MRCPCH and FCPS offer international post graduate qualification in the field of paediatrics and child health, there are considerable differences in the purpose of these examinations, scope of the certifications and their area of recognition. Moreover the examination pattern also differs drastically.
| MRCPCH | FCPS | |
| Exam Pattern | – MRCPCH Part 1: Two written exams (FOP & TAS) – MRCPCH Part 2: Theory (Single Best Answer format) – MRCPCH Part 3: Clinical exam (OSCE-based) | – FCPS Part 1: Basic sciences MCQs – IMM (Intermediate Module): Theory + TOACS – FCPS Part 2: Clinical & Viva exams after residency |
| Recognition | Recognized internationally, including the UK, Middle East, and some Commonwealth countries | Recognized in Pakistan, with limited acceptance abroad |
| Scope of Work | Can work as a paediatrician in the UK, Middle East, and other countries with MRCPCH recognition | Can practice as a paediatric consultant in Pakistan; may need equivalency exams abroad |
| Post-qualification Options | Can apply for GMC registration to practice in the UK, or pursue subspecialty training (e.g., FRCPCH) | Can work as a paediatrician in Pakistan or pursue further specialization (e.g., MCPS, subspecialties) |
Which one to Choose to Advance your Career in Paediatrics
How you choose to shape your medical career in paediatrics will be the deciding factor between MRCPCH and FCPS. If you are a doctor aiming to settle permanently in Pakistan and build your career there, FCPS in Paediatrics is the ideal choice. However, if you aspire to establish your career in the UK, Middle East, or elsewhere, then MRCPCH is the better option. MRCPCH is a highly valued qualification even in India. Both the qualifications have their own benefits within the respective areas of their validity. Think about where you want to direct your paediatric career before making a decision.
StudyMRCPCH is a comprehensive platform to help you advance in the field of paediatric health by securing the MRCPCH qualification. Our MRCPCH course is specially designed to give you the best preparation experience through immersive study materials, highly qualified mentorship, innovative learning methodologies, and much more.
If you are still in doubt about the specialisation choice to advance your career in paediatrics, we can help you with it. Contact our team today to know more.
