Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (B.A.M.S.) is a professional degree in Ayurveda offered by Ayurveda schools in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and other South Asian countries. It is awarded after the study of five and a half years duration, including 1-year internship. A BAMS graduate is allowed to provide Ayurvedic treatment in India and Sri Lanka after registering oneself at the government-approved licencing body. After the completion of BAMS degree, one can continue general practice, pursue higher studies (M.s. master of surgery in Ayurveda, diploma courses or Masters in Public Health), perform research (clinical or epidemiological). There are also opportunities to work in hospital and healthcare administration and health supervision Higher education opportunities are limited in some European countries where BAMS degree is not recognized. Outside certain South Asian countries, Ayurveda is not integrated with the national health system, and is therefore punishable by law to practice it unless, in some cases, the practitioner also holds the license to prescribe modern medicine. 
