1. MPhil (Master of Philosophy) – Complete Guide
An MPhil (Master of Philosophy) is a 2-year postgraduate research degree that focuses on advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and academic writing. It serves as a bridge between a master’s degree (MA/MSc/M.Com/M.Tech) and a PhD, preparing students for careers in research, teaching, and specialized fields.
2. Course Overview
📌 Full Form: Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
📌 Duration: 1-2 years (varies by country and university)
📌 Eligibility: Master’s degree (MA, MSc, MCom, MTech, etc.) with 55%+ marks
📌 Entrance Exams: UGC-NET, university-level entrance exams
📌 Regulatory Body: UGC (University Grants Commission)
📌 Career Scope: Academia, research, policy-making, consultancy
3. Is MPhil Still Available in India?
❌ MPhil was discontinued by UGC (India) in 2021 as per the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
❌ Students are now encouraged to directly pursue a PhD after a Master’s degree.
✅ However, some foreign universities (UK, Australia, etc.) still offer MPhil programs.
4. Why Choose MPhil?
✅ Prepares students for a PhD by enhancing research skills.
✅ Develops expertise in a specialized subject area.
✅ Higher academic credibility than a master’s degree.
✅ Opens job opportunities in research institutions, universities, think tanks, and government agencies.
5. Eligibility & Admission Process
Academic Qualification:
- A master’s degree (MA, MSc, MCom, MTech, etc.).
- Minimum 55% marks (50% for reserved categories).
Entrance Exams (for admission in universities that still offer MPhil):
- UGC-NET (for research fellowships & PhD admissions in India).
- University-specific entrance tests (e.g., DUET for Delhi University, JNUEE for JNU).
- Foreign universities may have their own admission criteria.
6. MPhil Specializations & Subjects
7. Career Opportunities After MPhil
Academia & Research
✅ University Lecturer / Assistant Professor (PhD preferred for permanent positions).
✅ Research Associate / Fellow in universities & research organizations.
✅ Postdoctoral Researcher (after PhD).
Government & Public Sector Jobs
✅ Policy Analyst / Consultant in government think tanks.
✅ Research Officer in ministries & public institutions.
✅ UPSC & Other Civil Services (MPhil adds weight to academic background).
Private Sector & Corporate Roles
✅ Market Research Analyst – In-depth analysis & strategy roles.
✅ Corporate Trainer – Specialized knowledge for employee training.
✅ Content Developer / Editor – Academic & research-based writing.
NGOs & International Organizations
✅ Social Researcher – Working with organizations like UNESCO, UNDP, WHO, etc.
✅ Human Rights & Public Policy Advisor.
8. Top Universities Offering MPhil (Globally)
🏆 1. University of Oxford, UK
🏆 2. University of Cambridge, UK
🏆 3. Harvard University, USA
🏆 4. University of Melbourne, Australia
🏆 5. University of Edinburgh, UK
🏆 6. National University of Singapore (NUS)
🏆 7. University of Sydney, Australia
👉 Indian universities like Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and University of Hyderabad previously offered MPhil but have discontinued it.
9. Salary & Job Scope After MPhil
10. Higher Studies After MPhil
✔ PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) – For advanced research & teaching roles.
✔ Postdoctoral Research – For deep specialization in a subject.
✔ Professional Certifications – Such as CFA (Finance), Data Science, etc.
11. Is MPhil a Good Career Option?
✔ Good for those interested in research & academia.
✔ Provides in-depth knowledge & analytical skills.
✔ Useful for careers in policy-making, research, education, and consultancy.
❌ Not required anymore for PhD admissions in India (as per NEP 2020).
❌ Better to pursue a PhD directly after a Master’s degree.
12. Conclusion
The MPhil degree is a prestigious postgraduate research program that helps students develop strong analytical, research, and writing skills. While India has discontinued MPhil, international universities still offer it.
