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Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
What is MPhil? The MPhil, or Master of Philosophy, is a two-year postgraduate research degree specializing in fields like Humanities, Law, Science, Psychology, History, English, Economics, and Management. This program focuses on developing problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills through in-depth research and academic study. Admission to an MPhil course typically requires a minimum of 55% marks in a relevant undergraduate field from a recognized Indian university. Selection is based on merit or entrance exams like UGC NET.
However, in 2022, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India discontinued the MPhil degree under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Despite this, understanding what is MPhil helps highlight its past significance in academic and research careers. The program combined coursework with independent research, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills. MPhil graduates often pursued PhDs, academic roles, or careers in research-driven industries. This degree was ideal for those aiming to deepen their expertise and prepare for advanced academic or professional challenges.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | MPhil (Master of Philosophy) |
| Course Level | Postgraduate |
| Eligibility Criteria | Master’s degree with a minimum of 55% marks |
| Entrance Exams | UGC NET, CSIR NET, CUET PG, etc. |
| Annual Fees | INR 1,500 to INR 2.06 lakh (Government) and INR 1.85 lakh to INR 10 lakh (Private) |
| Average Salary | INR 2 LPA – INR 7.2 LPA |
| Job Profiles | Economist, Financial Analyst, Psychologist, Clinical Data Analyst, Professor, Research Scientist |
| Top Recruiters | TCS, Reliance, SIDBI, Chandigarh University, Amity University |
| Top Colleges | Jawaharlal Nehru University, Stella Maris College, Jamia Millia Islamia, Christ University |
Pursuing an MPhil can enhance job prospects or act as a stepping stone toward a PhD. Top job profiles include academic researchers, professors, economists, and psychologists.
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil Full Form), is a postgraduate research degree that focuses on advanced study and academic research in various fields. To pursue an MPhil, candidates generally need a master’s degree with at least 55% marks. Common entrance exams include UGC NET, CSIR NET, and CUET PG. MPhil graduates often explore careers as academic researchers, professors, economists, and psychologists. Many also pursue a PhD to further enhance their research skills and career prospects.
Understanding the MPhil meaning helps students recognize its value as a critical transitional stage for academic and research-oriented pursuits.
The MPhil degree is highly valued in the academic and research communities because of the following reasons –
The MPhil degree is highly regarded for its focus on cognitive analysis. It encourages students to engage deeply with complex ideas, develop critical thinking, and refine problem-solving skills. Through advanced study, students learn to analyze information systematically, making them adept at tackling challenging academic or real-world issues. This emphasis on cognitive skills enhances intellectual growth and prepares students for more advanced academic or professional roles that require high-level analysis and reasoning abilities.
The MPhil degree plays a crucial role in improving research skills and subject matter knowledge. Students are encouraged to conduct original research, which allows them to gain deep insights into specific topics. This hands-on research experience builds expertise and boosts critical thinking. It also improves the ability to analyze data, draw conclusions, and communicate findings effectively. The MPhil helps students become experts in their field, equipping them with the skills needed for academic careers, specialized research, or industry roles that require advanced knowledge.
An MPhil program serves as a transitional program between a master’s and a doctoral degree. This bridges the gap between a PhD program and a master’s degree you can also read the difference between an MPhil and a PhD. MPhil requires extensive research, including producing a thesis. This helps in enhancing the existing knowledge base.
This degree enables a person to develop several skills such as –
MPhil is specifically designed for research or academic careers. To understand “what is MPhil?”, it’s important to note that this degree prepares you with specialized knowledge for advanced research. Unlike other research degrees such as M.Res or Ph.D, an MPhil offers considerable research training in a short time. Thus, it is suitable for learners who have a specific goal in mind. And for those who want to enhance their knowledge of a particular subject area. This will aid them in future academic plans or research positions.
The MPhil degree has been discontinued in India following the introduction of the New Education Policy (NEP 2020). The decision aims to streamline higher education and encourage students to pursue doctoral (PhD) programs for advanced academic proficiency. The move is intended to promote deeper research and specialization.
This change encourages students to focus on doctoral programs, enhancing research quality and academic excellence in India.
If you are considering this degree but feel uncertain about its details, don’t worry! This guide provides comprehensive information about the course structure, duration, and benefits. It covers everything from coursework and research requirements to career opportunities after completion, helping you understand what to expect from the program.
By exploring this resource, you will gain clarity on the academic and professional value of this qualification. Whether you aim to enhance your research skills, prepare for a PhD, or advance in your career, this guide will help you make an informed decision about pursuing this advanced degree.
This blog explores the MPhil program details such as –
The MPhil degree is a research-based postgraduate program with a duration that typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, depending on the country and university. Some institutions offer intensive, shorter programs, while others provide extended courses for in-depth research. Understanding what is MPhil and its duration helps students select the right program aligned with their academic and career goals.
Understanding the MPhil degree duration ensures students can plan their education journey effectively, selecting a course that suits their career aspirations.
An MPhil degree offers specialization in a wide range of fields, including Humanities, Science, Commerce, and Technology. While it is a research-oriented program, the MPhil degree is not limited to theoretical subjects. It also encompasses technical areas like Information Technology (IT) and Biotechnology, allowing students to develop advanced research skills in various disciplines.
| Stream | MPhil Specializations |
|---|---|
| Humanities | History, Economics, Linguistics, English, Geography, Sociology, Political Science, Hindi, Public Administration, Humanities & Social Science, Human Development Studies, Social Work |
| Science | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Botany, Computer Science, Zoology, Clinical Psychology |
| Other Fields | Commerce, Law, Education |
These MPhil degree specializations empower students to choose courses that align with their academic interests and career aspirations. Whether pursuing traditional subjects or modern technical fields, students gain valuable research experience, preparing them for future academic or professional success.
The question, what is MPhil also involves understanding that the program structure varies across universities and countries. Some institutions emphasize coursework, requiring students to complete more classes before engaging in research. Others focus primarily on research, with minimal coursework. These differences allow students to choose programs based on their academic preferences and career goals.
When exploring what is MPhil, it is also important to consider thesis requirements. Some universities expect a strictly research-based thesis, where students conduct in-depth studies and present detailed findings. Others offer flexibility by allowing a project-based thesis, which combines practical application with research. Understanding what is MPhil helps students make informed decisions about selecting the right program. The balance between coursework and research, along with varying thesis expectations, makes the MPhil degree a unique and valuable academic choice for those aiming for advanced studies and specialized knowledge in their field.
Many students often ask, What is MPhil? and what courses are generally covered in this master’s program? If you are one such student, we have covered you on this front.
To explore what is MPhil, it’s essential to know that Master of Philosophy students can choose the course based on their specialization. Here is the common MPhil subjects list:
Students can also select specializations of their choice for elective courses that fit their research areas and career goals.
The MPhil degree is designed to develop research skills and managerial expertise, preparing students for academic and professional roles. These research-based programs not only enhance critical thinking but also equip students with industry-relevant skills for smoother career transitions. Candidates pursuing an MPhil degree should have a strong interest in their chosen specialization.
| MPhil Specialization | Important Subjects |
|---|---|
| MPhil in History | – Management Principles – Understanding of Managerial Roles – Problem-Solving Approach – Themes in Medieval Indian History – Research Methodology – Debates in Modern Indian History |
| MPhil in English | – Research Methodologies – Literary Theory and Criticism – Eighteenth-Century Literature – Indian Writing in English |
| MPhil in Sociology | – Reflections on Ethnography – Contemporary Class Analysis – Structuralism and Post-Structuralism – Theorizing Democracy, Equality, and Social Justice |
This structured MPhil syllabus ensures that students gain in-depth knowledge in their field, making them well-prepared for research, teaching, or specialized professional roles.
The program covers many areas of study. Some of the popular subjects covered include:
To grasp what is MPhil, consider that a psychology MPhil course includes topics such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and cognitive psychology. Courses include subjects of psychopathology, psychological assessment, and therapeutic interventions.
To understand “what is MPhil”, it’s important to note that a history MPhil degree encompasses various categories. Students typically study the history of the ancient world, medieval history, and even the history of the modern world. Courses may comprise historiography, uses of archives, and oral history.
Students may specialize in poetry, drama, fiction, and more. They study literature, critical approaches, critical theories, and comparative literature among other areas.
An MPhil degree can be a rewarding and challenging experience, and understanding “what is MPhil” is crucial in this context. Knowing the typical duration, structure, and syllabus of MPhil programs helps you make an informed decision about whether this advanced degree is right for you. Whether you wish to specialize in psychology, literature, history, or another field, an MPhil program can provide you with the knowledge to succeed in your academic and professional endeavors.
MPhil degree admissions for 2025 may vary across colleges, but the general process remains similar. Here’s an overview of the typical admission steps:
Note: The UGC announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree has been discontinued under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and is no longer valid.
MPhil Degree Entrance Exams 2025
Admission to an MPhil degree can be based on either entrance exams or merit-based selection, depending on the university’s criteria. Candidates can apply through the college portal or admissions office. Below is an overview of the key MPhil entrance exams for 2025 along with tentative dates.
Note: The University Grants Commission (UGC) announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree has been discontinued under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020) and is no longer valid.
Entrance Exam Tentative Exam Date Exam Schedule PUBDET Exam 2025 July 2025 PUBDET Exam Date 2025 CSIR NET Exam 2025 28 Feb – 2 Mar 2025 CSIR NET Exam Date 2025 CUET PG 2025 13 Mar – 31 Mar 2025 CUET PG Exam Date 2025 GPAT Exam 2025 June 2025 GPAT Exam Date 2025 Other Important Exam Dates (Tentative)
Date Exam/Event Feb – Mar 2025 PUBDET 2025 Applications 01 Feb – 31 Mar 2025 SNUSAT Application Process (Early Round – Phase 3) 14 Nov 2024 – 31 May 2025 CGC Josh 2025 Registration Stage 1 06 Apr 2025 SNUSAT Exam Date (Early Round – Phase 3) 20 Apr 2025 AMU Entrance Exam 2025 – BA LLB 04 May 2025 Ashoka Aptitude Assessment (Round-3) Jul 2025 PUBDET & CPGET 2025 (Tentative) Aug 2025 CPGET 2025 Counselling (Tentative) This detailed timeline can help candidates plan better for upcoming MPhil-related entrance exams in 2025.
The MPhil degree is offered across various specializations in both government and private colleges in India. Candidates are advised to verify whether their preferred college offers an MPhil degree in their chosen specialization. It’s also essential to check if the college is UGC-recognized and AICTE-approved for better academic credibility.
Private colleges are popular for their advanced infrastructure and better placement opportunities. Many MPhil students can participate in on-campus placements alongside PG or PhD candidates.
| Private MPhil Colleges | Average Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| Amity University, Noida | 1 Lakh |
| Banasthali Vidyapith, Jaipur | 48,000 |
| Christ University, Bangalore | 30,000 |
| C V Raman University | 30,000 |
| Neotia University, Kolkata | 69,000 |
Note: Fees may vary depending on the college and academic year.
Government colleges are often preferred for their affordable fee structures and quality research facilities. Here are some leading government institutions offering MPhil degrees:
| Government MPhil Colleges | Average Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| Calcutta University | 3,000 |
| DAVV, Indore | 12,000 |
| Delhi University | 13,000 |
| Kerala University | 2,000 – 7,000 |
| Lucknow University | 36,000 – 46,000 |
Choosing the right college for an MPhil degree ensures better academic exposure, research facilities, and career prospects.
The MPhil degree offers a wide career scope in both India and abroad. Graduates can either pursue employment opportunities or continue with higher education like a PhD. Career prospects depend on the specialization, with job opportunities available in both government and private sectors. Industries such as research, education, civil services, and economics actively seek MPhil graduates for various roles.
Graduates with an MPhil degree can explore diverse job roles based on their specialization. Here are some common job profiles along with the average salary:
| Job Position | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|
| Economist | 16.9 LPA |
| Psychologist | 3.8 LPA |
| Associate Professor | 12 LPA |
| Academic Researcher | 2 LPA |
| Social Worker | 2.9 LPA |
Note: Salary figures are sourced from ambitionbox.com and may vary based on company and location.
MPhil graduates have the opportunity to work in prestigious organizations across industries. Both government and private sectors offer promising roles for MPhil holders.
| Top Recruiters | Top Recruiters |
|---|---|
| Dell | Cognizant |
| Accenture | CRY |
| Infosys | ICICI Bank |
| HSBC | TCS |
Pursuing an MPhil degree not only opens doors to academic advancement but also provides lucrative career options in multiple sectors.
To explore what is MPhil, the MPhil program in clinical psychology equips students with extensive knowledge. This knowledge covers interventions and ways of managing mental health challenges. Since clinical psychology is a specialty that assists in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders, its significance and potential are enormous. Students explore a vast curriculum and syllabus made specifically for clinical psychology. The students get specific courses such as psychopathology, therapeutic processes, assessing tools, and research methods.
To answer what is MPhil, consider the MPhil in Psychology program, which goes beyond academics. It often integrates academic coursework with supervised work experience in practicum and research. The employment opportunities and potential of graduates of the MPhil in Clinical Psychology program are good. You can find jobs in:
The program ensures that the learners are well-equipped with skills in clinical psychology to make a proactive contribution to mental health and enhance psychological health.
In conclusion, the MPhil degree is a valuable qualification that helps students develop advanced research skills and academic expertise. Understanding what is MPhil allows students to recognize its importance in enhancing analytical abilities and preparing for future academic or professional roles. With a strong focus on independent study, it provides an opportunity to explore complex subjects and contribute to knowledge in a specialized field.
When considering what is MPhil, it is essential to acknowledge its role in building a strong academic foundation. The combination of coursework and research enables students to refine their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This degree also enhances career prospects, as many universities and research institutions value candidates with in-depth research experience. Moreover, the rigorous training involved helps students gain confidence in conducting high-level studies and presenting their findings effectively.
Finally, understanding what is MPhil can help students make informed decisions about their educational journey. Whether pursuing a PhD, entering academia, or seeking specialized roles in industries that require research expertise, this degree serves as a stepping stone to success. By developing advanced research skills and academic credentials, students with an MPhil qualification stand out in competitive fields and contribute meaningfully to their chosen areas of study.
MPhil essentially stands for Master of Philosophy. It is a post-graduate research program. To clarify what is MPhil, it’s important to note that, unlike most other programs, an MPhil consists of your chosen independent subjects. Here, you don’t complete taught units and assessments. Rather, you focus on your chosen subject.
As a standalone program, a Master of Philosophy usually takes two years to complete. The beauty of this degree is it is a pure research course. It focuses only on your chosen area of expertise or topic.
The basic criteria for MPhil programs include a minimum of 55% marks at the post-graduation level from a recognized university. Requirements may vary based on the country and institution. Some universities may have additional criteria, such as entrance exams or interviews, to assess a candidate’s suitability for the program before granting admission.
The program covers various subjects in your learning tenure. Common ones include history, literature, and psychology. Management principles, child and family welfare, and human development are other popular subjects.
The potential to work and grow in your chosen profession is bright. You can find jobs in hospitals, mental health clinics, private practice, universities, and research institutions. Many business organizations also hire master of philosophy degree holders for their research in business management.
An MPhil degree helps build advanced knowledge in a specific field and serves as a pathway to a PhD, which is the highest academic qualification involving extensive original research.
An MPhil degree is a highly advanced master’s qualification, positioned above an MSc and MA in academic standing. It acts as a bridge between a taught master’s program and a PhD.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
