Updated on Jan 3, 2025 11:41 IST

Introduction to M Phil

M.Phil is a popular postgraduate programme spread over 2 years. Focused on research and development, it enables candidates from different streams such as Chemistry, Economics, Humanities, Commerce and Science, among others.

This degree is earned after the completion of your undergraduate degree. However, it is not just a postgraduate degree. Instead, it is often made available to postgraduate students interested in participating in advanced academic research.

The eligibility criteria vary from one institution to another. However, one must have scored a minimum of 55% marks or above in the course of their choice. With India expanding its research capabilities, pursuing an M.Phil in your subject can be pivotal.

Important Facts: M.Phil Syllabus

  • Scope of M.Phil in India: MPhil graduates may work in law, academic research, commercial enterprises, government organisations, social service, and other fields. Graduates may also pursue further research options via PhD.
  • MPhil Eligibility Criteria: The admission requirements for this degree may vary depending on the institution you apply to. MPhil admission requirements are generally the same across educational institutions. A postgraduate degree holder should have an aggregate score of at least 55%, along with a postgraduate degree in a field similar to what you're pursuing your M.Phil in.
  • Phil syllabus at IGNOU: IGNOU is one of the top universities in India for distance learning and vocational programmes. The M.Phil programme at IGNOU is a 2-year course offering students a comprehensive overview of conducting research and using the knowledge to introduce new, innovative solutions to real-world problems. The college offers 10 M.Phil programmes across subjects like Economics, Political Science, Sociology and Chemistry, among others.
  • Phil syllabus at Savitribai Phule Pune University: The University of Pune is among the top colleges in India. Its vocational M.Phil course extends over two years, focusing on practical research and theoretical learning. Admission is offered based on the marks scored at the undergraduate level.
  • General Examination Pattern: The general examination pattern for the M.Phil programme involves a combination of internal assessments, tests and mid-term and end-term examinations. Students are also required to take up practical research based on the specialisation they are pursuing.

List of Subjects Covered in M.Phil Chemistry

 M.Phil in Chemistry is a popular course for Chemistry students. They can pursue it after completing their undergraduate degree in the subject.

Given below is a list of subjects covered as part of their syllabus.

Typical Core Subjects for M.Phil

If you want to pursue an M.Phil degree in a domain of your choice, you need to study the following core subjects:

Subject Title

Subject Description

Research Methodology

This course introduces the students to concepts related to the basics of educational research. It explores different research approaches, apart from understanding how to use them to collect and analyse data.

You will also learn about the process of creating and reviewing research reports.

Advanced Financial Management

Sound financial management is key to the growth of any business. In this core course offered under M.Phil in Management Science, students will get to know about the following concepts:

  • Bonds - Duration, price and valuation
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Determining exchange rates
  • Consolidation and preparation of financial statements
  • Portfolio management (under CPP and CBP)

Discrete Mathematics

This is a popular course for students of M.Phil in Mathematics. Students will get introductory knowledge about set theory, counting principles and matrices.

The topics covered include:

  • Relations, sets and truth tables
  • Graph terminology and types
  • Countable and uncountable sets
  • Principle of inclusion, pigeonhole and Mathematical induction

Organic Chemistry

 

 

This subject focuses on carbon-containing compounds' structure, properties and reactions. The course has been created to impart extensive exposure to students in the field of organic chemistry.

Concepts covered here include:

  • Effect of external magnetic field
  • Energy transitions, spectroscopy and the theory of mass
  • Unit mass and molecular ions
  • Different methods related to organic synthesis 

Typical Elective Subjects in M.Phil

Here's a list of the top electives taught as part of various M.Phil specialisations:

Subject Title

Subject Description

Principles of Polymer Science

 

 

Principles of Polymer Science covers both fundamental and advanced elements of polymer science, including aspects of polymer synthesis, reaction, characterisation, speciality, etc.

It also outlines the polymer classification and nomenclature, explaining its crucial features like intermolecular forces, chain constitution and conformational forms of polymer chains.

Advanced Marketing Management

 

 

This subject explores the current trends in the field of marketing, apart from understanding its importance. Students pursuing their M.Phil in Business Management will learn about consumer behaviours and the factors that affect their buying behaviour.

Concepts covered here include:

  • SWOT analysis
  • Importance of Marketing and Product Research
  • Logistics and supply chain management 

Abstract Algebra

 

 

This is an advanced-level elective course in M.Phil Mathematics. It explores algebraic concepts by using symbols to represent basic arithmetic operations.

Democracy and Human Rights in India

 

This elective subject explores the concept of democracy and human rights in the purview of the Indian democratic system. 

It focuses on directives issued in the Indian constitution, helping you analyse the future of Indian democracy from a global perspective.

Detailed Syllabus for M.Phil

The M.Phil programme varies across colleges. Those interested in studying more about the subjects may enrol at one of India's top universities based on their eligibility.

 

Semester

Core/Elective

Subject Title

Subject Description

1

Core

Scientific Research and Methodology

This M.Phil Chemistry course delves deep into collecting information's primary and secondary sources.

Students will learn about the different methods of data collection, sampling and preparation of research reports.

2

Elective

Business Economics

This elective is covered under the M.Phil in Management specialisation. It covers different Macroeconomics concepts, apart from the basic functioning of an economy.

You'll also learn about different economic theories, inflation and international trade.

3

Core

Literary Theory and Criticism

This subject covers essential literary terms, apart from different approaches for analysing different forms of literature.

 

You'll also learn about concepts like myth criticism, psychoanalytical approach and feminism.

 

4

Elective

Application of Tourism in History

This M.Phil History subject delves deep into the role of tourism and its impact on the culture, economy and society.

You'll also learn about different tourism sites in India, alongside the salient features of Indian heritage, history and culture.

Specialisations Offered As Part of M.Phil

There are various specialisations offered to students as part of their M.Phil degree. Some of them have been mentioned below:

 

Specialisations

Subjects Covered

Description

M.Phil in Economics

  • Foreign trade, trade policies and Balance of payments
  • Foreign Direct Investment
  • Fiscal Policy and Reforms
  • Intellectual Property Rights, their implications and TRIPs

This specialisation focuses on training students around concepts related to economic theory, applied economics and other areas of finance.

If you want to pursue a career as an academician or an economist, this course is for you.

M.Phil in Business Management

  • Project Management
  • Principles of Business Management
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Qualitative Research and Data Analysis

This is a postgraduate specialisation focused on studying business management concepts.

Covering everything from project management principles to finance and accounting, this course includes components of research, analysis and business writing.

M.Phil in Political Science

  • Trends in Indian federalism
  • Globalisation and its political impact
  • Impact of planning and party system
  • Election Commission and its role in the democracy

This course is ideal for those who want to understand the political and socio-economic situation of the country.

It covers concepts such as multi-party systems, federalism and the role of the Election Commission, among others.

M.Phil in History

  • Historiography
  • Socio-economic history of India
  • History of Ideas
  • Cultural History of India

This is the ideal course if you're interested in pursuing a career in historical research.

Books and Authors Related to M.Phil

Books can help you completely understand different concepts related to your subject. Here is a list - divided according to subjects - of the top books you can refer to:

Subject

Book Title

Author(s)

Book Description

Indian Economy (Economics)

India: Economic Development and Social Opportunity

Jean Dreze and Amartya Sen

This book provides a detailed history of the development of the Indian economy and the challenges it faced.

It also discusses the country's historical, political, and social neglect while focusing on public action to resolve these issues.

Social History of  Colonial India

(History)

Caste, Society and Politics in India from the Eighteenth Century to the Modern Age

Susan Bayly

This book focuses on the emergence of the caste system in India from the pre-colonial period till the end of the twentieth century. A unique thing about this book is that it does not interpret cast as an essence of Indian culture but rather as a response to the enormous changes in the political outlook before and after the colonial period.

Political Science

The Culture and Civilisation of Ancient India in Historical Outline

D. D. Kosambi

This book is one of the first original works on India's real cultural history, highlighting Indian history.

It also answers some of the greatest questions related to the vanishing of the Indian cities and the rise and collapse of the Magadhan empire.

Entrance exams for M.Phil in India

There are multiple entrance exams that students take to pursue an M.Phil can apply for. Most of these entrances are conducted by the public, government-owned higher education institutions.

It is important to clear the written exam in order to be eligible for admission. Various entrance exams involve a GD & PI round, in addition to requiring students to secure at least 50-55% marks in the entrance exam. You can check for more details on the official website of the authorities conducting these examinations.

Some common entrance exams you can apply to for M.Phil are:

The JNUEE is a popular entrance exam organised by Jawahar Lal Nehru University, one of India's premier educational institutions. Spanning 3 hours, it is a mix of subjective and objective questions.

Topics covered in the exam syllabus include the following:

  • Politics
  • Economics
  • International Relations
  • Foreign language proficiency
  • Linguistics
  • Hindi
  • English

Syllabus for Distance Learning Programmes in M.Phil

Distance learning MPhil programmes offer immense flexibility in terms of both course fees and learning. Students who can't afford to study on-campus can opt for this option.

The syllabus for distance learning M.Phil programmes varies from one institution to another. But most of it remains the same. Students must take up a mix of theory and practical research to be awarded the degree. It also involves completing your thesis and dissertation towards the end of the programme. They sometimes also differ in terms of duration.

Some popular colleges offering distance learning M.Phil programmes are:

  • UPRTOU, Allahabad
  • APSU, Madhya Pradesh
  • IGNOU, New Delhi
  • KSOU, Mysore
  • NSOU, Kolkata

Top 10 MPhil Colleges/Universities in India

Mentioned below is a list of the top colleges in India offering an M.Phil degree:

S.No.

College/University

Links

1.

GGSIPU, New Delhi

To be uploaded soon

2.

Delhi University, New Delhi

To be uploaded soon

4.

Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi

To be uploaded soon

5.

MDU, Haryana

To be uploaded soon

6.

Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala

To be uploaded soon

7.

Calicut University, Calicut

To be uploaded soon

8.

Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar

To be uploaded soon

9.

BHU, Varanasi

To be uploaded soon

10.

Panjab University, Chandigarh

To be uploaded soon

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What do MPhil students do?

A. One can pursue a career as an academician or researcher after completing their M.Phil degree. You can even opt for a PhD in your subject if you want to pursue research at a higher level.

Q. What kind of skills are required while pursuing M.Phil?

A. You need to comprehend various academic and professional abilities before going into the specifics of the many courses offered in this programme. You will require some of the core abilities needed for a researcher to succeed in this academic research degree programme.

Q. Is obtaining an MPhil from an Indian institution or one outside India the better option?

A. The answer to this question depends on the accreditations that the institution offers. Choosing a university for your specialisation and a professor who is equipped to guide you to pursue the specialisation of your choice are the most important tasks here, so make sure you research well before enrolling on the course. 

Q. Which degree in Psychology do you think is more valuable, a Master of Philosophy or a doctorate?

A. An M.Phil degree is often sufficient for entry-level positions. However, to do research at a higher level, one must complete their PhD in their desired subject.

Q. Is it a good idea to pursue an M.Phil in Social Work?

A. Yes, if you are dedicated to social upliftment, poverty alleviation, technology-led upskilling, and employment, you can pursue an M.Phil in Social Work. This course gives you a comprehensive overview of the socio-economic factors prevailing in our country and how developmental initiatives and communication can help alleviate those considered at the bottom of the social hierarchy.

Q. What are the advantages of taking an M.Phil course?

A. Postgraduates will be prepared for careers as research scholars after completing the Master of Philosophy degree. In this course, theory and practice are interwoven into the process of doing research and preparing a research proposal.

Q. Which is the best university in India for pursuing an M.Phil via distance mode?

A. IGNOU is a leading Indian university offering distance learning programmes in M.Phil.

Q. What are the eligibility criteria for pursuing an M.Phil?

A. The eligibility criteria for pursuing an M. Phil require candidates to have completed their postgraduate degree with a minimum of 55% marks. They might also be required to appear for an entrance exam.

Q. In which subjects is an MPhil degree awarded?

A. It is possible to get a Master of Philosophy degree in any field. The fields of Philosophy, Linguistics, Cultural Studies, Anthropology, and Political Science are among the most popular academic specialisations.

Q. What are some common entrance exams for M.Phil in India?

A. Some of the common entrance exams to pursue an M.Phil in India are:
  • BUET
  • LPUNEST
  • CUSET
  • ITM NEST

Q. What is the total duration of an M.Phil degree?

A. Barring any special circumstances, an M.Phil degree is usually spans 2 years.

Q. What is the cost of pursuing an M.Phil degree in India?

A. The cost of pursuing an M.Phil degree in India typically ranges between INR 30,000 to 1 lakh per annum.

Q. What are some of the top colleges for M.Phil in Uttar Pradesh?

A. Some of the top colleges from Uttar Pradesh offering an M.Phil degree are:
  • Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU), Kanpur
  • Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), Allahabad
  • Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow.

Q. Is it compulsory to pursue an M.Phil degree in order to apply for a PhD?

A. As per the UGC guidelines, it is not compulsory to pursue an M.Phil for applying to the PhD programme. However, if the individual wants to gain more knowledge and boost their credentials as possible research and doctoral degree candidates, they can opt for the M.Phil programme.

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in M.Phil (Master of Philosophy).

Popular M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) Specializations

Following are the most popular M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

Popular M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) Colleges in India

Following are the most popular M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) Colleges in India. Learn more about these M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
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Popular Private M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) Colleges in India

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Answered a month ago

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about the M.Phil. in GIS and Remote Sensing Application programme at North Bengal University, I recommend visiting the official website of the university or the specific department offering the course.

However, based on the information available onl

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Shreeja suman

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a month ago

Hi dear Shiksha User, please confirm your University name or the University you wish to join. The application process for admission to M. Phill changes and varies from university to university. 

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Yash Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

No, the MPhil is not recognized internationally, because the University Grant Commission (UGC) of India has announced that it i no longer a recognized degree."The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the N

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SHRUTI TIWARI

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

While not always mandatory, publishing research papers during your MPhil can enhance your academic profile and help in pursuing further studies and careers.

S

SHRUTI TIWARI

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Yes, an MPhil is considered a research-oriented degree(advanced postgraduate degree) that primarily focuses on conducting independent research, though some of the programs also include a coursework component. It involves substantial research work and is not as expensive as a PhD.

S

SHRUTI TIWARI

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

The duration of an M.Phil program varies depending on the institution and country. It may be two years of full-time study to comply for full-time students (or five years of part-time study).

S

SHRUTI TIWARI

Contributor-Level 9

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