M.Phil (Master of Philosophy): Full Form, Admission 2024, Course, Fees, Syllabus, Jobs, Salary, Top Colleges
Shruti TiwariContent writer
MPhil stands up for Master of Philosophy, which is a post-graduate degree (2 years) research degree that involves independent research and is offered in many specializations by different universities globally. Candidates who have completed a Master’s degree can pursue an MPhil in the same or related fields. It's an above master's degree and is considered a research master's degree and a PhD.
An MPhil course can be studied as a standalone qualification or as part of a PhD. It can be a stepping stone to a PhD, or it can be awarded to students who decide to stop their PhD after two years. It is a research-based course and covers a broader spectrum of the subject compared to a master’s degree. The admission process for MPhil is solely decided by colleges.
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The eligibility for M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) courses typically requires a candidate to have a master's degree (such as MA, MSc, or MCom) from a recognized university in a relevant field. The basic eligibility criteria may vary depending on the college. But most colleges accept candidates who have completed postgraduate degrees with at least 50% marks. Some colleges conduct their admission tests whereas some offer admission to students based on the PUBDET entrance exam. Some of the written test is usually followed by an interview round. An MPhil course offers specializations in various fields of Humanities, Commerce, Law, and Sciences. MPhil in Psychology, MPhil in English, MPhil in History, MPhil in Economics, and MPhil in Management are some of the popular MPhil courses.
The Mphil course fee ranges from INR 1100 to INR 1 lakh. Some of the top colleges that provide MPhil degree courses are Amity University, Christ University, TISS, Calcutta University, and Jamia Millia Islamia. Many candidates pursue a PhD after completing an MPhil course whereas some candidates pursue an MPhil to increase their job prospects. Some of the top MPhil job profiles are academic researchers, professors, economists, and psychologists. MPhil graduates depending on their employment areas, MPhil graduates can expect to get an average salary between INR 7 LPA and INR 9 LPA.
- MPhil Course Highlights
- Why Pursue an MPhil course?
- MPhil Eligibility Criteria
- MPhil Course Admission Process
- Top MPhil Entrance Exams
- Types of MPhil Courses
- Mphil course syllabus
- MPhil Specializations and Syllabus
- Top MPhil Colleges in India
- 9.1 Top MPhil Private Colleges
- 9.2 Top MPhil Government Colleges
- MPhil Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- 10.1 MPhil Job Profiles
- 10.2 Top Recruiters for Mphil
- MPhil FAQs
- Online Courses in Philosophy
MPhil Course Highlights
The table below presents some of the important details related to the MPhil course such as the MPhil full form, MPhil course level, MPhil eligibility criteria, MPhil Entrance Exams, MPhil Fees, MPhil Average Salary, MPhil Job Profiles, MPhil Top Recruiters and MPhil Top Colleges:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | MPhil |
| MPhil Full Form | Master of Philosophy |
| MPhil Course Level | Postgraduation |
| MPhil Eligibility Criteria | Master's degree with 55 % marks |
| MPhil Entrance Exams | PUBDET |
| MPhil Fees | INR 1100 to INR 1 lakh |
| MPhil Average Salary | INR 7 LPA - INR 9 LPA |
| MPhil Job Profiles | Economist, Financial Analyst, Psychologist, Clinical Data Analyst, Professor, Research Scientist, Academic Researcher, Economist. |
| MPhil Top Recruiters | TCS, Reliance, SIDBI, Chandigarh University, Amity University |
| MPhil Top Colleges | Amity University Noida, Christ University, TISS, Calcutta University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Quick Links Related to the MPhil Course:
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Course
Why Pursue an MPhil course?
There are several reasons why candidates prefer to pursue an MPhil after a postgraduate degree. Some of these are mentioned below:
- Research: It provides you with deep knowledge of the subject and allows you to develop advanced research skills.
- Academia: MPhil is considered a stepping stone to a PhD, it can help you in developing in academic research.
- Career: MPhil can lead you to various careers, including Economist, Financial Analyst, Psychologist, Clinical Data Analyst, Professor, Research Scientist, Academic Researcher, and Economist.
- An MPhil course offers a wide range of career options in one’s chosen field of specialization.
- An MPhil graduate has more chances of employment than a master’s degree holder.
- It can be helpful for candidates to familiarize themselves with the research aspects of their course.
- Pursuing an MPhil can help candidates be eligible for PhD courses offered by many colleges.
Q: What is Mphil course?
MPhil is a course that can be pursued after a postgraduate degree. It is research-based. Candidates from any field can pursue an MPhil programme. The MPhil curriculum involves both theoretical and practical subjects. The MPhil Course has long been viewed as a link between the master's and doctorate programmes. The course is offered in India as well as abroad. The MPhil subjects are based on the specialisation opted for. The MPhil course duration is 2 years.
Q: What is the duration of M.Phil?
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).
Q: What are the benefits of studying MPhil?
The MPhil Programme has long been considered a stepping stone between master's and PhD programmes. The course assists the candidates in developing a comprehensive approach to teaching the mind of the students about the complexities of research, as well as research knowledge and skills that would be helpful in pursuing a full-scale PhD programme. MPhil programme offers job security and high pay to the graduates and they can start earning salary between INR 5 to 10 lakh.
Research is a major component of MPhil programmes, offering chances to hone advanced research abilities. You'll gain information on how to plan and carry out independent research, evaluate data, and add to the corpus of knowledge already known in your profession.
MPhil Eligibility Criteria
Different colleges have different eligibility criteria for admission to MPhil courses. Candidates who have completed an MPhil curriculum may be interested in pursuing a PhD programme. Those interested in pursuing an MPhil must first complete the eligibility requirements. The basic criteria remain the same for the majority of the universities.
The table below presents the basic eligibility criteria for an MPhil degree in India based on various particulars:
| Particulars |
Details |
|---|---|
| MPhil Academic Qualifications |
Master’s degree in a related field |
| MPhil Marks Criteria |
55% marks at the postgraduate level |
| MPhil Age Limit |
No age limit |
Note: The eligibility criteria given above may vary depending on the college policies.
Q: Can I pursue MPhil without MA?
No, you should have completed a master's degree before pursuing MPhil. As per the eligibility criteria in Indian colleges you should have completed postrgraduate course with at least 45%-50% marks. If you are interested in research field and you have completed a 4 year bachelor's degree then you can pursue PhD directly after graduation.
Q: Can I pursue MPhil in Political Science after completing MA in International Relations?
No, to be eligible for MPhil course with Political Science specialisation you should have completed MA Political Science. Though International Relations falls under the larger domain of Political Science, we cannot consider MA Political Science and MA International Relations to be same. However, there could be some state universities or private institutes which can offer you admission in MPhil course irrespective of your specialisation in MA.
MPhil Course Admission Process
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Top MPhil Entrance Exams
There are two possible methods for choosing students for MPhil programs: entrance exams or merit-based selection. The college portal or the admissions office can be used to apply the MPhil admission procedure.
The following table includes all the important details related to the entrance exams:
| MPhil Entrance Exam | Entrance Exam Schedule |
|---|---|
| PUBDET | PUBDET Exam Schedule |
| CSIR NET | CSIR NET |
| CUET PG | CUET PG |
| GPAT | GPAT |
Note: Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Relevant Links Related to the MPhil Course:
Important Exam Dates
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
14 Nov '24 - 31 May '25 | CGC Josh 2025 Registration Stage 1 ONGOING |
14 Nov '24 - 31 Aug '25 | CGC Josh Exam 2025 ONGOING |
07 Dec '24 | SAT Test December Date |
08 Dec '24 | Ashoka Aptitude Assessment Round-1 |
| To Be Notified | Azim Premji NET 2025 exam date - Cycle 1 |
| To Be Notified | Azim Premji NET 2025 applications - Cycle 2 |
15 Jan '25 | Last Date of AAT 2025 Applications (Round-2) |
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
27 Nov '24 | Last Date of AAT 2025 Applications (Round-1) |
10 Oct '24 | Ashoka Aptitude Test 2025 Applications Open |
02 Jun '24 | AAT 2024 Assessment (Round 4) |
Q: What is the preparation strategy for PUBDET exam?
To score well in PUBDET, candidates have to thoroughly go through the prescribed syllabus. Even if it's general topics which you have covered, go through them once again. Strategize your plans on an hourly, daily and weekly basis. There is no success without hard work and in order to get admission, you can prepare better by knowing which topics to cover in-depth and which sections will require superficial knowledge such as general studies. You can do so by following the below-mentioned pointers:
- Cover the subjects thoroughly and know the important topics which have to be covered.
- Segregate the subjects and topics into easy and difficult categories. Cover topics that you find challenging.
- Note down the topics which carry maximum weightage (based on previous years’ question papers).
Q: Can I pursue MPhil without MA?
No, you should have completed a master's degree before pursuing MPhil. As per the eligibility criteria in Indian colleges you should have completed postrgraduate course with at least 45%-50% marks. If you are interested in research field and you have completed a 4 year bachelor's degree then you can pursue PhD directly after graduation.
Types of MPhil Courses
An M.Phil degree can be obtained in a variety of disciplines and streams of study including commerce, arts and humanities, and science and technology. Many people believe that an MPhil can only be pursued in theoretical subjects because it is a research-oriented program, yet an MPhil can also be studied in technological specializations such as IT and Biotechnology amongst others.
Some popular MPhil programs that candidates can pursue in different specializations are listed below:
| Popular MPhil Courses in Humanities |
||
|---|---|---|
| MPhil in Sociology |
||
| MPhil in Humanities & Social Science |
MPhil in Human Development Studies |
|
| MPhil in Applied and Regional Economics |
MPhil + PhD in Arts |
|
| Popular MPhil Courses in Science |
||
| MPhil in Life Sciences |
||
| MPhil in Clinical Psychology |
||
| MPhil Degree in Aquatic Biology and Fisheries |
||
| Popular MPhil Courses in Commerce |
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| Popular MPhil Courses in Law |
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| Popular MPhil Courses in Teaching & Education |
||
| MPhil in Education |
MPhil (Physical Education) |
|
Relevant Link: How to enrol for admission in MPhil / PhD at IGNOU?
Popular Courses
Q: Can MPhil be pursued in distance mode?
Yes, MPhil can be pursued in distance learning mode as well. The MPhil programme lasts two years on average, but can be extended to one more year with payment of a penalty amount. Candidates, who are female and have a disability of at least 40%, are also given a one-year grace period to finish their degrees.
The course fees ranges from INR 7500 to INR 15,000 To complete the admissions process, students must successfully finish each university's unique entrance examination. In some circumstances, during the admissions process, work experience certifications must also be submitted.
Q: Is M.Phil a research degree?
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.
Mphil course syllabus
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Q: Which are the books that are followed in MPhil English course?
The books followed in MPhil course would depend on the colleges you have joined. Here are some books followed by Delhi University for MPhil English:
MPhil English Books | Authors |
|---|---|
The Negro and the Racial Mountain | Langston Hughes |
The Big Sea | Langston Hughes |
The Street | Ann Petry |
Native Son | Richard Wright |
Soledad Brother | George Jackson |
Kindred | Octavia Butler |
Q: What are the main subjects in MPhil Geography?
If you are going to pursue an MPhil in Geography then you will study subjects like Research methodology, Geography of regional development, Advanced social geography, Spatial aspects of Infrastructure and development, Population urbanization and migration and Dissertation.
MPhil Specializations and Syllabus
The MPhil courses have managerial and research-based themes to equip students for lucrative positions. The MPhil programs have the advantage of being research-based programmes while simultaneously equipping students with crucial industrial skills to ease their transition to the workforce after graduation. Candidates who intend to register for an MPhil program must be enthusiastic about their chosen field.
Given below are some of the important MPhil subjects in various specializations offered in India:
| MPhil History | |
|---|---|
| Management principles |
Understanding of managerial roles |
| Problem-solving approach | Themes in Medieval Indian History (for students specializing in Medieval Indian history) |
| Research Methodology |
Debates in Modern Indian History (for students specializing in Modern Indian history) |
| MPhil 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 | Theorising Democracy, Equality and Social Justice |
Here is the complete syllabus of the MPhil program: MPhil Syllabus.
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Popular Specializations
- Clinical Psychology
11 Colleges
- Women Studies
1 College
Top MPhil Colleges in India
As MPhil is accessible in a variety of subjects. Candidates are advised to check if the college of their choice provides an MPhil degree in their preferred specialization. MPhil is provided in government as well as private colleges in India. Better the admission process candidates are also advised to check if the college is UGC Recognised and AICTE Approved.
Top MPhil Private Colleges
Many candidates prefer to enrol themselves in private colleges providing MPhil courses due to good infrastructural facilities and placement sessions. Often MPhil students are allowed to appear in on-campus placements either along with PG students or PhD students based on the criteria set by recruiters.
Given below are some of the top Private MPhil colleges in India along with their respective total tuition fee:
| Private MPhil Colleges |
Private MPhil College Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|
| 1 lakh - lakh |
|
| 48000 |
|
| 30000 |
|
| 30000 |
|
| 69000 |
Top MPhil Government Colleges
Many candidates prefer to secure admission to MPhil courses offered by government institutes. This is because usually, government institutes offer courses with an affordable fee structure. MPhil government colleges provide good research facilities as well. The renowned government colleges offering MPhil courses are:
| Government MPhil Colleges |
Government MPhil College Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|
| 3000 |
|
| 12000 |
|
| 13000 |
|
| 2000-7000 |
|
| 36000-46000 |
Note: The MPhil college fees given above may vary.
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Q: Which colleges offer MPhil course with low fees?
If you are thinking of pursuing an MPhil course then the fee structure of the college is an important criteria. You can find several colleges that offer MPhil with an affordable fee structure. You can also apply for scholarships based on socio-economic conditions and merit. Many colleges also offer concessions in fees to students who have shown exceptional performance in arenas except academics such as sports, arts etc.
I have mentioned the list of some government and private colleges that provide MPhil courses in India:
MPhil Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|
1,500 | |
1.75 K - 40 K | |
1.85 K | |
2.31 K - 6.5 K | |
2.58 K | |
2.9 K - 3 K | |
3.4 K |
Q: Which colleges offer best placements in MPhil course?
Almost every student just like you looks for placement scenario of the college before taking admission in MPhil course. The companies visit the college campus. The packages that will offer will depend on your college’s rank and various other factors. You would have to attend several rounds of the selection process which usually includes written test, interview and HR round.
I am have written the names of colleges with good placement records here:
MPhil Colleges | Placement Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|
International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad | 21.95 LPA |
6.04 L | |
5.91 LPA | |
3 - 4 LPA | |
2.5 LPA |
Popular Private M.Phil (Master of Philosophy) Colleges in India
MPhil Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
The MPhil scope and income in India are extensive and profitable and graduates have the option of either finding employment after completing the programme or continuing their education. Depending on their area of specialization, MPhil graduates in India have access to a variety of employment prospects. Both the government and private sector provide job opportunities to MPhil graduates:
MPhil Job Profiles
With a Master of Philosophy degree in any subject specialization, candidates have plenty of options in India as well as abroad. The research work done in the program can allow a candidate to further go and pursue a doctorate (PhD) in the respective subject or course. Some of the common job profiles after MPhil are:
| Job Position |
Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Economist |
9 LPA |
| Psychologist |
7 LPA |
| Associate Professor |
6 LPA |
| Academic Researcher |
5 LPA |
| Social Worker |
4 LPA |
Note: The average MPhil salary may vary depending on various factors.
Top Recruiters for Mphil
After completing the MPhil programs, candidates have the opportunity to work in their preferred field of study in several industries including civil service, archaeology, economics, etc. After completing their MPhil course many MPhil graduates choose to work in research or education.
The students of MPhil can get placement in both government and private sectors. Some of the top recruiting companies include:
| Top Recruiters for MPhil | |
|---|---|
| Dell | Cognizant |
| Accenture | CRY |
| Infosys | ICICI Bank |
| HSBC | TCS |
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Q: How to become a professor?
To become a professor, the first step that you need to clear is pursuing a Master. After completing the Masters, you should go for the UGC NET Exam. The UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is conducted by the National Testing Agency NTA to select the candidates for Lectureships and Junior Research Fellowships.
The exam is conducted twice a year in 81 subjects like Humanities, English Literature, Management, etc. Make sure that you meet the required eligibility criteria before applying for this exam like qualification, age norms, etc. There are also other exams like CSIR NET SET, GATE, etc. That can help you pursue your dream of becoming a Professor.
Q: Do MPhil students get paid?
Many universities provide financial aid for MPhil students in the form of scholarships, fellowships, grants, or assistantships. These sources of funding can help with tuition costs, pay a stipend for living expenses, or even provide money for research.
Moreover, some MPhil programmes provide research assistantships, in which students collaborate on studies with professors. These jobs may be salaried or come with stipends. A Ph.D. programme can be acquired through an MPhil. It enables you refine your research interests, acquire research experience, and even draft a research proposal for a PhD dissertation.
MPhil FAQs
Here is a list of related FAQs on MPhil Courses:
Q: Do I need MPhil to apply for PhD?
No, it is not necessary to have an MPhil to apply for a PhD although having an MPhil makes one more competitive as they are usually already familiar with the system. Having achieved a Master’s degree is the most common prerequisite for most, though not all, PhD programs. However, there are some exceptions:
1. Specific programme requirements: An MPhil might be needed for certain fields of study or for an integrated BPhil/PhD programme to be done before receiving a Ph.D.
2. Individual university requirements: Some universities may have their own unique admission requirements besides, MPhil may be required.
3. Research experience: Therefore doing an MPhil though not compulsory could prove useful in giving the student prior experience in his research task and to prepare him or her for the rigors of a PhD program.
Q: Do I need to publish papers while pursuing M.Phil?
While not always mandatory, publishing research papers during your MPhil can enhance your academic profile and help in pursuing further studies and careers.
Q: Is M.Phil degree recognized internationally?
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 National Education Policy (NEP) 2020."
Online Courses in Philosophy
Online courses assist students in completing their courses without attending physical classes. Students interested in studying Philosophy can pursue the below-mentioned courses online mode from various online platforms:
| Name of Online Courses in Philosophy |
Course Provider | Fees in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Cognitive Sciences |
Coursera | Free |
| Coursera | Free | |
| Coursera | Free |
Lately, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India announced in 2022 that the MPhil degree is no longer valid, discontinuing it as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
News & Updates
Dec 4, 2024
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a week ago
Hii dear Shiksha User, please confirm your University name or the University you wish to join . As the application process for admission in M. Phill changes and varies university to university.
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month 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
S
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month 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
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month 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
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month 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
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Master of Philosophy and Master of Arts in Philosophy are two different courses. As you may already know Master of Philosophy is known as M Phil. You can pursue MPhil course after completing a post graduate course. Now this course has been discontinued.
Master of Arts in Philosophy which is also kno
K
Contributor-Level 10
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