MPhil - Master of Philosophy

MPhil, or Master of Philosophy, is a two-year postgraduate academic research programme. An MPhil course can be pursued by candidates from any field, including humanities, commerce, science, law, and education. Aspirants for an MPhil degree must study both theory and practise. Aside from that, candidates must conduct research and present their findings. Candidates who have completed an MPhil course may wish to pursue a PhD programme. Those who want to pursue an MPhil course must first meet the eligibility requirements. The criteria vary by university, but the basic eligibility set is that candidates must have obtained at least 55% in the subject in which they wish to pursue an MPhil degree at the postgraduate level. Candidates for admission to an MPhil course are typically shortlisted based on their performance in an entrance exam, which is followed by a Personal Interview (PI) round. 

MPhil syllabus and subjects cover research-based topics and managerial approaches to discern research-based concepts while also preparing students for a lucrative career. The top MPhil entrance examinations are JNUEE, GATE, MPhil Entrance Test (MET), and UGC NET. MPhil specialisations in Psychology, English, History, Economics, Management, and other fields are among the most popular. The Master of Philosophy degree is offered by Jawaharlal Nehru University, Banaras Hindu University, University of Calcutta, University of Hyderabad, and other prestigious institutions. The average MPhil course fee is between INR 1100 and INR 1 lakh. An MPhil course in a government college, on the other hand, costs less than INR 10,000 per year.

Students who successfully complete the MPhil programme may find employment as a teacher, speaker, social worker, editor, research assistant, consultant, assistant professor, scientist, etc. The average MPhil salary in India is INR 4.92 LPA, according to Payscale.

The course highlights of the MPhil Course are given below.

The MPhil degree programme has its own set of advantages and opportunities that set it distinct from other career paths and responsibilities. Some of the most compelling reasons to enroll in MPhil courses are as follows:

• The MPhil Course has long been regarded as a bridge between the master's degree and the doctoral programme. The course guides candidates through a holistic approach to teaching their minds about the complexities of research, as well as developing research skills and information that will aid them in completing a full-fledged PhD programme
• Good Pay and Benefits: Candidates should expect a good return on their investment in the MPhil degree programme. Candidates should expect to pay between INR 1100-INR 200,000 for an MPhil course fee (The numbers are considerably higher for the private MPhil colleges). An MPhil degree candidate makes an average MPhil salary of INR 508,600 per year, according to the website PayScale. As a result, the candidates can swiftly recuperate their study costs. Medical insurance, dental examinations, and other benefits are available to MPhil course candidates
• In a Nutshell Candidates who have finished their MPhil studies are typically hired as teachers or research scientists. One of the most secure MPhil careers in India is that of a teacher. The Honorable Supreme Court of India argued in 2018 for the employment security of all teachers at all levels of education in India
• Specialty: The MPhil degree programme offers a wide range of specialisation options, allowing students to pick from a variety of MPhil subjects of study based on their interests. In India, there are over 30 specialities to choose from. Due to the surge in mental health problems in India, where more than 150 million people require counselling, the MPhil in Psychology specialised degree is gaining popularity.
• Entrepreneurship Opportunities: As previously said, most people choose a teaching career after completing their MPhil degree programme. After completing their MPhil, many MPhil course graduates open tutoring centres. According to the Times of India, 7.1 crore students opt for tuition at various levels, resulting in business prospects.

MPhils courses are typically completed in a relevant subject in which students have already completed their master's degree. Here are some of the most common MPhil specialisations in India tabulated below:

Other popular MPhil Specializations

Other popular MPhil Specializations besides the six listed above are:

In India, the MPhil degree programme lasts two years and is divided into four semesters. In the MPhil course programme, students can choose from a variety of options to suit their professional goals. MPhil degree programmes are either research-based or coursework-based, with a focus on research findings and the development of pedagogy in both theoretical and practical frameworks. Students are given a research-oriented skill set that prepares them for a variety of research and academic MPhil jobs, as well as industry demands. Almost every private and public institution in India offers an MPhil degree programme, making it widely accessible to students.

Some of the most popular MPhil courses programmes in India are listed below:

Popular MPhil Humanities Course

This MPhil course programme is a nine-month programme that runs from October to June every year. The Cambridge Digital Humanities is in charge of it, and it has links to a wide range of faculties and departments at Cambridge MPhil Courses in Humanities:

Popular MPhil Science Courses

It is a postgraduate programme that lasts at least one year. It's a degree that falls in between a master's and a doctorate. Some of the most popular MPhil course programmes in science are listed below:

Popular MPhil Commerce  Courses 

Commerce courses at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Both bachelor's and master's degree programmes are available. Certificate courses such as CA, CS, and CFA are very popular MPhil Commerce courses in India and are also available in part-time mode.

• MPhil Commerce
• MPhil Economics
• MPhil in Mathematics

MPhil Eligibility Criteria for admission vary from university to university, but the basic criteria or requirement remains the same for the majority of universities. Those interested in pursuing an MPhil degree must meet the qualifications listed below in order to be considered for MPhil college admission:

• MPhil admission requires students to have completed their master's degree from any recognised institution with a minimum mark of 55%. Candidates applying for the MPhil course have no upper age limit. In addition to basic MPhil eligibility criteria, some institutions hold an MPhil entrance exam as part of the selection process. To be eligible for admission, students must perform well in the MPhil entrance exam
   

Apart from these, some of the colleges' standout MPhil eligibility criteria are as follows:

• Candidates applying to the University of Calcutta must provide a domicile certificate stating that they have lived in the state for more than ten years. Candidates must also bring their original certificates with them when submitting the MPhil online application form.
•  The BHU Research Entrance Test is used to determine MPhil admission to the Banaras Hindu University (RET). The admission criteria change slightly each year, with the University's Academic Council determining the norm.
•  The Delhi University allows a 5% relaxation for candidates who completed their master's degree before September 19, 1991.

Note: Candidates must meet all MPhil college eligibility criteria to be accepted for admission to top universities offering an MPhil course.

During the two-year MPhil course curriculum, MPhil syllabus  focuses on the theoretical and practical concepts of the research domain. The MPhil subjects list emphasizes the domain subject's origin, development, and scope. Each specialization's MPhil subject list is divided into four semesters.

Admission to MPhil is granted in two ways: merit-based or through an entrance examination. The application process for MPhil varies depending on the admission procedure. However, applicants can apply to their preferred MPhil colleges online. Students must fill out the required information in an online application form on the official website of their respective universities to apply for MPhil courses online.

For Entrance Based MPhil Admission

Candidates can apply for MPhil courses by following the steps outlined below:

Step 1: Check into the application form requirements and deadlines listed by various colleges and universities if you want to an admission to a MPhil programme.

Step 2: Register for the entrance exams required for MPhil admissions at the colleges and universities you want to attend

Step 3: Once confirmed, save the application process for future use. Also, for admission and other important notifications, keep an eye on the exam or the university's official website

Step 4: After appearing and passing the MPhil entrance examination, candidates must fill out an application form for their desired university with personal information such as academic details, entrance examination results, and so on

Step 5: Candidates who successfully meet the university's eligibility requirements are shortlisted for the counselling round (if any) to finalise the admissions process

Step 6: After clearing the counselling session, candidates must pay the university's entrance fee in order to be confirm their admission to the MPhil course

For Merit Based MPhil Admission 

Candidates can apply for MPhil courses by following the steps outlined below:

Step 1: Fill out the online MPhil application form

Step 2: Pay the registration fee and any additional fees if admission is granted based on merit

Step 3: The shortlisted applicants will receive invitations to the subsequent phases of the hiring process, such as individual interviews or counselling

Step 4: Candidates must submit all the required documents and fee in order to confirm their admission to MPhil course

MPhil admission is a hybrid of a merit-based selection procedure and a common entrance test-based admission procedure (as seen across various Universities and MPhil colleges in the country). Students must meet the basic eligibility criteria to be considered for MPhil admission. Also, there may be a quota in certain government MPhil colleges for the selection of candidates for admission to the MPhil course. Application for MPhil admission can be obtained through the college portal or by visiting the admissions office directly.

MPhil admission to the best MPhil colleges and universities is accomplished through various entrance exams administered by national authorities or individual universities. The majority of private universities admit students based on a merit list. The MPhil entrance exams are usually held in the months of May and June each  year. However, candidates must keep the following points in mind when applying for MPhil admission.

• Candidates must check the MPhil eligibility criteria and entrance exam details on the official websites of the universities where they wish to enroll.
• Candidates must go to the official website of the relevant university and the entrance examination conducting bodies, fill out the required form, and upload the required documents.
• Students must pass these exams (which they must be eligible to take) in order to be admitted to the MPhil course.
• Following the test, a MPhil merit list of finally qualified candidates is prepared, and candidates are invited for further admission consideration by the respective university or college. A personal interview or discussion is usually held.
• Following the final allocation of seats to candidates, the candidates are asked to pay the MPhil course fee and register for the upcoming academic year.
• Any scientists or professionals working for R&D institutes of any state or central government are eligible to directly appear for an interview at Delhi University if the institute has a memorandum of understanding with the university.

Some colleges conduct a personal interview round as part of their MPhil admissions selection criteria for applicants who meet the minimum eligibility requirements. In addition to the fundamental eligibility requirements, several other colleges hold the MPhil entrance exam to make sure they choose the best candidate with the broadest possible set of knowledge and abilities. Admissions are only granted to applicants who successfully complete a specific MPhil entrance exam, such as the MPhil Entrance Test, JNUEE, CUET, BHU RET, UGC NET, GATE, etc. for the entrance-based selection process. Ahead of time, the college website posts the admit card and other pertinent information. Students can access their admissions results via email or the college portal.

The basic MPhil eligibility criteria for most MPhil colleges in India is merit-based selection followed by a personal interview. Most MPhil colleges, however, use an entrance-based selection process to find the best candidate for the MPhil course. Students must prepare for the MPhil entrance exam in accordance with all requirements. Aspirants should closely examine previous years' question paper patterns and prepare thoroughly. The following colleges in India have MPhil entrance exams:

• GATE
• UGC NET
• CUET
• JNUEE
• MPhil Entrance Test

The standard pattern for the MPhil entrance exam is as follows:

• The exam will last three hours
• The exam will be given in offline mode
• The maximum mark for the question paper will be 75, with three sections of 25 marks each Final admission will be considered only after the personal interview
• The personal interview is worth 25 points

Many students wonder what the scope of an MPhil degree is. MPhil subjects are spread across a wide range of specialisations, each of which offers students a specific area of research based on their desire and interest. Within the first year, MPhil syllabus begins to focus on the research aspect of each specialisation. Some of the MPhil specialisations available to students are listed below:

Before selecting a stream, students must compare alternative courses. As a result, some of the courses have been compared to the MPhil course. Many students are unsure whether they should pursue a PhD degree first or first pursue an MPhil degree. Both degrees are research-based, with the PhD leading to a Doctorate and the MPhil leading to a Postgraduate qualification.

The following are the main distinctions between them:

The MPhil colleges in India are listed below, along with their average annual fees (INR):

According to NIRF 2021, the following are some of the top MPhil colleges in India.

Every state has the same entry requirements for the MPhil degree. MPhil admission is determined using both the merit list and the entrance examination. In the merit list admission procedure, colleges and universities rely heavily on applicants' qualifying exam results. Several colleges and institutions, however, require students to take an MPhil admission exam in order to be admitted to an MPhil degree programme. The results of the students' entrance exams are used to determine MPhil admission.

An MPhil fee varies depending on the college or school. An MPhil course fee typically costs between INR 20,000 and INR 1,00,000. (annually). Candidates who fall into one of the reserved category groups or quotas also receive a grant from each college/university.

The most important requirement for studying MPhil courses in foreign countries is a stellar academic record. Candidates must have passed their postgraduate level exam with a minimum percentage of 60-80 percent from a reputable university. Candidates must also achieve at least a 70% in their higher secondary level examinations (65 percent in math and English).

Some MPhil abroad study general information is provided below:

• The overall cost of pursuing an MPhil Abroad is high, with candidates paying MPhil fees ranging from INR 10 Lac to INR 20 Lac. MPhil fees can reach INR in some cases. Furthermore, candidates must consider the respective countries' cost of living.
• Candidates can also apply for MPhil scholarships from various  organizations as well as universities. Look into the Scholarships for Studying MPhil Abroad programme.
• To pursue the MPhil course, candidates must take English proficiency tests such as TOEFL and IELTS.
• In some cases, candidates must provide a letter of recommendation as well as proof of relevant work experience.

MPhil Eligibility Criteria Abroad 

The following are the most important MPhil eligibility criteria abroad: 

•  The MPhil course can last anywhere from one to three years.
• Candidates must pass their postgraduate exam with a high second-class grade (Over 60%). Some universities require candidates to have an honours degree in order to pursue the course.
• Candidates must pass an English proficiency exam such as the TOEFL (minimum score of 80) or IELTS (minimum score of 6.5).
• In some cases, candidates must provide work experience or evidence of their written works.
• The average MPhil fee ranges from INR 15,00,000 to INR 20,00,000. In some cases, MPhil fees can reach INR 37,00,000 per year.

These are some of the most important criteria; however, depending on its needs, the MPhil college may add additional eligibility criteria.

MPhil Top Colleges Abroad 

The best MPhil colleges are listed below, along with the average MPhil fees:

Finally, as a broad field, MPhil has a lot to offer. It does, however, necessitate hard work, thorough planning, and the ability to choose the best option. Given the significance of an MPhil degree, aspirants should choose the best MPhil college that emphasizes both theoretical and experiential postulates.

This degree programmes provide numerous lucrative MPhil career opportunities in law, academic research, the private corporate sector, national organisations, human services, and other fields. MPhil degree graduates who do not want to work can pursue additional research opportunities through a PhD. Both the public and private sectors provide opportunities for advancement after completing an MPhil course. MPhil job opportunities are available in a variety of fields, including research organisations, academic institutions, law firms, corporate industries, national organisations, and so on.  The MPhil degree programme is extremely diverse. After earning an MPhil degree, you are eligible for a variety of jobs and other MPhil career opportunities in almost every field.

The following are some of the more common opportunities that provide a career path for MPhil with courses:

• Teacher
• Lecturer
• Editor
• Human Services
• Scientist or Senior Scientist
• Senior Subject Matter
• Senior Scientist
• Financial Advisor
• Finance Managers
• Assistant Professor
• Assistant Researcher
• Consultant
• Quality Control Expert

Candidates who complete MPhil courses have job opportunities in their field of study such as Civil Services, Archaeology, Economics, and so on. Following completion of MPhil courses, the majority of MPhil graduates pursue research or teaching positions.

The table below shows some of the major MPhil job profiles available after completing an MPhil in India:

MPhil freshers can find employment in a variety of fields. The MPhil course develops an individual's ability to fact-check and read intensively, making them qualified for MPhil jobs that require a time-consuming process of proofreading and cross-checking. The MPhil scope for jobs is also expanded, with a greater sense of legitimacy in terms of research potential. Some MPhil job opportunities include teacher, research assistant, assistant professor, editor, consultant, and so on. Candidates who do not want to work right away after graduation can apply for further research in the form of a PhD.

• Social services
• Publishing houses
• Editorials
• Magazines
• Newspapers
• Academic institutions
• Private companies
• Law firms

Aspirants interested in pursuing an MPhil course programme must be passionate about their chosen subject. Aside from that, candidates who wish to pursue an MPhil degree must be extremely hardworking and dedicated.

The following are some key skills that an make an aspirant the best MPhil degree graduate:

According to Payscale, the average MPhil salary in India is INR 7.7 LPA. Many factors are considered when determining an MPhil salary, including the individual's experience, education, and skill set. Publishing houses, social services, universities, research organisations, law firms, newspapers, and other sectors have created MPhil job opportunities. MPhil degree programmes are available in both public and private organisations.

MPhil is a research-based degree, and students who want to stay in the field of research and academic teaching can pursue advanced studies in any of the above subjects. This will not only improve their subject knowledge but will also provide them with advanced academic opportunities. Candidates with a Master of Philosophy degree in the subject of specialisation have numerous options, both nationally and internationally. The research work done in the programme may qualify a candidate to pursue a doctorate (PhD) in the relevant subject or course. Candidates can begin looking for Mphil jobs in various organisations and educational institutions related to the area of work in which they have completed their specialisation.

Graduates can find MPhil job opportunities in a variety of settings and organisations. Freshers can find MPhil jobs in a variety of specialisations. An MPhil course can lead to a variety of career paths, including consultancies, research organisations, academic institutions, private industries, government organisations, law firms, and so on. Lecturer, Consultant, Scientist, Teacher, Assistant Professor, Quality Control Expert, Editor, Research Assistant, and other MPhil jobs for freshers are available. If students do not want to pursue MPhil jobs right away, they can pursue further research in the form of a PhD. According to Payscale, the average MPhil salary in India is INR 4.9 LPA. After an MPhil degree, many students pursue a PhD which is a Doctor of Philosophy (or PhD) a 3–5-year research degree in which students create their own thesis and defend it in front of industry elite and reputed people. Many MPhil course students prefer to pursue PhD studies to advance in their research careers because it serves as a bridge between the master's and PhD programmes.

After completing this MPhil degree, the students can work in the following positions in India:

• Lecturer
• Assistant Professor
• Assistant Researcher
• Consultant
• Scientist
• Quality Control Expert