<p>The University Grants Commission (UGC) on Wednesday <a href="https://www.deccanherald.com/india/mphil-not-a-recognised-degree-students-cautioned-against-pursuing-programmes-offered-by-varsities-ugc-2826484">warned universities</a> against offering MPhil courses, saying it is not a recognised degree and cautioned students against taking admission in such programmes.</p><p>"It has come to the notice of the UGC that a few universities are inviting fresh applications for the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) programme. In this regard, it is to bring to the notice that the MPhil degree is not a recognised degree,” UGC Secretary Manish Joshi said, asking universities to not offer any MPhil programmes.</p><p>The commission has asked universities to take immediate steps to stop admissions to any such MPhil programme for the 2023-24 academic year.</p><p>In view of the UGC’s warning, we take a look at the difference between an MPhil degree and a PhD degree.</p><p><strong>What is an MPhil degree?</strong></p><p>An MPhil, or Master of Philosophy, degree in India is an advanced postgraduate research degree that is considered a precursor to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). Here's a comparison:</p><p><strong>Level of degree</strong></p><p>MPhil: It is a master's level degree, which means it is pursued after completing a bachelor's degree and, in some cases, after a master's degree.</p><p>PhD: This is a doctoral level degree, representing the highest level of academic achievement in a given field.</p><p><strong>Duration</strong></p><p>MPhil: Generally, it takes 1-2 years to complete.</p><p>PhD: The duration for a PhD is typically longer, ranging from 3 to 5 years, or even more, depending on the research work.</p><p><strong>Purpose and scope</strong></p><p>MPhil: The MPhil is designed to provide advanced research skills and knowledge, but it is more structured and often includes coursework along with a shorter thesis. It's ideal for those who are interested in advanced study but may not want to commit to a longer PhD program.</p><p>PhD: The focus here is on creating new knowledge through original research. PhD candidates are expected to conduct extensive research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes significantly to their field of study.</p><p><strong>Admission requirements</strong></p><p>MPhil: Candidates usually need to have a master's degree in a relevant field, although some institutions might accept students directly from a bachelor's program if they show exceptional promise.</p><p>PhD: Generally, a master’s degree is required to enroll in a PhD program. In some cases, students who have completed an MPhil are preferred, or it can be a prerequisite.</p><p><strong>Research components</strong></p><p>MPhil: The research component, though significant, is usually less extensive than that of a PhD. The MPhil thesis is often seen as a precursor to a PhD dissertation.</p><p>PhD: The centerpiece of a PhD program is the dissertation, which requires significant original research and must contribute new knowledge or understanding to the field.</p><p><strong>Career prospects</strong></p><p>MPhil: Graduates may go into various fields, including academia, research, consultancy, and more, but they may not qualify for certain higher-level academic positions.</p><p>PhD: A PhD is often required for careers in academia and advanced research. It is considered essential for those aiming to become university professors or lead researchers in their fields.</p><p>In summary, while both the MPhil and PhD involve research, the scope, depth, and duration of this research differ significantly, with the PhD being a more advanced and intensive program. The MPhil can be a stepping stone to a PhD or a terminal degree for those seeking advanced knowledge without committing to the longer duration of a doctoral program.</p><p><em>(With PTI inputs)</em></p><p><em>(Disclaimer: This article has been written by a generative AI tool and has been reviewed and edited by the DH Web Desk)</em></p>
<p>The University Grants Commission (UGC) on Wednesday <a href="https://www.deccanherald.com/india/mphil-not-a-recognised-degree-students-cautioned-against-pursuing-programmes-offered-by-varsities-ugc-2826484">warned universities</a> against offering MPhil courses, saying it is not a recognised degree and cautioned students against taking admission in such programmes.</p><p>"It has come to the notice of the UGC that a few universities are inviting fresh applications for the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) programme. In this regard, it is to bring to the notice that the MPhil degree is not a recognised degree,” UGC Secretary Manish Joshi said, asking universities to not offer any MPhil programmes.</p><p>The commission has asked universities to take immediate steps to stop admissions to any such MPhil programme for the 2023-24 academic year.</p><p>In view of the UGC’s warning, we take a look at the difference between an MPhil degree and a PhD degree.</p><p><strong>What is an MPhil degree?</strong></p><p>An MPhil, or Master of Philosophy, degree in India is an advanced postgraduate research degree that is considered a precursor to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). Here's a comparison:</p><p><strong>Level of degree</strong></p><p>MPhil: It is a master's level degree, which means it is pursued after completing a bachelor's degree and, in some cases, after a master's degree.</p><p>PhD: This is a doctoral level degree, representing the highest level of academic achievement in a given field.</p><p><strong>Duration</strong></p><p>MPhil: Generally, it takes 1-2 years to complete.</p><p>PhD: The duration for a PhD is typically longer, ranging from 3 to 5 years, or even more, depending on the research work.</p><p><strong>Purpose and scope</strong></p><p>MPhil: The MPhil is designed to provide advanced research skills and knowledge, but it is more structured and often includes coursework along with a shorter thesis. It's ideal for those who are interested in advanced study but may not want to commit to a longer PhD program.</p><p>PhD: The focus here is on creating new knowledge through original research. PhD candidates are expected to conduct extensive research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes significantly to their field of study.</p><p><strong>Admission requirements</strong></p><p>MPhil: Candidates usually need to have a master's degree in a relevant field, although some institutions might accept students directly from a bachelor's program if they show exceptional promise.</p><p>PhD: Generally, a master’s degree is required to enroll in a PhD program. In some cases, students who have completed an MPhil are preferred, or it can be a prerequisite.</p><p><strong>Research components</strong></p><p>MPhil: The research component, though significant, is usually less extensive than that of a PhD. The MPhil thesis is often seen as a precursor to a PhD dissertation.</p><p>PhD: The centerpiece of a PhD program is the dissertation, which requires significant original research and must contribute new knowledge or understanding to the field.</p><p><strong>Career prospects</strong></p><p>MPhil: Graduates may go into various fields, including academia, research, consultancy, and more, but they may not qualify for certain higher-level academic positions.</p><p>PhD: A PhD is often required for careers in academia and advanced research. It is considered essential for those aiming to become university professors or lead researchers in their fields.</p><p>In summary, while both the MPhil and PhD involve research, the scope, depth, and duration of this research differ significantly, with the PhD being a more advanced and intensive program. The MPhil can be a stepping stone to a PhD or a terminal degree for those seeking advanced knowledge without committing to the longer duration of a doctoral program.</p><p><em>(With PTI inputs)</em></p><p><em>(Disclaimer: This article has been written by a generative AI tool and has been reviewed and edited by the DH Web Desk)</em></p>