How Long Does It Take To Get An MPhil? - M.Phil Course Duration

The duration of the MPhil used to be 2 years. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially discontinued the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree across all universities in India. As part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the MPhil is no longer considered valid. However, the duration of the MPhil program used to be 2 years. Now, postgraduates who want to pursue a career in academia must aim for a PhD. This change is part of an effort to simplify higher education and encourage deeper research through doctoral programs.

Universities are now focusing on PhD degrees to build research skills and academic expertise, making it the required path for those interested in teaching or advanced research roles. Moreover, if you want to pursue an MPhil program, you can pursue it from foreign universities however, your degree of MPhil from any university will be considered invalid as UGC has stopped considering an MPhil a valid program.

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The UGC has directed all higher education institutions to stop offering MPhil programs, and no new admissions are allowed for the 2023-2024 academic year. Most universities in India, except for some in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, have already stopped their MPhil programs. The UGC has made it clear that offering MPhil degrees is prohibited under Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations 2022.

This change is part of the government's plan to promote PhD programs for advanced research and higher academic qualifications. The UGC also warned that some universities are still offering unrecognized programs, which is against the regulations. Click Here for an Official Notification!

What was the duration of the MPhil program? 

MPhil stands for Master of Philosophy. The duration of the MPhil program was a 2-year postgraduate and it was a research course that is now discontinued in India. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has stopped all universities from offering MPhil programs as per Regulation No. 14 of their new rules.

Students interested in research can now directly apply for PhD courses instead. The M.Phil degree is being discontinued because of the National Education Policy (NEP-2020). This policy introduced major changes, promoting a four-year Bachelor’s degree and a research-focused Master’s degree. With these changes, an M.Phil is no longer needed for a PhD. Also Read | PhD How Many Years?

Under the NEP, universities can now offer various types of Master’s programs. For instance, students who complete a two-year Bachelor’s or Master’s program can enroll in a two-year Master’s course, with the second year dedicated to research. To pursue a PhD, students will need either a Master’s degree or a four-year Bachelor’s degree with research.

The NEP officially ends the M.Phil program. Some experts have criticized this change, saying it was made without state or parliamentary consultation. In response, states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are creating their own education policies.

The Ministry of Education’s 2023 All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) report also shows a drop in interest in MPhil programs. Enrollments fell by over 60% from 2016–17 to 2020–21. MPhil is one of the few programs, along with Certificate courses, where enrollments have consistently decreased. The survey covered 8,696 institutions, 40,176 colleges, and 1,084 universities in India.

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What was the MPhil Program? 

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) course in India has long been viewed as a crucial stepping stone between a postgraduate degree and a PhD. First introduced in 1971 by the School of International Studies (SIS) at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, the MPhil program aimed to provide students with a solid foundation in academic research and writing, preparing them for the rigorous demands of a PhD. The curriculum is specifically designed to train candidates in research methodologies and equip them with the skills necessary to identify gaps in their chosen field of study. The duration of the MPhil was used to be 2 years. 

Importance of MPhil in Academic Development

The duration of the MPhil program used to be 2- years. For many years, the MPhil course has played a key role in the academic journey of students who wish to excel in research. It serves as a vital phase where students transition from theoretical knowledge gained in a master's program to the practical, hands-on research skills needed for doctoral studies. The course helps students hone their abilities in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving, all of which are crucial for conducting high-level research.

• Foundation in Research Methodology: One of the core components of the MPhil program was research methodology. Students learn to design research projects, frame research questions, and apply various qualitative and quantitative research techniques. This training prepared them to handle complex research problems, a skill essential for PhD research and academic publishing.
• Developing Academic Writing Skills: Academic writing was a significant part of the MPhil curriculum. Students learn how to structure their arguments, cite sources properly, and present their findings coherently and professionally. These skills were not only critical for PhD dissertations but are also valuable for writing research papers for academic journals and conferences.
• Bridging Knowledge Gaps: The MPhil course helped students identify gaps in existing research within their field, enabling them to focus on areas that need further exploration. This is a key aspect of academic research, as the ability to pinpoint and address these gaps forms the basis of any meaningful PhD thesis.
• Preparation for a PhD: For students aiming to pursue a PhD, the MPhil acted as an essential preparation stage. It allowed students to explore their research interests in-depth, test their hypotheses, and develop a research proposal that could later be expanded into a full PhD project. Many students who complete an MPhil find the transition to PhD studies much smoother because they already possess a solid understanding of research practices.
• Career Prospects: Beyond academic careers, an MPhil could open doors to various professional opportunities. Many industries, especially those in the research, policy analysis, and education sectors value the skills gained through an MPhil program. Graduates with an MPhil degree are often seen as experts in their field, which can lead to roles in research organizations, think tanks, and governmental agencies.

Is there still a requirement for an MPhil to pursue a PhD Program?

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has updated its Ph.D. regulations in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The new rules, detailed in the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for the Award of Ph.D.) Regulations, 2022, state that you no longer need an M.Phil to pursue a Ph.D. Instead, you can apply directly for a Ph.D. once your complete your master's program and after passing the UGC-NET exam.

The updated regulations, which have been sent to Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), include the following changes:

• You can now apply for a Ph.D. directly after passing the UGC-NET, without needing an M.Phil.
• Publishing a research paper in a peer-reviewed journal is no longer a requirement for Ph.D. qualification.
• Candidates with a one-year (or two-semester) master’s degree following a four-year (or eight-semester) bachelor’s degree can register for a Ph.D.
• Candidates with a two-year (or four-semester) master’s degree after a three-year bachelor’s degree, and who have at least 55% marks, are also eligible.
• Coursework requirements for Ph.D. programs have been revised.
• Part-time Ph.D. options are now allowed.

These updates are designed to make the Ph.D. process more flexible and accessible. 

Can I get a PhD without Masters? 

You can now pursue a Ph.D. without a master’s degree, but candidates need at least 75% marks or equivalent grades in their four-year undergraduate course to qualify for a Ph.D. Previously, a master’s degree with at least 55% marks was required to qualify for the National Eligibility Test (NET).

UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar has confirmed that students with four-year undergraduate degrees can now directly appear for the NET and pursue a Ph.D. They can choose any subject for their Ph.D., regardless of their undergraduate discipline.

Here are the key updates:

• Candidates with a four-year or eight-semester bachelor’s degree must have at least 75% marks or equivalent grades.
• A 5% relaxation is allowed for SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled, economically weaker sections, and other categories as determined by the UGC.

Starting from the 2024-25 academic year, Ph.D. admissions will rely on NET scores, eliminating the need for separate university entrance tests. The new rules are as follows:

NET Scores for Ph.D. Admissions: Candidates with NET scores can qualify for:

• Ph.D. admission with JRF and assistant professor positions.
• Ph.D. admission without JRF and for assistant professor positions.
• Ph.D. programs only.
• Merit List Criteria: For Ph.D. admissions, 70% weightage will be given to NET scores and 30% to interviews.
• NET Exam Details: The NET is held twice a year (June and December). Scores are valid for one year and are used for JRF awards and assistant professor eligibility for those with a master’s degree.

These changes aim to streamline Ph.D. admissions by using a single, national-level test, making the process more efficient and accessible.

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Moreover, you can even opt for an Online DBA program after your bachelor’s it is also a doctorate program that adds up the “Dr” title before your name. A DBA, or Doctorate in Business Administration, is the top academic degree in business and management, tailored for working professionals. It emphasizes practical, real-world business challenges and can be completed in just 3-5 years. An online DBA provides a deep understanding of business concepts and their application, making it perfect for those aiming to enhance their skills and advance into higher leadership positions.

In contrast, a Ph.D. in Business is more research-oriented, focusing on developing new theories and contributing to academic knowledge. It’s ideal if you’re interested in teaching or academic research. However, if your goal is to tackle business problems and apply your knowledge directly to your job, a DBA is a better fit.

Online DBA programs offer flexibility, allowing you to specialize in areas like leadership, finance, marketing, or project management. Many of these programs are available online, making it easier for professionals to manage work, life, and studies. Whether you're aiming for an executive role or seeking to boost your expertise, an online DBA equips you with the tools and knowledge to advance your career. Various online universities offer you an online DBA. Some of them are 

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Do you want to complete your doctorate from a foreign university that too even without relocating?

You can fulfill your dream by opting for an Online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) it is also a doctorate program that is specially designed for working professionals who want to grow their career and want to add the “Dr” title before their name.

Moreover, if you opt for an online DBA program you do not have to relocate to another country and you get an opportunity to study from an international faculties who have years of experience and have published their work in top journals.  Pursuing an online DBA is a great way to achieve your goal of advancing to the CXO level while earning the "Dr." title, all without leaving your career behind. This program helps you master advanced marketing strategies and trends, boosting your ability to drive business growth while deepening your understanding of complex marketing concepts.

What makes this online DBA even more appealing is its affordability and shorter completion time, around three years. Earning your degree from a recognized foreign university accredited by WES gives you global recognition. By focusing on cutting-edge marketing trends, this program can enhance your career now and in the future.

Moreover, your working experience combined with an online DBA showcases your expertise in the field. Earning a degree from an international university also helps you build a strong professional network and enhances your credibility with top global companies.

What are the admission requirements for an Online Doctor of Business Administration?

To enroll in this online doctoral program, you must have an MBA or an equivalent master’s degree in any field. If you wish to pursue this program right after graduation, you’ll need at least 5 years of industry experience in the business field. This experience will equip you with practical business skills, which will be valuable when learning the advanced trends covered in the DBA program.

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Is an Online DBA worth it? 

With this research-focused online DBA program, you can tap into a wide range of business sectors. This online DBA doctorate program allows you to study at international universities and earn the "Dr." title while managing your current commitments. The program focuses on software development and provides in-depth knowledge of the subject.

The advanced courses which include specialization in leadership, artificial intelligence, and many more offer both practical and theoretical insights, helping you master all these fields. The curriculum blends the latest in emerging technologies with core business concepts, ensuring a well-rounded understanding. Practical, hands-on learning with tools deepens your workflow knowledge, while the theoretical components reinforce your expertise.

This Online Doctor of Business Administration is an excellent way to boost your career and stand out in today’s competitive business environment. With strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of data engineering and artificial intelligence, you'll be well-prepared to join the ranks of top corporate executives.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the MPhil program has been officially discontinued in India under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Students can no longer enroll in MPhil courses, as the focus has shifted toward PhD programs for advanced research. This change simplifies the academic path by allowing students to apply directly for PhDs after completing their master's or a four-year bachelor's degree. While the MPhil was once a key step in academic research, the new system encourages deeper research skills and streamlines higher education, making it more efficient for those pursuing a career in academia or research.