What is an MPhil In Management? - Is It Valid In India? [2024]

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Management Studies was a one-year postgraduate program focused on the field of management. This course equipped students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage various sectors, preparing them for leadership roles in business and organizational settings.

The University Grants Commission officially declared that the MPhil in Management degree, also referred to as Master of Philosophy, is not recognized in India and students should not seek admission into this program.

This official notice was released by the university authorities on December 26 in ``` which it has placed the official notice available on the website of the commission ugc.gov.in. The notice was issued following the specific knowledge of the UGC that many universities were still inviting applications for the M. Phil course even after policy changes in the matter.

According to the notification, it has been stated that with the exercise of Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of Ph.D Degree) Regulations 2022, M.Phil programs offered in Indian higher education institutions have completely been abolished. This was done as part of more comprehensive reforms in higher education, concentrating more on Ph.D. programs and advanced research, spelled out in National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, to encourage students to go straight for the direct Ph.D. after their master's instead of taking M. Phil as an intermediate step. Click Here for Official Notice!

The notice also mentioned that the new rules were issued dated November 7, 2022, and ordered all the universities to immediately desist from admitting any students into their M.Phil courses for the 2023-24 session. This measure is the regular process of the UGC to bring the higher education institutions of the country in line with the new guidelines so that students are not misguided by the universities offering already discontinued or unrecognized degrees.

Also Read | Explained: Why UGC Discontinued MPhil Degree In India!

What was MPhil in Management?

The Master of Philosophy in Management Studies was a postgraduate two-year course focusing on management. It teaches how businesses work and enables students to manage resources efficiently for best results. This was a postgraduate degree between a regular postgraduate and a PhD. This helped the students understand business in detail and how to make it more efficient.

What were the Eligibility criteria?

You were required to score  55% in your master's or CA, ICWA, ACS, etc. The admissions were usually based on entrance examinations, however, an interview was conducted too. Fees for the course vary in all colleges between INR 20,000 and 2,00,000.

Graduates can get hired in management, consulting, economics, HR, financial analysis, and much more. The salary scale ranges from INR 5 to 7 LPA. In the field of management, there are also opportunities for further studies or campus placements.

Why Students were choosing an MPhil Program?

• The primary reason among students is that they do not want to be rushing into a PhD. Also, the majority of the universities consider the MPhil to be a one-year course. MPhil led to tough research work and coursework, mainly in those countries that are considering it to be a stepping stone towards a PhD. In some humanities subjects, an MPhil was considered the highest qualification that can be achieved at the master's level.
• The MPhil in Management Studies course was perfect for students who may not have the cash to put some money into a PhD but would like to engage in research work. It was also the best option for students who had serious passion and interest in researching as the course trains them professionally in securing the skills relevant to the research work.
• Some universities encourage their students to present an MPhil before entering a PhD program. The student's performance in the MPhil would normally lead to promotion to the PhD program.
• For students who cannot cope with research- either due to lack of resources or good progress, it was best to take an MPhil. It builds the essential qualities needed such as problem-solving, communication, presentation, and analytical thinking.
• The graduate is recruited by key companies to work as a researcher, professor, manager, analyst, and so on, after graduation with an MPhil.

What were the advantages of Choosing an MPhil program?

Having pursued an MPhil in Management Studies, it would be quite true to say that students would gain immense knowledge about the problems facing businesses within all types of industries. An integral part of the curriculum deals with issues such as finance, marketing, human resource management, and even operations management, thereby providing students with the much-needed expertise about confronting some of these complex problems and also tackling similar issues in these areas.

1. Building Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

One of the strengths of this is that it specializes in analytical skills. The students learn to critically analyze problems within their respective industries and look for efficient solutions for them. They are taught to deal with problems in a manner and arrive at well-thought-through decisions. By the end of this course, they can therefore identify the cause of problems and implement the right mechanisms to put effective solutions in place. This capability is highly valued in any organization.

2. Great Demand from Enterprises

The rigorous training by the MPhil in Management Studies puts greater demand on graduates among various enterprises. With their enhanced managerial capacities and problem-solving skills, such students prove to be a treasure for any organization. Be it international multinationals or small enterprises, organizations realize a dire need for well-rounded beings who can handle a business environment like today.

3. Acquisition of Contemporary Skills: Computing, Communications, and Pedagogical Skills

The MPhil in Management program besides the core subjects of management focuses on the skill development requirements of modern times, so the students are taught computer literacy skills that can apply technology and data analysis while handling business operations, also enhancing the communication skills which help students communicate their ideas effectively and enable teams to lead. Hone pedagogical skills: The program equips students with such skills so they can plan, teach, mentor, or train within organizations.

4. Preparations for Independence and Leadership in Research

It was the uniqueness of the MPhil in Management Studies related to individualism and research. The trainee students were guided towards independence of thought and research so that they could contribute some new kinds of insights to the business world. After completing this course, they are equipped to act independently as researchers, managers, or economists. They will be set free to take leadership roles and infuse business strategies with a research-based approach.

An MPhil degree in Management Studies presents students with a firm theoretical and practical basis in the discipline of business management. These three amalgams of analytical, communication, and research skills prepare the student to enjoy more success in today's ever-changing business world. Moreover, since these graduates are focused on technology and leadership development, they turn out to be even more employable and therefore much better for employers across different fields than MPhil graduates of other programs. It is at the end of the course that students can solve complex problems in business operations but also lead to innovation and change within their organizations. This program will be ideal for people who have intentions of furthering managerial skills, independent research, or a leadership career transition.

Can we now pursue a PhD Program without having to pursue an MPhil Program?

Yes, students with a 4-year undergraduate degree can pursue a PhD in any subject, even if it’s not related to their Bachelor’s degree. This flexibility opens up exciting opportunities for interdisciplinary research, where students can combine knowledge from different fields to create something new and innovative.

Expanding Opportunities Through NET Exam

To switch fields for a PhD, students need to pick the right subject for the NET (National Eligibility Test). By passing this exam in their chosen field, they become eligible to pursue a PhD, even if their Bachelor's was in a different area. This approach not only broadens their academic opportunities but also allows them to dive into topics they are more passionate about, regardless of their original major.

Building a Stronger, Diverse Skill Set

Pursuing a PhD in a subject outside of your undergraduate major helps you build a diverse skill set. This makes you more competitive in the job market, as employers increasingly value candidates with a variety of skills and knowledge. Graduates who have expertise in multiple areas can bring unique insights to the table, which is particularly valuable in today’s dynamic work environment.

• Wider Range of Skills: By combining knowledge from different fields, you gain a broader understanding of the world, which can help in solving complex problems. For example, a student with an undergraduate degree in Engineering might pursue a PhD in Management or Economics, using their technical background to approach business challenges in innovative ways.
• Higher Employability: Employers appreciate candidates who have a diverse range of skills, as they are more adaptable and able to work across different sectors. This makes interdisciplinary PhD graduates highly sought after in the job market.

Freedom to Explore True Academic Interests

One of the biggest advantages of pursuing a PhD in a different field is the freedom to explore your true academic interests. Often, students discover new passions during their undergraduate studies but feel constrained by their initial major. The broader eligibility for PhD programs encourages students to break free from traditional academic paths and follow their true passions.

• Follow Your Passion: If you’ve developed an interest in a subject outside your Bachelor’s degree, the flexibility of PhD programs allows you to explore that new field. This freedom can lead to more meaningful research, as you’ll be working on something you’re genuinely excited about.
• Innovate and Contribute: When students bring knowledge from different fields into their PhD research, they can introduce fresh perspectives that lead to innovations. This interdisciplinary approach often results in more impactful contributions to their chosen field, setting them apart from others.

Encouraging Interdisciplinary Research

Pursuing a PhD in a different field also encourages interdisciplinary research, where students mix knowledge from various disciplines to solve complex problems. This type of research is becoming increasingly important as the world’s challenges grow more interconnected. For instance, Technology and Healthcare often overlap in fields like Biotechnology or Healthcare Management. A student with a background in Biology might pursue a PhD in Data Science to analyze biological data more effectively.

• Fresh Perspectives: By merging different fields of study, PhD students bring unique perspectives to their research. This often leads to new solutions and innovations that may not be possible within a single discipline.
• Broader Impact: Interdisciplinary research has the potential to create broader, real-world impacts. For example, combining Environmental Science with Business can lead to more sustainable corporate practices, which benefit both the environment and the economy.

Standing Out in the Job Market

Graduates with a PhD in a field outside their undergraduate major are more competitive in the job market. Their ability to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines makes them attractive to employers who are looking for adaptable and versatile employees. This diversity of experience helps them stand out, not just in academia but also in various industries.

• Valued by Employers: Employers are always on the lookout for candidates who can think critically and solve problems from different angles. A PhD holder with interdisciplinary knowledge is often more valuable because they can offer fresh ideas and approaches that someone with a traditional academic background might miss.
• Career Flexibility: With expertise in multiple areas, you’ll also have more career options. Whether you want to stay in academia, work in the private sector, or enter research and development, a diverse academic background makes you a better fit for many roles.

Choosing to pursue a PhD in a different field from your undergraduate major is a great way to expand your academic and professional horizons. It allows you to explore new areas of interest, build a broader skill set, and stand out in the job market. With the flexibility offered by the NET exam and the growing importance of interdisciplinary research, students now have the freedom to follow their passions and make meaningful contributions to their fields. Whether you’re interested in science, business, or the arts, a PhD gives you the tools to create a lasting impact on the world around you.

Moreover, you can even opt for an Online DBA, which is also a doctorate program that adds up the “Dr” title before your name. Moreover, various online universities are offering you an online DBA. Some of them are

Universities	Fees
Golden Gate University DBA Online	INR 8,14,000
Rushford Business School DBA Online	INR 8,12,500
ESGCI International School of Management Paris DBA Online	INR 8,14,000

What is an Online DBA?

An Online DBA or Doctor of Business Administration is a doctorate degree meant for those who want to become experts in business. Online DBA program allows for learning and especially solving real-world problems of the businesses concerned.

Why choose an Online DBA?

Flexible Learning: Since it's all online, one learns from their home or any place. This makes it very easy to balance work, family, and studies.

Advanced Knowledge You will be taught business strategies, management, leadership, and how to deal with the challenges that companies experience today.

Research Focus The program involves research, which will help you find new solutions to your problems in business.

Who Is It For?

It is suitable for working professionals with career ladder aspirations or those beginning their leadership career course within an industry. This degree is perfect if you already have a business background and want to be more well-rounded and versatile.

How Is It Going to Help?

• Career Advancement: Qualify for higher-level jobs, such as executives, consultants, and professors.
• Skills: You will gain skills to be used right away in your present job so you become even more efficient at work.

In simple words, an Online DBA is the very way of getting expertise in the business without losing your job or any other obligations. It gets you prepared for those powerful leadership positions and brings you great success in your career.

Why do you need to choose an Online DBA in 2024?

Having an online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) in 2024 will be the best decision for many reasons, especially if you seek to grow in your career without putting your life on hold.

• Flexibility for Working professionals: An online DBA allows one to study at his or her choice. Whether working full-time, running a business, or carrying heavy family responsibilities, one can work out whenever suits best. This would be one of the greatest benefits in 2024 because people holding down careers and personal life at the same time.
• Job Market Competition: Being better qualified puts you one step ahead of the job market. Companies look for leaders that understand business theory as well as real-world practice. You may be one of the top-level executives or consultants through your Online DBA, which makes you more competitive.
• Learn Without Moving: Since it is an online program, you don't have to relocate to a new city or quit your current job. You can study from any location saving on commuting or moving costs. This is very advantageous, especially with the prevalence of work-from-home culture in recent years.
• Practical yet Applied Solutions for Business: An online DBA helps you in solving practical business problems through research. The program focuses on helping you apply what you learn directly to your work, making it very relevant for professionals in 2024.
• Leadership Opportunities: If you want to grow into a management role, an online DBA teaches you how and gives you the resume credentials that will get you there. In 2024, leadership at its finest is expected, know your business inside and out and make decisions based on data.
• Lifelong Learning: In an ever-changing world, learning and development are essential. An Online DBA is the surest way to prove to your company you are serious about growing professionally and ahead of the curve.

In 2024, an Online DBA will mean flexibility, career advancement, and hands-on skills to stay abreast of the changing business world that will keep you competitive. It's an investment in your future, without sacrificing your present.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an MPhil in Management Studies was a valuable postgraduate program that equipped students with strong analytical, problem-solving, and research skills to handle business challenges. However, due to policy changes by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the MPhil program has been discontinued in India as of 2022. While it was once a stepping stone to PhD programs, the focus has shifted towards direct PhDs after a master’s degree, aligning with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This move aims to promote more advanced research and streamline higher education pathways in India.