PhD vs MPhil: Which one should I choose?

Firstly I would like to tell you that the UGC has discontinued the M.Phil program and it is no longer available if any university is offering you an M.phil program, it is illegal.

After post-graduation, some students choose to start their careers, while others continue with higher studies. Both paths have their pros and cons. For those interested in further studies and research, a PhD and MPhil were options.

But now as M.Phil is discontinued you must opt for a PhD program. Many students prefer to pursue a PhD after their post-graduation. This article will help you understand MPhil and PhD courses. 

Why has the UGC discontinued the M.phil Program? 

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has warned students against enrolling in MPhil (Master of Philosophy) programs. UGC has made it clear that the MPhil course has been discontinued.Despite this, some universities are still offering admissions, which is why UGC is reminding students not to apply for the program in the upcoming academic year.

The MPhil program was discontinued as part of the National Educational Policy (NEP) 2020. The NEP introduced changes to the education system in India, the MPhil course was removed to streamline higher education and make the path from master’s to PhD more direct.The goal is to encourage students to move directly from a master’s degree to a PhD, eliminating the MPhil as an in-between step.

UGC Tells Colleges to Stop Offering MPhil

The UGC had already announced that MPhil programs would no longer be legitimate. In fact, universities were told to stop offering MPhil courses after the NEP 2020 came into effect.Now, UGC has issued another reminder, instructing colleges to immediately stop admissions for the 2023-24 academic year, as the MPhil course is no longer valid. If universities continue to enroll students for this program, they are violating UGC’s regulations.

What Does the UGC Notification Say?

According to the UGC's official notice, "It has come to our attention that some universities are still inviting applications for the MPhil program. We want to inform students that the MPhil degree is no longer recognized.

Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations 2022 clearly states that higher educational institutions must not offer the MPhil program."

This is a statement by UGC to ensure that students do not waste their time and resources on a discontinued program. With the NEP 2020, the focus is on a more modern and efficient education system where students can move more directly toward earning a PhD without the need for the MPhil course.

Universities that continue to advertise this program are not adhering to UGC guidelines and could be misleading students.Therefore, it's crucial for students to stay informed and check the validity of any course before enrolling. This is especially important for a discontinued course like the MPhil, which no longer holds any academic or professional value in India.

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IIM PhD Doctorate

Is an MPhil required for a PhD Program?

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has updated its Ph.D. regulations based on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. A notification about these changes has been issued and the notification says you do not have to pursue an M.Phil program to pursue a PhD program, you can directly take admissions to a PhD program once you pass the UGC-NET. 

The UGC sent a copy of the new regulations, called UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for the Award of Ph.D.) Regulations, 2022, to Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs). All HEIs are asked to start implementing these new Ph.D. rules.

changes include:

• You do not have to pursue an M.Phil program to pursue a PhD program, you can directly take admissions to a PhD program once you pass the UGC-NET. 
• No need to publish a research paper in a peer-reviewed journal to qualify for a Ph.D.
• MPhil is no longer required for Ph.D. admissions.
• Candidates can register for a Ph.D. after completing a one-year (or two-semester) master’s degree following a four-year (or eight-semester) bachelor’s degree.
• Candidates with a two-year (or four-semester) master’s degree after a three-year bachelor’s degree, with at least 55% marks, are also eligible.
• UGC has also revised coursework requirements.
• Part-time Ph. D.s are now allowed, which wasn't the case before.

These updates aim to make the Ph.D. process more flexible and accessible:

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What is a PhD Program? 

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is a research-focused doctorate degree. It's ideal for those who want to dive deep into academic research. You can choose to pursue a PhD full-time or part-time. After completing a PhD, you can access better job opportunities in academics or research.

Who can apply to a PhD Program?

To pursue a PhD, candidates usually need a master’s degree in a related field. Some colleges may also require an MPhil. Moreover, many universities require a UGC NET pass for PhD programs. For a PhD in Engineering, a valid GATE score is often needed.

What are some popular PhD Entrance Exams? 

There are various entrance exams for a PhD program. UGC-NET is the most popular entrance exam for a PhD. Moreover, some of the entrance exams are mentioned below:

• CSIR UGC-NET: This test is for Indian nationals and determines eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship, Assistant Professor roles, and Ph.D. admission. It applies to universities, colleges, and research establishments in India.
• JNU PhD Entrance: Admission is based on an All India Level Entrance Exam. The selection includes a Computer Based Test (CBT) and a viva voce. The final merit list is 70% from the CBT score and 30% from the viva voce.
• BITS PhD Entrance Exam: To apply for a PhD at BITS, candidates need an M.E/M.Pharm./MBA/M.Phil with at least 60% aggregate. Alternatively, M.Sc/B.E graduates with 60% or M.Phil/MA graduates with 55% can also apply. Full-time commitment is required for the PhD research.
• GATE Exam: GATE is for Masters and PhD programs and offers job opportunities in PSUs. It improves job prospects in engineering, technology, and research fields.
• AIIMS PhD Entrance Exam: This competitive exam assesses knowledge, aptitude, and research skills. It is held twice a year, in January and July.
• Symbiosis PhD Entrance Exam: Symbiosis admits students who qualify in national-level tests like UGC-NET, UGC-CSIR NET, or GATE. Alternatively, students can take the university’s Entrance Test, which covers research methodology and subject-specific topics. Scoring 50% in the test qualifies candidates for an interview.

You can Pursue a PhD Program Right After a Master’s program Without having to pursue an M.Phil Program 

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has updated its Ph.D. regulations based on the guidelines outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. One of the major changes is that candidates no longer need to pursue an M.Phil program before applying for a Ph.D. Now, students can directly apply for a Ph.D. after passing the UGC-NET exam:

• Another significant change is that it is no longer mandatory for candidates to publish a research paper in a peer-reviewed journal to qualify for a Ph.D. This requirement has been removed, simplifying the process for Ph.D. candidates.
• In line with the new regulations, candidates can now apply for a Ph.D. after completing a one-year (or two-semester) master’s degree following a four-year (or eight-semester) bachelor’s degree program. This provides more flexibility in the path to pursuing a Ph.D.
• Students with a two-year (or four-semester) master’s degree after a three-year bachelor’s degree, with at least 55% marks, are also eligible for Ph.D. admissions.
• The UGC has also revised the coursework requirements for Ph.D. programs, offering more clarity and structure for candidates.
• Moreover, part-time Ph.D. programs are not allowed under the new regulations. This was previously permitted, and it makes the Ph.D. process more accessible for working professionals and others who require a more flexible schedule.

Overall, these updates aim to make the Ph.D. journey more flexible, accessible, and aligned with modern educational needs.

Popular PhD Specialization In India!
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PhD In Management	PhD In Emerging Technologies
PhD In Generative AI

PhD After Bachelor’s: Is it possible? 

Students who have completed a four-year undergraduate degree can now directly apply for a PhD and take the National Eligibility Test (NET), according to UGC Chairman, Jagadesh Kumar.

Eligibility for PhD Without a Master’s Degree Previously, to take the NET exam and pursue a PhD, students needed to have a master's degree with at least 55% marks. But now, candidates with a four-year undergraduate degree can skip the master’s requirement and directly go for a PhD. They will need at least 75% marks or equivalent grades in their bachelor's degree.

Candidates can also pursue a PhD with or without a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). For those interested in the JRF, the same minimum requirement of 75% marks in the four-year undergraduate program applies. Candidates can choose any subject for their PhD, even if it’s different from their undergraduate major. As long as they meet the 75% mark requirement, they are free to pursue a PhD in the field of their choice. This gives students more flexibility in shaping their academic and professional paths. 

There is a 5% relaxation in marks for students from SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled, economically weaker sections, and other eligible categories. These students can apply with 70% marks in their undergraduate program instead of 75%.

• Students with a four-year undergraduate degree and 75% marks can now pursue a PhD directly.
• A master’s degree is no longer required to appear for the NET exam.
• Candidates can choose any subject for their PhD, regardless of their undergraduate major.
• There is a 5% relaxation in marks for candidates from certain reserved categories.

This change opens up more opportunities for students to advance their education without the extra step of completing a master's degree. It also encourages a broader range of academic interests for PhD candidates.

Moreover, you can even opt for an Online DBA, which stands for Doctor of Business Administration and it is also a doctorate program that you can opt for right after your bachelor’s degree but you must have a minimum of 5 years of working experience. Moreover, if you choose to opt for an online DBA, you can easily complete your doctorate in a minimum of 3-5 years that too without quitting your job and even without relocating to another country. 

What are the Advantages of pursuing a PhD Program? 

There are various advantages of choosing a PhD program. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Research Excellence: Pursuing a PhD allows you to reach the highest level of research expertise in your chosen field. You’ll gain advanced skills and knowledge that set you apart in the academic and research communities.
• Career Opportunities: With a PhD, you can explore a variety of career paths, such as working in universities, research institutions, industry sectors, or consulting firms. It opens many doors for advanced roles and specialized positions.
• Expertise and Specialization: A PhD helps you become an expert in a specific area. You’ll gain deep knowledge and understanding, allowing you to lead and influence discussions in that field.
• Intellectual Freedom: During your PhD, you have the freedom to explore your own research interests and ideas. This independence allows you to investigate topics that you’re passionate about.
• Academic Recognition: A PhD is widely respected in academic and professional circles. It’s recognized as a mark of high-level achievement and can lead to prestigious academic or research positions.
• Funding Opportunities: Many PhD programs offer financial support through scholarships, grants, research assistantships, or teaching roles. This helps cover the cost of your studies and living expenses.
• Professional Networking: As a PhD student, you’ll interact with leading scholars and peers in your field. This networking can help you build valuable professional relationships and collaborations.
• Contributions to Knowledge: PhD research is aimed at making original contributions to existing knowledge. Your work can advance the field and provide new insights or solutions.
• Critical Thinking Skills: The rigorous nature of PhD research helps develop strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. These skills are valuable in both academic and professional settings.
• Personal Fulfillment: Achieving a PhD is a significant personal accomplishment. It reflects your dedication, hard work, and intellectual abilities, giving you a sense of pride and fulfillment.

What is the Difference Between an M.Phil and a PhD Program?  

There is a huge difference between an M.Phil and a PhD program. Some of them are mentioned below. You should be aware that UGC has discontinued the M.Phil Program. But these were the differences were there when MPhil was valid in India. 

Differences	MPhil	PhD
Duration	Generally 1-2 years	3-5 years or more
Research Focus	Focused on a specific area or topic	In-depth research in a specialized field
Admission Criteria	Bachelor's degree with good academic performance	Master's degree and/or relevant research experience
Thesis Requirement	Requires a research thesis	Extensive research thesis
Original Contribution	Demonstrates understanding of existing knowledge	Contributes new knowledge to the field
Scope of Research	Narrower and more focused	Broader and more comprehensive
Career Path	This may lead to research-based jobs or further studies	Opens doors to academic positions and advanced research roles
Funding Opportunities	Fewer funding options are available	More funding opportunities through scholarships, grants, or assistantships
Level of strictness	Less rigorous compared to the PhD	More demanding and rigorous
Recognition	Considered a stepping stone to a PhD	Highest arcade

Which One Should I opt for MPhil or MSc or MA? 

An M.Phil program is discontinued by the UGC but an MPhil used to be a step above an MSc or MA. It’s the highest level of a master's qualification, requiring a more substantial research project than a taught master's degree. Now, you can easily pursue a PhD program after completing your master’s without having a need to apply for an M.Phil program. 

Should I do an MPhil or a PhD? Which One Is Better? 

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has updated its Ph.D. regulations based on the guidelines outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. One of the major changes is that candidates no longer need to pursue an M.Phil program before applying for a Ph.D. Now, students can directly apply for a Ph.D. after passing the UGC-NET exam. Another significant change is that it is no longer mandatory for candidates to publish a research paper in a peer-reviewed journal to qualify for a Ph.D. This requirement has been removed, simplifying the process for Ph.D. candidates. So you must opt for a PhD program. 

Is there an alternative to a PhD Program? 

Yes, there is an alternative to a PhD Program and the alternative is an Online DBA. Are you a working professional looking to enhance your skills? A DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) could be the right fit for you. This advanced program focuses on improving your business and management expertise. The online DBA is designed for individuals with experience in managing businesses and teaches the practical application of theoretical concepts. Unlike an MBA or PhD, which focus more on theory, a DBA emphasizes real-world business operations.

The program is available both online and offline and is globally recognized, offering specializations such as Supply Chain Management, Human Resources, AI, Marketing, and more. Before enrolling, ensure you meet the eligibility and work experience requirements. Various universities offer online DBAs. Some of them are mentioned below 

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 are the Online DBA's top specializations?

There are various specializations that students can enroll in. The top specializations of DBA that are opted for by the students include-

Top Online DBA Doctorate Specialization
Online DBA Doctorate In Supply Chain	Online DBA Doctorate In Generative AI
Online DBA Doctorate In Human Resource	Online DBA Doctorate In Emerging Technology
Online DBA Doctorate In Finance	Online DBA Doctorate In Business and Data Analytics
Online DBA Doctorate In Marketing	Online DBA Doctorate In Healthcare Management
Online DBA Doctorate In Leadership and Strategy	Online DBA Doctorate In International Business
Online DBA Doctorate In Data Science	Online DBA Doctorate In Sustainability
Online DBA Doctorate In Accounting	Online DBA Doctorate In Technology Entrepreneurship
Online DBA Doctorate In Cyber Security	Online DBA Doctorate In Project Management
Online DBA Doctorate In Social Impact Management	Online DBA Doctorate In Digital Leadership
Online DBA Doctorate In Big Data

Conclusion 

You could pursue an MPhil program after post-graduation but now it is discontinued by the UGC. The duration of the MPhil program was two years. If you want to become a teacher, professor, editor, or scientist, an MPhil course was a good option. Moreover, you can even choose a PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, which is a research-focused doctorate degree. It's ideal for those who want to dive deep into academic research. You can choose to pursue a PhD full-time or part-time.