The University Grants Commission (UGC) in India has issued a notification instructing universities to halt admissions for MPhil (Master of Philosophy) courses for the 2023-24 session, citing its non-recognition as a valid degree. The UGC Secretary, Manish Joshi, cautioned students against getting admitted to any MPhil program offered by universities in India. The notification refers to Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations 2022, which clearly states that higher education institutions shall not offer MPhil programs.
The discontinuation of the MPhil program aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP), which advocates for a four-year Bachelor’s degree and research-intensive Master’s degree. According to the UGC official, the discontinuation was announced to align with the NEP, emphasizing research-intensive Master’s degrees over MPhil programs. Despite the notification, some universities continue to offer the MPhil program, and the UGC urges students to remain vigilant.
MPhil programs have lost their prominence over the years, with the decline starting in 1993 when MPhil ceased to be a mandatory qualification for lectureship roles in colleges and universities. Instead, post-graduation coupled with a passing grade in the National Eligibility Test (NET) or State Eligibility Test (SET) became the pivotal criteria for securing lectureship roles.
MPhil, or Master of Philosophy, is an academic program that enables students to research in specialized areas. The program has a duration of two years, covering theoretical and practical aspects of the subject. Candidates are required to perform research and present their findings. The discontinuation of the MPhil program reflects a shift in the academic landscape, emphasizing research-intensive Master’s degrees and aligning with evolving educational policies.
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