Know why the UGC discontinued MPhil degree

In a significant move, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has decided to discontinue the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) degree across Indian universities. The decision comes amid a broader effort to streamline higher education and address concerns related to academic redundancy.

The UGC, the apex regulatory body for higher education in India, cited several reasons for this move. One primary consideration is the need to align academic programs with evolving global standards and industry requirements.

The decision also aims to enhance the quality of research output by encouraging students to pursue more comprehensive and research-intensive doctoral programs directly.

By discontinuing the MPhil degree, the UGC intends to facilitate a more direct transition from postgraduate studies to Ph.D. programs, eliminating what is perceived as an intermediate step that may not be optimally contributing to the research ecosystem. This move is expected to streamline the academic journey, making it more focused and purpose-driven.

While the decision has sparked discussions within the academic community, the UGC emphasizes the need for a strategic restructuring of academic frameworks to better equip students for the demands of contemporary research.

The move aligns with broader efforts to foster a research-oriented culture and ensure that the academic landscape remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of both students and the global academic community.