MPhil

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a postgraduate degree awarded by universities in many countries, particularly in the Commonwealth. It is typically a taught and research-based program that bridges the gap between a taught master's and a doctoral degree. The curriculum usually combines coursework with a substantial research project, which may culminate in a dissertation of 5,000 to 15,000 words, depending on the institution.

Admission to an MPhil program generally requires a first‑class or upper second‑class undergraduate degree, though some universities accept a lower classification for applicants with strong research potential or relevant work experience. Applicants must provide evidence of their research interests and, in many cases, a research proposal. Some programs also ask for references, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency.

The MPhil is commonly used as a stepping‑stone to a PhD. Students often stay on the same department, and many universities automatically consider MPhil graduates for PhD admission. However, the MPhil can also be a terminal degree for individuals seeking advanced research training without remaining for the full length of a doctoral study, which typically lasts three to four years.

In the United States, the MPhil is rare; instead, institutions offer a Master of Science or Master of Arts with a research component. In the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada the MPhil is widely recognized and respected. The degree is valued for its emphasis on independent research, critical thinking, and scholarly writing, skills that are transferable to academia, industry, and public service.