Note: As of December 2023, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has declared that MPhil will not be considered a valid degree in India. Learn More
MPhil English or Masters of Philosophy in English is a postgraduate academic research course for 2 years. It is designed for students who wish to attain a comprehensive background in the English language and literature and related topics at an advanced level.
The course is well divided into a taught portion and a significant portion of the research, during which a thesis project is carried out under supervision. It is an intermediate degree between Master and Doctorate.
MPhil English Syllabus exposes the student to socio-political issues and theoretical frameworks concerning contemporary research in English literature. The program includes a dissertation in partial fulfillment of the Degree award requirements.
The aim of the course is to develop research skills and knowledge production in the areas of English Language, Literatures in English, Literary Criticism, Critical theory, Linguistics, the Philosophy of Language, Culture Studies, Theatre Studies, Gender Studies, and Literature in Philosophy.
The minimum eligibility required to pursue this course is Masters in English with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized institute.
MPhil English admissions are based on the national level entrance tests like NET JRF / NET LS, followed by an interview.
The average fees for MPhil ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 2,00,000 in India. According to the NIRF 2020, we have segregated the top MPhil English Colleges in India.
After completion of the course, the graduates can work as Writers, Academic librarians, Advertising account executive, Advertising copywriter, Arts administrator, Information officer, Marketing executive, and much more in colleges, schools, publishing houses, News media houses, etc.
The average salary of MPhil English is expected to be in the range of INR 5 lakh to INR 12 lakh per annum.
The graduates can also choose to pursue PhD in English after completion of MPhil English. An MPhil holder is exempted from a written test to apply for PhD degree, therefore MPhil acts as a benefit for candidates planning to pursue a PhD in the future.
Table of Content
2.1 Why Study?
3.2 Entrance Exams
3.3 How to get admission in top MPhil English colleges?
- MPhil English Distance Education
- MPhil English Syllabus
- Course Comparison
- MPhil English Job Profiles
8.1 Future Scope
MPhil English: Course Highlight
MPhil English usually offers huge opportunities in the future, therefore students majoring in English usually choose to do MPhil. The basic information about the course is mentioned in the table below:
| Course level | Post Graduate |
| Duration | Two years |
| Examination Type | Semester |
| Admission Process | Entrance Test |
| Course Fee | INR 10,000 - INR 2,00,000 |
| Average Salary | INR 8,00,000 - INR 15,00,000 |
| Top Recruiting Areas | Colleges, schools, publishing houses, News media houses, etc |
| Job Positions | Assistant Professor, News Writer / Editor, Research Associate, Subject Matter Expert, Publishing Assistant, Lexicographer, Academic Librarian, Secondary School Teacher, Linguistics Specialist, Copywriter, etc |
MPhil English: What is it about?
- MPhil English is a 2-year advanced level degree in the discipline of English literature, transcending cultures, periods, and genres.
- Generally, the study includes various types of writing, including novels, non-fiction, poetry, and plays, among other forms, modern media mediums include different styles of contemporary literature. It also includes texts like poetry, drama, and prose fiction, perhaps briefly exploring more disputed modes of literature along the path chosen.
- It seeks applicants with excellent academic credentials, intellectual skills, and expertise required to contribute to scholarly research.
- First-year focuses on research methodology, that comprises Academic Reading & Writing, Research Skills, and Literary Historiography. It trains students in basic skills of academic reading and writing and introduces students to the methods and tools of research in the study of literature.
- While the second-year focus is on the dissertation, where the students have to submit a 20,000-word project along with viva voce examination
Why Study MPhil English?
- A degree in English language and literature is designed to teach the candidates to read books, examine ideas, critique prose, and verse, and take a more critical look at the daily signs and words that surround us.
- The course will create opportunities for sharing and disseminating literary, cultural, and folk studies.
- It will develop a deep and broad understanding of the fundamentals and state of the art of knowledge in the field chosen through courses and self-study. It will also help students to think creatively and analytically.
- It is an opportunity to become an expert in the chosen topic and to contribute to knowledge both academically and practically. This will also help the country's education sector grow and develop.
- Usually, a course with a focus on English literature enables students to study literary texts from across history. The candidates will start with modules covering a variety of literature from various periods.
- It improves the prospects of highly-paid employment and opens up a wide range of opportunities.
- The Program intends to provide a structured research forum for those involved in submitting new English Studies questions and concerns.
MPhil English Admission Process
- MPhil admissions are done mainly through Entrance Test followed by personal interview conducted by the respective institute/university.
- Candidates who have qualified National level Entrance Test such as NET JRF / NET LS are exempted from the university level entrance exam, but will have to qualify the personal interviews before securing a seat in the program.
- Application forms for admissions are invited generally during the month of May for the MPhil program on web portals/newspapers/websites of the college/university.
Entrance Based Admission
- Step 1: Register and fill up the application of the institute. Also, upload the required documents and pay the application fees.
- Step 2: Download the admit card and sit for the entrance exam.
- Step 3: Merit-list will be released based on the candidate’s performance in the examination. Candidates clearing the cut-off will be shortlisted.
- Step 4: The shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview. And the interview will decide whether the candidate will be allotted a seat or not.
MPhil English Eligibility Criteria
The candidates planning to pursue MPhil English should fulfill the minimum eligibility criteria mentioned below:
- Candidates should hold a Master’s Degree in English or allied subjects from a recognized institute.
- Minimum aggregate of 55% marks or equivalent grade B in the UGC 7 point scale or equivalent in the Master’s Degree.
- In the case of reserved category SC/ST/OBC/PH candidates, a relaxation of 5% marks or equivalent grade is given as per UGC guidelines.
- Candidates with NET JRF / NET LS are exempted from appearing for university conducted entrance tests but need to appear for the personal interview round.
- There is no age bar to apply for the course.
MPhil English Entrance Exams
Candidates need to qualify the entrance exam conducted by UGC, State, or university to secure a seat in MPhil in English. Below is a list of some entrance exams applicable for MPhil. programs:
- UGC NET: It is a test for determining the eligibility for the post of Assistant Professor and/or Junior Research Fellowship award in Indian universities and colleges. The exam is conducted twice a year by UGC. The scores of the exam are valid for 3 years and have no restriction on the number of attempts.
- UGC CSIR NET: It is a national level exam conducted by NTA, to select candidates for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and for determining their eligibility for appointment as lecturers in Indian universities and colleges. The exam is held twice a year.
- DUET: DUET is the entrance test conducted by Delhi University for admission into various courses that also include MPhil programs.
-
UoH EE: It is an entrance exam conducted by Hyderabad University for admission into various postgraduate, MPhil, and Ph.D. courses.
| Exam Name | Exam Date |
|---|---|
| UGC NET (June Session) | June 10-21, 2024 |
| CSIR UGC NET |
To be Announced |
| UoH EE | To be Announced |
How to prepare for the MPhil English Entrance Exam?
To prepare for the entrance exams, the candidates should know the syllabus, the books to refer to, and the question pattern, and they should prepare according to it. They should also refer to the previous year question papers and also appear for the mock tests.
- Exam Pattern: The exam is usually of 2 to 3 hour duration. It is divided into objective and subjective type questions of a total of 100 marks.
- Important topics: The syllabus of most of the entrance exams usually include common topics from the master studies that include the following:
| Poetry and fiction | Medieval, Early Modern, Seventeenth-century, Eighteenth-century, Nineteenth-century, Early Twentieth to Second World War. |
| Theory | Classical theory, Neo-classical criticism, Romantic Criticism, Modern, and Postmodern critical theories, and Feminist Critical Theory |
| Literature | Indian Literature, Language and Linguistics, Dalit Literature, American literature, Contemporary writings, World Literature, War Literature, Shakespeare, etc. |
| Studies | Visual Studies, Cultural Studies, Trauma Studies, Renaissance Studies |
-
Books: The candidates can simply refer to their coursebook studied in the master’s degree program. They are one of the best sources to prepare for.
How to get admission in top MPhil English colleges?
- To secure a seat in a good college for an MPhil in English, candidates must hold an exceptional academic record.
- An individual scholar must complete a larger number of credits based on their background and preparation level.
- Candidates must look out for an advertisement for MPhil admissions to be aware of the vacancy in the research area of your choice.
- Candidates must appear for National Entrance Tests and score high ranking marks to secure a seat in a good college.
- Candidates should put their time and effort in the entrance test as well as be prepared for a personal interview round. They should prepare for the entrance exams in advance and also practice through mock tests.
- Be thorough with the English literature and language. To be well versed with bachelor and post-graduation subjects.
- They should check the eligibility, cut-offs, selection criteria, admission process, application procedure, and other updates for better preparation.
MPhil English Top Colleges
Here is the list of top MPhil English colleges in India for your reference. These colleges show the admission process, location, and average fee charged for this course.
| College Name | City | Average Course Fees | Average Placement Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| JNU | New Delhi | INR 1,391 | INR 9,00,000 |
| University of Hyderabad | Hyderabad | INR 8,670 | INR 4,50,000 |
| Calcutta University | Kolkata | INR 4,400 | INR 2,30,000 |
| Bharathiar University | Coimbatore | INR 9,400 | INR 1,20,000 |
| Amity University | Noida | INR 1,02,000 | INR 4,50,000 |
| Banasthali University | Jaipur | INR 74,500 | INR 3,60,000 |
| Mumbai University | Mumbai | INR 2,696 | INR 3,20,000 |
| Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (BAMU) | Aurangabad | INR 1,181 | INR 3,00,000 |
| Maharshi Dayanand University | Rohtak | INR 3,984 | INR 4,00,000 |
| Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | New Delhi | INR 42,000 | INR 3,00,000 |
MPhil English College Comparison
Below is the college comparison of the top colleges offering MPhil English. The comparison has been made in terms of several parameters like average fee, college overview, admission process, top recruiter, and many others.
| Parameters | Loyola College | Madras Christian College | Christ University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Chennai | Chennai | Bangalore |
| Overview | It was established in 1925 and granted the status of autonomy, affiliated to the University of Madras. | It is affiliated to the University of Madras. It is a private college that started in 1837. | It is a deemed private university. It is recognized by UGC and accredited by NAAC. |
| Eligibility Criteria | MA in English | MA in English | MA in English |
| Admission Process | Entrance test + PI | Entrance Test + PI | CUET + PI |
| Average Annual Fees | INR 7,200 | INR 31,500 | INR 50,000 |
| Average Annual Salary | INR 5,50,000 | INR 2,50,000 | INR 6,85,000 |
| Top Companies Visited | HCL, Cactus, Real Foundations, Sutherland, etc | Larsen & Toubro, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Deloitte, and others. | KPMG, Accenture, ICICI Bank, Deloitte, Ernst & Young |
MPhil English Distance Education
Most students prefer distance education because it allows them the freedom to learn the course at their own speed. The course is generally for a duration of a minimum of two years in case of distance education but the candidates can complete it in more than 2 years. A distance education degree is a valid degree and usually opted by the working professionals.
| Name of the University | Location | Course Duration | Admission Procedure | Average Course Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IGNOU | New Delhi | 4 years | Entrance Test | INR 10,500 |
| Alagappa University | Karaikudi | 2 years | Entrance Test | INR 14,000 |
| Tamil Nadu Open University | Chennai | 3 years | Entrance Test | INR 10,000 |
| Mother Teresa Women’s University | Kodaikanal | 2 years | Entrance Test | INR 9,500 |
| Karnataka University | Dharwad | 2 years | Merit-Based | INR 6,000 |
MPhil English Syllabus
The duration of the course is two years which is divided into four semesters. It includes Research Methodology and some selected forms of Literatures in English.
The first year is focused on research methodology while the second year electives and dissertation. The MPhil course work shall include :
| Semester I: Research Methodology | Semester II: Critical Theory and Practical |
|---|---|
| Research – Types and Identification of Problems | Literary / Critical Terms |
| Mechanics of Research | Approaches |
| Modes of Writing | Critical Essays |
| Documentation and List of Works Cited | Prescriptive Criticism and Feminism |
| Format of Reporting Empirical Research | General Study |
| Semester III: Research Area | Semester IV: Dissertation |
Some reference books to guide and understand the concepts of research areas :
| Book | Authur |
|---|---|
| Indian Literary Criticism: Theory and Interpretation | Devy, G. N |
| Indian English Literature 1980-2000: A Critical Survey | Naik, M.K |
| Language Testing and Evaluation: An Introductory Course | Allison, Desmond. |
| Second Language Learning and Language Teaching. 4th ed. | Cook, Vivian. |
| Modern Rhetoric | Brooks, Cleanth, and Robert Penn Warren |
| MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. Seventh ed. | Gibaldi, Joseph. |
| A Handbook of Critical Approaches to Literature | Guerin, Wilfred L. |
| Modern Criticism and Theory: A Reader | Lodge, David. |
Course Comparison
MPhil English vs MPhil English Literature
MPhil in English and MPhil English Literature are almost similar courses except for a few differences. The below-given comparison is given keeping in mind all the important parameters of differences:
| Parameters | MPhil English | MPhil English Literature |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Type | Post Graduation | Post Graduation |
| Overview | MPhil in English course is a research-based advanced study into the discipline of English literature, transcending cultures, periods, and genres. | MPhil English Literature is a research-based course that introduces the aspirant to nuances in English literature research methodologies and intricacies. |
| Examination Type | Semester | Semester |
| Average Annual Fees | INR 10,000 - INR 2,00,000 | INR 10,000 - INR 2,00,000 |
| Duration | 1 - 2 years | 1 - 2 years |
| Eligibility Criteria | Master's degree in English | Master’s degree in English Literature |
| Admission Process | Entrance Test + PI | Entrance Test + PI |
| Top Colleges | Loyola College, Madras Christian College, Christ College, Stella Maris College, Presidency college | Jamia Millia Islamia University, University of Rajasthan, Mewar University, Jodhpur National University, Madurai Kamaraj University |
| Top Recruiting Area | Colleges, schools, publishing houses, News media houses, etc | Newspaper, Magazine, theatre, Colleges, schools, copywriter, etc. |
| Job Positions | Assistant Professor, News Writer / Editor, Research Associate, Subject Matter Expert, Publishing Assistant, so on | Research Associate, Assistant Professor, Subject Matter Expert, Writer, Columnist, so on. |
| Average Annual Salary | INR 5,00,000 - INR 12,00,000 | INR 8,00,000 - INR 15,00,000 |
| Further Studies | Doctorate in English | Doctorate in English |
MPhil English Job Profiles and Career Options
English is a large and exciting area that is chosen by a large number of Students. Yet after school, the career path is rather unclear, largely because there is so much you can do with a literature degree.
Although it makes one eligible for admission to a Ph.D. program, on the one hand, it also makes one eligible for an assistant professorship in different universities. And the consulting companies also recruit students to assist with research ventures.
Here are some job positions available after graduating in literature :
| Job Profile | Job Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | Such pedagogues teach the students at the post-secondary level in a specific discipline. In addition to directing students through scholarly study, they provide scholarly instruction, conduct research, and teach in their field of specialization. | INR 3,40,000 |
| Research Associate | In a given field of specialization, academic research associates conduct and assist senior researchers in scholarly study. Essentially, they analyze literary works based on genre, symbolism, socio-cultural and political influence, and significance. Even, in the latter academic research programs, they teach junior research associates and graduate students, etc. | INR 3,59,057 |
| News Writer / Editor | These experts, as journalists, compose, edit, and present structured news in terms of objectivity, relevance, and human interest. Job duties involve giving raw news reports a presentable form, reviewing news items for facts and language, and presenting news in an impartial manner. | INR 3,96,349 |
| Lexicographer | These professionals are primarily responsible for developing dictionary material, choosing terms, and editing them for use in the dictionary. Advanced word-based work is helping lexicographers in their mission, drawing from existing databases. | INR 2,40,000 |
| Copywriter | Copywriters are responsible for creating verbal content that is put to use in the realm of Advertising, for purposes of promotion and broadcasting. These practitioners have the verbal content of audio / visual advertising and marketing campaigns behind them. | INR 3,68,733 |
| Linguistics Specialist | Linguistics Specialists research, examine and evaluate the roots, context, evolution, adoption, and use of a language in question. Based on such analysis of the life of a language and its interrelationship with other languages, cultures, communities, environments, etc., such professionals decode languages and their many functions within the society. | INR 305,196 |
Source: Payscale
MPhil English Future Scope
The future scope for the MPhil English graduates is vast. The working areas are not limited to them. They can work in many sectors.
- Appearing for UGC NET / UGC CSIR widens opportunities in teaching / academic areas. The English departments routinely invite literary scholars at different universities to fill the vacant positions. As a degree, there are many different career directions in English.
- There are positions available in the publishing industry, ranging from the publisher, proofreader, literary agent, etc. Many creative authors, including novelists, poets, and screenwriters, begin their careers by acquiring a thorough understanding of written English before developing their individual expressive abilities through writing.
- They can also work in fields like marketing, advertising, and work as a copywriter or content creator, etc.
- After completion of MPhil, a candidate can opt for a PhD in English/ PhD in Linguistics. Candidates are exempted from PhD entrance exam provided they have completed MPhil.
Check out the top PhD English Colleges and top PhD Linguistics Colleges in India.
FAQs
Ques. Is financial aid provided to pursue MPhil?
Ans. Research Scholars who have cleared National level exams with JRF or equivalent get financial assistance from the concerned funding agency. Non NET UGC fellowships are provided for research scholars who do not have any financial assistance.
Ques. What is the eligibility to apply for MPhil in English?
Ans. A candidate with a Masters in English securing a minimum aggregate of 55% marks are eligible provided they qualify the national level entrance test or university level test. National level entrance such as NET JRF / NET LS is required to secure a seat in the MPhil program. Admission will be based on the performance of candidates in the entrance exam and personal interview.
Ques. What is the difference between PhD and MPhil?
Ans. A PhD degree has a high edge over an MPhil degree. PhD is generally used as training in advanced research work. In a PhD degree, the research work generally has to be original. While in MPhil the work in the dissertation should not be compulsorily original but may reproduce a study already performed.
Ques. What to expect in the course?
Ans. MPhil in English includes Research Methodology and some selected forms of Literatures in English. It’s a two-year course. The first year is focused on research methodology while the second year electives and dissertation.
Ques. Is MPhil compulsory to pursue a PhD?
Ans. It is not mandatory to pursue MPhil before applying for PhD. The candidate who has completed MPhil adds more value to a doctorate degree. While some universities offer direct admissions to MPhil holders.
Ques. What is the selection process for MPhil in English?
Ans. Only those applications, which have been completed accurately and in full, and that, include the relevant certificates and other documents, as attachments will be considered. Candidates will be shortlisted, and those candidates who have been selected are required to take the entrance examination and appear for a personal interview. The final results will be revealed after the applicants have accumulated the marks they have received in their postgraduate test, entrance review, and personal interview.
Ques. What are the benefits of doing MPhil?
Ans. An MPhil delivers advanced research skills and experience valued by a variety of employers. A PhD reveals these too, of course. But, outside the academic field, the added value of a doctorate may not be as important.
Ques. What is the structure of a dissertation?
Ans. A standard thesis or dissertation may have the following structure: Title page – One page with the title, date, degree for which the report was submitted, and the full name. Abstract – A short project description, no more than one paragraph in length, summarizing the objectives, history, methods, and findings.
Ques. What can I pursue after MPhil?
Ans. MPhil lays down the foundation for a doctorate. A candidate can pursue a doctorate after MPhil. There are options for fellowship in research at various institutions.
Ques. Is the entrance test mandatory to secure a seat in the MPhil Program?
Ans. Yes, it is. To qualify it is mandatory to pass the University's written examination. The MPhil the entrance examination consists of two papers, General Aptitude & Research Methodology, and a domain-specific subject as studied at the postgraduate level.
Ques. How long does it take to complete the course?
Ans. It takes a minimum of two years to complete the course. It is divided into four semesters and the dissertation is the crucial part to complete the degree.
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