In a recent development, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has raised concerns over universities offering Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programs, declaring that MPhil degrees are not officially recognized. The regulatory body issued a warning on Wednesday, urging universities to discontinue MPhil programs and advising potential students against enrolling in such courses.
According to Manish Joshi, UGC Secretary, the decision aligns with Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations, 2022. This regulation explicitly prohibits higher education institutions from providing MPhil programs.
The UGC emphasized that universities must not accept new applications for MPhil programs, indicating that the MPhil degree course, previously offered by all universities, would no longer hold official recognition. This move follows the UGC’s earlier announcement that higher education institutions would cease offering MPhil programs.
To enforce this decision, the UGC has requested university administrations to take immediate action, preventing the admission of new MPhil program applicants for the upcoming academic year, 2023–2024.
Simultaneously, UGC Secretary Manish Joshi addressed prospective students directly, advising them against seeking admission to MPhil programs. This advisory aims to prevent students from pursuing degrees that lack official recognition, ensuring that they make informed decisions about their educational paths.
As universities navigate this directive from the UGC, it remains essential for both institutions and students to stay informed about the official recognition status of academic programs to maintain the integrity of higher education in the country.
