MPhil vs PhD

The MPhil is a research degree that can be part of a PhD or a standalone qualification. Compared to the PhD, the MPhil involves a shorter research project which shows an advanced understanding of the field and sources. Whereas a PhD is a longer degree which should end with an original contribution to a scholarly field. If your project does not have the scope to become a PhD it may achieve an MPhil instead.

If you’re diving into the world of advanced degrees, you might be wondering about the differences between an MPhil and a PhD. I totally get it—it can feel a bit overwhelming! In this guide, I’ll break down what an MPhil actually is, highlight the key differences between an MPhil and a PhD, and help you figure out which path might be the best fit for you.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge or aiming for that prestigious doctorate, I’m here to help clarify things so you can make the right choice for your academic journey. Let’s get started!

If you’re interested in how the transition from an MPhil to a PhD works, our guide to the MPhil upgrade will be helpful.

The term ‘MPhil’ means Master of Philosophy and the qualification is a purely research-based Masters degree. While more common Masters like the MA and MSc involve a range of taught units and assessments, as well as a dissertation, the MPhil instead consists of an extended dissertation (usually around 60,000 words). This dissertation is then defended by the student at a viva voce exam.

Despite the name, you can do an MPhil in any subject – not just Philosophy! An MPhil is generally considered the most advanced Masters degree you can take, while a PhD is the highest academic qualification on offer.

There are two types of MPhil:

• Standalone qualifications
• Those that are part of a PhD programme

A standalone MPhil takes two years to complete but if you’re doing an MPhil within a PhD, you’ll usually ‘upgrade’ to a PhD with an oral examination at the end of your first year.

For integrated MPhil/PhD programmes, you won’t have to work on a specific MPhil dissertation but will instead begin work on what will eventually become your PhD thesis.

For more information on how MPhils work, check out our full guide to the MPhil on our sister site FindAMasters. This page will primarily focus on the differences between a PhD and an MPhil, and how to choose which one to do.

The main difference between an MPhil and a PhD lies in the extent to which the project can be described as an ‘original contribution to knowledge’ – the defining factor of a PhD.

• An MPhil is a substantial piece of research, but it doesn’t need to provide a completely new scholarly contribution to the subject in question. Instead, it needs to display the student’s comprehensive knowledge and critical understanding of its topic.
• A PhD, by contrast, must consist of a significant academic contribution that will add to the existing research done around a subject. A PhD should also be of publishable quality – generally speaking, an MPhil doesn’t need to meet that standard.

Unsurprisingly, at two years in duration, an MPhil is shorter than a PhD, which takes between three and four years to complete on a full-time basis. It’s also worth knowing that a standalone MPhil dissertation is also shorter than a PhD thesis.

Another important difference between an MPhil and a PhD is their funding status. If you’re intending to do a standalone MPhil, you should apply for a Masters loan. When you want to upgrade to a PhD, you should look for PhD funding.

If you’ve identified a research topic that doesn’t quite have the same scope as a full PhD, then an MPhil could be the perfect qualification for you. You’ll have much more time and freedom than you would on a standard-taught Masters to do your topic justice, without the added pressure and commitment that comes with a doctoral degree.

An MPhil also gives you the opportunity to develop valuable research skills that will be sought after by potential employers in a range of sectors outside of academia.

You may feel worried that there is some stigma attached to the MPhil and that such a qualification can be viewed as an unsuccessful PhD. While it’s true that an MPhil can sometimes be the result of a failed PhD or viva exam, this is only the case for a small number of MPhils. Needless to say, you can explain the circumstances that led to you completing an MPhil rather than a PhD in any job application you make.

There are a few other reasons why you might apply for an MPhil instead of a PhD. For example, MPhil is sometimes the name for a traditional one-year Masters at certain universities – this is the case at the University of Cambridge, which offers both taught and research-based MPhil qualifications.

Similarly, in some higher education systems like those in India and Pakistan, the MPhil is a research degree that lies between a taught Masters and a full PhD.

Whether you decide to take on an MPhil or a PhD, I have some advice for you, which can help make sure that your educational journey goes smoothly and gives you the best experience possible.

Find the right supervisor for you

A supportive and knowledgeable supervisor can make a huge difference. Look for someone whose research aligns with your interests and who you feel comfortable communicating with.

Make sure to take time for yourself

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. Make time for hobbies, exercise, and relaxation to keep your mind fresh and focused.

Develop your research skills

Whether it’s qualitative or quantitative methods, ensure you have a solid grasp of the research techniques relevant to your study. Consider taking additional courses if needed.

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