Is Pursuing a PhD After an MA Degree Worth It?
The national education landscape is undergoing significant changes, specifically regarding postgraduate studies. With the new National Education Policy 2020 and recent rulings by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the MPhil degree has lost its recognition as a formal qualification in India. This policy change coincides with the introduction of more stringent PhD eligibility criteria, which could impact academic and career pathways for students.
Changes in MPhil and PhD Eligibility
On November 7, 2022, the UGC unveiled the University Grants Commission Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of PhD Degree Regulations 2022. According to the revised criteria, students with a four-year undergraduate degree, requiring a minimum of 75% or its equivalent grade, will be eligible for a PhD. Consequently, the MPhil degree is no longer recognized by the UGC, and universities have been directed to discontinue admissions to this program.
This shift signals a strategic move towards streamlining academic pathways and aligning education standards with modern research and teaching requirements. As a result, students who aspire to pursue further studies must now consider the revised criteria for PhD eligibility.
Masters vs. PhD: Career Implications
The status of a master’s degree varies widely across different countries. In some nations, such as Australia, a master’s degree, including MPhil, may be viewed as a less robust qualification compared to a PhD. Hiring managers often inquire about the absence of a PhD, and a convincing narrative is essential to address these expectations.
Moreover, from an academic standpoint, a master’s degree, including an MPhil, typically provides specialized expertise and industry-oriented skills that are valuable in professional roles. However, many academic positions require a PhD as it equips individuals with advanced research and teaching competencies. Pursuing a PhD is increasingly seen as a critical step towards achieving an academic career.
Opinions and Perspectives
“PhD is a good option. You should go for it instead of MPhil as you already have a master’s degree with you.”
While there are differing opinions, the general consensus is that a PhD is more advantageous for pursuing an academic path compared to an MPhil. Many experts advise that unless a student wishes to pursue an integrated MPhil-PhD program, there is no compelling reason to opt for an MPhil over a PhD.“PhD of course! MPhil is not worth much nowadays... it is essentially a shortened PhD course, and most likely, you will need to do a PhD even after that to apply for jobs. In my opinion, you should definitely join a PhD if you wish to hold any academic position in the future.”
Personal Career Goals and Decision-Making
The decision to pursue a PhD after completing an MA should be based on personal career goals and the definition of 'worth it'.
The career value of a PhD extends beyond monetary gain; it is deeply rooted in gaining new ways of thinking and creating knowledge. Ph.D. programs teach researchers to approach problems in innovative ways and critically analyze complex data and theories. Therefore, the decision should hinge on whether the candidate has a genuine passion for research and academia.
If one imagines themselves in an academic setting, investing that much time and resources into a PhD may well be worthwhile. However, it is essential to weigh the long-term benefits against the immediate investments, both financial and personal.
Conclusion
The pursuit of higher education after an MA degree should be carefully considered. With the de-valuation of the MPhil degree and the instatement of stricter PhD eligibility criteria, the decision to pursue a PhD becomes even more critical. While an MPhil may offer valuable industry-focused knowledge, a PhD equips professionals with the advanced research and teaching skills necessary for an academic career. Ultimately, whether to pursue a PhD depends on one's career aspirations and readiness to invest in a long-term academic journey.