MPhil Development Studies is a postgraduate research program designed for students interested in poverty and inequality, gender and development, environmental sustainability, globalization, and the role of institutions, etc. It is ideal for candidates aspiring to pursue careers in academia, and research institutions.
The course blends both theoretical knowledge and advanced research methods, preparing students for Ph.D. programs or professional research-based roles. MPhil in Development Studies helps students develop skills in research methodology, therapeutics, and psychotherapy.
The MPhil Development Studies program typically combines coursework and research, with core themes across development theory, methodology, policy, and specific sectoral topics. This enhances a students in-depth knowledge on developing countries.
To be eligible, candidates must have completed a Master’s degree in Development Studies or a related discipline with at least 55% aggregate marks. Students belonging to the reserved category are provided with certain relaxations.
Career prospects after completing MPhil in Development Studies are promising. Graduates can work as research scientists, academic Lecturer, Research Assistant, Consultant, Policy Analyst, Social Impact Strategist, etc Students get an opportunity to work with Academic institutions, research think tanks, government agencies, NGOs, consulting firms, etc.
Table of Contents
- MPhil Development Studies Highlights
- What is MPhil Development Studies?
- Why Study MPhil Development Studies?
- Who should study MPhil Development Studies?
- MPhil Development Studies Eligibility Criteria
- MPhil in Development Studies Entrance Exams 2025
- MPhil Development Studies Colleges in India
- MPhil Development Studies Admission Process 2025
- MPhil Development Studies Job Opportunities in India
- MPhil Development Studies FAQs
MPhil Development Studies Highlights
The MPhil Development Studies curriculum equips you with deep theoretical grounding and hands-on research skills across multiple dimensions of development. Given below are the course details of MPhil in Developmental Studies:
What is MPhil Development Studies?
MPhil in Development Studies is a postgraduate research oriented program that explores the comprehensive study of human beings. This course bridges the gap between taught degrees like MA or MSc Development Studies and full doctoral programs like PhD. It focuses heavily on social, economic, and political aspects of development etc. At the end of the course, students have to submit a dissertation.
After completing of this MPhil in Development Studies, students can work with Academic institutions, research think tanks, government agencies, NGOs, consulting firms. Moreover, they can go onto pursue a PhD in Developmental Studies.
Why Study MPhil Development Studies?
The reasons for pursuing an MPhil in Development Studies are as follows:
- Offers Interdisciplinary knowledge of various economics, sociology, political science, and environmental topics.
- Impart skills that enable the student to face global challenges in developed and developing countries.
- Work opportunities in the Government and Private sector in NGOs, Academia, and Research roles.
- Builds Analytical and Critical thinking skills, which prepares for PhD and Research roles.
- Foundation for a career in civil services.
- Studying an MPhil Development Studies enhances a students decision making and research skills. It boosts their employability.
- After an MPhil Development Studies, students can expect versatile job roles across sectors. It would aid them to find jobs with leadership roles.
Who should study MPhil Development Studies?
The MPhil Development Studies is an interdisciplinary research-focused program, ideal for individuals driven to understand and address complex development challenges such as poverty, inequality, health, education, and environmental sustainability. The MPhil Development Studies program typically combines coursework and research, with core themes across development theory, methodology, policy, and specific sectoral topics.
This enhances a students in-depth knowledge on developing countries. The people who fall into the following criteria are best suitable for the MPhil in Development Studies:
- Interested in solving social Development issues such as poverty, inequality, education, health, gender, or climate change.
- Employees working in NGOs and the Development Sector.
- Aspiring Researchers and Academicians.
- Social Science and Humanities graduates.
- Civil Service aspirants.
MPhil Development Studies Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for MPhil in Development Studies is as follows:
- Academic Qualification: A master’s degree in Development Studies or a related discipline
- Minimum Marks Requirement: Generally 55% aggregate marks, with some reserved category relaxations
- No age limit in most institutions. Some require no backlogs in prior coursework.
MPhil in Development Studies Entrance Exams 2025
The entrance examinations for MPhil in Development Studies is as follows:
MPhil Development Studies Colleges in India
The MPhil Development Studies curriculum equips you with deep theoretical grounding and hands-on research skills across multiple dimensions of development. The following colleges provide an MPhil in Development Studies in India:
MPhil Development Studies Admission Process 2025
The Admission Process of MPhil Development Studies is similar in all universities. The MPhil Development Studies admission process of Tata Institute of Social Science is given for your reference:
Step 1: Register at the admission portal of the University with a valid Email ID and password. Fill in the OTP received in the email ID to complete the registration process.
Step 2: After Registration, go to the Login page and log in with the credentials received after Registration.
Step 3: Fill the application form with personal details like address, place of birth, and family details, and bank details for payment.
Step 4: Select the program: MPhil Development Studies and pay the registration fees through the online gateway.
Step 5: Upload the documents as asked for: Academic and other certificates, such as entrance test scores.
Step 6: The admission is granted once the documents are verified and announced on the website.
Documents Required:
- Original Marksheet of 10th 12th grade
- School/ College Leaving Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Birth Certificate
- ID Proof (Aadhar/ PAN/ Passport)
- EWS Certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Dissertation of Masters
MPhil Development Studies Job Opportunities in India
The MPhil Development Studies graduates get jobs in both the private and government sectors. The details about the jobs are given below:
MPhil Development Studies FAQs
What kind of students typically pursue an MPhil in Development Studies?
This course is best for those students who are passionate about social justice, equality, and making an impact in society. Many come from backgrounds in the humanities, social sciences who wish to work in policy and grassroots work. It suits individuals who are socially aware, and interested in working with marginalized communities.
Is there a practical or fieldwork component in the MPhil Development Studies?
Yes, most programs incorporate fieldwork, internships, or live projects as an essential component. Students often engage with NGOs or government schemes to gain hands-on exposure. This experience helps bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application. It also enhances job readiness and provides valuable networking opportunities.
What kind of research work do MPhil Development Studies students engage in?
Research in Development Studies is often rooted in societal challenges. Students undertake dissertations or term papers on topics like gender inequality, caste discrimination, education access, environmental justice and public health. They collect primary data through surveys, interviews, and field visits. This gives them strong research skills.
What is the entrance syllabus for MPhil in Development Studies?
Mostly, the entrance exam syllabus for MPhil in Development Studies covers the UG and PG syllabus. Research Methodology & Social Science Methods
What subjects are included in MPhil Developmental Studies?
The MPhil Development Studies program typically combines interdisciplinary coursework and research, with core themes across development theory, methodology, policy, and specific sectoral topics. This enhances a students in-depth knowledge on developing countries.
Can I apply to multiple MPhil programs?
Yes, you may apply to more than one MPhil course, but each application must be separate. These rules may differ from colleges. So, students must check the college requirements.
Can applicants from non-social science backgrounds apply?
Yes, MPhil programs accept candidates from diverse academic fields such as engineering, natural sciences, computer science, business, journalism, even philosophy provided they show strong interest and potential in development studies. But, it differs from college to college.
Is MPhil still valid in India?
The UGC’s latest regulations indicate limited or discontinued MPhil admissions in many universities, as NEP 2020 emphasizes direct admission to PhD programs. However, some institutions still conduct MPhil in selected fields. Students please check the specific university’s status before applying.
