What is the Difference Between MSc by Research and MPhil?

The main differences between an MSc by Research and an MPhil are the focus of the programs, their duration, and the career paths they lead to.

• Focus: An MSc by Research, as the name suggests, is focused on research. It is a postgraduate degree that emphasizes gaining in-depth knowledge in a specific area. In contrast, an MPhil is a Master of Philosophy degree, which is also research-focused but goes a level of specialization deeper than an MSc. An MPhil focuses on a specific research question within a specialized topic.
• Duration: An MSc by Research typically takes one year of full-time study, while an MPhil takes two years of full-time study. This makes the MPhil a more advanced master's degree, requiring twice the amount of study time.
• Career Paths: An MSc by Research is designed for those who want to gain practical knowledge that can be applied in their industry, while an MPhil is more suitable for those who wish to pursue a career in research or education, or as a precursor to a PhD degree.

In summary, an MSc by Research is a more industry-focused degree that provides in-depth knowledge in a specific area, while an MPhil is a research-focused degree that delves deeper into a specialized topic, often serving as a stepping stone to a PhD or a career in research.

Comparative Table: MSc by Research vs MPhil

The main difference between an MSc by Research and an MPhil lies in their focus and academic requirements. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

While both degrees are postgraduate Master's qualifications, they cater to different career paths. An MSc by Research is designed for a career in industry, whereas an MPhil is designed for a career in research or as a precursor to a PhD program.