

PH-D in Economics at Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College


Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College Virudhunagar?
This Ph.D. Economics program at Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College (Autonomous) focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in various domains of economics. It aims to develop independent researchers capable of contributing to academia, policy-making, and industry. Given India''''s dynamic economic landscape, the program is tailored to address pressing national and global economic challenges, distinguishing itself through a blend of rigorous methodology and application-oriented studies relevant to the Indian context. There is a significant demand for skilled economists in government, research institutions, and private sectors across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.Phil. or Master''''s degree holders in Economics seeking to pursue rigorous, original research. It attracts aspiring academicians, policy analysts, and researchers aiming for senior roles in think tanks, government bodies, or corporate research divisions. Individuals with a strong analytical bent and a passion for economic inquiry, who wish to contribute to the understanding and resolution of complex economic issues in India and globally, would find this program highly suitable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as Assistant Professors, Senior Research Fellows, Economists, and Policy Analysts in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-12 LPA in academia/research, while experienced professionals can command INR 15-30+ LPA in policy or corporate roles. The program fosters critical thinking and advanced analytical skills, providing a strong foundation for career growth in rapidly expanding sectors like economic consulting, data analytics, and public policy formulation within India.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly engage with coursework on Research Methodology and Research & Publication Ethics. Focus on understanding econometric techniques, research design, and ethical considerations in social science research. Participate actively in seminars and workshops organized by the department.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, EViews, R, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, UGC Care List Journals
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures rigorous research and ethical publication practices, crucial for academic credibility and securing research grants/positions.
Deep Dive into Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically conduct an exhaustive literature review in your chosen specialization within Economics. Identify research gaps and potential contributions. Regularly meet with your supervisor to discuss findings and refine your research problem.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, SSRN, RBI publications, NBER Working Papers
Career Connection
This skill is fundamental for designing impactful research, leading to strong publications and enhancing your profile for academic and research roles.
Develop Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice writing concisely and academically. Submit small research proposals or review articles for feedback. Focus on clarity, logical flow, and evidence-based argumentation. Join departmental writing groups for peer feedback.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Turnitin, Purdue OWL, Departmental writing workshops
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is essential for thesis submission, journal publications, and professional communications, significantly boosting your career prospects.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork/Data Collection- (Semester 3-5)
If your research involves primary data, meticulously plan and execute data collection. For secondary data, learn to navigate large economic databases. Understand the nuances of data cleaning, management, and ethical considerations.
Tools & Resources
NSSO data, CMIE Prowess, World Bank Data, RBI Database on Indian Economy
Career Connection
Hands-on experience with data collection and management is highly valued in research institutions, policy analysis, and data-driven roles in industry.
Present Research at Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Prepare research papers or proposals for presentation at national and regional economics conferences. This provides invaluable feedback, networking opportunities, and helps in refining your work before journal submission.
Tools & Resources
Indian Economic Association conferences, Local university seminars, Departmental colloquia
Career Connection
Presenting builds communication skills, expands your professional network, and showcases your research prowess, leading to collaborations and job opportunities.
Seek Mentorship Beyond Supervisor- (Semester 3-5)
Identify and connect with senior researchers or professors in your area of interest within India. Attend their lectures or webinars. Their insights can offer fresh perspectives, expose you to diverse research methodologies, and open doors for future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional association directories, University faculty pages
Career Connection
Building a wider network of mentors provides strategic career advice and can lead to post-doctoral opportunities or joint research projects.
Advanced Stage
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Final 1-2 years)
Aim to publish at least one research paper from your thesis in a reputable peer-reviewed journal, preferably indexed in UGC Care List. Understand the journal submission process, reviewer comments, and revision strategies.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, UGC Care List Journals, Journal ranking databases
Career Connection
Publications are critical for academic appointments, promotions, and research funding in India, showcasing your ability to conduct and disseminate original research.
Develop Teaching and Communication Skills- (Final 1-2 years)
Take opportunities to assist in teaching undergraduate or postgraduate courses, conduct tutorials, or deliver guest lectures. Hone your ability to explain complex economic concepts clearly and engage diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching assistantships, Workshops on pedagogical methods, Online teaching resources
Career Connection
Excellent teaching skills are paramount for a career in academia and enhance your overall communication abilities for any professional role.
Prepare for Post-PhD Career Paths- (Final 1-2 years)
Network extensively with alumni and industry professionals. Prepare a strong CV highlighting your research, publications, and skills. Practice mock interviews for academic positions, research roles, or policy analysis jobs in India.
Tools & Resources
University Career Services, LinkedIn, Job portals like Naukri.com, Indeed.com (for academic/research roles), Professional development workshops
Career Connection
Proactive career preparation ensures a smooth transition from Ph.D. to a fulfilling professional role in academia, research, or policy sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (Economics) with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade) or M.Phil. Degree (Economics). 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), Minimum 4 years (Part-time)
Credits: Minimum 14 credits (for non-M.Phil. scholars) / Minimum 10 credits (for M.Phil. scholars) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDECO-RM | Research Methodology | Core (Mandatory for all scholars) | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Formulation of Research Problem, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Tools for Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation |
| PHDECO-RPE | Research & Publication Ethics (RPE) | Core (Mandatory for all scholars) | 2 | Philosophy and Ethics, Scientific Conduct, Publication Ethics, Open Access Publishing, Publication Misconduct, Intellectual Property Rights |
| PHDECO-CS | Core Subject relevant to the area of research in Economics | Core (Mandatory for all scholars) | 4 | |
| PHDECO-EC | Elective Course related to the field of research in Economics | Elective (Mandatory for scholars without M.Phil. degree) | 4 |




