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PH-D-ECONOMICS in Economics at Central University of Kerala
Kasaragod, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Central University of Kerala Kasaragod?
This Ph.D. Economics program at Central University of Kerala focuses on advanced research in various economic domains. It emphasizes rigorous theoretical understanding, robust empirical methods, and critical analysis of contemporary economic issues. The program is designed to cultivate independent researchers capable of contributing significantly to economic thought and policy in the Indian and global contexts. It differentiates itself by its strong focus on socio-economic realities pertinent to Kerala and the broader Indian landscape, promoting relevant and impactful research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated post-graduates with a Master''''s degree in Economics or allied disciplines, who aspire to careers in academic research, policy formulation, or economic analysis. It caters to individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of economic principles and apply advanced analytical tools to real-world problems. Fresh graduates with a strong academic record and a keen interest in research are particularly encouraged, as are working professionals in government, think tanks, or financial institutions looking to gain doctoral qualifications and contribute to knowledge.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as university professors, researchers in national and international organizations (e.g., NITI Aayog, RBI, World Bank), and policy analysts in government and private sector consultancies. India-specific career paths include roles in economic research departments of public sector banks, financial institutions, and specialized government bodies. While salary ranges vary widely, an entry-level academic researcher might earn INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters critical thinking and advanced analytical skills, preparing students for impactful roles in the Indian economy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Statistical Tools- (Ph.D. Coursework Semester)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding core research methodologies, econometrics, and statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for data analysis). Attend workshops on statistical packages and practice data analysis with real-world datasets. This will build a strong foundation for your doctoral thesis and future research endeavors.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python, Stata, Econometrics textbooks, online courses on NPTEL, Swayam
Career Connection
Essential for conducting rigorous research, these skills are highly valued in academic, policy research, and data analysis roles.
Engage Actively in Departmental Seminars and Workshops- (Ph.D. Coursework Semester)
Regularly attend and actively participate in departmental seminars, guest lectures, and workshops. Present your preliminary research ideas or literature reviews to faculty and peers for constructive feedback. This helps refine your research topic, identify gaps in existing literature, and develop strong academic presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, CUK library resources, academic journal databases
Career Connection
Builds networking opportunities, hones academic presentation skills crucial for conferences and viva voce, and provides exposure to diverse research areas.
Develop a Strong Literature Review and Research Question- (Ph.D. Coursework Semester and ongoing)
Systematically review existing literature in your area of interest using academic databases. Identify significant research gaps and formulate clear, concise, and researchable questions for your Ph.D. thesis. Seek guidance from your supervisor early on to ensure your research trajectory is well-defined, impactful, and feasible within the program duration.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, EconLit, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Mendeley/Zotero for reference management
Career Connection
A well-defined research question is the cornerstone of a successful Ph.D., leading to impactful publications and a stronger academic profile.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialized Economic Theory- (Ph.D. Year 1-3)
Go beyond coursework to explore advanced theories and models relevant to your specific research area. Participate in reading groups focused on specialized topics, and critically analyze seminal papers and contemporary research. This ensures a deep theoretical grounding for your thesis, enabling sophisticated analysis and contribution to knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks, specific journal articles, working papers, online resources from institutions like NBER, CEPR
Career Connection
Establishes expertise in a niche area, making you a specialist attractive to research-intensive roles and academic positions.
Master Advanced Econometric and Quantitative Techniques- (Ph.D. Year 1-3)
Depending on your research, acquire proficiency in advanced econometric techniques (e.g., time series, panel data, limited dependent variable models) or qualitative research methods. This often involves self-study, specialized workshops, or online certifications. Apply these techniques to pilot studies to validate their applicability to your data.
Tools & Resources
R, Python, Stata, Eviews, specialized software for qualitative analysis, advanced econometrics textbooks
Career Connection
Highly sought-after skills in academic research, data science roles, and policy analysis within government and consulting sectors.
Present Research at National/International Conferences- (Ph.D. Year 2-4)
Prepare working papers based on your ongoing research and submit them to national or international conferences. Presenting your work allows you to receive invaluable feedback from a wider academic community, identify potential collaborators, and build your professional network, which is vital for academic career progression.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers from major economics associations, conference travel grants
Career Connection
Essential for building an academic profile, gaining visibility, and receiving critical feedback that strengthens your thesis and future publications.
Advanced Stage
Systematize Thesis Writing and Publication Efforts- (Ph.D. Year 3-6)
Establish a strict writing schedule to complete your thesis chapters systematically. Simultaneously, work on converting suitable thesis chapters or research findings into publishable journal articles. Target peer-reviewed journals to get your work published before or immediately after thesis submission, boosting your academic impact.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, journal submission platforms, feedback from supervisor and peers
Career Connection
Publications are crucial for academic job market success. A well-written thesis paves the way for a successful viva voce and timely degree completion.
Network with Industry and Policy Practitioners- (Ph.D. Year 4-6)
Attend policy dialogues, expert roundtables, and industry seminars to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application. Network with economists in government, think tanks, and the private sector. This can open doors for post-doctoral positions, policy roles, or consulting opportunities, broadening your career horizons.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, professional associations, alumni networks, CUK career services
Career Connection
Provides insights into non-academic career paths, helps identify real-world problems for future research, and aids in securing impactful employment outside academia.
Prepare Rigorously for Viva Voce and Job Interviews- (Ph.D. Final Year (before submission and post-submission))
Conduct multiple mock viva sessions with your supervisory committee and other faculty members. Prepare concise summaries of your research, anticipate challenging questions, and refine your responses. For job seekers, tailor your CV and research statement, and practice interview questions relevant to academic or research roles to maximize your chances of success.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva panels, career counseling services, academic job market websites
Career Connection
A successful viva is the final hurdle to your Ph.D. degree. Strong interview preparation is critical for securing desired academic or research positions post-Ph.D.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in a relevant discipline (Economics or allied) with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade) or an M.Phil. degree. Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled candidates as per UGC norms. Must clear CUK Ph.D. Entrance Test or be NET/JRF/GATE/GPAT qualified.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (Ph.D. overall); 1 Semester (for coursework)
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 701 | Research Methodology and Computer Applications | Core | 4 | Philosophy of Research and Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques and Scaling Techniques, Statistical Tools and Data Analysis, Hypothesis Testing and Regression Analysis, Computer Applications in Research |
| EC 702 | Research Area Specific (Advanced Economic Theory / Applied Economics / Indian Economics) | Core | 4 | Microeconomic Theory (Consumer, Producer, Market Structures), Macroeconomic Theory (Classical, Keynesian, New Classical, New Keynesian), Econometric Methods and Applications, Public Economics and Fiscal Policy, Development Economics and Growth Theories, Contemporary Indian Economic Structure and Reforms |
| EC 703 | Contemporary Issues in Economics | Core | 4 | Global Economic Issues (Trade, Finance, Globalization), Contemporary Indian Economic Challenges, Sectoral Issues in Indian Economy (Agriculture, Industry, Services), Environmental Economics and Sustainable Development, Digital Economy and E-commerce Impact |
