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PHD in Economics at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya
Indore, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya Indore?
This PhD Economics program at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, focuses on advanced economic theory, econometrics, and applied research across various sub-disciplines. It aims to develop independent researchers capable of contributing to academic knowledge, policy-making, and industry analysis within the Indian context. The program emphasizes rigorous analytical skills and in-depth understanding of contemporary economic challenges. Its multidisciplinary approach prepares scholars for diverse roles in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for candidates holding a Master''''s degree in Economics or allied fields who possess a strong academic record and a keen interest in theoretical and empirical research. It caters to aspiring academics, policy analysts for government bodies and think tanks, and researchers seeking to address complex socio-economic issues specific to India. Individuals aiming to contribute original research to the field of economics will find this program suitable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, research scientists in institutions like the RBI, NITI Aayog, or various policy organizations, and senior economists in multinational corporations or Indian enterprises. Potential salary ranges can vary significantly, from 6-10 LPA for entry-level academic/research roles to 15-30+ LPA for experienced positions. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical rigor, essential for high-impact professional growth.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Quantitative Tools- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand research designs, sampling, data collection methods, and advanced quantitative techniques taught in the initial coursework. Utilize statistical software like SPSS, R, or Python for practical application and data analysis.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Research Methodology, Online tutorials for R/Python/SPSS, Statistical textbooks, University library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation in these areas is crucial for developing robust research proposals, conducting empirical studies, and succeeding in qualifying examinations, directly impacting thesis quality and future research roles.
Engage with Departmental Research Areas- (Semester 1-2)
Actively attend research seminars, workshops, and faculty presentations within the School of Economics. Identify potential supervisors and align your research interests with their expertise. Begin preliminary literature reviews in your area of interest to inform your specialization.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Faculty profiles, Research journals, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science)
Career Connection
Early engagement helps in defining a focused research problem, secures suitable mentorship, and forms the basis for a successful thesis, enhancing employability in specialized research fields.
Develop Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice writing concise research summaries, literature reviews, and proposals. Participate in departmental presentations or mock pre-PhD seminars to hone public speaking and academic defense skills. Seek constructive feedback on writing from faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
University writing centers, Academic writing guides, Public speaking workshops, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are vital for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and effectively defending your thesis, which are critical for academic and research career progression in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Formulate a Robust Research Proposal- (Semester 2-3)
Based on coursework and initial literature review, develop a clear, innovative, and feasible PhD research proposal. This involves defining precise research questions, selecting an appropriate methodology, and outlining expected contributions, strictly adhering to university guidelines.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology books, Successful PhD proposals from the university repository, Supervisor''''s guidance, Academic workshops on proposal writing
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal demonstrates research aptitude and forms the blueprint for your entire PhD work, a key credential for securing research grants and academic positions after graduation.
Conduct Extensive Literature Review and Data Collection- (Semester 3-5)
Systematically review existing scholarship using advanced search techniques. Identify critical gaps in current research. Plan and execute appropriate data collection strategies, whether primary (surveys, experiments) or secondary (government databases, institutional reports).
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Academic databases (EBSCO, ProQuest), Institutional data access, Fieldwork guidelines, Ethical clearance procedures
Career Connection
A thorough literature review leads to original contributions, and effective data handling is a highly valued skill for research roles in both academia and the Indian corporate sector.
Network with Scholars and Attend Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in national and international conferences, workshops, and symposia relevant to economics. Present your preliminary research findings to receive feedback and build a professional network within the academic community.
Tools & Resources
Conference calendars (e.g., from Indian Economic Association), University travel grants, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and job prospects. Presenting hones presentation skills and establishes your presence as a recognized researcher.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication- (Semester 5-6 onwards)
Dedicate consistent effort to writing chapters of your thesis, ensuring logical flow, academic rigor, and adherence to ethical guidelines. Aim to publish at least one research paper from your thesis in a peer-reviewed journal, ideally a UGC-CARE listed journal.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing software (LaTeX, Word), Thesis formatting guidelines, Journal submission platforms, Co-authorship with supervisor
Career Connection
A well-written thesis is paramount for degree completion. Publications significantly boost your academic profile, critical for securing faculty positions or research grants in India and globally.
Prepare for Viva-Voce and Dissertation Defense- (Semester 6 onwards)
Systematically prepare for the pre-submission seminar and the final viva-voce examination. Practice answering questions on your research, methodology, findings, and contributions. Incorporate feedback from pre-PhD defense and refine your presentation.
Tools & Resources
Mock defense sessions with peers and faculty, Review of thesis content and university viva-voce protocols, Public speaking practice
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis is the final step to earning your PhD, validating your research, and enabling you to apply for advanced research and teaching roles in India.
Proactively Engage in Career Planning and Mentorship- (Semester 5-6 onwards)
Begin exploring post-PhD career options well in advance, whether in academia, policy, or industry. Seek mentorship from senior faculty or alumni on career paths, job applications, and interview preparation specific to the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Alumni network, Online job portals (academic and industry-specific), Professional development workshops
Career Connection
Early career planning and leveraging mentorship can significantly improve placement outcomes, helping you transition smoothly into your desired professional role after graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer/Differently-abled categories). Candidates qualifying UGC-NET (JRF), UGC-CSIR NET (JRF), SLET, GATE, Teacher Fellowship, or equivalent examinations may be exempt from the entrance test as per university norms.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (including coursework)
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (for coursework papers), External: 80% (for coursework papers)
