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M-PHIL in Economics at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra Agra?
This M.Phil Economics program at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Agra, focuses on advanced economic theory, research methodology, and specialized areas crucial for academic and research careers. It provides a robust foundation for pursuing doctoral studies and contributing to economic policy analysis in India. The program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills highly valued in various sectors of the Indian economy and public administration.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students in Economics who aspire to become researchers, academicians, or policy analysts. It suits fresh graduates seeking entry into advanced economic research, working professionals from government or think tanks looking to upskill, and career changers transitioning to economic research roles. Candidates typically possess a Master''''s degree in Economics with a strong quantitative aptitude and research interest.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue Ph.D. studies, become research associates in economic think tanks, or take up academic positions in colleges and universities across India. Entry-level salaries range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with the advanced analytical tools needed for impactful contributions to India''''s economic landscape, aligning with various policy research and advisory roles within government and private sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly understand all aspects of research design, data collection, statistical analysis, and report writing. Focus on practical application through mock research proposals and data exercises to build a strong foundation for independent research.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Stata for statistical analysis, Academic journals (EPW, Indian Economic Journal), University library databases, NPTEL and Coursera courses on research methods
Career Connection
Essential for any research role, policy analysis, and crucial for dissertation success, laying the groundwork for a research-intensive career in academia or think tanks.
Deep Dive into Advanced Economic Theory- (Semester 1)
Beyond classroom lectures, actively engage with classic and contemporary economic literature. Participate in discussions, seminars, and apply theoretical concepts to current Indian economic issues and policy challenges for a nuanced understanding.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks by prominent economists (e.g., Mankiw, Romer, Varian), NBER working papers, RBI publications, Economic news analysis from reputable sources (e.g., The Hindu, Livemint)
Career Connection
Provides a strong analytical backbone for understanding complex economic phenomena, crucial for both academic and policy advisory roles, enhancing problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
Cultivate Quantitative and Analytical Skills- (Semester 2)
Actively choose and pursue a quantitative optional paper, like Advanced Econometrics. Practice econometric modeling, data interpretation, and statistical inference rigorously using real-world Indian datasets to build robust analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Econometrics software (EViews, Gretl, Python libraries like statsmodels), Datasets from government sources (MOSPI, NSSO, World Bank), Online econometrics tutorials and workshops
Career Connection
Highly valued in research institutions, analytics firms, and financial sectors. Strong quantitative skills are a significant differentiator in the competitive Indian job market for economists and data analysts.
Intermediate Stage
Proactive Dissertation Topic Selection and Supervisor Engagement- (Beginning of Year 2 (Dissertation Phase))
Identify a significant research gap in an area of Indian economic relevance early in the program. Engage regularly with your supervisor for guidance, feedback, and to refine your research question, objectives, and methodology for your M.Phil dissertation.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Previous M.Phil/Ph.D. theses in the university library, Research paper databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar, ResearchGate), Literature review software (Zotero, Mendeley)
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a vital portfolio piece, showcasing independent research capability, which is key for securing academic and research positions in India and abroad.
Develop Advanced Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Mid-Year 2 (Dissertation Phase))
Apply sophisticated statistical or econometric techniques to your dissertation data. Focus on robust analysis, critical interpretation of results, and drawing policy-relevant conclusions that contribute meaningfully to economic discourse in India.
Tools & Resources
Advanced features of R/Python for statistical analysis, Specialized econometric packages, Workshops on advanced data analysis and visualization, Peer review groups for feedback on analysis
Career Connection
Enhances marketability for roles requiring advanced data science, policy evaluation, and economic forecasting skills in India''''s public and private sectors, including consultancies and government agencies.
Attend and Present at Academic Seminars and Workshops- (Throughout Year 2 (Dissertation Phase))
Present preliminary findings or literature reviews at departmental seminars, research colloquia, or local conferences. Actively seek feedback from peers and senior researchers to refine your work and build essential academic networking and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
University seminar schedules and departmental notices, Local economic associations and research institutes, Networking platforms (LinkedIn, Academia.edu), Presentation software and public speaking practice
Career Connection
Builds crucial presentation and communication skills, expands your academic network, and increases visibility within the research community, which is vital for securing academic positions or research grants in India.
Advanced Stage
Publish Research Findings in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Post-M.Phil)
Convert chapters or key findings of your M.Phil dissertation into publishable articles. Target national or regional peer-reviewed economics journals to disseminate your research and contribute to the academic body of knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission guidelines and editorial policies, Academic writing workshops, Faculty mentors for guidance on the publication process, Plagiarism check tools
Career Connection
Publications are vital for academic career progression, particularly for assistant professor roles, and significantly boost credibility for research positions in economic think tanks or government agencies in India.
Pursue Doctoral Studies or Specialised Certifications- (Post-M.Phil)
If an academic career is desired, actively apply for Ph.D. programs in leading Indian universities or abroad. Alternatively, consider specialized certifications in areas like data analytics, public policy analysis, or financial econometrics to enhance specific skill sets for industry roles.
Tools & Resources
University Ph.D. admission portals and prospectuses, NET/JRF (National Eligibility Test / Junior Research Fellowship) preparation resources, Online platforms for specialized certifications (e.g., NISM, NPTEL, edX, Coursera)
Career Connection
A Ph.D. is often a prerequisite for senior academic and research roles. Specialized certifications can open doors to niche consulting, analytics, or policy advisory roles within Indian industries and government.
Network with Economists and Policy Makers- (Ongoing, Post-M.Phil)
Actively engage with professional bodies like the Indian Economic Association, attend policy discussions, and participate in economic forums. Build a network with academics, researchers, and government officials to explore career opportunities and foster future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
Professional conferences and seminars (e.g., organized by RBI, NITI Aayog), LinkedIn for professional networking, University alumni networks, Policy research institutes in Delhi/NCR and other major cities
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for identifying job opportunities, finding mentors, and collaborating on future research projects, especially within the tightly-knit academic and policy circles in India, fostering long-term career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Post Graduate degree in relevant subject (Economics) with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC category candidates) from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (1 year coursework + 1 year dissertation)
Credits: 12 credits for coursework; Total program credits NA Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.Phil. R.M. - 101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Problem and Design, Methods of Data Collection, Processing and Analysis of Data, Hypothesis Testing, Report Writing and Presentation |
| M.Phil. E.C. - 102 | Advanced Economic Theory | Core | 4 | Advanced Micro Economics, Advanced Macro Economics, Consumer and Production Theories, Market Structures and Business Cycles, Theories of Economic Growth and Development, Monetary and Fiscal Policies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.Phil. E.C. - 103A | Advanced Econometrics (Optional) | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Econometrics, Estimation and Hypothesis Testing, Multiple Regression Model, Problems in Regression Analysis, Dummy Variables, Simultaneous Equation Models |
| M.Phil. E.C. - 103B | Economics of Agriculture & Rural Development (Optional) | Elective | 4 | Role of Agriculture in Economic Development, Agricultural Production Economics, Agricultural Marketing and Rural Credit, Rural Development Programs, Land Reforms and Agricultural Policy, Food Security and Green Revolution |
| M.Phil. E.C. - 103C | International Economics (Optional) | Elective | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Terms of Trade and Commercial Policy, Balance of Payments, Foreign Exchange Market, International Financial Institutions, Regional Economic Groupings |
| M.Phil. E.C. - 103D | Industrial Economics (Optional) | Elective | 4 | Industrialization and Economic Development, Industrial Location and Market Structure, Industrial Growth and Productivity, Industrial Sickness and Policy, Small Scale Industries, Industrial Finance and Labor |
