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PHD in Economics at Indian Institute of Management Calcutta
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Indian Institute of Management Calcutta Kolkata?
This Economics PhD program at IIM Calcutta focuses on rigorous theoretical and empirical training to produce cutting-edge researchers. It equips students with advanced analytical tools for economic inquiry, emphasizing both micro and macro foundations, along with sophisticated econometric techniques. The program prepares scholars to address complex economic challenges relevant to India''''s evolving economy and global markets.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated individuals holding a Master''''s degree in Economics or related fields, aspiring to pursue academic careers, policy research, or advanced analytical roles. It also suits working professionals with a strong quantitative background seeking to transition into research-intensive roles within think tanks, government bodies, or international organizations in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure faculty positions at top universities and business schools in India, or research roles in institutions like RBI, NITI Aayog, or leading economic consultancies. Entry-level salaries for PhDs in academia in India typically range from INR 10-18 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program fosters independent research capabilities and contributes to policy-making expertise.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Theory- (Year 1 Coursework (Semesters 1-2))
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand Microeconomic and Macroeconomic theories, as these form the bedrock. Actively participate in class, solve problem sets diligently, and engage in peer study groups to clarify concepts. Seek regular feedback from professors on assignments and discussions to solidify foundational knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks by Mas-Colell, Romer, Sargent, IIM Calcutta Library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of theory is essential for developing novel research questions and succeeding in comprehensive examinations, directly impacting thesis quality and future academic placements.
Build Robust Econometric Skills- (Year 1 Coursework (Semesters 1-2))
Focus on developing strong quantitative skills through Econometrics I. Practice statistical software (e.g., R, Stata, Python) regularly with real-world datasets. Attend workshops on data analysis and econometric modeling. This prepares for advanced coursework and empirical research, crucial for India''''s data-rich environment.
Tools & Resources
Stata/R/Python for Econometrics, Online tutorials (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL for statistical software), Practice datasets
Career Connection
Proficiency in econometrics is highly valued in research, policy analysis, and data science roles, opening diverse career avenues in India''''s public and private sectors.
Engage in Academic Seminars and Discussions- (Year 1 Coursework (Semesters 1-2))
Actively attend and participate in departmental research seminars and colloquia. This exposes students to diverse research topics, methodologies, and academic discourse. Engaging with visiting scholars and faculty helps in identifying potential research interests and networking within the academic community.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Academic journals, Networking with faculty and visiting scholars
Career Connection
Early exposure to ongoing research helps in shaping one''''s own research agenda, fostering critical thinking, and building connections vital for future collaborations and post-doctoral opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Specialization through Electives- (Year 2 Coursework (Semesters 3-4))
Strategically choose area electives that align with emerging research trends and personal interests, building expertise in specific sub-fields of Economics like Development, Finance, or Public Policy. This helps in defining a focused research niche and preparing for the comprehensive examination in chosen areas.
Tools & Resources
Course catalogues, Faculty research interests, Economic research papers
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge enhances competitiveness for specific research areas and academic positions, particularly in rapidly growing fields relevant to the Indian economy.
Prepare for Comprehensive Examination- (Year 2 Coursework (Semesters 3-4))
Form study groups dedicated to preparing for the comprehensive examination, which typically covers core and specialized areas. Practice past papers and mock exams under timed conditions. Seek mentorship from senior PhD students and faculty to understand expectations and strengthen weaker areas.
Tools & Resources
Previous year exam papers (if available), Review sessions with faculty, Study groups
Career Connection
Successful completion of the comprehensive exam is a critical milestone, signifying readiness for independent research and progression towards thesis work, essential for career advancement.
Begin Identifying Research Questions and Mentors- (Year 2 Coursework (Semesters 3-4))
Start exploring potential research topics by reviewing current literature, attending conferences, and discussing ideas with various faculty members. This early engagement helps in identifying potential thesis supervisors whose expertise aligns with your interests, a crucial step for thesis development.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Faculty profiles and publications, IIMC Research Centers
Career Connection
Proactively engaging with research ideas and mentors streamlines the thesis proposal process, leading to a stronger foundation for doctoral research and future publications.
Advanced Stage
Develop a Robust Thesis Proposal- (After Coursework, Pre-Thesis Submission (Year 3-4))
Refine your research question, conduct a thorough literature review, and outline your proposed methodology for the thesis. Present your proposal in departmental workshops or seminars to gather feedback. This rigorous process ensures a clear and feasible research path for your doctoral dissertation.
Tools & Resources
Thesis proposal guidelines, Academic writing workshops, Feedback from thesis committee
Career Connection
A well-articulated proposal is key to gaining committee approval and successfully embarking on impactful research, directly contributing to your academic profile and employability.
Actively Engage in Research and Publication- (Thesis Research Phase (Year 3-6))
Focus intensely on conducting original research, analyzing data, and writing thesis chapters. Aim to present preliminary findings at national and international conferences. Seek opportunities to publish research papers in peer-reviewed journals, even during the PhD, which significantly enhances your CV for academic roles.
Tools & Resources
Conference calls for papers, Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Economic Review), IIMC Research Support
Career Connection
Publications and conference presentations are vital for establishing a research profile, securing post-doctoral fellowships, and highly competitive faculty positions in India and abroad.
Prepare for Academic Job Market and Networking- (Final Year (Year 4-7))
Towards the final years, prepare your academic CV, research statements, and teaching philosophy. Network with faculty from other institutions and attend academic job fairs if available. Practice job talks and interviews to effectively present your research and fit for various academic or research roles in India.
Tools & Resources
IIM Calcutta Career Services (if applicable for PhDs), Academic job boards (e.g., EconJobMarket), Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Strategic job market preparation and effective networking are crucial for securing desired academic or research positions immediately after graduation in the highly competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with at least 55% marks OR Five-year/Four-year Integrated Master''''s Degree with at least 55% marks OR Professional qualification (CA, CS, CMA) with a Bachelor''''s degree (3 or 4 year) with at least 50% marks OR 4-year/8-semester Bachelor''''s degree with at least 6.5 CGPA; All candidates require a valid score in CAT/GRE/GMAT/GATE/JRF (UGC/CSIR) or IIMC Test for IIM Calcutta PGP/PGPEM/PGPPM alums.
Duration: Minimum 4 years, Maximum 7 years
Credits: Approximately 87 credits for coursework (minimum 9 courses, 2x12 credits core + 7x9 credits) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Continuous evaluation (specific weightage not defined), External: undefined
