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PHD in Economic Studies And Planning at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Economic Studies and Planning at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This Economic Studies and Planning PhD program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on advanced economic theory, econometrics, and policy analysis, preparing scholars for rigorous research. It emphasizes a critical understanding of global and Indian economic challenges, fostering analytical depth crucial for academia, public policy, and research institutions in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong background in Economics or related quantitative fields, aspiring to academic careers, high-level research roles in think tanks, government bodies, or international organizations. It particularly suits those committed to addressing complex socio-economic issues through empirical and theoretical research relevant to India''''s developmental context.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as university professors, research economists in policy institutions like RBI, NITI Aayog, or international agencies. Entry-level salaries range from INR 8-15 LPA, with significant growth potential to INR 20-40+ LPA for experienced professionals in academia and policy research within India. The program builds a foundation for impactful contributions to economic discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Theories & Methods- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp advanced Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Statistics, and Research Methodology. Attend all lectures, engage actively in tutorials, and solve problem sets diligently. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts and prepare for challenging comprehensive exams.
Tools & Resources
Standard PhD-level textbooks (e.g., Mas-Colell, Romer, Wooldridge), CESP workshops, JNU''''s library resources for journals
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for identifying research gaps and successfully developing a robust dissertation proposal, directly impacting your academic and research career prospects.
Develop Quantitative and Analytical Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Focus heavily on developing strong quantitative skills in econometrics and mathematical economics. Practice data analysis using statistical software, and understand the empirical applications of theoretical models.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software like R, Stata, or Python, Online courses (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL) for advanced econometrics, Engage in data analysis projects as part of coursework
Career Connection
These skills are indispensable for empirical research, policy analysis, and securing positions in research organizations, policy think tanks, and data-driven roles.
Initiate Research Idea Exploration & Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Even during coursework, start exploring potential research areas of interest. Begin reading widely in specialized journals and identify potential gaps in existing literature. Discuss nascent ideas with faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, EconLit, Google Scholar, JNU Library''''s access to economic databases, Attend CESP research seminars
Career Connection
Early engagement helps in formulating a strong research proposal, a critical step towards thesis development and future publication, which enhances academic employability.
Intermediate Stage
Formulate a Robust Research Proposal & Qualify Comprehensive Exam- (After Semester 2, typically Year 1 end/Year 2 start)
Work closely with your supervisor to refine a compelling and feasible research proposal. Dedicate significant time to prepare for and successfully pass the comprehensive examination, which tests your mastery of core economic fields.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor''''s guidance, Mock exams, Review of coursework materials, Access to previous year''''s question papers (if available)
Career Connection
Successful completion of the comprehensive exam and proposal approval signifies readiness for independent research, a prerequisite for PhD continuation and demonstrating research competency to future employers.
Actively Engage in Research Seminars & Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Attend and actively participate in CESP''''s weekly research seminars, internal workshops, and presentations by visiting scholars. Present your own preliminary research findings to receive constructive feedback.
Tools & Resources
CESP seminar schedule, Departmental email lists, JNU academic calendars, Prepare clear and concise presentations
Career Connection
This hones presentation skills, broadens your research perspective, helps in networking with peers and senior academics, and provides critical feedback essential for improving your dissertation.
Begin Data Collection and Preliminary Analysis- (Year 2-3)
Once your proposal is approved, embark on systematic data collection, whether primary or secondary. Start with preliminary data cleaning, organization, and exploratory data analysis to test initial hypotheses.
Tools & Resources
Access to datasets (NSSO, ASI, CMIE Prowess, World Bank, IMF), Survey software (e.g., Qualtrix), Statistical packages (Stata, R, Python), JNU''''s computational facilities
Career Connection
Early engagement with data ensures progress in your dissertation, identifies potential challenges early, and builds practical research skills highly valued in policy and research roles.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Chapter Writing & Regular Feedback- (Year 3-5)
Dedicate substantial time to writing your thesis chapters, aiming for consistent progress. Maintain regular meetings with your supervisor to discuss drafts, receive feedback, and address research challenges.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing software (e.g., LaTeX), Reference management tools (Zotero, Mendeley), JNU writing workshops, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Producing a well-written, rigorous thesis is the primary output of a PhD, directly demonstrating your research capabilities to academic institutions and research organizations globally.
Target High-Quality Publications & Conference Presentations- (Year 3-6)
Aim to convert thesis chapters into publishable journal articles. Present your advanced research at national and international conferences, building your academic profile and disseminating your findings.
Tools & Resources
List of reputable economics journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Economic Review), Conference announcement platforms, Funding opportunities for conference travel
Career Connection
Publications and conference presentations are crucial for academic job market competitiveness, demonstrating scholarly impact and networking with potential employers and collaborators.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Post-PhD Career Planning- (Final Year (Year 4-6))
Rigorously prepare for your pre-submission seminar and final viva voce. Simultaneously, begin strategizing for your post-PhD career, whether in academia, policy, or industry, by preparing CVs, research statements, and teaching philosophies.
Tools & Resources
Mock defense sessions, Feedback from peers and supervisors, JNU Career Development Cell services, Academic job market websites (e.g., EconJobMarket), Networking events
Career Connection
Successful defense marks the culmination of your doctoral journey. Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition into the desired professional path, leveraging your specialized expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (M.A./M.Sc./M.Com./M.Tech./M.E./M.Phil.) in Economics or a relevant discipline with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade) from a recognized university. Admission through CUET-PhD.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (including coursework)
Credits: 24 credits (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CE 601 | Microeconomic Theory I | Core | 4 | Consumer Theory, Producer Theory, Partial and General Equilibrium, Welfare Economics, Game Theory, Information Economics |
| CE 602 | Macroeconomic Theory I | Core | 4 | Classical and Keynesian Economics, Money and Inflation, Business Cycles, Economic Growth Models (Solow, Ramsey, Endogenous), Open Economy Macroeconomics |
| CE 603 | Statistical Methods for Economics | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Random Variables and Distributions, Estimation Theory, Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis (OLS assumptions, violations) |
| CE 604 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection and Sampling, Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, Data Analysis Software, Academic Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CE 701 | Microeconomic Theory II | Elective | 4 | Advanced Game Theory, Contract Theory, Mechanism Design, Market Failures, Behavioral Economics |
| CE 702 | Macroeconomic Theory II | Elective | 4 | Advanced Growth Models, Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE), Monetary Policy and Fiscal Policy, International Macroeconomics, Business Cycle Models |
| CE 703 | Econometrics I | Elective | 4 | Generalized Least Squares, Instrumental Variables, Simultaneous Equations, Panel Data Analysis, Introduction to Time Series Analysis |
| CE 704 | Mathematical Economics | Elective | 4 | Optimization Techniques, Dynamic Systems, Control Theory, Difference and Differential Equations, Linear Algebra in Economics |
| CE 705 | Economics of Industry and Agriculture | Elective | 4 | Industrial Organization, Market Structure and Performance, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, Food Security Policies |
| CE 706 | Economics of Public Finance | Elective | 4 | Public Goods and Externalities, Taxation Theory and Policy, Public Expenditure Analysis, Fiscal Policy and Debt, Indian Public Finance |
| CE 707 | International Economics | Elective | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Trade Policy and Protectionism, Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate Regimes, International Finance |
| CE 708 | Development Economics | Elective | 4 | Theories of Economic Development, Poverty and Inequality, Human Capital and Health, Institutions and Growth, Development Policy Challenges |
| CE 709 | Money, Banking and Finance | Elective | 4 | Financial Markets and Instruments, Monetary Policy and Central Banking, Financial Crises, Banking Regulation, Indian Financial System |
| CE 710 | Economics of Environment and Natural Resources | Elective | 4 | Environmental Valuation Methods, Resource Scarcity and Sustainability, Pollution Control Policies, Climate Change Economics, Sustainable Development Goals |
| CE 711 | Labour Economics | Elective | 4 | Labour Supply and Demand, Wage Determination, Employment and Unemployment, Human Capital Theory, Trade Unions and Labour Market Policies |
| CE 712 | Social Choice and Welfare Economics | Elective | 4 | Social Welfare Functions, Arrow''''s Impossibility Theorem, Collective Decision Making, Measurement of Inequality and Poverty, Justice and Fairness in Resource Allocation |
| CE 713 | Marxian Economics | Elective | 4 | Labour Theory of Value, Capital Accumulation and Reproduction, Crisis Theory, Theories of Imperialism, Socialist Planning and Transition |
| CE 714 | Indian Economic Problems and Policies | Elective | 4 | Structure of the Indian Economy, Planning and Economic Reforms in India, Sectoral Issues (Agriculture, Industry, Services), Poverty, Inequality, and Human Development in India, Contemporary Policy Challenges |
