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M-A-ECONOMICS in Economics at Kuriakose Elias College, Mannanam
Kottayam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Kuriakose Elias College, Mannanam Kottayam?
This M.A. Economics program at Kuriakose Elias College, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, focuses on equipping students with advanced theoretical knowledge and quantitative skills in economics. It addresses contemporary economic issues pertinent to India''''s dynamic landscape, fostering critical thinking for policy analysis and research. The program emphasizes a blend of microeconomic, macroeconomic, econometric, and development studies, crucial for understanding the Indian and global economies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with an economics, mathematics, or statistics background seeking a strong foundation for research or analytical roles. It also caters to aspiring civil servants, public policy analysts, and working professionals looking to transition into economic research, data analysis, or academic careers within India. Students interested in pursuing M.Phil or Ph.D. in economics will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including economic analysts in consulting firms, researchers in think tanks, data scientists, policy advisors in government bodies, and academicians. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 15+ LPA for experienced professionals. The strong analytical and quantitative training aligns well with roles in finance, banking, and statistical organizations in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods. Utilize textbooks, online resources like MIT OpenCourseware for foundational concepts, and MGU''''s digital library. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and solve problems collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
MGU Library Resources, MIT OpenCourseware, NPTEL videos, Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for clearing competitive exams (e.g., UGC NET, Civil Services) and excelling in advanced economic analysis roles.
Develop Quantitative and Statistical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on quantitative methods and basic econometrics. Practice problem-solving using mathematical software like MS Excel or R for basic data manipulation. Attend workshops on statistical software. This lays the groundwork for data-driven economic analysis.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, R for Economists (online courses), NSSO Data Portals
Career Connection
These skills are highly sought after by economic research firms, data analytics companies, and financial institutions in India.
Engage with Current Economic Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read financial newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard), economic magazines, and government reports (e.g., Economic Survey of India, RBI publications). Participate in college debates and discussions on contemporary economic issues.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, Economic Survey of India, RBI Publications
Career Connection
Understanding current affairs is vital for civil services aspirants, policy analysts, and interview preparation for any economic role.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Practical Research Experience- (Semester 3)
Seek opportunities for internships with local NGOs, research institutions, or small consulting firms focusing on economic development or policy. Assist faculty in their research projects to understand data collection, analysis, and report writing firsthand.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn for internships, Faculty research projects
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances your resume, provides networking opportunities, and helps identify potential career specializations.
Master Econometric Software- (Semester 3)
Become proficient in at least one statistical software package like EViews, Stata, or R for econometric analysis. Work on mini-projects involving real economic datasets. Consider online certifications for advanced econometric modeling.
Tools & Resources
EViews, Stata, R programming, Coursera/edX for certifications
Career Connection
Proficiency in econometric software is a prerequisite for roles as economic analysts, data scientists, and researchers.
Participate in Economic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in economic essay competitions, data analysis challenges, and college/university-level seminars. Present research papers or case studies. This builds confidence, analytical prowess, and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
College Economic Forum, University seminar series, Student research journals
Career Connection
Showcasing your abilities in competitions strengthens your profile for higher studies and competitive job markets.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation/Project Excellence- (Semester 4)
Choose a relevant and impactful research topic for your dissertation. Work closely with your faculty advisor, ensuring rigorous methodology, robust data analysis, and clear presentation of findings. Aim for a publishable quality thesis.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research methodology guides, Plagiarism check software
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation is a strong credential for academic pursuits, research roles, and showcases independent research capabilities.
Undertake Advanced Skill Specialization- (Semester 4)
Based on career interests, delve deeper into specific areas like financial economics, development economics, or public policy through advanced readings, online courses, or specialized workshops. Tailor your elective choices to these interests.
Tools & Resources
Online platforms (e.g., NPTEL, Swayam), Specialized economic journals, Industry reports
Career Connection
Specialized skills make you a niche candidate, increasing employability in targeted sectors like financial analytics or policy advocacy.
Intensive Placement and Career Preparation- (Semester 4)
Attend mock interviews, resume writing workshops, and group discussion practices organized by the college. Network with alumni and industry professionals through career fairs and LinkedIn. Prepare a portfolio of your research work and projects.
Tools & Resources
College Career Guidance Cell, LinkedIn, Alumni Network, Interview Prep Books
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures you are well-equipped to secure desirable placements in academia, government, or the private sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. Degree in Economics/B.Sc. Degree in Mathematics/Statistics with not less than 45% marks in Part III (optional) subjects, or any other degree accepted as equivalent by M.G. University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010101 | Microeconomics: Theory and Applications – I | Core | 4 | Consumer Behavior Theories, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structures and Pricing, Welfare Economics, Basic Game Theory Concepts |
| EC010102 | Macroeconomics: Theory and Policies – I | Core | 4 | Classical vs. Keynesian Models, IS-LM Framework, Aggregate Demand and Supply, Inflation and Unemployment Trade-offs, Business Cycles Introduction |
| EC010103 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis – I | Core | 4 | Functions and Derivatives, Matrix Algebra, Optimization Techniques, Probability Theory Basics, Descriptive Statistics |
| EC010104 | Public Economics | Core | 4 | Public Goods and Externalities, Theories of Public Expenditure, Principles of Taxation, Fiscal Policy Tools, Budgetary Policy and Deficits |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010201 | Microeconomics: Theory and Applications – II | Core | 4 | General Equilibrium Theory, Risk and Uncertainty, Asymmetric Information, Market Failure Analysis, Behavioral Economics Insights |
| EC010202 | Macroeconomics: Theory and Policies – II | Core | 4 | Open Economy Macroeconomics, Exchange Rate Regimes, Monetary and Fiscal Policies, Theories of Economic Growth, New Classical Macroeconomics |
| EC010203 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis – II | Core | 4 | Sampling Theory, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Time Series Introduction, Index Numbers and their Construction |
| EC010204 | International Economics | Core | 4 | Classical and Modern Trade Theories, Terms of Trade, Trade Policy and Barriers, Balance of Payments, Foreign Exchange Markets, WTO |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010301 | Econometrics | Core | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Violations of OLS Assumptions, Multicollinearity and Heteroscedasticity, Autocorrelation Issues, Dummy Variables Regression |
| EC010302 | Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Human Development Index, Sustainable Development Goals, Development Strategies in India |
| EC010303 | Environmental Economics | Elective | 4 | Environmental Problems and their Causes, Valuation of Environmental Resources, Pollution Control Policies, Climate Change Economics, Sustainable Development Practices |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010401 | Indian Economic Policy | Core | 4 | Economic Planning in India, Agricultural Sector Reforms, Industrial Growth and Policy, Service Sector Dynamics, Fiscal and External Sector Reforms |
| EC010402 | Economics of Business and Finance | Elective | 4 | Business Environment Analysis, Financial Markets and Instruments, Investment Appraisal Techniques, Capital Budgeting Decisions, Risk Management in Business |
| EC010403 | Research Methodology and Computer Applications | Elective | 4 | Research Design and Ethics, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis with SPSS/R, Report Writing and Presentation |
| EC010404 | Project / Dissertation | Core | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review Process, Methodology and Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation of Results, Thesis Writing and Defense |
| EC010405 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Core | 4 | Overall Subject Knowledge Assessment, Critical Thinking and Analytical Abilities, Communication Skills and Presentation, Application of Economic Concepts, Project Defense and Clarity |
