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PH-D-ECONOMICS in Economics at Mahatma Gandhi Central University
East Champaran, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Mahatma Gandhi Central University East Champaran?
This Ph.D. Economics program at Mahatma Gandhi Central University focuses on developing advanced research capabilities in economic theory, policy, and application. It emphasizes rigorous analytical training, econometric modeling, and critical engagement with contemporary economic issues relevant to India and global contexts. The program is designed to cultivate independent researchers and academics capable of contributing significantly to economic discourse and policy formulation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students in Economics or allied fields with a strong academic record, particularly those aspiring to a career in academic research, think tanks, government economic advisory roles, or specialized research positions in industry. It targets individuals passionate about delving deep into economic phenomena and contributing original insights through robust research methodologies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths as university professors, research scientists in institutions like the Reserve Bank of India, NITI Aayog, or various other public and private research organizations. Potential salary ranges for entry-level researchers can be INR 6-12 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The rigorous training prepares scholars for roles requiring advanced analytical and empirical skills, contributing to policy formulation and academic advancement.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp quantitative techniques, econometric software (like R, Stata, Python), and research ethics taught in coursework. Actively participate in methodology workshops and apply learned concepts to review existing literature effectively.
Tools & Resources
R/Python/Stata software, NPTEL/Coursera courses on Econometrics, Reference books on Research Methods
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for designing robust research, a non-negotiable skill for any research-oriented career in academia or policy analysis.
Identify a Focused Research Area- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with academic literature and faculty expertise to pinpoint a niche and relevant research question within Economics. Attend departmental seminars and discuss potential topics with supervisors to refine your area of interest.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Departmental faculty profiles, Economic journals
Career Connection
A well-defined research area forms the backbone of a successful thesis and demonstrates intellectual clarity, attractive to potential employers and funding bodies.
Cultivate Strong Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice academic writing by drafting literature reviews, research proposals, and seminar papers. Regularly present your work to peers and faculty to gain constructive feedback and improve communication abilities.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Academic writing workshops, Departmental seminar series
Career Connection
Effective communication of complex economic ideas through writing and presentation is vital for publishing research, teaching, and policy advocacy.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Semester 3-5)
After coursework, dedicate significant time to crafting a comprehensive research proposal (synopsis). This involves detailing the problem, objectives, literature review, methodology, and expected outcomes. Seek constant feedback from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Institutional guidelines for synopsis submission, Research proposal templates, Supervisor consultations
Career Connection
A well-structured proposal demonstrates your capacity for independent research and is a key milestone for proceeding with the doctoral journey, reflecting strong project planning skills.
Engage in Data Collection and Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively identify and access relevant datasets (e.g., NSSO, RBI, World Bank). Systematically collect, clean, and analyze data using appropriate econometric tools, ensuring data integrity and robust analysis.
Tools & Resources
NSSO data portal, RBI databases, World Bank data, Statistical software (Stata, EViews, R)
Career Connection
Hands-on experience with real-world data and advanced analytical tools is highly valued in research roles, data science positions, and economic consulting.
Network and Present at Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Attend and present preliminary research findings at national/international economics conferences, workshops, or departmental seminars. Network with fellow researchers and senior academics to gain diverse perspectives and potential collaborations.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference websites, Professional economic associations (e.g., Indian Economic Association)
Career Connection
Conference participation builds your professional network, enhances visibility, and is crucial for receiving peer feedback, which can lead to publications and career opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Focus on High-Quality Thesis Writing- (Semester 6 onwards)
Systematically write up your research findings, ensuring logical flow, academic rigor, and adherence to institutional formatting guidelines. Dedicate regular hours to writing and iterative revisions based on supervisor feedback.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Microsoft Word for thesis formatting, EndNote/Zotero for referencing, University''''s thesis guidelines
Career Connection
A well-written, high-quality thesis is the primary output of your Ph.D. and a testament to your research capabilities, significantly influencing your academic and professional prospects.
Prepare for Journal Publications- (Semester 6 onwards)
Work with your supervisor to convert thesis chapters into publishable journal articles. Target reputable peer-reviewed economics journals to disseminate your research and establish your academic profile.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms (e.g., Elsevier, Springer), Academic writing guides for journal articles
Career Connection
Journal publications are critical for academic career progression (professorships, post-doctoral fellowships) and enhance your credibility in policy or research roles.
Strategize for Viva-Voce and Career Transition- (Final 6-12 months)
Thoroughly prepare for your final thesis defense (Viva-Voce) by rehearsing your presentation and anticipating questions. Simultaneously, actively apply for academic positions, research roles, or post-doctoral fellowships, tailoring your applications to each opportunity.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, Career services/placement cell (if available), Academic job portals
Career Connection
A strong viva performance solidifies your Ph.D. credential, while early career planning ensures a smooth transition into your desired professional path, leveraging your advanced degree.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Economics or an allied subject with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale), or 50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/EWS categories. M.Phil. degree also acceptable. UGC-NET (including JRF)/UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/SLET/GATE/Teacher fellowship holders are exempted from the entrance test but must appear for an interview. Other candidates must qualify through an Entrance Test and interview.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 12 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-RM-101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Quantitative Methods in Research, Computer Applications in Research, Review of Literature, Research Ethics and Plagiarism |
| PHD-EC-ELE | Subject-Specific Elective(s) in Economics | Elective | 6 | Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Advanced Macroeconomic Theory, Econometric Methods, Development Economics, Public Economics, International Economics |
