.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD in Economics at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Economics at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith Varanasi?
This PhD Economics program at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith focuses on rigorous advanced research and theoretical understanding in the field of economics. It is designed to foster independent scholarly inquiry, critical analysis, and the application of sophisticated economic tools to address contemporary issues, particularly those relevant to the Indian context. The program emphasizes both foundational economic principles and specialized areas like development, public finance, and econometrics, preparing scholars for high-impact research endeavors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an M.A./M.Sc. in Economics who possess a strong analytical aptitude and a passion for original research. It caters to those aspiring for careers in academia, think tanks, policy research institutions, and advanced roles in government and international organizations. Working professionals in research or policy analysis seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to scholarly knowledge will also find this program highly beneficial, especially those with an interest in Indian economic development challenges.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling careers as university professors, research scientists, policy analysts, and economic consultants. In India, opportunities abound in institutions like NITI Aayog, Reserve Bank of India, various ministries, and leading universities. Entry-level salaries for PhDs in academia typically range from INR 7-10 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters advanced analytical skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of economic phenomena, aligning with national research priorities and contributing to informed policy-making.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Statistical Software- (Pre-PhD Coursework / Year 1)
Dedicate significant time in the initial coursework phase to thoroughly understand core research methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative. Simultaneously, gain hands-on proficiency in at least one statistical software package (e.g., R, Stata, EViews) through online tutorials, dedicated workshops, and practical assignments. This forms the indispensable analytical backbone for all subsequent research activities.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Econometrics and Research Methods, Official software documentation and online tutorials, University computer labs and relevant textbooks, Guidance from senior PhD scholars
Career Connection
Strong methodological and software skills are fundamental for securing research-oriented roles in academia, policy analysis, and data science, directly impacting the quality, rigor, and publishability of your research output.
Cultivate Critical Reading and Comprehensive Literature Review Skills- (Pre-PhD Coursework / Year 1)
Beyond the prescribed coursework readings, extensively explore academic literature within your broad area of interest. Focus not just on comprehending the content, but critically evaluating the arguments, methodologies, and identifying existing research gaps in prominent peer-reviewed journals. Begin compiling a well-organized and annotated literature review database using appropriate reference management tools.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science for journal access, Mendeley or Zotero for reference management, University library databases, Departmental reading groups and discussion forums
Career Connection
Proficiency in critical reading and literature review is paramount for developing a robust thesis, identifying original research contributions, and for future success in publishing academic papers, demonstrating intellectual leadership in any research-intensive career.
Engage Actively with Faculty and Peer Discussions- (Pre-PhD Coursework / Year 1)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, research workshops, and informal discussions with faculty members and senior PhD scholars. Present your early research ideas, even if nascent, and solicit constructive feedback. Collaborate with peers on coursework or literature review exercises to broaden your perspectives, refine your analytical approaches, and build a supportive academic network within the university.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series and research colloquia, Faculty office hours and mentorship sessions, Peer study groups and collaborative project platforms, Inter-departmental research forums
Career Connection
Active engagement enhances presentation skills, refines research ideas through diverse feedback, and establishes crucial academic networks that can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and future career support in Indian academia and beyond.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Refine a Robust Research Proposal (Synopsis)- (Year 2)
Work intensively and collaboratively with your designated supervisor to refine your research question, objectives, and detailed methodology into a comprehensive synopsis. This process will involve multiple iterations, an in-depth literature review, and often preliminary pilot studies. Strive for utmost clarity, practical feasibility, and scholarly originality, preparing meticulously for the mandatory Pre-PhD presentation and defense.
Tools & Resources
Regular supervisor meetings and guidance, Departmental Research Advisory Committee (RAC) presentations, Review of successful PhD synopses from the department, Workshops on academic research proposal writing
Career Connection
A well-articulated and strong synopsis is a critical demonstration of your independent research capability, a key requirement for securing research grants and academic positions. It serves as the foundational blueprint for the successful and timely completion of your entire thesis.
Master Ethical Data Collection and Management Protocols- (Year 2-3)
Whether your research involves primary or secondary data, meticulously plan your data collection strategy. For primary data, design robust survey instruments or experimental setups and obtain all necessary ethical clearances from the university. For secondary data, learn to navigate and effectively utilize large datasets from Indian government agencies (e.g., NSSO, MOSPI) and international bodies, always ensuring data integrity, confidentiality, and ethical usage.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, or specialized survey software for primary data, Official websites of CSO, RBI, World Bank, IMF for secondary data access, University ethics committee guidelines and review processes
Career Connection
Proficiency in ethical data collection, management, and analysis is unequivocally vital for establishing credibility in research, attracting competitive funding, and excelling in positions that demand rigorous empirical analysis and responsible data handling.
Present Research at Academic Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Once you have developed preliminary research findings or a well-structured conceptual framework, actively seek opportunities to present your work at reputable national and regional conferences, specialized workshops, or even departmental brown bag seminars. This invaluable experience provides critical feedback from experts, enhances your academic visibility, and fosters crucial networking opportunities within your field.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference call for papers listings (e.g., Econdo.in, EconLit), Departmental travel grants and funding opportunities, Recommendations from your supervisor for relevant conferences, Practice sessions for presentations with peers and faculty
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences significantly builds your public speaking and presentation skills, helps refine your research arguments, garners valuable feedback, and expands your professional networks, all of which are crucial for success in the academic job market and future collaborations.
Advanced Stage
Focus on High-Quality Thesis Writing and Chapter Development- (Year 4-5)
Approach the writing of each thesis chapter as if it were a potential standalone research paper. Concentrate on producing clear, concise, and academically rigorous prose that adheres to scholarly standards. Regularly submit completed chapters to your supervisor for detailed feedback and diligently integrate all revisions promptly. Strive for strong logical coherence and a compelling narrative throughout the entire thesis document.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides and style manuals (e.g., Chicago, APA), Professional English language editing services (if required), Reference management software for consistent citation, Extensive guidance and expertise from your supervisor
Career Connection
A meticulously written and well-structured thesis is paramount for the successful conferral of your doctoral degree and serves as your first major academic output. Its quality significantly influences your job prospects in academia and subsequent research trajectory, establishing your scholarly reputation.
Target Publications in Peer-Reviewed Academic Journals- (Year 4-6 (Concurrent with thesis writing))
Concurrent with your thesis writing, strategically aim to convert at least one or two high-quality chapters or distinct research outputs into publishable journal articles. Identify suitable peer-reviewed journals (prioritizing UGC-CARE listed journals in India) in close consultation with your supervisor. Be mentally prepared for multiple rounds of revisions based on detailed reviewer feedback.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms (e.g., Elsevier, Springer, Taylor & Francis), Academic databases for journal identification and impact factors, Supervisor''''s experience and network in academic publishing, Workshops on academic publishing strategies and manuscript preparation
Career Connection
Publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals are an indispensable requirement for academic career advancement, securing competitive post-doctoral positions, and establishing a credible research profile. This is especially critical for faculty recruitment and promotion within the Indian university system.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Proactive Career Transition- (Year 5-6 (Final Year))
Systematically prepare for your final viva voce examination by extensively rehearsing your thesis defense, anticipating a wide range of questions, and clearly articulating your unique research contributions. Simultaneously, begin preparing a compelling CV, teaching statement, and research statement specifically tailored for the academic job market, attending career workshops or seminars if offered by the university or departmental resources.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with your supervisor and peer group, University career services (if available) for CV and cover letter review, Professional networking platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, ResearchGate), Academic job portals (e.g., Current Science, Times Higher Education)
Career Connection
A successful viva voce is the ultimate milestone for degree conferral. Proactive career planning, including a well-prepared application package, ensures a smoother and more successful transition into post-PhD roles within academia, research institutions, or policy advisory positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Economics or an allied subject from a recognized university with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer/Differently-abled candidates). UGC-NET/JRF qualified candidates may be exempted from the university''''s entrance examination, as per UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (exclusive of extensions). Coursework typically completed in the first semester or year.
Credits: 12 (Estimated for coursework component, based on 3 core papers of 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
