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M-A in Economics at Manipur University
Imphal West, Manipur
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Manipur University Imphal West?
This MA Economics program at Manipur University focuses on imparting advanced theoretical and empirical knowledge in various branches of economics. It is highly relevant to understanding the economic dynamics of India, especially concerning regional development, policy analysis, and socio-economic challenges. The program aims to equip students with analytical tools and research methodologies crucial for addressing complex economic issues.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for economics graduates seeking advanced academic qualifications for research, teaching, or policy analysis roles. It also suits professionals in government, NGOs, and the private sector who wish to deepen their understanding of economic principles and their application, particularly in the Indian context, for career advancement or specialization.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as economists in government organizations (e.g., NITI Aayog, RBI), research analysts in think tanks, faculty in academic institutions, and consultants in economic advisory firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience, fostering professional growth and opportunities in the country''''s expanding economic landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Economic Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a robust understanding of Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Quantitative Methods. Regularly review fundamental concepts and solve problems from standard textbooks. Participate in peer study groups to clarify doubts and deepen comprehension.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Principles of Economics by Mankiw/Case/Fair, Departmental tutorials, Online problem sets
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for advanced courses and for competitive exams for government economic services, RBI, and research roles, enhancing employability.
Develop Mathematical and Statistical Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Actively practice calculus, matrix algebra, probability, and basic statistical inference. Utilize software like Excel or R for data manipulation and basic analysis. Attend workshops on quantitative techniques if offered by the department or university.
Tools & Resources
Khan Academy, NPTEL, Mathematics for Economists by Simon and Blume, Basic Econometrics by Gujarati
Career Connection
Essential for econometric analysis, data-driven policy recommendations, and securing roles requiring strong quantitative aptitude in consulting and finance.
Engage with Indian Economic Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Read national newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard), economic surveys, and RBI bulletins to understand current Indian economic policy and challenges. Actively participate in departmental seminars and discussions on contemporary issues.
Tools & Resources
Economic Survey of India, RBI publications, EPW (Economic & Political Weekly), Mint newspaper
Career Connection
Provides critical context for Indian Economic Policy courses, enhances interview performance, and prepares for roles in public policy and economic journalism.
Intermediate Stage
Master Econometric Techniques- (Semester 3-4)
Gain hands-on experience with econometric software (e.g., EViews, Stata, R, Python) to apply theoretical models to real-world data. Work on small data projects to understand model building, estimation, and interpretation of results.
Tools & Resources
EViews/Stata/R/Python, Online courses (Coursera/edX), Introductory Econometrics by Wooldridge, Departmental computer lab resources
Career Connection
Directly applicable to roles as data analysts, econometricians, and research associates in both public and private sectors across India.
Explore Specialization through Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose elective subjects (e.g., Environmental Economics, Financial Institutions, Demography, Agricultural Economics) based on career interests. Dive deeper into the chosen field through advanced readings, case studies, and project work.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals, Research papers, Faculty guidance for elective selection, Online libraries
Career Connection
Builds niche expertise, making students more competitive for specialized roles in relevant industries or for further academic pursuits and research opportunities.
Undertake a Mini-Research Project- (Semester 3-4)
Begin working on a mini-research project or a substantial academic paper early, applying learned theoretical and empirical tools. Focus on a well-defined research question related to an Indian economic issue or local context.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Statistical software, Guidance from faculty advisors, Data repositories
Career Connection
Develops critical research skills, enhances analytical thinking, and provides a tangible output for showcasing abilities to potential employers or for PhD applications.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to the dissertation, ensuring rigorous research methodology, robust data analysis, and clear presentation of findings. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and incorporate suggestions for improvement.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Statistical software, LaTeX/Word for formatting and citation management, Departmental thesis guidelines
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a powerful testament to independent research capability, crucial for academic positions, advanced research roles, and a strong resume entry.
Network and Attend Workshops/Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in university-level workshops, seminars, and conferences related to economics. Network with faculty, visiting scholars, and professionals in the field. Consider presenting a paper if the opportunity arises.
Tools & Resources
University events calendar, Professional economic associations in India (e.g., Indian Economic Association), LinkedIn
Career Connection
Expands professional contacts, provides exposure to current research trends, and can lead to mentorship opportunities or early career leads and collaborations.
Prepare for Career Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell (if available). Prepare a strong resume/CV highlighting quantitative skills and research experience. Practice interview skills, focusing on economic concepts and current affairs relevant to India. Explore government job portals (UPSC, state PSC) and private sector opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell/career services, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn), Career counseling services, Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
Directly enhances readiness for securing internships or full-time positions in desired fields such as economic analysis, policy making, research, or academia.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A./B.Sc. with Economics/Mathematical Economics as one of the subjects with minimum 45% marks in aggregate or minimum 50% marks in Economics honours/major or equivalent grade points.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECO 401 | Microeconomics - I | Core | 4 | Consumer Behaviour, Production Theory, Market Structures, Welfare Economics, General Equilibrium |
| MECO 402 | Macroeconomics - I | Core | 4 | Classical Macroeconomics, Keynesian System, Monetarism, Rational Expectations, Macroeconomic Policy |
| MECO 403 | Quantitative Methods for Economics - I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Matrix Algebra, Differential Equations, Optimization |
| MECO 404 | Indian Economic Policy | Core | 4 | Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Agricultural Policy, Industrial Policy, Fiscal and Monetary Policy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECO 405 | Microeconomics - II | Core | 4 | Game Theory, Asymmetric Information, Public Goods, Externalities, Behavioural Economics |
| MECO 406 | Macroeconomics - II | Core | 4 | Theories of Consumption, Investment Theory, Business Cycles, Open Economy Macroeconomics, Exchange Rate Regimes |
| MECO 407 | Quantitative Methods for Economics - II | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Random Variables, Probability Distributions, Sampling Theory, Hypothesis Testing |
| MECO 408 | Economic Growth and Development - I | Core | 4 | Theories of Growth, Poverty and Income Distribution, Human Capital, Population and Development, Sustainable Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECO 501 | Public Economics | Core | 4 | Public Goods, Externalities, Public Revenue, Public Expenditure, Fiscal Policy |
| MECO 502 | Econometrics - I | Core | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model, OLS Assumptions, Multicollinearity, Heteroscedasticity, Autocorrelation |
| MECO 503 | International Economics - I | Core | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Gains from Trade, Terms of Trade, Commercial Policy, Balance of Payments |
| MECO 504 (A) | Environmental Economics | Elective (DSE - 1) | 4 | Environmental Problems, Valuation of Environment, Environmental Policy, Climate Change Economics, Sustainable Development |
| MECO 504 (B) | Financial Institutions and Markets | Elective (DSE - 1) | 4 | Financial System, Money Market, Capital Market, Commercial Banks, Central Bank |
| MECO 505 (A) | Demography | Elective (DSE - 2) | 4 | Population Theories, Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Policy |
| MECO 505 (B) | Agricultural Economics | Elective (DSE - 2) | 4 | Agricultural Development, Production Economics, Marketing of Agricultural Produce, Rural Credit, Food Security |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MECO 506 | Economic Growth and Development - II | Core | 4 | Theories of Underdevelopment, Development Planning, Inequality, Health and Education, Role of State |
| MECO 507 | Econometrics - II | Core | 4 | Dummy Variables, Time Series Econometrics, Panel Data Models, Simultaneous Equation Models, Limited Dependent Variables |
| MECO 508 | International Economics - II | Core | 4 | Foreign Exchange Market, Exchange Rate Theories, International Capital Flows, International Monetary System, Regional Economic Groupings |
| MECO 509 | Dissertation/Project Work | Core | 4 | Research Methodology, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
| MECO 510 (A) | Labour Economics | Elective (DSE - 3) | 4 | Labour Market Theories, Wage Determination, Trade Unions, Unemployment, Labour Policy |
| MECO 510 (B) | Industrial Economics | Elective (DSE - 3) | 4 | Industrial Structure, Market Conduct, Market Performance, Industrial Location, Industrial Policy |
| MECO 511 (A) | Computer Applications in Economics | Elective (DSE - 4) | 4 | Spreadsheet Software, Statistical Software (SPSS/EViews), Data Visualization, Database Management, Internet Applications |
| MECO 511 (B) | Research Methodology in Economics | Elective (DSE - 4) | 4 | Research Problem, Research Design, Sampling Methods, Data Collection, Hypothesis Testing |
