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BA-ECONOMICS in General at Mar Athanasius College, Kothamangalam
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is General at Mar Athanasius College, Kothamangalam Ernakulam?
This BA Economics program at Mar Athanasius College, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, focuses on equipping students with a robust understanding of economic theories and their real-world applications. The curriculum, designed for 2017 admissions onwards, emphasizes both micro and macro foundations, quantitative methods, and specific areas like Indian and Kerala economies. Its relevance in the Indian industry is paramount, as economics graduates are crucial for policy analysis, market research, and strategic decision-making in a rapidly developing nation. This program differentiates itself by integrating local economic contexts, offering a comprehensive view essential for understanding India''''s diverse economic landscape. The demand for skilled economists is consistently high across government, private, and research sectors in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in understanding societal resource allocation, market dynamics, and national economic policies. It is particularly suited for individuals aspiring to careers in financial analysis, public policy, economic journalism, or academic research. Students with strong analytical skills and an aptitude for quantitative reasoning will find this curriculum engaging and rewarding. It also serves as a foundational degree for those planning to pursue postgraduate studies in Economics, Business Analytics, Public Administration, or related fields, preparing them for specialized roles in India''''s growing economic sectors.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths within India, including roles as economic analysts, data researchers, financial consultants, policy advisors, and market research analysts. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 Lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals commanding significantly higher packages based on sector and expertise. Growth trajectories are strong, particularly in areas like consulting and banking. The analytical and problem-solving skills acquired are highly valued, aligning with the requirements for competitive examinations for government services, banking, and actuarial science roles, enabling impactful contributions to Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Foundational Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on understanding Microeconomics I and Macroeconomics I. Utilize textbooks beyond the prescribed ones, and actively participate in tutorial sessions to clarify doubts. Form study groups to discuss complex theories and apply them to simple, real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL introductory economics courses, Investopedia, Khan Academy, Peer study groups, Departmental workshops
Career Connection
A solid foundation is critical for advanced courses and for understanding current economic events, which is essential for entry-level analyst roles and competitive exams.
Enhance Quantitative and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay special attention to Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis. Practice solving problems daily, not just for exams. Work through exercises in textbooks and supplementary materials. Consider enrolling in introductory statistics or mathematics MOOCs.
Tools & Resources
Online platforms like Coursera/edX for basic math/stats, Basic R or Python tutorials for data handling, Practice workbooks
Career Connection
These skills are indispensable for data analysis, econometric modeling, and research roles, which are high in demand in the Indian job market.
Cultivate Current Affairs Awareness- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading Indian business newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard) and magazines (e.g., India Today, Frontline for economic perspectives). Follow economic news and policy debates relevant to India. This enriches understanding of Indian Economic Development and Kerala Economy.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian news portals, RBI publications, Budget documents, NITI Aayog reports
Career Connection
Essential for interviews, policy analysis roles, and staying informed about market trends for any economic profession in India.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Quantitative Methods to Economic Data- (Semester 3-4)
As you learn more advanced quantitative methods and mathematical economics, try to apply them to publicly available Indian economic datasets (e.g., from NSSO, RBI, World Bank for India). Use basic spreadsheet software or statistical tools.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, Google Sheets, Basic R/Python for data manipulation, Government data portals (NSO, RBI websites)
Career Connection
Develops practical data analysis skills crucial for research, business intelligence, and financial analysis roles in India.
Engage in Economic Debates and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Participate actively in departmental seminars, college-level economic forums, and inter-collegiate debates on contemporary economic issues, especially those concerning Indian economy, public finance, and international economics. This enhances critical thinking and communication.
Tools & Resources
College Economics Association, Inter-college debate competitions, Faculty-led discussion forums
Career Connection
Improves public speaking, argumentation, and critical analysis, valuable for consulting, policy advocacy, and management roles.
Seek Internships and Mentorship- (Semester 4-5)
Explore short-term internships or volunteer opportunities with local NGOs, financial institutions, or research organizations during semester breaks. Seek guidance from professors or alumni working in economic fields to understand career paths and gain practical insights.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Professional networks, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Provides crucial real-world exposure, networking opportunities, and a competitive edge for placements in Indian companies and public sector undertakings.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Robust Research Project- (Semester 6)
For the compulsory Project & Viva Voce (EC6CRT15), choose a topic relevant to current Indian economic issues (e.g., impact of a specific government policy, regional economic disparity). Conduct thorough research, collect data, and analyze it rigorously, applying econometric techniques learned.
Tools & Resources
Research paper databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Statistical software (SPSS, EViews, R), Mentorship from project guide
Career Connection
Demonstrates independent research capability, a key requirement for research analyst positions, think tanks, and higher studies in economics.
Prepare for Higher Education or Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
If aspiring for higher education (MA Economics, MBA) or civil services/banking exams, start preparing seriously. Focus on conceptual clarity in all core subjects and practice mock tests. Utilize resources specific to Indian entrance exams.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if desired), Online test series for CAT/UPSC/RBI Grade B, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Directly impacts admission to top Indian universities or securing coveted government/banking jobs.
Develop Professional Communication & Presentation- (Semester 6)
Refine your ability to articulate complex economic ideas clearly and concisely, both in written reports and oral presentations. Practice presenting your project findings, participate in mock interviews, and work on your resume.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling cell, Workshops on resume building and interview skills, TED Talks for presentation inspiration
Career Connection
Crucial for interview success, effective workplace communication, and leadership roles in any economic field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in Plus Two or equivalent examination as decided by Mahatma Gandhi University from time to time.
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN1CC01 | Communicative English | Common | 4 | Listening Skills, Speaking Skills (Conversations, Presentations), Reading Skills (Comprehension, Critical Reading), Writing Skills (Paragraphs, Essays, Reports), Grammar and Vocabulary |
| EN1CC02 | Critical Reasoning, Writing and Presentation | Common | 4 | Logical Reasoning, Argumentation and Persuasion, Academic Writing (Essays, Research Papers), Presentation Skills, Public Speaking |
| ML1CC01 | Kavyasahithyam (Malayalam) | Common (Second Language) | 4 | Ancient Malayalam Poetry, Medieval Malayalam Poetry, Modern Malayalam Poetry, Poetic Devices and Forms, Literary Criticism Basics |
| EC1CRT01 | Microeconomics I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Microeconomics, Demand and Supply Analysis, Consumer Behavior (Utility, Indifference Curves), Production and Costs, Market Structures (Perfect Competition) |
| EC1CMP01 | Indian Economic Development | Complementary | 4 | Features of Indian Economy, Economic Planning in India, Poverty and Inequality, Agricultural Sector in India, Industrial Policy in India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN2CC03 | Readings in Literature | Common | 4 | Introduction to Literature, Poetry Appreciation, Prose (Short Stories, Essays), Drama Analysis, Literary Devices |
| EN2CC04 | Readings on Indian Constitution, Secularism and Sustainable Environment | Common | 4 | Preamble and Basic Structure, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Principles of Secularism, Environmental Protection Acts, Sustainable Development Goals |
| ML2CC02 | Novel Sahithyam (Malayalam) | Common (Second Language) | 4 | Evolution of Malayalam Novel, Major Novelists and Works, Narrative Techniques, Social and Cultural Contexts, Literary Trends |
| EC2CRT02 | Macroeconomics I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Macroeconomics, National Income Accounting, The Classical Theory of Employment, Keynesian Theory of Employment, Consumption and Investment Functions |
| EC2CMP02 | Kerala Economy | Complementary | 4 | Introduction to Kerala Economy, Demographic Features, Agricultural Sector of Kerala, Industrial and Service Sectors, Kerala Model of Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN3CC05 | Literature and Contemporary Issues | Common | 4 | Literature and Society, Human Rights in Literature, Gender and Literature, Environmental Concerns in Literature, Science Fiction and Technology |
| EC3CRT03 | Microeconomics II | Core | 4 | Imperfect Competition (Monopoly, Oligopoly), Monopolistic Competition, Factor Pricing (Rent, Wages, Interest, Profit), Welfare Economics, General Equilibrium |
| EC3CRT04 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis I | Core | 4 | Basic Mathematics for Economics, Functions and Equations, Differential Calculus in Economics, Integral Calculus in Economics, Matrices and Determinants |
| EC3CMP03 | Mathematical Economics I | Complementary | 4 | Basic Concepts in Mathematics, Theory of Consumer Behaviour (Mathematical Approach), Theory of Production (Mathematical Approach), Cost and Revenue Functions, Market Equilibrium |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN4CC06 | Environmental Studies | Common | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Management |
| EC4CRT05 | Macroeconomics II | Core | 4 | Money and Banking, Inflation and Deflation, Business Cycles, Monetary and Fiscal Policies, IS-LM Model |
| EC4CRT06 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis II | Core | 4 | Introduction to Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Correlation and Regression, Index Numbers |
| EC4CMP04 | Mathematical Economics II | Complementary | 4 | Consumer''''s Utility Maximization, Producer''''s Cost Minimization, Market Structures (Mathematical Approach), Game Theory Fundamentals, Input-Output Analysis |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC5CRT07 | Indian Economy I | Core | 4 | Structure and Growth of Indian Economy, Human Resource Development, Agriculture Sector Issues, Industrial Sector Performance, Infrastructure Development |
| EC5CRT08 | Public Finance | Core | 4 | Introduction to Public Finance, Public Expenditure, Taxation Principles, Public Debt, Fiscal Policy |
| EC5CRT09 | International Economics | Core | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Terms of Trade, Balance of Payments, Foreign Exchange Market, International Financial Institutions |
| EC5CRT10 | Economics of Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Growth and Development, Theories of Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Human Development, Role of State and Market |
| EC5OCT01 | Economics of Film | Open Course | 4 | Film as an Economic Activity, Film Production and Distribution, Film Marketing and Exhibition, Economics of Entertainment Industry, Impact of Digitalization on Film Industry |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC6CRT11 | Indian Economy II | Core | 4 | Planning in India, Economic Reforms since 1991, Poverty and Unemployment Alleviation Programs, Foreign Trade and Investment, Regional Disparities |
| EC6CRT12 | Environmental Economics | Core | 4 | Economics and Environment, Environmental Pollution, Resource Economics, Environmental Policies, Sustainable Development |
| EC6CRT13 | Development Issues of Indian Economy | Core | 4 | Population and Human Capital, Agrarian Distress and Rural Development, Industrial Sickness and Policy, Infrastructure and Regional Imbalances, Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment |
| EC6CRT14 | Basic Econometrics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Econometrics, Simple Linear Regression Model, Multiple Regression Analysis, Problems in Regression (Heteroscedasticity, Autocorrelation), Dummy Variables and Time Series |
| EC6CRT15 | Project & Viva Voce | Core | 4 | Research Methodology Basics, Formulation of Research Problem, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation and Defense (Viva) |
