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BA-ECONOMICS in General at Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla
Pathanamthitta, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is General at Mar Thoma College, Tiruvalla Pathanamthitta?
This BA Economics program at Mar Thoma College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, principles, and their application to real-world issues. It is structured under the Choice-Based Credit and Semester System (CBCSS) of Mahatma Gandhi University, equipping students with strong analytical and quantitative skills crucial for understanding India''''s diverse economic landscape. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical implications, preparing graduates for a range of professional opportunities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for higher secondary graduates with a keen interest in understanding economic systems, policies, and global markets. It suits individuals aspiring to careers in research, policy analysis, banking, finance, journalism, and public administration. Students with a strong aptitude for critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving, irrespective of their academic stream in high school, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as economists, financial analysts, policy advisors, data analysts, and market researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15 lakhs or more with experience and higher education. The program also serves as a strong foundation for pursuing postgraduate studies in Economics, Business Administration, or Public Policy, enhancing career trajectories in both public and private sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding fundamental micro and macroeconomic theories covered in Semesters 1 and 2. Regularly revise concepts like demand-supply, market structures, national income, and basic monetary/fiscal policies. Form study groups to discuss challenging topics and solve textbook problems.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (e.g., Mankiw, Samuelson), Online platforms like Khan Academy for foundational concepts, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is critical for all higher-level economics courses and forms the basis for analytical roles in any economic field.
Develop Quantitative Skills Early- (Semester 1-3)
Pay close attention to Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis. Practice mathematical and statistical problems regularly. Utilize online resources and practice tests to enhance proficiency in calculus, linear algebra, and basic statistics, which are vital for empirical economics.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Mathematics books, YouTube tutorials for calculus and statistics, Practice problem sets from previous year question papers
Career Connection
These skills are indispensable for careers in data analysis, financial modeling, and economic research, which are highly in demand in India.
Cultivate Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a consistent study routine, prioritizing conceptual understanding over rote memorization. Actively participate in class discussions, seek clarification from professors, and develop critical thinking by analyzing economic news and current affairs. Improve academic writing for assignments.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Reputable news sources (e.g., The Hindu, Livemint), College library resources
Career Connection
Good study habits lead to better academic performance, preparing students for the rigorous demands of higher education and professional roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Indian Economic Issues- (Semester 3-5)
Deep dive into ''''Indian Economy'''' courses by relating theoretical knowledge to real-time economic developments in India. Follow Union Budgets, RBI policies, and reports from NITI Aayog. Participate in college debates or seminars focused on Indian economic challenges.
Tools & Resources
RBI website, Ministry of Finance documents, NITI Aayog reports, Economic Survey of India
Career Connection
This deepens understanding for roles in government policy, economic journalism, and research firms focusing on the Indian market.
Explore Interdisciplinary Applications- (Semester 3-5)
Leverage complementary courses by understanding how Economics integrates with History, Political Science, or Statistics. This broadens perspective and opens avenues for interdisciplinary research or careers. Consider online courses in related fields to gain supplementary skills.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX for interdisciplinary courses, Research papers combining economics with other social sciences
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary knowledge enhances problem-solving abilities and makes candidates more versatile for roles requiring a holistic view, such as policy analysis or development work.
Develop Basic Research and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4-5)
Start practicing mini-research projects or assignments involving data collection and analysis. Participate in college symposiums or present papers at student conferences. Focus on structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and clear oral communication.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, Basic statistical software (e.g., Excel, R/Python for beginners), Presentation tools like PowerPoint
Career Connection
Early exposure to research and presentation skills is invaluable for academic pursuits, policy advocacy, and corporate communication roles.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Meaningful Project/Internship- (Semester 5-6 (especially summer breaks))
For the Semester 6 Project, choose a topic with practical relevance to contemporary economic issues. Seek out internships in financial institutions, NGOs, research firms, or government departments to gain hands-on experience and industry exposure. Apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for internship searches, College career cell for guidance, Networking with alumni
Career Connection
Internships convert theoretical knowledge into practical skills, boost resumes, and often lead to pre-placement offers or valuable industry contacts.
Prepare for Higher Education/Placements Strategically- (Semester 5-6)
Identify career interests (e.g., banking, civil services, academia) and start preparing for competitive exams (UPSC, RBI Grade B, CAT, NET) or postgraduate entrance tests. Tailor your elective choices to align with these goals. Seek guidance from faculty and career counselors.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated coaching institutes, Online mock tests platforms, Previous year''''s question papers
Career Connection
Proactive preparation significantly increases chances of securing admission to top universities or landing desirable jobs in a competitive Indian job market.
Network and Build a Professional Profile- (Semester 5-6)
Attend economics workshops, webinars, and conferences. Connect with alumni and industry professionals through networking events or platforms like LinkedIn. Create a strong resume highlighting projects, skills, and academic achievements. Develop strong interview and soft skills.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional economic associations (e.g., Indian Economic Association), College alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to hidden job opportunities, mentorship, and insights into industry expectations, crucial for navigating the professional world in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in Higher Secondary Examination of the Board of Higher Secondary Education, Kerala or an examination recognized as equivalent thereto.
Duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC5CRT07 | Indian Economy - I | Core | 4 | Basic Characteristics of Indian Economy, Economic Planning in India, Indian Agriculture Sector, Industrial Development and Policies, New Economic Reforms |
| EC5CRT08 | Public Finance | Core | 4 | Role of Government in Economy, Public Expenditure and Revenue, Principles of Taxation, Public Debt Management, Fiscal Federalism in India |
| EC5CRT09 | Mathematical Economics | Core | 4 | Optimization Techniques, Constrained Optimization, Input-Output Analysis, Game Theory Fundamentals, Dynamic Analysis in Economics |
| EC5CRT10 | International Economics | Core | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Commercial Policy Instruments, Balance of Payments, Foreign Exchange Markets, International Economic Institutions |
| EC5OPT01 | Open Course I: Basic Economics | Open Course | 3 | Fundamental Economic Concepts, Demand and Supply, Markets and Prices, National Income Basics, Role of Government in Economy |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC6CRT11 | Indian Economy - II | Core | 4 | Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment, Human Development in India, Infrastructure Development, India''''s External Sector, Contemporary Economic Issues |
| EC6CRT12 | Environmental Economics | Core | 4 | Environment and Economy Interaction, Market Failure and Public Policy, Valuation of Environmental Resources, Environmental Regulation and Management, Sustainable Development Strategies |
| EC6CRT13 | Development Economics | Core | 4 | Theories of Economic Development, Poverty and Income Distribution, Human Capital and Development, Population and Demographic Transition, Planning and Growth Models |
| EC6CRT14 | Project | Project | 4 | Research Question Formulation, Literature Review, Data Collection and Methodology, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| EC6ECT04 | Elective Course I: Demography (e.g., Econometrics, Agricultural Economics) | Elective | 3 | Population Theories, Fertility Measurement and Determinants, Mortality Patterns and Health, Migration and Urbanization, Population Policies and Challenges |
