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MA-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 MA Economics program at Mar Thoma College, Pathanamthitta focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of core economic theories, advanced quantitative methods, and contemporary Indian economic policy. The curriculum is meticulously designed to equip students with robust analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling them to address complex economic challenges effectively. It emphasizes both the foundational theoretical underpinnings and practical applications relevant to the dynamic Indian economic landscape, preparing students for diverse professional roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for economics graduates seeking advanced theoretical knowledge and sophisticated research skills, as well as graduates from allied quantitative fields like Mathematics or Statistics looking to apply their methods to economic analysis. It particularly caters to individuals aspiring for careers in academia, economic research institutions, government policy-making bodies in India, and those considering further doctoral studies in economics or related disciplines.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse and impactful career paths in India, including roles in economic consulting, data analysis, public policy formulation, financial services, and academic research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 to 6 lakhs annually, with substantial growth potential up to INR 10-15 lakhs or more for experienced professionals in prestigious organizations like the Reserve Bank of India, NITI Aayog, or various economic think tanks across the country.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations in Economics- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly understand core microeconomic and macroeconomic theories, mathematical tools, and fundamental Indian economic policies. Actively attend all lectures, engage in peer discussions, and regularly solve practice problems. Utilize supplementary textbooks and online resources to clarify difficult concepts and strengthen your grasp.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Micro/Macroeconomics, Standard textbooks (e.g., Varian, Mankiw), Khan Academy Economics, Form study groups
Career Connection
A robust theoretical base is crucial for excelling in advanced courses, clearing competitive exams like UGC NET or UPSC Economics optional, and building essential analytical skills required for research and policy-making roles.
Develop Early Quantitative and Statistical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate special attention to Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis. Regularly practice mathematical derivations, statistical problem-solving, and familiarise yourself with basic software like MS Excel for data manipulation. Consider pursuing additional online courses if you find certain mathematical concepts challenging.
Tools & Resources
Online tutorials for Calculus and Linear Algebra, Basic econometrics software (e.g., R, Python basics), Coursera/edX courses on ''''Math for Economists'''' or ''''Intro to Statistics''''
Career Connection
Strong quantitative and statistical skills are highly valued in data-driven roles within finance, economic consulting, and research, providing a significant competitive advantage in the Indian job market for positions such as data analyst or research associate.
Stay Updated on Current Indian Economic Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of regularly reading leading financial newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard), economic magazines, and reports from government bodies like the RBI and NITI Aayog. Participate actively in debates or discussions about contemporary economic policies and their impact on the Indian economy.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, Mint newspaper, RBI Annual Reports, NITI Aayog documents, Economic blogs focused on India
Career Connection
This practice helps in developing critical thinking, provides real-world context to theoretical concepts, and is essential for interviews for government jobs (e.g., UPSC, RBI Grade B) and roles in policy analysis and economic journalism.
Intermediate Stage
Master Econometric Techniques and Software- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding and practically applying econometric models. Learn to proficiently use statistical software such as R, Stata, or EViews to estimate models, interpret results accurately, and diagnose common econometric problems. Work on small data projects to gain invaluable practical experience.
Tools & Resources
R programming language, Stata/EViews software, Gujarati''''s Econometrics textbook, Online tutorials for econometric software, Kaggle datasets for practice
Career Connection
Proficiency in econometrics is a highly sought-after skill for roles in financial modeling, economic forecasting, policy evaluation, and advanced economic research, which are in high demand across both public and private sectors in India.
Engage Actively in Economic Research and Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in the final project component by selecting a highly relevant research topic, conducting a thorough literature review, meticulously collecting and analyzing data, and effectively presenting your findings. Seek continuous guidance from faculty members and collaborate with peers to enhance the quality and impact of your research.
Tools & Resources
Research paper databases (e.g., JSTOR, Google Scholar), Indian government data sources (e.g., MOSPI, CMIE Prowess), Academic writing tools (e.g., LaTeX, Mendeley), Presentation software
Career Connection
Hands-on research experience is invaluable for academic careers, PhD applications, and roles in think tanks or research divisions of leading companies. It effectively showcases independent thinking, problem-solving abilities, and analytical rigor to potential employers.
Explore Specializations and Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3-4)
Deepen your understanding in your chosen optional subjects, such as Financial Economics or Environmental Economics. Actively attend webinars, seminars, and conferences related to your interests. Proactively connect with alumni and industry professionals through platforms like LinkedIn or college-organized networking events.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Industry-specific forums and associations (e.g., Indian Economic Association), University career services and alumni portals
Career Connection
Specialization helps in targeting specific job roles. Networking can open doors to valuable internships, mentorship opportunities, and direct placement opportunities, particularly in niche areas like financial analysis, environmental consulting, or development economics.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Any graduate in Economics/Mathematics/Statistics with 4.5 CGPA (excluding open courses and complementary courses) or Any graduate with 50% marks in Economics as optional paper or 50% marks in allied subjects or with 50% marks in part I & II optional subjects/core subjects.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO1C01 | Microeconomic Theory – I | Core | 4 | Consumer Behaviour Analysis, Demand Theory, Production Theory and Costs, Market Structures, Pricing Strategies |
| ECO1C02 | Macroeconomic Theory – I | Core | 4 | National Income Accounting, Classical and Keynesian Economics, Consumption and Investment Functions, Money and Inflation Theories, IS-LM Model |
| ECO1C03 | Indian Economic Policy – I | Core | 4 | Structure of Indian Economy, Planning and Economic Reforms, Agricultural Sector Issues, Industrial Policy, Poverty and Inequality in India |
| ECO1C04 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis – I | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra and Matrices, Differential Calculus, Functions of Several Variables, Optimization Techniques, Difference and Differential Equations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO2C05 | Microeconomic Theory – II | Core | 4 | General Equilibrium Theory, Welfare Economics, Game Theory Fundamentals, Asymmetric Information, Public Goods and Externalities |
| ECO2C06 | Macroeconomic Theory – II | Core | 4 | Business Cycles, Economic Growth Models (Harrod-Domar, Solow), New Classical Macroeconomics, Rational Expectations, Phillips Curve Dynamics |
| ECO2C07 | Indian Economic Policy – II | Core | 4 | Fiscal and Monetary Policy in India, External Sector of India, Service Sector Growth, Economic Reforms and Liberalization, Infrastructure Development |
| ECO2C08 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis – II | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Statistical Inference, Sampling Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO3C09 | Public Economics | Core | 4 | Role of Government in Economy, Public Goods and Externalities, Public Revenue and Taxation, Public Expenditure, Fiscal Policy and Budgeting |
| ECO3C10 | Econometrics – I | Core | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Hypothesis Testing in Regression, Multicollinearity, Heteroscedasticity and Autocorrelation |
| ECO3C11 | International Economics | Core | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Trade Barriers and Protectionism, Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate Regimes, International Financial Institutions |
| ECO3E01 | Financial Economics (Example Elective) | Elective | 4 | Financial Markets and Institutions, Risk and Return Analysis, Portfolio Theory, Asset Pricing Models (CAPM), Derivatives Markets |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO4C12 | Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Human Development, Sustainable Development Goals, Role of Institutions in Development |
| ECO4C13 | Econometrics – II | Core | 4 | Simultaneous Equation Models, Panel Data Models, Time Series Analysis (ARIMA), ARCH/GARCH Models, Limited Dependent Variable Models |
| ECO4E06 | Environmental Economics (Example Elective) | Elective | 4 | Environmental Problems and Market Failure, Valuation of Environmental Resources, Environmental Policy Instruments, Sustainable Development Concepts, Climate Change Economics |
| ECO4P01 | Project | Project | 4 | Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Literature Review, Report Writing, Presentation of Findings |
| ECO4V01 | Viva Voce | Viva Voce | 4 | Comprehensive Understanding of Economics, Application of Economic Theories, Research Project Defense, Analytical and Critical Thinking, Current Economic Affairs |
