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PH-D in Economics at Mizoram University
Aizawl, Mizoram
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Mizoram University Aizawl?
This Ph.D. Economics program at Mizoram University focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in various sub-fields of economics, with a particular emphasis on regional issues pertinent to the North-East India. It aims to develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for contributing to academic scholarship, policy formulation, and socio-economic development. The program promotes rigorous methodological training alongside in-depth exploration of specific economic problems and challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals holding a Master''''s degree in Economics or a related field, aspiring to pursue a career in academia, research institutions, or government policy think tanks in India. It caters to those passionate about deep economic inquiry, problem-solving through data analysis, and contributing original knowledge to the discipline. Candidates with a strong quantitative aptitude and a desire to address real-world economic challenges in diverse contexts would find this program highly suitable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as Assistant Professors in Indian universities, research associates in government organizations like NITI Aayog, or economists in public and private sector research wings. They will be equipped with advanced research methodologies, statistical tools, and economic modeling skills. Typical salary ranges for entry-level researchers can be around INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in academia and policy research, contributing to national economic discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodology- (Initial Coursework (Semester 1) and early thesis conceptualization)
Rigorously engage with the coursework on Research Methodology, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative methods, econometric techniques, and data analysis software. Develop a strong understanding of research ethics and academic integrity. This forms the bedrock for your entire thesis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, EViews, Stata for statistical analysis, Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques by C.R. Kothari, Econometric Analysis by William Greene
Career Connection
A robust methodological foundation is crucial for producing high-quality, publishable research, directly impacting academic appointments and research grants in India.
Develop a Focused Research Area and Literature Review- (First 6-12 months post-coursework)
Work closely with your supervisor to identify a specific and feasible research problem within Economics, especially one relevant to the Indian context or regional specificities. Conduct an exhaustive literature review, understanding current debates, gaps, and potential contributions.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, EconLit, Reserve Bank of India publications, NITI Aayog reports, Regular meetings with supervisor
Career Connection
A well-defined research area and strong literature review are key for a successful thesis defense and for positioning oneself as an expert in a specific domain, enhancing appeal to research institutions.
Engage in Departmental Seminars and Discussions- (Ongoing throughout the Ph.D. program, especially during the initial stages)
Actively participate in departmental research seminars, workshops, and Ph.D. colloquia. Present your initial ideas and receive constructive feedback. Critically analyze presentations by peers and faculty to broaden your perspective and improve your own research communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Department of Economics seminar schedule, Internal Ph.D. student presentations
Career Connection
Builds confidence in presenting complex ideas, hones critical thinking, and establishes an academic network within the institution, which is vital for future collaborations and academic referrals.
Intermediate Stage
Master Data Acquisition and Handling- (Year 2 to Year 3 of the Ph.D.)
Develop expertise in identifying, acquiring, and cleaning relevant economic datasets, whether primary or secondary, from Indian or international sources. Become proficient in data manipulation and statistical software necessary for your empirical analysis.
Tools & Resources
National Sample Survey (NSSO) data, Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), Census of India, Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation, World Bank Data, IMF Data, Advanced features of R/Stata/Python for data wrangling
Career Connection
Strong data handling skills are highly valued in research roles, policy analysis, and increasingly in data science positions across various sectors in India.
Publish Initial Research Papers- (Year 2.5 to Year 4)
Aim to convert early chapters or distinct research ideas from your thesis into publishable working papers or articles in reputable peer-reviewed journals, even if local or national. This helps validate your research approach and builds your publication record.
Tools & Resources
Indian economic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Economic Journal), Departmental working paper series, Guidance from supervisor on journal selection and submission process
Career Connection
Publications are critical for academic career progression (API scores for Assistant Professor positions in India) and enhancing the visibility of your research.
Attend National/International Conferences- (Year 3 to Year 5)
Present your research findings at relevant economic conferences and workshops in India or abroad. Network with established scholars, receive feedback on your work, and stay updated on the latest research trends in your field.
Tools & Resources
Conference listing websites (e.g., INOMICS), Departmental travel grants, Ph.D. fellowships
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, exposes your work to a wider academic community, and can lead to collaborative opportunities or post-doctoral prospects.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis Chapters and Argumentation- (Year 4 to Year 5)
Focus on meticulously structuring your thesis, refining arguments, ensuring logical flow, and presenting your research findings with clarity and precision. Pay attention to academic writing standards and citation styles.
Tools & Resources
Writing guides (e.g., The Economist''''s Craft by Michael C. Munger), Feedback from supervisor and peers, Proofreading services
Career Connection
A well-written, coherent thesis is essential for a successful defense and forms a strong portfolio for academic job applications.
Prepare for Viva-Voce Examination- (Final 6-12 months leading to thesis submission and defense)
Systematically review your entire thesis, anticipate potential questions from examiners, and practice articulating your research problem, methodology, findings, and contributions concisely and confidently. Understand the broader implications of your work.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with faculty, Discussions with successfully defended Ph.D. graduates, Review of thesis abstract and key findings
Career Connection
A strong viva performance is the final hurdle to degree attainment and demonstrates intellectual prowess, crucial for academic and research roles.
Proactively Engage in Career Planning and Job Search- (Final year of Ph.D. (Year 5-6))
While nearing completion, actively research academic job market trends in India, prepare a compelling CV, teaching philosophy, and research statement. Apply for relevant Assistant Professor, Post-doctoral, or Economist positions in universities, research institutes, or government bodies.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., UGC website, university recruitment pages, LinkedIn), Networking contacts
Career Connection
Strategic career planning during the final year significantly improves chances of securing a desirable position immediately after graduation, aligning research expertise with institutional needs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Economics or a related field from a recognized university, with minimum marks/grade as per UGC/Mizoram University regulations. Admission typically through an entrance test and interview, or exemption for UGC NET/JRF qualified candidates, as per Ph.D. Ordinance.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (for Ph.D. degree); Coursework is for a minimum period of one semester
Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework (4 for Research Methodology + 4 for Optional Course) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
