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PH-D in Economics at N. A. & T. V. Patel Arts College, Vallabh Vidyanagar
Anand, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at N. A. & T. V. Patel Arts College, Vallabh Vidyanagar Anand?
This Ph.D. Economics program at N. A. & T. V. Patel Arts College focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in various domains of economics. It aims to develop independent researchers capable of contributing significantly to economic thought, policy analysis, and solving complex real-world economic challenges prevalent in the Indian context. The program emphasizes a blend of rigorous methodology and contemporary economic issues.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for post-graduates in Economics or related fields who aspire to a career in academic research, policy think tanks, government bodies, or advanced analytical roles in the private sector. It suits individuals passionate about deep inquiry, analytical problem-solving, and contributing original knowledge to the discipline, particularly those interested in India''''s unique developmental and economic landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professors, researchers, policy analysts, economists in various government ministries (e.g., NITI Aayog, Ministry of Finance), or lead roles in Indian and international financial institutions. Entry-level salaries for Ph.D. holders can range from INR 6-12 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips scholars to address India''''s economic complexities, influencing national discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Econometric Tools- (Initial 6-12 months of the Ph.D. program)
Dedicate significant time during coursework to deeply understand research paradigms, quantitative and qualitative methods, and advanced econometric techniques. This foundational knowledge is crucial for framing a robust research question and designing an effective study.
Tools & Resources
SPU Library resources, NPTEL courses on research methodology/econometrics, Software like Stata/R/Python for statistical analysis, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong methodological skills are highly valued in academia, economic research, and policy analysis roles, enabling robust data-driven decision making and publishing in reputable journals.
Develop a Comprehensive Literature Review- (Concurrent with coursework, continuing for the first 1-1.5 years)
Engage in extensive reading of relevant academic literature, identifying research gaps and areas for original contribution. Systematically organize notes and critically analyze existing studies to build a strong theoretical foundation for your research proposal.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar), Reference managers (Mendeley, Zotero), Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Economic Review)
Career Connection
A thorough literature review demonstrates scholarly rigor, strengthens the research proposal, and is a key component of thesis writing and future publications, enhancing academic credibility.
Seek Early Faculty Mentorship and Feedback- (Throughout the entire Ph.D. journey, especially vital in the initial 1-2 years)
Establish a strong working relationship with your supervisor and other faculty members. Regularly discuss research ideas, progress, and challenges. Proactively seek constructive feedback on coursework assignments, literature review drafts, and nascent research proposals.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, One-on-one meetings, Research workshops, Internal college presentations
Career Connection
Effective mentorship provides guidance, opens doors to collaborations, and refines research direction, which is critical for timely thesis completion and successful academic career navigation.
Intermediate Stage
Craft a Robust Research Proposal- (End of year 1 to early year 2)
Based on your literature review and faculty feedback, formulate a clear, focused, and feasible research proposal outlining your research question, objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and timeline. This document will guide your entire thesis work.
Tools & Resources
University guidelines for Ph.D. proposals, Successful past proposals (if available), Departmental review committees, Proposal writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-articulated proposal is a prerequisite for formal registration and often forms the basis for grant applications and initial research presentations, showcasing your research vision.
Develop Strong Data Acquisition and Management Skills- (Year 2 to early year 3, depending on data availability and scope)
Identify appropriate data sources (primary or secondary), develop robust data collection instruments (e.g., surveys, interview protocols), and master techniques for data cleaning, organization, and management. This stage often involves field work in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Survey platforms (Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), Statistical software (SPSS, EViews, R), Data repositories (RBI, NSSO, World Bank databases), Data privacy and ethical guidelines
Career Connection
Proficiency in data handling is a highly marketable skill for research roles in both academia and industry, particularly in data analytics and policy evaluation.
Engage in Peer-to-Peer Research Discussions- (Continuously from year 2 onwards)
Actively participate in departmental colloquia, research seminars, and informal discussions with fellow Ph.D. scholars. Present your work and offer constructive feedback on others'''' research. This fosters a collaborative research environment and provides diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Departmental common rooms, Informal coffee breaks, Internal university research groups, Online academic forums
Career Connection
Presenting your work helps refine arguments and presentation skills, crucial for conference presentations and job talks. Peer feedback improves research quality and builds a professional network.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Structured Thesis Writing- (Year 3 to year 5)
Dedicate consistent time to writing your thesis, adhering to a structured outline and maintaining academic rigor. Break down the writing process into manageable sections (chapters) and regularly submit drafts to your supervisor for feedback.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Thesis formatting guidelines from SPU, Grammar and style checkers (Grammarly, LaTeX for typesetting), Regular writing blocks
Career Connection
A well-written, coherent thesis is the culmination of your Ph.D. journey and forms the basis for future publications and academic reputation. Strong writing skills are universally valuable.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Defense with Mock Sessions- (Final 6-12 months leading up to submission and defense)
Understand the format and expectations of the Ph.D. viva voce (oral examination). Conduct mock defense sessions with your supervisor and other faculty members or peers to anticipate questions, refine your presentation, and gain confidence in defending your research.
Tools & Resources
University viva voce guidelines, Mock presentation sessions, Q&A preparation, Practicing concise summaries of your research
Career Connection
A successful viva voce is the final hurdle for degree completion. Strong defense skills are essential for presenting research findings effectively in academic and professional settings.
Target Publications and Networking for Post-Ph.D. Career- (From year 3 onwards, intensifying in the final year and post-submission)
Convert thesis chapters into publishable journal articles. Attend national/international conferences to present your work, network with senior academics, and explore post-doctoral opportunities or faculty positions, especially within the Indian academic ecosystem.
Tools & Resources
Reputable economics journals (peer-reviewed), Conference submission platforms, Academic social media (LinkedIn, ResearchGate), University career services
Career Connection
Publications are vital for academic career progression. Networking opens doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and establishing your presence in the research community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (M.A. Economics) with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale), 50% for SC/ST/OBC (Non-creamy)/Differently Abled candidates. NET/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders are exempt from the Entrance Test; others require a university Entrance Test and Interview.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (including coursework)
Credits: Typically 8-12 credits for coursework (as per SPU norms, 4 per core paper found) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO-RM-CW | Research Methodology and Computer Application | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research and Research Design, Methods of Data Collection and Sources, Sampling Techniques and Design, Statistical Tools for Analysis (Hypothesis Testing, Regression), Computer Application and Software for Data Analysis (SPSS, Excel), Report Writing and Presentation |
| ECO-AE-CW | Advanced Economics | Core | 4 | Advanced Microeconomics (Consumer/Producer Theory, Market Structures), Advanced Macroeconomics (Growth Models, Business Cycles, Policy), Econometrics and Applied Economic Analysis, Indian Economic Policy and Development Issues, Contemporary Issues in Economics |
