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PHD-SOCIAL-SCIENCES in Economics at National Law University, Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at National Law University, Delhi Delhi?
This PhD in Social Sciences program with a specialization in Economics at National Law University, Delhi, focuses on advanced research in economic theory, policy, and their intersection with legal and social frameworks. It emphasizes rigorous empirical and theoretical inquiry relevant to contemporary Indian economic challenges and global issues. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills to address complex socio-economic problems. It is designed to contribute original research to the field of Economics, often with an interdisciplinary lens.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring researchers, academicians, and policy analysts holding a Master''''s degree in Economics or allied social sciences, particularly those with a strong inclination towards original research. It caters to individuals seeking to contribute to the body of knowledge in Economics, understand policy implications, and those aspiring for faculty positions in universities or research roles in think tanks, government agencies, and international organizations within India and globally. A robust understanding of quantitative methods is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading experts in their chosen sub-fields of Economics. Career paths in India include positions as Assistant Professors in universities (INR 8-15 LPA), Economists in government ministries or the RBI (INR 10-20 LPA), Research Fellows in think tanks (INR 7-18 LPA), and consultants for international development agencies. The program equips scholars with advanced analytical and research skills, enabling them to lead policy formulation, academic discourse, and economic modeling, contributing significantly to India''''s socio-economic development.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Quantitative Skills- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the compulsory coursework in Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods. Actively participate in discussions, complete assignments diligently, and seek clarification on concepts. For Economics, focus heavily on understanding econometric models and data analysis techniques, as these form the backbone of empirical research.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi Library Resources, Statistical software (R, Python, Stata, SPSS) tutorials, Coursera/edX courses on Advanced Econometrics, Reference books like ''''Econometric Analysis'''' by Greene
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures rigorous thesis work, enabling you to conduct credible research and effectively analyze economic data, which is critical for academic and policy-oriented roles.
Identify and Refine Your Research Area- (Semester 1-2)
During and immediately after coursework, engage deeply with your chosen specialization (Economics). Read extensively in your potential research areas, attend departmental seminars, and proactively discuss ideas with faculty members to refine your research question and identify a suitable supervisor. This proactive approach helps in formulating a compelling research proposal.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, NLU Delhi Research Centers'''' publications, Supervisor consultations
Career Connection
A well-defined and impactful research question is crucial for a successful thesis and forms the basis for your future research trajectory and specialization in the academic/policy job market.
Build a Strong Academic Network- (Semester 1-2)
Engage with your peers, senior PhD scholars, and faculty members. Participate in study groups for coursework, attend departmental research colloquia, and seek opportunities to present preliminary ideas. This peer learning and mentorship environment can provide valuable feedback, expose you to diverse perspectives, and open doors to future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi PhD Cohort, Faculty office hours, Departmental seminars, LinkedIn for academic connections
Career Connection
Networking is vital for academic career progression, securing post-doctoral positions, research collaborations, and gaining insights into diverse career opportunities in Economics.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Advanced Specialization Skills- (Year 2-3)
Beyond coursework, delve into advanced topics relevant to your specific research question within Economics. This might involve self-study of advanced econometric techniques, specific theoretical models, or deep dives into policy literature. Seek out specialized workshops or online courses to fill any skill gaps, especially in advanced statistical modeling or computational economics.
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks in micro/macroeconomics and econometrics, NPTEL courses, Specialized workshops (e.g., data science, CGE modeling), Conferences in your sub-field of Economics
Career Connection
Developing niche expertise makes you a highly competitive candidate in academic and research roles, distinguishing your profile and aligning with specialized job requirements in India and globally.
Actively Engage in Research and Writing- (Year 2-4)
Regularly write and refine sections of your thesis. Don''''t wait until the end. Start with literature review, methodology, and preliminary findings. Seek frequent feedback from your supervisor and incorporate revisions. Aim to present your work at internal forums, and potentially national/international conferences, to gain diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, LaTeX for academic writing, Writing workshops, Internal NLU Delhi research seminars
Career Connection
Consistent writing builds momentum towards thesis completion and helps develop your academic voice. Presenting at conferences enhances your visibility, networking, and potentially leads to publications, crucial for academic hiring.
Explore Publication Opportunities- (Year 3-5)
As your research progresses, identify opportunities to publish parts of your thesis as journal articles or working papers. Target peer-reviewed journals in Economics, particularly those with relevance to India or your specific sub-field. This demonstrates your ability to produce publishable research and contributes to your academic profile significantly.
Tools & Resources
Scopus/Web of Science for journal identification, NLU Delhi Working Paper Series, Open access repositories (e.g., SSRN), Feedback from supervisor and peers
Career Connection
Publications are a critical metric for academic appointments and promotions in India. They establish your reputation as a researcher and demonstrate the impact of your work.
Advanced Stage
Refine and Defend Your Thesis- (Year 4-6)
Focus intensely on completing and refining your thesis document. Ensure logical flow, methodological rigor, clear arguments, and adherence to all university formatting guidelines. Practice your thesis defense presentation extensively, anticipating challenging questions from examiners and preparing comprehensive answers.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi thesis submission guidelines, Mock defense sessions with faculty/peers, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote)
Career Connection
Successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD journey, marking your transition from a student to an independent scholar, enabling you to pursue academic or research careers.
Strategize for Post-PhD Career Paths- (Year 5-6)
Actively explore academic job markets (universities, research institutes), policy roles (government, think tanks), and consultancy opportunities well before your thesis submission. Prepare your CV, research statement, teaching philosophy (if applicable), and cover letters tailored to specific positions. Network with faculty members who can provide recommendations and insights.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., University websites, Current Science, The Chronicle of Higher Education), LinkedIn for industry connections, Career counseling services if available
Career Connection
Proactive job search and tailored applications are essential for securing desirable positions post-PhD, especially in competitive fields like Economics in India.
Continue Research Dissemination and Impact- (Year 6 and beyond (Post-PhD))
Post-thesis submission, continue to convert thesis chapters into publishable articles. Engage in policy briefs, workshops, or public lectures related to your research findings to maximize their societal impact, particularly within the Indian context. Seek opportunities for post-doctoral fellowships to further your research agenda and build a stronger publication record.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals and presses, Policy forums and expert groups, Post-doctoral fellowship announcements (ICSSR, UGC, international institutions)
Career Connection
Sustained research output and engagement contribute to your long-term academic standing, visibility, and influence, positioning you as a thought leader in Economics in India and globally.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (LL.M./M.A./M.Sc./M.Phil) in the relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade). Must have qualified UGC-NET/JRF/SLET or NLU Delhi Entrance Test. Eligibility may vary for reserved categories as per government norms.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-RM-001 | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory Coursework) | 4 | Foundations of Social Science Research, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Methods of Data Collection (Quantitative & Qualitative), Ethical Considerations in Research, Literature Review and Referencing |
| PHD-QM-001 | Quantitative Methods and Computer Applications | Core (Compulsory Coursework) | 4 | Statistical Inference and Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis and Econometrics Fundamentals, Data Analysis using Software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS), Data Visualization Techniques, Application of Computer Tools in Research |
| PHD-EL-001 | Elective Course (Economics Specialization) | Elective (Coursework) | 4 | Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Advanced Macroeconomic Theory, Applied Econometrics and Policy Analysis, Development Economics and Indian Context, Public Finance and Social Sector Economics |
