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BA-GENERAL in Economics at Seth Soorajmull Jalan Girls' College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Seth Soorajmull Jalan Girls' College Kolkata?
This Economics (General) program at Seth Soorajmull Jalan Girls'''' College, affiliated with the University of Calcutta, focuses on foundational economic theories and their application to the Indian context. It provides a broad understanding of microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, and development, crucial for addressing contemporary economic challenges in India. The program equips students with analytical skills vital for various sectors, emphasizing a comprehensive yet accessible approach to economic studies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with an interest in understanding economic systems and policies, seeking a foundational degree. It caters to those aspiring for entry-level roles in government services, NGOs, or the private sector, or pursuing further studies in economics or related fields. Students from diverse academic backgrounds can benefit from its comprehensive general approach, preparing them for a range of career paths.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in entry-level research, data analysis, public administration, or banking in India. Potential roles include junior economist, research assistant, or policy analyst, with starting salaries ranging from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA. The strong analytical foundation also prepares students for competitive examinations like UPSC or State PSCs, crucial for government roles and further academic specialization in economics.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding fundamental micro and macroeconomic principles introduced in the first two semesters. Regularly attend lectures, engage in discussions, and solve numerical problems from standard Indian textbooks like H.L. Ahuja or D.N. Dwivedi to build a strong theoretical base. Form study groups to clarify doubts and consolidate learning, ensuring conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (H.L. Ahuja, D.N. Dwivedi), Online economic tutorials (Khan Academy), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is essential for advanced topics, crucial for excelling in competitive exams (UPSC, banking) and for understanding real-world economic scenarios relevant to future jobs in India.
Develop Quantitative Skills Early- (Semester 1-3)
Pay special attention to Elementary Statistics for Economics. Practice data interpretation, statistical calculations, and graphical representation using tools like MS Excel. Participate in workshops on basic statistical software or data analysis if available, as quantitative aptitude is highly valued in the Indian job market, especially for analytical roles.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, Basic statistics textbooks, Online data analysis courses, Local workshops
Career Connection
Proficiency in statistics is a key skill for roles in research, data analysis, and market intelligence across various Indian industries and government agencies, opening doors to diverse opportunities.
Engage with Economic News and Policies- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of reading reputable financial newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard) and magazines (e.g., Yojana, Kurukshetra) regularly. Follow major economic policy announcements by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Ministry of Finance to connect theoretical concepts with current Indian economic issues and debates.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, Yojana magazine, RBI website, Ministry of Finance publications
Career Connection
Staying updated with current affairs and policy changes enhances your understanding of the Indian economy, which is vital for interviews and roles in public policy, journalism, and economic analysis.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Indian Economy in Depth- (Semester 3-4)
While studying ''''Indian Economy - I'''', delve deeper into specific sectors like agriculture, industry, and services. Conduct small research projects or presentations on topics like ''''Make in India'''' or ''''Digital India'''' initiatives. Try to understand the regional disparities and policy impacts within India, leveraging resources like NITI Aayog reports and the Economic Survey.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, Economic Survey of India, RBI Bulletins, Academic journals on Indian economy
Career Connection
Deep knowledge of the Indian economy is paramount for roles in government, development agencies, and think tanks focused on national growth and challenges, enhancing your credibility and expertise.
Participate in Economic Debates and Quizzes- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in college-level economic debates, seminars, and quizzes. This enhances critical thinking, public speaking skills, and the ability to articulate economic arguments. Joining an economics club or society can provide a platform for these activities and build valuable networks within the academic community.
Tools & Resources
College Economics Club, Inter-college competitions, Online economic forums (e.g., PRS Legislative Research for policy discussions)
Career Connection
Strong communication and analytical skills developed through these activities are highly valued in roles requiring policy advocacy, consulting, or public relations, especially in a diverse country like India.
Consider Basic Certifications in Relevant Software- (Semester 4-5)
Explore short-term online courses or workshops in basic data analysis software beyond Excel, such as R or Python (for data manipulation). Even a foundational understanding of these tools can give a significant edge, especially for aspiring analysts or researchers in India''''s increasingly data-driven economy.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX for R/Python basics, NPTEL courses, Udemy for foundational data science
Career Connection
These skills are increasingly demanded by analytical roles in market research, financial services, and IT companies, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making you more employable.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Internship or Project- (Semester 5-6)
Seek internships (even short-term or unpaid) with local NGOs, research organizations, or small businesses during breaks. Alternatively, undertake a supervised research project within the department on a topic of interest, applying learned theories to real-world data, possibly focusing on public finance or development challenges relevant to West Bengal.
Tools & Resources
College career cell, Online internship portals (Internshala), Faculty mentorship for research projects
Career Connection
Practical experience is crucial for understanding the application of economic principles and significantly boosts employability for entry-level positions and further academic pursuits in the Indian job market.
Prepare for Post-Graduation/Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Identify your desired career path (e.g., civil services, banking, higher studies in Economics). Begin focused preparation for entrance exams like CEE (for MBA), GATE (for some economic related masters), or specific university entrance tests for MA Economics. For civil services, start practicing general studies and economics optional papers, leveraging local coaching centers if suitable.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (if opted), Online mock test series (e.g., Testbook, Gradeup)
Career Connection
Early and systematic preparation significantly increases the chances of securing admission to prestigious postgraduate programs or clearing competitive government examinations, leading to stable and impactful careers in India.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Attend industry webinars, guest lectures, and alumni events. Connect with faculty members and alumni working in fields you''''re interested in. Seek their advice on career paths, skill development, and job opportunities. Professional networking can open doors to placements and valuable insights into the economic sector in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Departmental seminars and workshops, Industry-specific forums
Career Connection
Building a strong professional network is invaluable for job referrals, mentorship, and staying updated on industry trends, which are critical for long-term career growth in India''''s competitive landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed H.S. (10+2) or its equivalent examination from any recognized Board/Council. Specific admission criteria may apply as per college/university guidelines.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 20% (10 marks for 50-mark papers), External: 80% (40 marks for 50-mark papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 1A | Introductory Microeconomics | Core Course | 6 | Basic Economic Problems, Demand and Supply Analysis, Consumer Behaviour, Production and Cost Theory, Market Structures (Perfect Competition, Monopoly) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 2A | Introductory Macroeconomics | Core Course | 6 | National Income Accounting, Determination of Output and Employment, Money and Banking, Inflation, Open Economy Macroeconomics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 3A | Elementary Statistics for Economics | Core Course | 6 | Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Correlation Analysis, Regression Analysis (Simple) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 4A | Indian Economy - I | Core Course | 6 | Basic Characteristics of Indian Economy, Economic Planning in India, Agricultural Sector, Industrial Sector, Poverty, Inequality, and Unemployment |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 1A | Development Economics | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Concepts and Measures of Development, Theories of Economic Growth, Poverty and Inequality, Population and Human Capital, Role of State and Market in Development |
| DSE 1B | Environmental Economics | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Environmental Problems and Economic Growth, Market Failure and Externalities, Valuation of Environmental Goods, Environmental Policies, Sustainable Development |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 2A | Public Finance | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Role of Government in the Economy, Public Expenditure, Taxation Principles, Public Debt and Fiscal Deficit, Fiscal Policy and Economic Stabilization |
| DSE 2B | International Economics | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Theories of International Trade, Terms of Trade, Trade Barriers (Tariffs, Quotas), Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate Regimes |
