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PHD in Economics at Shree J. M. Patel Institute of Studies and Research in Humanities, Arts and Commerce
Anand, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Shree J. M. Patel Institute of Studies and Research in Humanities, Arts and Commerce Anand?
This PhD Economics program at Shree J. M. Patel Institute of Studies and Research focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research across diverse economic domains. It aims to cultivate critical thinking, rigorous analytical skills, and a deep understanding of India''''s unique socio-economic landscape. The program prepares scholars to contribute significantly to economic policy formulation, academic discourse, and specialized industry research, addressing complex challenges within the dynamic Indian economic environment.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring economists, researchers, and academicians holding a Master''''s degree in Economics or allied fields, who possess a strong inclination towards in-depth, original research. It caters to fresh postgraduates eager to carve out a career in advanced economic analysis, as well as working professionals in government, think tanks, or financial institutions looking to gain specialized knowledge and contribute to policy-making or higher education in India. Candidates with a robust foundation in quantitative methods and economic theory will find this program particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including academic positions as professors or researchers in universities, economic analysts in government ministries (e.g., NITI Aayog, Ministry of Finance), research associates in national and international organizations (e.g., RBI, World Bank India office), or consultants in economic policy firms. The Indian job market highly values PhD economists for their rigorous analytical skills, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from INR 6-12 LPA and experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters intellectual leadership and contributes to the nation''''s economic research capabilities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Skills- (Semester 1)
Focus intensely on the PhD coursework, particularly Research Methodology and Advanced Economic Theory. Develop a strong grasp of quantitative techniques, econometric software (e.g., R, Stata, EViews), and academic writing. This foundation is crucial for successful dissertation work and subsequent research endeavors.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Econometrics/Research Methods, Sardar Patel University library access and academic databases, Academic writing workshops, Software tutorials for R, Stata, EViews
Career Connection
Essential for conducting rigorous, publishable research, which is a prerequisite for securing academic and research roles in India.
Engage Proactively with Faculty Mentors- (Semester 1)
Proactively connect with your assigned research guide and other faculty members in the Economics department. Discuss potential research areas, get early feedback on initial ideas, and clearly understand the academic expectations for your PhD journey. Actively attend departmental seminars and research presentations.
Tools & Resources
Regular scheduled meetings with your research guide, Departmental seminar schedules, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Builds a foundational academic network, guides your research direction effectively, and helps secure strong recommendation letters crucial for future job applications.
Cultivate Critical Reading Habits- (Semester 1)
Develop the habit of critically reading peer-reviewed journal articles, economic surveys (e.g., India Economic Survey), and relevant policy documents. Focus on understanding research gaps, diverse methodological approaches, and implications specifically for the Indian economic context.
Tools & Resources
J-STOR, Project MUSE, EBSCOhost (via SPU library), RBI Publications, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), Government of India Economic Survey
Career Connection
Enhances analytical skills, informs the selection of a high-impact research topic, and keeps you updated on contemporary economic debates relevant to policy and academia in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (End of Year 1 / Beginning of Year 2)
Based on your coursework and initial explorations, formulate a clear, feasible, and intellectually impactful research proposal. This involves identifying a significant research gap, outlining a sound methodology, and detailing your expected contributions to economic knowledge. Seek extensive feedback from your guide.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides on proposal development, Literature review management software (e.g., Mendeley), Feedback from guide and departmental presentations
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal is the blueprint for a successful thesis and demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research, a skill highly valued in academic and policy research positions.
Network at National Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Actively attend and present your ongoing research at national-level economics conferences and workshops (e.g., those organized by Indian Economic Association, various IIMs, JNU). This provides invaluable exposure, constructive feedback, and crucial networking opportunities with senior economists and peers.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference listings on university and association websites, University funding opportunities for conference travel/registration
Career Connection
Builds your professional network, helps refine your research arguments, and enhances your visibility within the Indian academic and research community for post-PhD career prospects.
Engage in In-depth Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Year 2-3)
Dedicate significant time to data collection (if empirical), meticulous data cleaning, robust analysis, and insightful interpretation of results. Master relevant econometric techniques and statistical software. Focus on drawing meaningful conclusions relevant to the Indian economy or specific policy challenges.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software like Stata, R, Python (with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn), Access to Indian government data sources (NSSO, MOSPI), CMIE Prowess, RBI database, World Bank India data
Career Connection
Develops highly sought-after empirical and data analysis skills, crucial for roles in research, policy analysis, and data science sectors in India.
Advanced Stage
Target High-Quality Research Publications- (Year 3-5)
Aim to publish parts of your thesis research in peer-reviewed national or international journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Economic Review, other reputed journals in your sub-field). Having publications is a strong credential for the competitive academic job market in India.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission guidelines and scope documents, Academic writing support and proofreading services, Guidance from your research guide on target journals and publication strategies
Career Connection
Significantly enhances your CV for academic faculty positions, research roles, and improves your chances of securing prestigious post-doctoral fellowships in India or abroad.
Thoroughly Prepare for Viva Voce and Thesis Defense- (Year 4-6 (leading up to graduation))
Engage in comprehensive preparation for the final thesis defense (Viva Voce). Be ready to articulately present your research, rigorously defend your methodology, and discuss your contributions, implications, and limitations. Practice presentations and anticipate potential questions from examiners.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with departmental faculty and peers, Detailed review and self-assessment of your completed thesis, Presentation skills workshops and resources
Career Connection
Successful thesis defense is the culminating achievement of your PhD, which formally grants you the degree and opens doors to all subsequent professional and academic career opportunities.
Strategize Post-PhD Career Applications- (Year 4-6 (leading up to and immediately after graduation))
Actively search for academic job postings (assistant professor, post-doctoral fellowships), research positions in think tanks, or roles in government bodies across India. Tailor your CV, cover letter, and research statement specifically for each application, highlighting your specialized research and teaching potential. Prepare for interviews and chalk talks.
Tools & Resources
University career services and placement cells, Academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, India-specific portals like current academic job boards), Professional networking through conferences and faculty connections
Career Connection
Ensures a strategic and smooth transition from a PhD candidate to a professional economist, researcher, or academician, aligning your skills and expertise with available opportunities in the Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or equivalent) in Economics or an allied subject from a recognized university with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/SEBC/PH candidates). Candidates must qualify the University Research Entrance Test (VRET) or be exempted if they have cleared NET/SET/M.Phil as per UGC regulations.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (excluding extensions); coursework typically 1-2 semesters.
Credits: 12 (for coursework component, assuming 3 papers of 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDE-CW-01 | Research Methodology and Computer Application | Core | 4 | Logic and Scientific Method in Research, Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods and Sampling, Hypothesis Testing and Statistical Techniques, Academic Research Report Writing, Computer Applications for Research (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Internet) |
| PHDE-CW-02 | Advanced Economic Theory | Core | 4 | Advanced Microeconomic Analysis (Consumer, Production, Market Structures), Advanced Macroeconomic Analysis (National Income, Money, Inflation), Theories of Economic Growth and Development, Business Cycles and Stabilization Policies, International Trade and Finance Theory |
| PHDE-CW-03 | Recent Developments in Economics (Specialization) | Elective | 4 | Econometrics and Quantitative Techniques, Mathematical Economics and Modeling, Environmental and Resource Economics, Public Economics and Policy, International Economics and Globalisation, Contemporary Issues in Indian Economy |
