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MA-ECONOMICS in Economics at Sree Sankara College, Kalady
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Sree Sankara College, Kalady Ernakulam?
This MA Economics program at Sree Sankara College focuses on equipping students with advanced theoretical knowledge and analytical tools in economics. It addresses contemporary economic issues relevant to India, preparing graduates for diverse roles in public policy, research, and industry. The program emphasizes quantitative methods, applied economics, and a deep understanding of macroeconomic and microeconomic principles, crucial for India''''s evolving economic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates in Economics or related quantitative fields seeking entry into economic research, data analysis, or policy advisory roles. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their analytical skills for career progression in banking, finance, or government sectors. Candidates with a strong aptitude for quantitative reasoning and a keen interest in India''''s economic development would greatly benefit.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths in India as economic analysts, data scientists, policy researchers, or consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential reaching INR 10-15+ lakhs for experienced professionals. The strong analytical foundation also prepares students for competitive exams like UPSC and for further academic pursuits like MPhil/PhD.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding micro and macroeconomic theories in Semesters 1 and 2. Utilize textbooks, reference materials, and online lectures from platforms like NPTEL or Swayam to build a robust conceptual foundation. Actively participate in class discussions to clarify doubts and deepen comprehension of fundamental economic models.
Tools & Resources
Hal Varian Microeconomic Analysis, Mankiw Macroeconomics, NPTEL Economics courses, Swayam online courses
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is essential for all advanced economic analyses and forms the bedrock for competitive exams and higher studies in economics.
Develop Quantitative Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate extra time to Quantitative Methods in Economics. Practice problem-solving regularly from textbooks and previous year''''s question papers. Consider joining online courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy for advanced Excel, R, or Python basics to supplement classroom learning, crucial for data-driven economic roles.
Tools & Resources
R.S. Aggarwal Quantitative Aptitude, Khan Academy Math, Coursera Data Science Specializations, Basic Python/R tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in quantitative methods is highly valued by employers in finance, analytics, and research roles, enhancing job prospects significantly.
Engage in Economic Debates and News- (Semester 1-2)
Stay updated with current economic affairs in India and globally by reading reputable financial newspapers like The Economic Times, Business Standard, and Mint. Participate in college economic forums, debates, and presentations. This helps connect theoretical knowledge with real-world policy discussions and improves critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, RBI publications, NITI Aayog reports
Career Connection
Cultivates an informed perspective, essential for roles in policy analysis, economic journalism, and civil services.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Beyond coursework, identify an area of interest in Indian economics and undertake small-scale research projects, perhaps with a faculty mentor. This could involve data collection, simple statistical analysis, and writing a short report. This develops research aptitude and adds value to your profile.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, SPSS/R (basic), Access to library databases, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
Practical research experience is highly beneficial for positions in research institutions, think tanks, and for preparing for dissertations.
Seek Internships and Industry Exposure- (Semester 3)
Actively look for internships during semester breaks, especially in Semester 3. Target local banks, financial consultancies, NGOs working on economic development, or even government departments in Kerala. This provides invaluable real-world experience and helps build professional networks.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, College Placement Cell, Networking events
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining practical skills, understanding industry demands, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong referrals.
Specialise in an Elective and Deep Dive- (Semester 3)
Choose your electives strategically based on your career interests (e.g., Econometrics for data roles, Health Economics for policy). Once chosen, deep dive into the subject beyond the syllabus through advanced readings, case studies, and workshops. This helps in developing a niche expertise.
Tools & Resources
Journal articles (JSTOR, EconLit), Specialized textbooks, Online courses in chosen elective, Industry whitepapers
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles and helps in crafting a focused career trajectory.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Treat your final semester project or dissertation as a capstone of your learning. Choose a relevant topic with a strong research question, conduct thorough analysis, and aim for a high-quality report. This is a significant opportunity to showcase your analytical and research capabilities to potential employers.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Statistical software (R, Stata, Python), Reference management tools (Zotero, Mendeley), Thesis writing guides
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation acts as a powerful portfolio piece, demonstrating independent research ability, critical thinking, and advanced analytical skills to recruiters.
Intensive Placement and Interview Preparation- (Semester 4)
Begin preparing for placements and competitive exams early in Semester 4. Practice aptitude tests, group discussions, and mock interviews. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific job descriptions. Leverage the college''''s placement cell for guidance, workshops, and recruitment drives.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell workshops, Online aptitude test platforms, Mock interview sessions, Professional resume builders
Career Connection
Thorough preparation directly translates into securing desirable job offers or performing well in national-level competitive examinations.
Network and Build Professional Relationships- (Semester 4)
Attend industry seminars, conferences, and alumni meets. Connect with professors, guest lecturers, and professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. These networks can provide mentorship, job leads, and insights into career opportunities in the Indian economic landscape. Building relationships is key for long-term career growth.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Industry events and webinars, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Economic Association)
Career Connection
Strong professional networks open doors to hidden job markets, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities, significantly influencing career progression and mobility.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must hold a BA Degree in Economics or related fields (Foreign Trade, Development Economics, Business Economics, Economics with Islamic Finance) or a BSc in Mathematics/Statistics, with a minimum of 45% marks in optional subjects or a CGPA of 4.5 on a 10-point scale.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: Minimum 80 credits (As per MGU regulations for successful completion) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010101 | Microeconomic Theory – I | Core | 4 | Consumer Behaviour Analysis, Production and Cost Theories, Market Structure (Perfect Competition), Monopoly and Price Discrimination, Oligopoly Models |
| EC010102 | Macroeconomic Theory – I | Core | 4 | Classical Macroeconomic Theory, Keynesian Revolution, IS-LM Model, Aggregate Demand and Supply, Endogenous Growth Theory |
| EC010103 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis – I | Core | 4 | Basic Calculus for Economics, Matrix Algebra, Differential and Difference Equations, Input-Output Analysis, Linear Programming |
| EC010104 | Indian Economic Policy – I | Core | 4 | Economic Reforms in India, Agricultural Sector Issues, Industrial Sector Development, Service Sector Growth, Monetary and Fiscal Policies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010201 | Microeconomic Theory – II | Core | 4 | Welfare Economics, General Equilibrium Analysis, Game Theory, Economics of Uncertainty and Information, Market Failures and Externalities |
| EC010202 | Macroeconomic Theory – II | Core | 4 | Theories of Consumption, Theories of Investment, Money Demand and Supply, Inflation and Unemployment, Business Cycles |
| EC010203 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis – II | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Sampling and Estimation, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Time Series and Index Numbers |
| EC010204 | Indian Economic Policy – II | Core | 4 | Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment, Human Development in India, Environmental Issues and Policy, External Sector Reforms, Regional Disparities |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010301 | Public Economics | Core | 4 | Public Goods and Externalities, Public Revenue and Taxation, Public Expenditure, Fiscal Policy and Debt, Federal Finance in India |
| EC010302 | International Economics | Core | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Terms of Trade and Trade Barriers, Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate Regimes, International Economic Organizations |
| EC010303 | Development Economics | Core | 4 | Theories of Economic Development, Poverty, Inequality and Malnutrition, Population and Human Capital, Agricultural Transformation, Sustainable Development Goals |
| EC010305 | Econometrics | Elective | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Problems in Regression Analysis, Dummy Variables and Their Applications, Simultaneous Equation Models, Time Series Econometrics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC010401 | Environmental Economics | Core | 4 | Environmental Problems and Market Failure, Valuation of Environmental Resources, Environmental Policies and Regulations, Sustainable Development, Climate Change Economics |
| EC010402 | Financial Economics | Core | 4 | Financial Markets and Instruments, Portfolio Theory, Capital Asset Pricing Model, Derivatives Markets, Indian Financial System |
| EC010404 | Health Economics | Elective | 4 | Demand and Supply of Health Care, Health Care Financing, Health Insurance and Risk Pooling, Health Policy and Planning, Indian Health Sector Challenges |
| EC010405 | Project / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review and Hypothesis, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Interpretation, Presentation and Viva Voce |
