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MA-ECONOMICS in Economics at Sree Siddaganga First Grade College of Arts and Commerce
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Sree Siddaganga First Grade College of Arts and Commerce Bengaluru?
This MA Economics program at Sree Siddaganga First Grade College of Arts and Commerce, affiliated with Bengaluru North University, focuses on equipping students with a robust understanding of economic theories, quantitative methods, and policy analysis. The curriculum is designed to address contemporary economic challenges and opportunities within the Indian and global contexts, preparing graduates for diverse roles in research, policy-making, and financial sectors. India''''s rapidly evolving economy creates significant demand for skilled economists capable of informed decision-making.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates holding a Bachelor''''s degree with Economics as a core subject, aspiring to deepen their analytical and research capabilities. It also caters to working professionals in government, NGOs, or the private sector seeking to enhance their economic expertise for career advancement or to transition into roles requiring advanced economic understanding. Candidates interested in economic research, public policy, or data analysis will find this program particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths in India as economic analysts, researchers, consultants, and policy advisors in government bodies, think tanks, and financial institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, crucial for growth trajectories in organizations like NITI Aayog, Reserve Bank of India, various ministries, and corporate research departments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental microeconomic and macroeconomic theories, mathematical concepts, and statistical methods introduced in the first two semesters. Focus on building a strong conceptual base, as these are the pillars for advanced studies and analytical work.
Tools & Resources
Standard Textbooks (Mankiw, Dornbusch, Gujarati), Online Courses (NPTEL, Coursera), Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is essential for effective economic analysis and policy formulation, making you a more valuable asset in any economic role, from research to policy advisory, and preparing for higher studies.
Develop Quantitative Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with courses like Mathematics for Economists and Statistical Methods. Practice problem-solving rigorously and consider learning basic statistical software (like R or Python for data analysis) alongside your coursework. This proactive approach strengthens your analytical toolkit.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Math books for revision, Khan Academy for Calculus, Software tutorials for R/Python (DataCamp, Udemy)
Career Connection
Strong quantitative and statistical skills are highly sought after in economics, finance, and data science roles in India, providing a competitive edge in job markets for roles such as data analyst, research associate, or quantitative economist.
Engage in Economic Discussions & Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom lectures, participate actively in college economic forums, seminars, and debates. Discuss current economic affairs, read financial newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard), and develop the ability to critically analyze real-world economic issues.
Tools & Resources
Financial newspapers and magazines, Online economic news portals, Departmental seminars and guest lectures
Career Connection
This practice enhances critical thinking, communication, and informed opinion formation, crucial for roles requiring policy interpretation, public speaking, or media engagement in India''''s dynamic economic landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Specializations through Electives- (Semester 3)
Carefully select optional papers in Semester 3 based on your interests and career aspirations. Utilize this opportunity to delve deeper into specific fields like Environmental Economics, Financial Economics, or Industrial Economics, gaining specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Course catalogues, Faculty advising sessions, Career counseling workshops
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you more attractive to niche roles in specific sectors within India, such as environmental policy analysis, financial sector regulation, or industrial growth strategies, aligning your skills with industry demand.
Undertake Mini Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Seek opportunities to work on small research projects or term papers under faculty guidance. This helps in understanding research methodology, data collection, and analytical reporting, which are crucial for the final dissertation and future research roles.
Tools & Resources
University library resources (JSTOR, EBSCO), Faculty mentors, Research methodology books
Career Connection
Practical research experience is invaluable for academic pursuits (PhD) and roles in think tanks, research institutions, and data-driven organizations in India, demonstrating your ability to conduct independent analytical work.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3)
Attend industry-specific workshops, webinars, and alumni meets organized by the college or university. Engage with professionals working in various economic fields to understand industry trends, career paths, and potential internship opportunities in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network portals, Industry conferences and seminars
Career Connection
Building a strong professional network can lead to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities, significantly improving your chances of securing a desirable placement in India''''s competitive job market.
Advanced Stage
Execute a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Treat your Semester 4 project/dissertation as a capstone experience. Choose a topic of high relevance, conduct thorough research, apply appropriate methodologies, and ensure high-quality presentation. This demonstrates your complete analytical and research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (SPSS, EViews, R), Research design handbooks, Dedicated faculty supervision
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a powerful portfolio piece for job interviews and higher education applications, showcasing your mastery of economic research and problem-solving skills, vital for roles in academia or advanced policy research in India.
Intensive Placement and Interview Preparation- (Semester 4)
In your final semester, focus on honing your interview skills, preparing a professional resume and cover letter, and practicing quantitative aptitude and economic reasoning questions frequently asked in placement drives. Participate in mock interviews.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling cell, Online aptitude test platforms, Interview preparation guides
Career Connection
Targeted preparation significantly increases your chances of securing placements in top companies, financial institutions, and government roles in India, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to professional life.
Consider Professional Certifications for Edge- (Semester 4 and post-graduation)
Depending on your specialization, explore relevant professional certifications that complement your MA Economics degree. For example, certifications in financial modeling, data analytics, or specific industry knowledge can give you an additional edge in the job market.
Tools & Resources
NISM certifications (for finance), Data Analytics certifications (Coursera, IBM), Online specialized courses
Career Connection
These certifications demonstrate practical skills and industry readiness, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in India''''s booming financial services, consulting, or data analytics sectors, potentially leading to higher entry salaries.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree (B.A./B.Sc./B.Com./BBM) with Economics as an optional/compulsory subject, with at least 40% aggregate marks (35% for SC/ST/CAT-I candidates) from a recognized university.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 1.1 | Macro Economics - I | Core | 5 | National Income Accounting, Consumption and Investment Theories, Theories of Interest Rate, Money Supply and Demand, Inflation and Unemployment |
| EC 1.2 | Micro Economics - I | Core | 5 | Consumer Behaviour Analysis, Production and Cost Theory, Market Structures and Pricing, Perfect Competition and Monopoly, Welfare Economics Principles |
| EC 1.3 | Mathematics for Economists | Core | 5 | Basic Algebra and Functions, Differential Calculus Applications, Integral Calculus, Matrix Algebra, Optimization Techniques |
| EC 1.4 | Public Economics - I | Core | 5 | Role of Government in Economy, Public Goods and Externalities, Public Revenue and Taxation, Public Expenditure Theories, Public Debt and Fiscal Policy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 2.1 | Macro Economics - II | Core | 5 | Open Economy Macroeconomics, Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate Regimes, Monetary and Fiscal Policy Mix, Business Cycles and Growth |
| EC 2.2 | Micro Economics - II | Core | 5 | Factor Market Analysis, General Equilibrium Theory, Market Failures and Asymmetric Information, Game Theory Concepts, Economics of Risk and Uncertainty |
| EC 2.3 | Statistical Methods for Economics | Core | 5 | Probability and Distributions, Sampling and Estimation, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Index Numbers and Time Series |
| EC 2.4 | Public Economics - II | Core | 5 | Fiscal Federalism in India, Budgeting and Financial Administration, Taxation Structure and Reforms, Public Sector Enterprises, Local Body Finance |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 3.1 | Indian Economy - I | Core | 5 | Structure and Features of Indian Economy, Economic Planning and Reforms, Agriculture and Allied Sectors, Industrial Development and Policy, Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment |
| EC 3.2 | Development Economics - I | Core | 5 | Theories of Economic Development, Characteristics of Developing Economies, Poverty, Inequality and Malnutrition, Population Growth and Human Capital, Sustainable Development Goals |
| EC 3.3 | International Economics - I | Core | 5 | Theories of International Trade, Terms of Trade, Commercial Policy and Trade Barriers, Gains from Trade, International Institutions like WTO |
| EC 3.4 | Optional Paper - I (Choice Based) | Elective | 5 | Foundational Concepts in Chosen Specialization, Analytical Frameworks, Policy Issues, Sector-Specific Dynamics, Introductory Methodologies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC 4.1 | Indian Economy - II | Core | 5 | India''''s External Sector, Services Sector Growth, Infrastructure Development, Regional Disparities and Urbanization, Recent Economic Policies in India |
| EC 4.2 | Development Economics - II | Core | 5 | Theories of Economic Growth, Poverty Alleviation Strategies, Role of Foreign Aid and FDI, Technology Transfer and Development, Income Distribution and Human Development |
| EC 4.3 | International Economics - II | Core | 5 | Balance of Payments Analysis, Foreign Exchange Markets, Exchange Rate Determination, International Financial System, Regional Economic Integration |
| EC 4.4 | Optional Paper - II (Choice Based) | Elective | 5 | Advanced Concepts in Chosen Specialization, Empirical Applications, Case Studies and Policy Analysis, Current Trends and Challenges, Research Methods in Specialization |
| EC 4.5 | Project Work / Dissertation | Core | 5 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
