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PHD-ECONOMICS in Economics at Sree Vidyadhi Raja N.S.S. College, Vazhoor
Kottayam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Sree Vidyadhi Raja N.S.S. College, Vazhoor Kottayam?
This PhD Economics program at Sree Vidyadhi Raja N.S.S. College, recognized by M.G. University, focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in various economic domains. The program aims to cultivate independent researchers capable of contributing to academic scholarship, policy formulation, and industrial analysis within the dynamic Indian economy, preparing scholars to address pressing economic challenges and foster innovative solutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduates in Economics or allied fields seeking to delve into rigorous academic research. It suits fresh graduates with a strong analytical bent aiming for a career in academia or think tanks, as well as working professionals from government, financial institutions, or NGOs looking to acquire advanced research skills and contribute to evidence-based policy making in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as university professors, research scientists in institutions like ICRIER or NIPFP, economic advisors to government bodies, or analysts in major financial corporations across India. The program equips them with skills for advanced econometric analysis, policy evaluation, and theoretical modeling, leading to significant contributions in their chosen field with competitive salary ranges.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodology- (Coursework Semester)
Diligent participation in all research methodology classes is crucial. Focus on understanding econometric techniques, robust research design principles, and statistical software like R or Stata. Consistently practice applying these methods to small-scale datasets to build a strong analytical foundation.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on econometrics, Online tutorials for R/Stata, Econometric Analysis by William Greene, M.G. University Library research databases
Career Connection
Strong methodology skills are fundamental for conducting credible research, leading to impactful publications and forming a solid foundation for future academic or policy-oriented research roles in India.
Deepen Theoretical Foundations- (Coursework Semester)
Beyond coursework, commit to reading seminal papers and advanced textbooks in your chosen specialization area. Engage in critical discussions with faculty and peers to refine your understanding of complex economic theories and their applications to various Indian economic contexts.
Tools & Resources
Journal articles (JSTOR, EconLit), NBER working papers, Classic texts in Micro/Macroeconomics, Department seminars and colloquia
Career Connection
A robust theoretical understanding enables you to formulate original research questions and contribute significant insights, which is crucial for securing academic positions and performing high-level policy analysis.
Develop Effective Academic Writing- (Coursework Semester)
Actively participate in the ''''Review of Literature and Seminar'''' course, focusing intently on structuring literature reviews, proper citation, and clear articulation of research problems. Consistently seek feedback from supervisors and peers on early drafts of your research proposals and review papers.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, M.G. University thesis guidelines, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Excellent academic writing is paramount for successful thesis submission, publishing in reputable journals, and securing vital research grants, directly impacting your academic and research career progression in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Regular Supervisory Meetings- (Post-Coursework to Year 2)
Schedule frequent, productive meetings with your research supervisor. Always prepare detailed updates on your research progress, discuss any challenges encountered, and actively seek guidance on refining your research questions, data collection strategies, and analytical approaches.
Tools & Resources
Regular meeting slots, Prepared agenda/minutes for discussions, University research support services, Communication platforms for virtual meetings
Career Connection
Consistent engagement ensures your research stays on track, receives expert guidance, and meets academic standards, accelerating your progress towards thesis completion and a successful research career in India.
Actively Participate in Research Seminars & Workshops- (Year 1-3)
Attend and present at departmental seminars, university research colloquiums, and national/international workshops. Utilize these platforms to receive constructive feedback on your ongoing research, network with fellow researchers, and identify potential collaborations within the Indian academic circuit.
Tools & Resources
University announcements, Professional economic associations (e.g., Indian Economic Association), Online conference listings, Academic social media platforms
Career Connection
Presenting your work enhances your communication skills, provides critical feedback for improving your research, and builds your academic network, which is essential for future collaborations and job opportunities in India.
Master Data Sourcing and Management- (Year 1-3)
Identify and effectively utilize relevant datasets for your research, focusing specifically on Indian economic data sources (e.g., NSSO, RBI, CMIE Prowess, MOSPI). Learn robust data cleaning, validation, and management techniques to ensure data integrity and reliability.
Tools & Resources
Official government data portals (NSSO, MOSPI), Research data archives (e.g., IGIDR data sources), Statistical software (Stata, R, Python), Data management courses
Career Connection
Proficiency in data handling is highly valued in academia, policy analysis, and industry research roles within India, enabling you to conduct rigorous empirical studies and derive meaningful policy implications.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Consistent Thesis Writing- (Year 3 onwards)
Establish a strict writing routine, dedicating specific blocks of time daily or weekly to thesis chapters. Break down the thesis into manageable sections and focus on drafting, editing, and refining each part systematically to maintain momentum and quality.
Tools & Resources
Writing productivity apps (e.g., Focus@Will), Reference managers (e.g., Zotero), Academic writing guides, Peer review groups for feedback
Career Connection
Consistent writing habits are crucial for completing the thesis within deadlines, demonstrating discipline and productivity, which are highly valued by academic institutions and research organizations in India.
Prepare Rigorously for Viva Voce- (Final 6 months before thesis submission)
Understand the core arguments, methodologies, and findings of your thesis inside out. Anticipate potential questions from examiners on theoretical underpinnings, empirical choices, and policy implications. Conduct mock vivas with supervisors and peers to refine your defense strategy.
Tools & Resources
Your complete thesis document, Relevant research papers, Mock viva sessions, Supervisor''''s guidance and insights
Career Connection
A strong viva performance demonstrates mastery of your research area and critical thinking, leaving a lasting positive impression on examiners (often senior academics), potentially opening doors to post-doctoral or faculty positions.
Actively Pursue Publication Opportunities- (Throughout PhD, especially after Year 2 and post-thesis submission)
Strategically convert thesis chapters or research papers into publishable journal articles. Target reputable peer-reviewed economics journals (both national like EPW and international). Be open to feedback and persistent in revising and resubmitting your work for publication.
Tools & Resources
Journal finder tools (e.g., Elsevier Journal Finder), Academic publishing workshops, Mentor feedback for article improvement, M.G. University research publication guidelines
Career Connection
Publications are the lifeblood of an academic career. A strong publication record enhances your CV, increases your visibility in the research community, and is a critical factor for securing faculty positions and research grants in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree or equivalent in Economics or an allied subject with at least 55% marks (5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled). M.Phil. Degree holders are also eligible. Admission is based on an MGU entrance test and interview (UGC NET/JRF/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders are exempted from the entrance test).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (PhD coursework is 1 semester)
Credits: 10 credits (for candidates with M.Phil.) or 14 credits (for candidates without M.Phil.) for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: Continuous assessment components (assignments, seminars) as per MGU regulations, External: End-semester examination conducted by the University. Candidates must secure a minimum of 50% marks in each course and an aggregate of 55% marks in coursework to continue the PhD.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC PHO1 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Process and Design, Sampling Theory and Techniques, Methods of Data Collection, Statistical Methods and Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| EC PH02 | Advanced Economic Theory | Core (Specialization/Area of Research) | 4 | Microeconomics: Consumer and Producer Behavior, Macroeconomics: Theories of Income and Employment, Theories of Economic Growth and Development, International Economics and Public Economics, Game Theory and Behavioral Economics |
| EC PH03 | Elective Course (e.g., Econometrics) | Elective | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Relaxing Assumptions of CLRM, Panel Data Econometrics, Time Series Econometrics, Applied Econometric Analysis |
| EC PH04 | Review of Literature and Seminar Presentation | Core (for candidates without M.Phil.) | 2 | Literature Survey Techniques, Academic Writing and Referencing, Seminar Presentation Skills, Critical Review of Research Papers, Formulation of Research Problem |
