.png&w=1920&q=75)
BA-HONS in Economics at Sri Guru Gobind Singh College
Chandigarh, Chandigarh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Economics at Sri Guru Gobind Singh College Chandigarh?
This BA (Hons) Economics program at Sri Guru Gobind Singh College, Chandigarh, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, quantitative methods, and their application to real-world issues. It emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving, and a deep insight into the Indian and global economic landscape. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled economists in various sectors of the Indian economy.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a strong aptitude for analytical reasoning and an interest in societal issues, public policy, and business dynamics. It caters to students aspiring for careers in economic research, policy formulation, financial analysis, data science, or those planning to pursue higher studies like MA in Economics, MBA, or competitive civil services examinations in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop strong analytical and quantitative skills, making them highly sought after in diverse fields. India-specific career paths include roles in government ministries, RBI, NITI Aayog, banks, financial institutions, economic consultancies, and research organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in the dynamic Indian market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently study core microeconomic and macroeconomic principles, alongside mathematical methods. Regularly solve problems from textbooks and supplementary materials to solidify understanding. Join peer study groups to discuss concepts and clarify doubts collectively.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., Mankiw, Pindyck & Rubinfeld), Khan Academy for math refreshers, NPTEL lectures on foundational economics
Career Connection
A robust theoretical base is critical for cracking advanced economic concepts and forms the bedrock for analytical roles in any economic sector, from policy making to financial analysis.
Cultivate Quantitative Aptitude- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, dedicate time to practicing quantitative problems, especially those involving calculus, linear algebra, and basic statistics relevant to economics. Work through problem sets and engage with online platforms that offer math practice for economists.
Tools & Resources
S.P. Gupta Statistical Methods, R.S. Aggarwal''''s Quantitative Aptitude, Online platforms like Brilliant.org for problem-solving
Career Connection
Strong quantitative skills are indispensable for careers in finance, data analytics, econometrics, and research, enabling effective interpretation and analysis of economic data.
Engage with Current Economic Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading economic newspapers and magazines (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard, The Hindu''''s Business section) to connect theoretical concepts with real-world events and policy debates in India. Follow reputable economic journals and reports from institutions like RBI or NITI Aayog.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, RBI Bulletin, NITI Aayog reports
Career Connection
Understanding current economic affairs is crucial for roles in policy analysis, journalism, and public administration, and provides a context for applying classroom knowledge to contemporary Indian challenges.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Data Analysis and Econometric Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in courses on statistical methods and econometrics. Learn to use statistical software to analyze economic data. Work on mini-projects involving data interpretation and regression analysis to bridge theory and practical application.
Tools & Resources
R/Python (for basic data manipulation and regression), Stata (if available for university lab use), Online tutorials from Coursera/edX on data analytics
Career Connection
Proficiency in data analysis and econometrics is highly valued in roles requiring quantitative research, financial modeling, market analysis, and policy evaluation in India.
Seek Relevant Internships and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Look for internships during summer or winter breaks with economic research firms, NGOs, financial institutions, or government departments. Engage in departmental research projects or case study competitions focused on Indian economic issues to gain practical experience and network.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn for internship postings, Youth for Work portal
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience, help build a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers or significantly boost employability for entry-level positions in the Indian job market.
Participate in Economic Debates and Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Join the college''''s Economics Society or clubs. Actively participate in debates, essay competitions, and economic quizzes. This enhances critical thinking, articulation skills, and the ability to defend economic arguments, which are vital for future professional roles.
Tools & Resources
College Economics Society, Inter-college competitions, Online forums for economic discussions
Career Connection
Strong communication and critical thinking skills are essential for leadership roles, policy advocacy, and effective interaction in professional settings, improving chances in civil services or corporate roles.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Elective Selection and Research- (Semester 6)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your career aspirations, whether in finance, public policy, development, or research. Undertake a substantial research project or dissertation on an area of interest within the Indian economic context, mentored by faculty.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors for guidance, JSTOR, Google Scholar for research papers, National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and research experience are crucial for admission to top MA/PhD programs and for securing roles in specialized economic research or policy think tanks in India.
Intensive Placement and Higher Education Preparation- (Semester 6)
Begin preparing for campus placements, competitive exams (UPSC Civil Services, RBI Grade B, IES), or postgraduate entrance exams (DSE, JNU, IGIDR, ISI) early. Focus on interview skills, group discussions, and aptitude tests. Network extensively with alumni and industry professionals.
Tools & Resources
Career guidance cells, Online test prep platforms, Alumni mentorship programs, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation is key to securing coveted positions in Indian government, public sector banks, or gaining admission to prestigious higher education institutions, leading to accelerated career growth.
Refine Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 6)
Practice presenting economic ideas and findings clearly and concisely, both in written reports and oral presentations. Seek feedback on your communication style. Participate in workshops on professional writing and public speaking to articulate complex economic concepts effectively.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (if available), University communication workshops, Peer review for written assignments
Career Connection
Effective communication is a universal skill crucial for leadership, client interactions, policy advocacy, and academic dissemination, significantly impacting career progression in any field requiring intellectual engagement.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent examination with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/BC) as per Panjab University norms. Candidates who have passed 10+2 with Economics/Mathematics are preferred.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC-C-101 | Introductory Microeconomics | Core | 6 | Introduction to Economics and Economy, Demand and Supply, Consumer Behaviour, Production and Cost, Perfect Competition, Imperfect Competition |
| EC-C-102 | Mathematical Methods for Economics-I | Core | 6 | Basic Concepts, Functions, Differentiation, Univariate Optimization, Integration, Applications in Economics |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - I (e.g., Principles of Microeconomics/Indian Economy) | Generic Elective | 6 | Basic Economic Problems, Demand, Supply and Market Equilibrium, Consumer Theory, Producer Theory, Market Structures, Introduction to Indian Economy |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental Pollution |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC-C-203 | Introductory Macroeconomics | Core | 6 | Introduction to Macroeconomics, National Income Accounting, Money, Inflation, The Closed Economy in the Short Run, The Open Economy in the Short Run |
| EC-C-204 | Mathematical Methods for Economics-II | Core | 6 | Multivariate Optimization, Constrained Optimization, Differential Equations, Difference Equations, Linear Algebra, Applications in Economics |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - II (e.g., Principles of Macroeconomics/Demography) | Generic Elective | 6 | Basic Concepts of Macroeconomics, National Income, Money and Banking, Inflation and Unemployment, Fiscal and Monetary Policy |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theory of Communication, Listening Comprehension, Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC-C-305 | Intermediate Microeconomics-I | Core | 6 | Consumer Theory, Market Demand, Production, Cost, Perfect Competition, General Equilibrium |
| EC-C-306 | Intermediate Macroeconomics-I | Core | 6 | Introduction to Macroeconomics, The Goods Market, Financial Markets, IS-LM Model, Wage Determination and Unemployment, Phillips Curve |
| EC-C-307 | Statistical Methods for Economics | Core | 6 | Introduction to Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability Theory, Probability Distributions, Sampling Methods, Hypothesis Testing |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - III (e.g., Environmental Economics/Public Finance) | Generic Elective | 6 | Market Failures, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Taxation principles, Public expenditure, Budgetary Policy |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course - I (e.g., Data Analysis/Research Methodology) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Data collection methods, Questionnaire design, Data processing, Interpretation of data, Report writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC-C-408 | Intermediate Microeconomics-II | Core | 6 | Market Power: Monopoly, Market Power: Monopolistic Competition, Oligopoly, Factor Markets, Externalities and Public Goods, Asymmetric Information |
| EC-C-409 | Intermediate Macroeconomics-II | Core | 6 | Consumption, Investment, Open Economy Macroeconomics, Economic Growth, Business Cycles, Macroeconomic Policy |
| EC-C-410 | Introduction to Econometrics | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Econometrics, Two-Variable Regression Model, Multiple Regression Analysis, Violations of Classical Assumptions, Dummy Variables, Time Series Econometrics |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - IV (e.g., Money and Banking/Indian Public Finance) | Generic Elective | 6 | Functions of Money, The Monetary System, Central Banking, Commercial Banks, Fiscal Policy in India, Centre-State Financial Relations |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course - II (e.g., Computer Applications in Economics/Financial Economics) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Spreadsheet applications, Statistical software usage, Financial markets, Portfolio theory, Risk management |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC-C-511 | Indian Economy-I | Core | 6 | Economic Development and India, Growth and Structural Change, Population and Human Development, Agriculture, Industry, Services Sector |
| EC-C-512 | Development Economics-I | Core | 6 | Economic Development: Concepts and Approaches, Growth Models, Poverty, Inequality, and Development, Human Capital, Demographic Transition, Institutions and Development |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (e.g., International Economics/Public Economics) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Theories of International Trade, Trade Policy, Balance of Payments, Exchange Rates, Market Failure and Public Goods, Taxation and Efficiency |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (e.g., Comparative Economic Development/History of Economic Thought) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Patterns of Development, Institutional Frameworks, Role of State, Mercantilism and Physiocracy, Classical School, Keynesian Revolution |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EC-C-613 | Indian Economy-II | Core | 6 | Money and Banking in India, Public Finance in India, External Sector of India, Poverty and Inequality in India, Environment and Development, Economic Reforms in India |
| EC-C-614 | Development Economics-II | Core | 6 | Poverty and Malnutrition, Credit and Land Markets, Labour Markets, Environment and Sustainable Development, International Trade and Development, Globalization and Development |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - III (e.g., Financial Economics/Economics of Health & Education) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Financial Institutions, Capital Markets, Asset Pricing, Demand and Supply of Health, Education and Economic Growth, Health and Education Policy |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (e.g., Applied Econometrics/Environmental Economics) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Forecasting Techniques, Panel Data Models, Qualitative Response Models, Environmental Valuation, Pollution Control Policies, Climate Change Economics |
