

PH-D in Economics at Sri Mannu Lal Kanya Mahavidyalaya


Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Sri Mannu Lal Kanya Mahavidyalaya Kanpur Nagar?
This Ph.D. in Economics program at Sri Mannu Lal Kanya Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with CSJMU, focuses on advanced economic theory, rigorous research methodologies, and contemporary policy analysis. The program is designed to cultivate critical thinking and original research capabilities, with a strong emphasis on understanding and addressing India''''s complex economic challenges and contributing to its developmental narrative. It aims to produce scholars capable of making significant contributions to both academic and policy spheres.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, researchers, and policy analysts who hold a Master''''s degree in Economics and possess a strong passion for in-depth economic inquiry. It caters to individuals aiming for careers in university teaching, government economic advisory roles, research institutions, think tanks, and international organizations. Candidates should have a foundational understanding of economic theory and quantitative methods.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue high-impact careers in academia as professors or postdoctoral researchers, contribute to significant policy decisions within government ministries or apex bodies like NITI Aayog and RBI, and undertake advanced research in leading economic think tanks. The program prepares individuals to address India-specific economic issues, with potential salary ranges for entry-level researchers typically starting from INR 6-10 LPA, increasing significantly with experience and publications.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Coursework Phase (Semester 1))
Thoroughly grasp the concepts taught in the Research Methodology coursework. Actively participate in discussions, complete assignments diligently, and critically analyze existing research papers to understand diverse methodologies. Attend workshops on statistical software like SPSS, R, or Python for data analysis.
Tools & Resources
CSJMU Course Work Syllabus, Textbooks on Research Methodology, Online tutorials for SPSS/R/Python, JSTOR for academic papers
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is crucial for designing robust research, which is essential for any academic or research role, ensuring the credibility and impact of future publications.
Deepen Economic Theory- (Coursework Phase (Semester 1))
Beyond the Advanced Economics coursework, delve into specific sub-fields of economics that pique your interest. Read seminal papers and contemporary articles to build a comprehensive understanding of theoretical frameworks and their applications. Engage with professors for conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
Core Economics textbooks (Varian, Romer), Journals like Economic & Political Weekly (EPW), Indian Economic Journal, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
In-depth theoretical knowledge is fundamental for developing sophisticated research questions and contributing meaningfully to economic discourse, enhancing your profile for academic positions.
Identify Potential Research Interests- (Coursework Phase (Semester 1))
During the coursework, explore various branches of Economics. Engage with faculty members to understand ongoing research projects and potential areas for your dissertation. Begin identifying broad topics that align with your passions and have significant research gaps in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Faculty consultations, Reviewing Ph.D. theses from CSJMU/other universities, Attending guest lectures
Career Connection
Early identification of a strong research area sets the direction for your entire Ph.D., leading to a focused and impactful dissertation that can open doors to specialized research roles.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Extensive Literature Review- (Months 7-18 (after coursework))
Once a broad research area is identified, conduct a systematic and comprehensive review of existing literature. Identify key theories, methodologies, and empirical findings. Document your findings meticulously, highlighting research gaps and potential contributions.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, University library databases
Career Connection
A thorough literature review is the bedrock of original research. It demonstrates scholarly rigor and helps in carving out a unique niche for your work, crucial for academic recognition.
Develop and Refine Research Proposal- (Months 10-24 (after coursework))
Based on your literature review, formulate a clear, concise, and original research proposal outlining your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and department peers to refine it before formal submission.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Departmental Ph.D. colloquiums, Workshops on proposal writing
Career Connection
A well-articulated proposal is a major milestone and showcases your ability to plan and execute independent research, a core skill sought by research institutions.
Attend and Present at Seminars/Workshops- (Months 12-36)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and national/international conferences. Present your initial research ideas or literature review findings to gather constructive feedback, network with fellow researchers, and stay updated on current economic discourse.
Tools & Resources
CSJMU/Departmental event calendars, Conferences by Indian Economic Association, Research-oriented LinkedIn groups
Career Connection
Presenting builds confidence and communication skills, while networking can lead to collaborations and mentorship opportunities, vital for career advancement in academia.
Advanced Stage
Rigorous Data Collection and Analysis- (Months 24-48)
Execute your approved research methodology, focusing on meticulous data collection (if empirical) or rigorous theoretical modeling. Apply appropriate statistical or econometric techniques to analyze your data. Maintain thorough documentation of your processes and findings.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (Stata, EViews, R), Government survey data (NSSO, MOSPI), RBI reports, Economic Survey of India
Career Connection
Proficiency in data handling and analysis is a highly marketable skill, opening opportunities in data-driven roles in economics, both in research and policy analysis.
Publish Research Papers- (Months 30-60)
Convert sections of your ongoing Ph.D. work into publishable research papers. Aim for peer-reviewed journals, especially those focusing on Indian economic issues or relevant international journals. Early publications significantly boost your academic and research profile.
Tools & Resources
Scopus/Web of Science indexed journals, Departmental publication guidelines, Writing support groups
Career Connection
Publications are the primary currency in academia. A strong publication record is essential for securing faculty positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants.
Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Months 36-72)
Dedicate focused time to writing your dissertation, ensuring coherence, academic rigor, and originality. Prepare thoroughly for your pre-submission seminar and final viva-voce examination by practicing presentations and anticipating potential questions from examiners.
Tools & Resources
University thesis guidelines, Grammarly/Turnitin for editing, Mock viva sessions with peers/supervisors
Career Connection
Successful completion and defense of the thesis are the ultimate culmination of your Ph.D., leading directly to the award of the degree and enabling all subsequent career opportunities requiring a doctorate.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Economics or an allied subject with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer) from a recognized university. Candidates must qualify the university''''s Ph.D. entrance test (exemptions for UGC NET/JRF qualified candidates).
Duration: Minimum 3 years (including coursework), Maximum 6 years
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester phase
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-ECO-C101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods, Quantitative and Qualitative Data Analysis, Research Ethics and Plagiarism, Report Writing and Presentation |
| PHD-ECO-C102 | Advanced Studies in Economics | Core | 4 | Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Advanced Macroeconomic Theory, Econometric Methods and Applications, Development Economics Issues, Public Economics and Policy, International Trade and Finance |
| PHD-ECO-C103 | Literature Review and Research Area | Elective/Project | 4 | Identifying Research Gaps, Critical Review of Existing Literature, Formulation of Research Questions and Hypotheses, Developing a Theoretical Framework, Data Sources for Economic Research, Academic Writing and Presentation Skills |




