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B-A in Economics at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This B.A. Economics program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of economic principles, theories, and their real-world applications. The curriculum emphasizes analytical and quantitative skills crucial for addressing complex economic challenges in the Indian and global contexts. It equips students with a strong foundation for diverse career paths in finance, research, policy, and public service.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream with a keen interest in economic phenomena, policy analysis, and data-driven decision-making. It suits individuals aspiring for roles in economic research, financial services, civil services, or pursuing higher education like M.A. in Economics or MBA. Students with a strong aptitude for mathematics and logical reasoning will thrive in this specialization.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles as economic analysts, data scientists, financial consultants, policy researchers, or business strategists within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-20 lakhs for experienced professionals. The curriculum also prepares students for competitive exams such as UPSC Civil Services and RBI Grade B.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Mathematical & Statistical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate extra time to core subjects like Mathematical Methods for Economists and Statistical Methods for Economists. Utilize online platforms like Khan Academy for calculus and basic statistics, and practice problems regularly from textbooks. Form study groups to solve numerical problems collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
Khan Academy, NCERT Mathematics textbooks (Class 11 & 12), Previous year question papers
Career Connection
A solid quantitative base is indispensable for advanced economics and data analysis roles, which are highly valued in the Indian job market for economists and analysts.
Enhance Communication and English Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in English and Language classes to refine academic writing, critical reading, and public speaking abilities. Engage in debates, presentations, and group discussions. Read economic articles from Indian newspapers like The Hindu, Economic Times, and Business Standard daily to build vocabulary.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Economic Times, Debate clubs, Presentation software like PowerPoint
Career Connection
Effective communication is crucial for presenting economic analysis, writing reports, and succeeding in interviews for roles in policymaking, journalism, and corporate sectors.
Develop Foundational Computer Literacy- (Semester 1-2)
Master basic computer skills and data analysis tools introduced in subjects like Computer Fundamentals and Data Analysis with Excel. Practice creating spreadsheets, using formulas, and visualizing data. Consider pursuing a basic certification in Microsoft Excel.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Excel, Online Excel tutorials, Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification
Career Connection
Proficiency in office tools and basic data handling is a prerequisite for almost all entry-level positions in research, finance, and administration across Indian industries.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Indian Economic Policy Discussions- (Semester 3-4)
Regularly follow current economic affairs in India through national newspapers, economic magazines, and government reports. Participate in departmental seminars and discussions focused on Indian economic policies, budget analysis, and sectoral performance. Start analyzing macro and microeconomic policies.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, RBI publications, Economic Survey of India, LiveMint.com
Career Connection
Understanding Indian economic realities is vital for roles in government, public policy, and research, providing a competitive edge in the domestic job market.
Acquire Software Proficiency for Economic Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond Excel, gain hands-on experience with statistical software like SPSS (introduced in the curriculum) and consider learning R or Python for econometric modeling and data visualization. Work on small data projects to apply theoretical concepts from Econometrics I and II.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, RStudio, Python (with Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib), Kaggle datasets
Career Connection
Advanced software skills are highly sought after by Indian analytics firms, financial institutions, and research organizations for data scientist and econometrician roles.
Seek Early Internship and Project Opportunities- (Semester 4-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or volunteer for research projects with faculty or local NGOs/think tanks. Apply the concepts learned in subjects like Entrepreneurial Economics and Research Methodology. Document your experiences and learn from practical challenges.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Career Development Centre, LinkedIn, Internshala, Departmental research projects
Career Connection
Early practical exposure strengthens your resume, builds a professional network, and provides valuable insights into industry workings, boosting your employability for future placements.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 5-6)
Utilize the Project Work and Research Methodology courses to conduct an in-depth research study on a relevant economic issue, ideally with an India-specific focus. Develop strong analytical, data collection, and thesis writing skills. Seek guidance from faculty and external experts.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Statistical databases (e.g., World Bank, NSSO), LaTeX for thesis writing
Career Connection
A strong research project showcases analytical prowess and specialized knowledge, making candidates highly attractive for research positions, think tanks, and academic careers.
Specialize and Network in Niche Areas- (Semester 5-6)
Leverage elective courses like Environmental Economics or Financial Economics to specialize in areas of interest. Attend industry conferences, workshops, and webinars related to your chosen specialization. Network with professionals and alumni in these fields.
Tools & Resources
Industry association events, LinkedIn networking, Professional workshops, Departmental alumni meets
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and a strong professional network significantly enhance opportunities for targeted placements in specific sectors like green finance, economic consulting, or financial markets in India.
Intensive Placement and Higher Education Preparation- (Semester 6)
Focus on developing interview skills, resume building, and group discussion techniques. Prepare for competitive exams like CAT, GATE, or UPSC if pursuing higher education or civil services. Practice quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and general awareness consistently.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell workshops, Mock interviews, Online test series for competitive exams, Current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation is crucial for securing coveted placements in top Indian companies, excelling in entrance exams for postgraduate studies, or successfully clearing civil service examinations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidate should have passed 10+2 or Equivalent with minimum aggregate of 50% (from SRMIST Admissions)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 126 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23LEL101 | English I | Foundational Course | 3 | Communication Skills, Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Basic Writing Skills, Spoken English |
| 23LET101 | Language I (Tamil/Hindi/French/German/Sanskrit/Korean/Japanese) | Foundational Course | 3 | Basic Grammar, Literary Forms, Cultural Context, Writing Practice, Oral Communication |
| 23LES101 | Environmental Studies | Foundational Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Sustainable Development, Environmental Ethics |
| 23ECO101 | Microeconomics I | Core | 4 | Economic Problems, Consumer Behavior, Demand and Supply, Production Theory, Market Structures |
| 23ECO102 | Mathematical Methods for Economists I | Core | 4 | Basic Algebra, Functions and Graphs, Calculus (Differentiation), Optimization Techniques, Economic Applications |
| 23ECA101 | Principles of Accounting | Allied Elective | 3 | Accounting Concepts, Journal and Ledger, Trial Balance, Financial Statements, Cost Accounting Basics |
| 23CSC101 | Computer Fundamentals | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Computer Basics, Hardware and Software, Operating Systems, MS Office Applications, Internet Concepts |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23LEL201 | English II | Foundational Course | 3 | Advanced Reading, Critical Thinking, Academic Writing, Report Writing, Public Speaking |
| 23LET201 | Language II (Tamil/Hindi/French/German/Sanskrit/Korean/Japanese) | Foundational Course | 3 | Intermediate Grammar, Literary Analysis, Cultural Studies, Advanced Writing, Conversational Skills |
| 23LES201 | Value Education | Foundational Course | 2 | Ethics and Morality, Human Values, Professional Ethics, Social Responsibility, Character Building |
| 23ECO201 | Microeconomics II | Core | 4 | Market Structures, Factor Pricing, Welfare Economics, General Equilibrium, Market Failures |
| 23ECO202 | Mathematical Methods for Economists II | Core | 4 | Integration Techniques, Differential Equations, Matrix Algebra, Linear Programming, Game Theory Basics |
| 23STA201 | Statistical Methods for Economists I | Allied Elective | 3 | Data Collection, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Probability Theory, Correlation Analysis |
| 23CSC201 | Data Analysis with Excel | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Excel Basics, Formulas and Functions, Data Visualization, Data Filtering and Sorting, Pivot Tables |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23ECO301 | Macroeconomics I | Core | 4 | National Income Accounting, Classical Economics, Keynesian Economics, Consumption and Investment, Multiplier and Accelerator |
| 23ECO302 | Indian Economy I | Core | 4 | Economic Growth in India, Structural Changes, Agriculture Sector, Industrial Sector, Services Sector |
| 23ECO303 | Statistical Methods for Economists II | Core | 4 | Sampling Theory, Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis, Time Series Analysis, Index Numbers |
| 23ECU301 | Entrepreneurial Economics | Elective Course | 3 | Entrepreneurship Concepts, Small Business Management, Innovation and Creativity, Project Planning, Funding Sources |
| 23ECA302 | Advanced Accounting | Allied Elective | 3 | Partnership Accounts, Company Accounts, Branch Accounting, Departmental Accounts, Amalgamation and Reconstruction |
| 23CSC301 | Basics of SPSS | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | SPSS Interface, Data Entry and Management, Data Transformation, Descriptive Statistics, Basic Inferential Statistics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23ECO401 | Macroeconomics II | Core | 4 | Inflation and Deflation, Unemployment Theories, Business Cycles, Fiscal Policy, Monetary Policy |
| 23ECO402 | Indian Economy II | Core | 4 | Planning in India, Poverty and Inequality, Population Issues, Employment Scenario, Economic Reforms |
| 23ECO403 | Econometrics I | Core | 4 | Classical Linear Regression, Assumptions of OLS, Estimation and Inference, Hypothesis Testing, Diagnostic Checking |
| 23ECU402 | Public Finance | Elective Course | 3 | Public Expenditure, Public Revenue, Principles of Taxation, Public Debt, Fiscal Policy |
| 23ECB401 | Managerial Economics | Allied Elective | 3 | Demand Forecasting, Production Decisions, Cost Analysis, Pricing Strategies, Capital Budgeting |
| 23CSC401 | Data Visualisation with Tableau | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Tableau Interface, Data Connection, Chart and Graph Types, Dashboards Creation, Storytelling with Data |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23ECO501 | International Economics I | Core | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Trade Policy Instruments, Terms of Trade, Balance of Payments, Foreign Exchange Rates |
| 23ECO502 | Development Economics I | Core | 4 | Economic Development Concepts, Theories of Underdevelopment, Poverty and Inequality, Human Capital Formation, Development Indicators |
| 23ECO503 | Econometrics II | Core | 4 | Panel Data Models, Time Series Econometrics, Simultaneous Equation Models, Qualitative Response Models, Forecasting Techniques |
| 23ECU503 | Research Methodology for Economics | Elective Course | 3 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Hypothesis Formulation, Report Writing |
| 23ECU504 | Environmental Economics | Elective Course | 3 | Environmental Problems, Resource Scarcity, Valuation of Environment, Pollution Control, Sustainable Development |
| 23SEC501 | Internship | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Practical Application, Industry Exposure, Professional Skill Development, Organizational Structure, Report Submission |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23ECO601 | International Economics II | Core | 4 | International Finance, Monetary Policy Coordination, Global Economic Issues, WTO and Trade Blocks, International Capital Flows |
| 23ECO602 | Development Economics II | Core | 4 | Population Growth, Migration and Development, Health and Education, Role of State, Foreign Aid and FDI |
| 23ECO603 | Applied Econometrics | Core | 4 | Project Work, Data Analysis Techniques, Model Building, Interpretation of Results, Policy Implications |
| 23ECU605 | History of Economic Thought | Elective Course | 3 | Classical Economists, Neoclassical School, Keynesian Revolution, Modern Economic Thought, Indian Economic Thinkers |
| 23ECU606 | Financial Economics | Elective Course | 3 | Financial Markets, Portfolio Theory, Asset Pricing Models, Risk Management, Derivatives and Hedging |
| 23PRJ601 | Project Work | Project | 6 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
