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M-A in Economics at The University of Burdwan
Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at The University of Burdwan Purba Bardhaman?
This M.A. Economics program at The University of Burdwan focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, quantitative methods, and their application to Indian and global contexts. It delves into both micro and macro foundations, alongside specialized areas like econometrics, public finance, and development economics, equipping students for diverse analytical roles within India''''s evolving economic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for economics graduates seeking advanced theoretical knowledge and empirical skills. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for roles in economic research, policy analysis, and financial services, as well as working professionals looking to enhance their analytical capabilities for career progression in Indian government, NGOs, or corporate sectors.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in government agencies (e.g., RBI, NITI Aayog), research institutions, banks, and consultancy firms in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with significant growth potential up to 15+ LPA for experienced professionals. The strong quantitative and analytical foundation is highly valued across various Indian industries.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Quantitative Methods. Regularly solve problems from textbooks and past papers to solidify your conceptual understanding and build a strong analytical base required for advanced courses.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Economics, Khan Academy, Standard textbooks by Mankiw, Samuelson, Koutsoyiannis
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for cracking competitive exams like UPSC, RBI Grade B, and for securing entry-level analyst roles in economic research firms.
Develop Quantitative and Statistical Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, practice statistical software like R or Python for basic data analysis. Engage with data sets related to the Indian economy to apply theoretical quantitative methods and prepare for econometrics.
Tools & Resources
R/Python tutorials (Datacamp, Coursera), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) data, CMIE ProwessIQ (if university provides access)
Career Connection
Enhances employability in roles requiring data analysis, econometric modeling, and quantitative research in financial and economic sectors.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex theories and solve problems collaboratively. Teaching and explaining concepts to peers reinforces your own understanding and exposes you to different perspectives, fostering a deeper grasp of the subject matter.
Tools & Resources
University library discussion rooms, Online collaboration tools
Career Connection
Develops communication and teamwork skills vital for professional environments and group projects.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects/Internships- (Semester 3)
Seek opportunities for short-term internships with local research organizations, NGOs focusing on economic development, or faculty-led research projects. This provides practical exposure to economic data, research methodologies, and report writing.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services, Faculty connections
Career Connection
Builds a practical resume, provides networking opportunities, and clarifies career interests in specific economic fields within India.
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose elective courses (Public Economics, Financial Economics, Environmental Economics, Industrial Economics) based on your career aspirations. Dive deep into the chosen specialization through additional readings and online courses.
Tools & Resources
MOOCs (edX, Coursera) for specialized topics, Journals in your chosen field
Career Connection
Develops a niche expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in finance, policy, or environmental sectors.
Participate in Economic Debates and Competitions- (Semester 3-4)
Join university economics clubs, participate in debates, essay competitions, and economic quizzes. This hones your critical thinking, argumentation skills, and ability to apply economic theory to current events, particularly those relevant to India.
Tools & Resources
University Economics Department notices, National level economic student competitions
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, analytical communication, and ability to articulate economic policy views, beneficial for think tanks and policy advisory roles.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project (if applicable)- (Semester 4)
If choosing Project Work, dedicate substantial effort to your research. Identify a relevant and impactful research question, collect and analyze data rigorously, and produce a high-quality thesis. This demonstrates advanced research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (Stata, EViews), Academic databases (JSTOR, ResearchGate), Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Showcases independent research skills, crucial for academic careers, PhD applications, and advanced analyst roles in policy and research organizations.
Intensive Placement and Interview Preparation- (Semester 4)
Start preparing for placements early. This includes refining your resume, practicing aptitude tests, group discussions, and mock interviews. Focus on current economic affairs, statistical concepts, and behavioral questions relevant to job roles in India.
Tools & Resources
University career guidance cell, Online aptitude platforms (IndiaBix), Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for successful placements in banks, consultancies, government, and corporate research departments.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3-4)
Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences. Connect with alumni, faculty, and industry professionals. Networking can open doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities, particularly valuable in the closely-knit Indian professional landscape.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry events (e.g., FICCI, CII events), Alumni association events
Career Connection
Crucial for job searching, career advice, and long-term professional growth in any economic field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have passed Honours in Economics or B.A. with Economics (at least two full papers / 200 marks) as a subject at the Graduation Level.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-I | Microeconomics-I | Core | 5 | Consumer Behaviour, Production Theory, Cost Theory, Perfect Competition, Monopoly |
| CC-II | Macroeconomics-I | Core | 5 | National Income Accounting, Classical and Keynesian Systems, Consumption and Investment Functions, Money Demand and Supply, IS-LM Model |
| CC-III | Quantitative Methods-I | Core | 5 | Functions and Derivatives, Integrals, Matrix Algebra, Optimization Techniques, Differential Equations |
| CC-IV | Indian Economy-I | Core | 5 | Characteristics of Indian Economy, Economic Planning, Agriculture Sector, Industrial Sector, Public Sector |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-V | Microeconomics-II | Core | 5 | Oligopoly and Game Theory, General Equilibrium, Welfare Economics, Externalities, Public Goods |
| CC-VI | Macroeconomics-II | Core | 5 | Inflation and Unemployment, Business Cycles, Monetary Policy, Fiscal Policy, Open Economy Macroeconomics |
| CC-VII | Quantitative Methods-II | Core | 5 | Probability Theory, Statistical Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation Analysis, Simple Linear Regression |
| CC-VIII | Indian Economy-II | Core | 5 | Poverty and Inequality, Unemployment, Population Dynamics, Economic Reforms (LPG), Foreign Trade and Investment |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-IX | Econometrics-I | Core | 5 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Estimation and Hypothesis Testing, Generalized Least Squares, Multicollinearity, Heteroscedasticity |
| CC-X | Development Economics-I | Core | 5 | Theories of Economic Development, Dualism and Poverty Traps, Human Capital and Education, Agriculture and Development, Role of International Trade |
| EC-I (A) | Public Economics-I | Elective | 5 | Public Goods and Externalities, Public Revenue, Principles of Taxation, Tax Incidence, Fiscal Federalism |
| EC-I (B) | Financial Economics-I | Elective | 5 | Financial Markets and Institutions, Asset Pricing Models, Portfolio Theory, Risk and Return, Derivatives (Futures and Options) |
| EC-II (A) | Environmental Economics-I | Elective | 5 | Environmental Quality, Environmental Externalities, Resource Scarcity, Valuation of Environmental Goods, Sustainable Development |
| EC-II (B) | Industrial Economics-I | Elective | 5 | Market Structure and Performance, Theories of the Firm, Industrial Organization, Mergers and Acquisitions, Industrial Policy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-XI | Econometrics-II | Core | 5 | Time Series Econometrics, Panel Data Models, Limited Dependent Variable Models, Simultaneous Equation Models, Forecasting Techniques |
| CC-XII | Development Economics-II | Core | 5 | Growth Models (Solow, Endogenous), Poverty Measurement and Policy, Inequality and Distribution, Microfinance and Rural Development, International Aid and Debt |
| EC-III (A) | Public Economics-II | Elective | 5 | Public Expenditure, Budgetary Policy, Public Debt, Fiscal Reforms, Goods and Services Tax (GST) |
| EC-III (B) | Financial Economics-II | Elective | 5 | Bond Markets, Equity Markets, Risk Management Techniques, Behavioral Finance, International Finance |
| EC-IV (A) | Environmental Economics-II | Elective | 5 | Climate Change Economics, Pollution Control Policies, Natural Resource Management, Green Accounting, International Environmental Agreements |
| EC-IV (B) | Industrial Economics-II | Elective | 5 | Regulation of Industries, Competition Policy, Innovation and Research & Development, Globalization and Industry Structure, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India |
| PJ | Project Work | Project | 10 | Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Literature Review, Report Writing, Presentation of Findings |
