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M-PHIL in Economics at University College, Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at University College, Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram?
This M.Phil Economics program at University College, Thiruvananthapuram, affiliated with the University of Kerala, focuses on advanced economic theory, robust research methodologies, and quantitative techniques crucial for high-level academic and policy-oriented careers. It emphasizes rigorous analytical skills and in-depth understanding of economic phenomena within an Indian developmental context, preparing scholars for addressing complex socio-economic challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students in Economics seeking to pursue doctoral research, enter academic roles, or join public policy think tanks and government organizations. It also suits professionals in research and analysis who wish to enhance their theoretical foundations and quantitative skills for career advancement in areas demanding sophisticated economic insights.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue Ph.D. studies, become research associates in universities or government bodies like the NITI Aayog, or work as economic analysts in consulting firms. Salaries can range from INR 4-8 LPA for entry-level research roles, growing significantly with experience. It provides a strong foundation for careers in economic policy formulation and academic teaching across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Statistical Tools- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly understand research design, data collection methods, and statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R) through hands-on practice. Actively participate in methodology workshops and review econometric techniques.
Tools & Resources
SPSS tutorials, R programming guides, NPTEL courses on research methodology, textbooks by Kothari for Research Methodology
Career Connection
Essential for any research role in academia, government, or private sector; forms the backbone for dissertation work.
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1)
Engage deeply with advanced microeconomic and macroeconomic theories. Form study groups to discuss complex models and critically analyze their applicability to the Indian economy. Focus on conceptual clarity over rote learning.
Tools & Resources
Classic textbooks (e.g., Varian, Romer), online lecture series (e.g., MIT OpenCourseWare), economic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Crucial for advanced economic analysis, policy interpretation, and academic teaching roles.
Develop Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1)
Practice concise and clear academic writing through term papers and assignment submissions. Actively prepare for synopsis presentations by honing oral communication and critical defense skills. Seek feedback from faculty.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, academic style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), university writing centers, presentation software
Career Connection
Indispensable for dissertation writing, conference presentations, and publishing research papers.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Execute High-Quality Dissertation Research- (Semester 2)
Systematically collect and analyze data using appropriate quantitative or qualitative methods. Maintain consistent communication with your supervisor, ensuring adherence to research ethics and academic standards. Aim for a publishable quality thesis.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, EBSCOHost), econometric software (Stata, EViews, R), university library resources, plagiarism detection tools
Career Connection
The dissertation forms the core of your research profile, crucial for Ph.D. admissions, research positions, and demonstrating independent research capability.
Network with Scholars and Industry Experts- (Semester 2)
Attend and present at academic conferences, workshops, and seminars relevant to your research area. Engage with visiting faculty and professionals to build connections for future collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, or job prospects.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations (e.g., Indian Economic Association), university career services, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Expands your professional network, opens doors to academic and industry opportunities, and provides valuable insights for career planning.
Prepare for Post-M.Phil Career Pathways- (Semester 2 (ongoing throughout))
Actively explore Ph.D. programs, academic lectureships, research associate positions, or roles in economic analysis within government or private sectors. Tailor your CV and prepare for interviews, focusing on your M.Phil research and specialized skills.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling, online job portals, Ph.D. program websites, mock interviews with faculty
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition from M.Phil to your chosen career path, maximizing placement and growth opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Economics/Applied Economics/Quantitative Economics/Business Economics/Econometrics with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD) or equivalent grade from University of Kerala or any other University recognized by University of Kerala.
Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
Credits: 36 Credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (for theory papers), External: 80% (for theory papers), 100% (for Dissertation and Viva Voce)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EEC 701 | Research Methodology and Computer Applications | Core | 6 | Logic of scientific research, Research design and sampling, Data collection methods, Statistical tools for analysis, Computer applications (Word, Excel, SPSS basics), Research report writing and ethics |
| EEC 702 | Advanced Economic Theory | Core | 6 | Advanced microeconomics (consumer, production, market structures), Advanced macroeconomics (classical, Keynesian, new schools), General equilibrium analysis, Welfare economics principles, Game theory fundamentals |
| EEC 703 | Optional Paper (e.g., Applied Econometrics) | Elective | 6 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Violations of CLRM (Multicollinearity, Heteroscedasticity, Autocorrelation), Dummy Variables and Qualitative Response Models (Logit, Probit), Time Series Econometrics (Stationarity, ARIMA, Cointegration), Panel Data Models (Fixed effects, Random effects) |
| EEC 704 | Synopsis Presentation and Viva Voce | Practical/Project Component | 2 | Research proposal development, Literature review techniques, Methodology finalization, Oral presentation skills, Defense of research plan |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EEC 705 | Dissertation and Viva Voce | Dissertation/Research | 16 | Independent research project execution, Data analysis and interpretation, Thesis writing and structuring, Oral defense of dissertation findings, Contribution to existing knowledge |
