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MA in Economics at University College, Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at University College, Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram?
This MA Economics program at University College, Thiruvananthapuram, affiliated with the University of Kerala, focuses on developing advanced analytical and quantitative skills in economics. It addresses contemporary economic challenges within the Indian context, preparing students for roles in policy analysis, research, and academia. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and empirical application, crucial for understanding India''''s dynamic economic landscape and contributing to its growth story.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for economics graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of economic theories and policies. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for entry-level economist positions in government, research institutions, or the private sector. Professionals from related fields, such as statistics or finance, looking to transition into economic analysis roles, or those seeking advanced academic pursuits, will also find this program beneficial due to its rigorous curriculum.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles as economists, data analysts, policy researchers, and consultants in government agencies (e.g., RBI, NITI Aayog), think tanks, and corporate firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong theoretical and empirical grounding also prepares students for PhD programs and academic careers within India and abroad.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly understand the foundational microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and models. Engage in problem-solving sessions and discuss concepts with peers to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
Standard graduate-level textbooks (e.g., Varian, Romer), Online courses from NPTEL, edX, Past question papers of the University of Kerala
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is essential for excelling in advanced courses, competitive exams, and interviews for economist roles.
Develop Quantitative Aptitude- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice mathematical and statistical problems relevant to economics. Join study groups to work through complex equations and apply quantitative concepts to economic scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Schaum''''s Outlines for Mathematical Economics and Statistics, Reference books for Quantitative Methods, Basic R/Python tutorials for data manipulation
Career Connection
Crucial for econometric analysis, data-driven roles, and research positions in government and private sectors.
Engage with Indian Economic Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively read financial newspapers, economic surveys, and reports from institutions like RBI or NITI Aayog. Participate in departmental seminars and discussions on contemporary Indian economic issues.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, LiveMint, Economic Survey of India, RBI publications, PRS Legislative Research
Career Connection
Develops contextual understanding vital for policy analysis, government job interviews, and contributes to informed economic decision-making.
Intermediate Stage
Build Advanced Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Deepen understanding of econometric models and gain hands-on experience using statistical software like R, Python, or Stata for data analysis. Apply learned concepts to real-world economic problems through case studies.
Tools & Resources
Advanced econometrics textbooks, Datasets from NSSO, RBI, CMIE, Software like R, Python, Stata, NPTEL courses on advanced statistics
Career Connection
Directly prepares for research-intensive roles, data analyst positions, and competitive examinations requiring strong analytical and empirical skills.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 4)
Identify a relevant research question, collect and analyze data, and write a well-structured project report. Seek regular feedback from faculty advisors and effectively present research findings.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Thesis writing guides, Data visualization tools, Presentation software (PowerPoint, LaTeX Beamer)
Career Connection
Showcases independent research acumen, critical for higher studies, research associate positions, and demonstrates problem-solving abilities to potential employers.
Prepare for Career & Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Attend workshops on resume building, interview preparation, and competitive exams (e.g., UGC NET, JRF, Civil Services). Explore PhD opportunities and engage with alumni for mentorship and career guidance.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn), Exam-specific preparation materials, Alumni association network
Career Connection
Ensures readiness for immediate employment in desired roles or successful entry into advanced academic programs.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- BA Degree in Economics/B.Sc. Mathematics/B.Sc. Statistics with not less than 4.5 CGPA (in a scale of 10) or B.A. Degree in any other subject (with Economics as a complementary course) of the University of Kerala or any other University recognized as equivalent thereto.
Duration: 4 semesters
Credits: Minimum 80 credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO 211 | Microeconomic Theory I | Core | 4 | Consumer behavior analysis, Production and cost theory, Market structures (perfect competition, monopoly), Theory of distribution, Demand and supply |
| ECO 212 | Macroeconomic Theory I | Core | 4 | Classical and Keynesian economics, National income determination, Consumption and investment theories, Money and interest rates, Aggregate demand and supply |
| ECO 213 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis I | Core | 4 | Matrix algebra, Differential and Integral Calculus, Optimization techniques, Difference and Differential equations, Basic statistics and probability |
| ECO 214 | Indian Economic Policy | Core | 4 | Growth and structural changes in Indian economy, Sectoral performance (agriculture, industry, services), Fiscal and monetary policy in India, Poverty, inequality, and employment, Economic reforms and liberalization |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO 221 | Microeconomic Theory II | Core | 4 | General equilibrium analysis, Welfare economics, Market failures and externalities, Game theory and oligopoly, Economics of information |
| ECO 222 | Macroeconomic Theory II | Core | 4 | Theories of economic growth, Endogenous growth models, Open economy macroeconomics, Exchange rate determination, Balance of payments issues |
| ECO 223 | Quantitative Methods for Economic Analysis II | Core | 4 | Probability distributions, Sampling theory, Hypothesis testing, Correlation and regression analysis, Index numbers and time series |
| ECO 224 | Public Economics | Core | 4 | Public goods and externalities, Theories of taxation, Public expenditure, Public debt management, Fiscal federalism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO 231 | Econometrics I | Core | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model (CLRM), OLS assumptions and properties, Hypothesis testing in regression, Violations of CLRM assumptions (multicollinearity, heteroscedasticity), Dummy variables |
| ECO 232 | International Trade Theory | Core | 4 | Classical trade theories (Absolute & Comparative advantage), Heckscher-Ohlin theory, New trade theories, Trade policy and protectionism, Economic integration |
| ECO 233 | Economics of Development and Growth | Elective | 4 | Theories of economic development, Poverty, inequality, and human development, Population and demographic transition, Rural and urban development, Sustainable development |
| ECO 234 | Environmental Economics | Elective | 4 | Environmental externalities and public goods, Valuation of environmental resources, Pollution control policies, Resource economics (renewable and non-renewable), Climate change economics and policy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO 241 | Econometrics II | Core | 4 | Autocorrelation and its remedies, Simultaneous equation models, Time series econometrics (ARIMA models, cointegration), Panel data analysis, Limited dependent variable models |
| ECO 242 | International Finance | Core | 4 | Balance of Payments accounts, Foreign exchange markets and exchange rate theories, International monetary systems, International capital flows, Financial crises and contagion |
| ECO 243 | Project | Core | 4 | Research problem identification, Literature review and hypothesis formulation, Data collection and methodology, Statistical and econometric analysis, Report writing and presentation |
| ECO 244 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Core | 4 | Review of core microeconomic principles, Understanding of macroeconomic theories and policies, Application of quantitative methods and econometrics, Knowledge of Indian economic policy, Insights into international trade and finance |
