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PHD in Economics at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies
Dehradun, Uttarakhand
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies Dehradun?
This PhD in Economics program at University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, focuses on developing advanced research capabilities in economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied economics. It prepares scholars to address complex economic challenges relevant to India''''s dynamic industrial landscape, focusing on areas like energy, development, and policy analysis. The program emphasizes rigorous analytical training and original research contributions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic background in Economics seeking to pursue a research-oriented career. It caters to aspiring academics, policy analysts, and researchers in government bodies, think tanks, and private sector organizations in India. Candidates should possess a master''''s degree in economics or a related discipline and a keen interest in contributing new knowledge to the field.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles as Assistant Professors in Indian universities, economists in government agencies (e.g., RBI, NITI Aayog), or senior researchers in private consultancies and research firms. Entry-level salaries for PhD holders in academia typically range from INR 7-10 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program fosters critical thinking, advanced analytical skills, and the ability to conduct independent, impactful research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals and Methods- (Coursework Phase (Semesters 1-2))
Diligently engage with coursework in Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods. Regularly practice statistical software (R, Stata) and focus on understanding theoretical underpinnings. Participate in workshops on academic writing and literature review techniques offered by the university library.
Tools & Resources
UPES Library Resources, Online courses on Coursera/edX for R/Stata, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for designing robust research, which directly impacts the quality and publishability of your thesis, and future employability in research roles.
Engage with Departmental Research Committee (DRC)- (Coursework Phase (Semesters 1-2))
Proactively communicate with your supervisor and members of the DRC to understand the expectations for your domain-specific elective and research proposal. Seek guidance on identifying niche research areas within Economics that align with departmental strengths and contemporary issues in India.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor consultations, DRC meetings, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Early alignment with faculty expertise ensures relevant guidance, facilitates timely research progress, and helps in developing a publishable research topic, enhancing academic career prospects.
Develop Academic Writing and Publication Ethics- (Coursework Phase (Semesters 1-2))
Apply principles learned in IPR and Research Publication Ethics to all written assignments. Practice writing concise and clear research summaries. Aim to attend university-organized sessions on avoiding plagiarism and ethical data handling, crucial for Indian research integrity standards.
Tools & Resources
Turnitin (if provided by UPES), Grammarly, Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab)
Career Connection
High-quality, ethical academic writing is indispensable for publishing in reputable journals, essential for career progression in academia and research institutions in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Specialization through Electives and Seminars- (Post-Coursework to Comprehensive Exam)
Beyond coursework, actively choose and pursue advanced topics in Economics that align with your research interests. Attend and present at departmental seminars and workshops on specialized areas like Development Economics or Energy Economics, leveraging India-specific case studies.
Tools & Resources
UPES departmental seminars, NPTEL courses on advanced economics, Economic & Political Weekly
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you an expert in a niche field, highly valued by academic institutions and industry research wings seeking specific expertise relevant to the Indian economy.
Network with Scholars and Practitioners- (Post-Coursework to Thesis Submission)
Attend national and international conferences (e.g., Indian Economic Association, World Congress of Political Economy) to present your work-in-progress and network with senior academics and policy practitioners. Seek collaborations for papers or projects, focusing on India-relevant themes.
Tools & Resources
ResearchGate, LinkedIn, Conference alerts (e.g., EconBiz)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to potential post-doctoral positions, research collaborations, and informs you about current policy challenges, crucial for career advancement in Indian academia and policy.
Initiate Early Publication Strategy- (Post-Coursework to Thesis Submission)
Aim to convert your coursework papers or initial research chapters into publishable articles. Target Scopus/UGC CARE List journals with good impact factors. Work closely with your supervisor to refine manuscripts and navigate the publication process, a significant credential for job applications.
Tools & Resources
Journal Finder tools, Supervisor feedback, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing
Career Connection
Early publications significantly enhance your CV, making you a competitive candidate for faculty positions and research grants in India, demonstrating research productivity and impact.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Comprehensive Examination Rigorously- (Prior to Comprehensive Exam)
Systematically revise all coursework and core economic theories. Form study groups with peers for mock exams and peer feedback. Focus on integrating knowledge across different economic fields to answer complex, interdisciplinary questions as expected in the comprehensive exam.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers (if available), Textbooks on advanced micro/macro/econometrics, Study groups
Career Connection
Successfully clearing the comprehensive exam is a major milestone, validating your depth of knowledge and readiness for independent research, essential for PhD progression and demonstrating academic rigor.
Refine Thesis and Prepare for Defense- (Final Year of Research)
Dedicate significant time to writing and iteratively refining your thesis chapters. Schedule regular meetings with your supervisor for detailed feedback. Practice your thesis defense presentation, anticipating challenging questions from internal and external examiners, especially regarding the India context of your research.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Presentation software, Mock defense sessions
Career Connection
A well-written and confidently defended thesis is the culmination of your PhD journey, establishing your expertise and directly contributing to securing academic or high-level research positions.
Actively Seek Post-PhD Opportunities- (Final 6-12 months of PhD)
Begin applying for faculty positions, post-doctoral fellowships, or research economist roles in relevant Indian organizations well before your thesis defense. Customize your CV and cover letter for each application, highlighting your research contribution and its relevance to the Indian economic landscape.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, jobs.ac.uk India), Networking contacts
Career Connection
Proactive job searching ensures a smooth transition post-PhD, capitalizing on your advanced qualifications to secure a fulfilling career in academia, policy, or research within India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks (5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/Differently-Abled). Must qualify University''''s written test and interview. NET/JRF/GATE/GPAT/SLET qualified candidates may be exempted from the written test.
Duration: 1-2 semesters for coursework (overall PhD duration as per UGC norms)
Credits: 10-14 (Core courses sum to 10, an additional 4-credit elective may be taken) Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per University Examination Policy (not specified in Ordinance for coursework), External: As per University Examination Policy (not specified in Ordinance for coursework)
