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B-A in Economics at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This B.A. Economics program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on a deep understanding of economic theories, policies, and their real-world applications. It integrates theoretical foundations with practical analytical skills, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s rapidly evolving economy. The curriculum emphasizes both micro and macroeconomic principles, alongside quantitative methods, crucial for informed decision-making.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in understanding market dynamics, government policies, and global economic trends. It attracts students aspiring for careers in research, finance, public administration, or higher education. Individuals with strong analytical abilities and a desire to contribute to economic policy-making or business strategy development will find this course particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue various India-specific career paths, including economic analyst, market researcher, data analyst, banking professional, or civil servant. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential upon upskilling. The program''''s comprehensive nature equips students for further postgraduate studies in economics, business analytics, or public policy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Quantitative Foundations- (undefined)
Dedicate extra time to master statistical and mathematical concepts, as these form the bedrock for advanced economic analysis. Regularly practice problem-solving using textbooks and online resources to ensure a strong grasp of fundamentals.
Tools & Resources
Khan Academy, NCERT Mathematics and Statistics books, Basic R programming tutorials, VISTAS''''s math/stats support centers
Career Connection
A solid quantitative base is essential for roles like data analyst, market researcher, and for excelling in econometric studies in later semesters, directly impacting employability.
Cultivate Effective Study Groups- (undefined)
Form small study groups with peers to discuss complex economic theories, solve problems collaboratively, and prepare for internal assessments. Teaching concepts to others reinforces your own understanding and clarifies doubts.
Tools & Resources
University library study rooms, Collaborative online platforms like Google Docs, Regular group meeting schedules
Career Connection
Enhances teamwork and communication skills, vital for corporate roles and group projects in the professional world, improving collaborative work readiness.
Develop Critical Reading and Analytical Skills- (undefined)
Go beyond textbook reading; actively engage with economic news, articles, and reports. Analyze current events through an economic lens, questioning assumptions and drawing informed conclusions about their impact.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian economic newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard), RBI publications, NITI Aayog reports, Academic journals accessed via VISTAS library
Career Connection
Improves analytical thinking and report interpretation, crucial for policy analysis, research, and journalistic roles, making you a more informed professional.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Real-World Economic Data- (undefined)
Apply theoretical knowledge to real Indian economic data using statistical software or spreadsheets. Practice analyzing trends in inflation, GDP, unemployment, or sector-specific data to bridge theory and practice.
Tools & Resources
Excel/Google Sheets, R/Python for basic analysis, Data from CSO, NSSO, RBI, World Bank (India specific)
Career Connection
Develops practical skills in data handling and analysis, highly valued by analytics firms, financial institutions, and government research bodies, enhancing marketability.
Seek Internships and Field Projects- (undefined)
Actively look for summer internships or small-scale field projects with local NGOs, research organizations, or small businesses during breaks. This provides invaluable practical exposure to economic principles in action.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Company websites of local firms in Chennai, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Builds industry contacts, enhances resume, and offers a clearer understanding of potential career paths, significantly boosting placement prospects.
Participate in Economic Debates and Competitions- (undefined)
Join or initiate debates, quizzes, or essay competitions on contemporary economic issues. This sharpens critical thinking, articulation, and the ability to defend economic arguments effectively.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Economics Department clubs, Inter-collegiate fests, Online forums, Reputable economic magazines for topic inspiration
Career Connection
Develops persuasive communication and public speaking skills, beneficial for roles in consulting, public relations, and academic presentation, fostering leadership.
Advanced Stage
Master Econometric Tools and Software- (undefined)
Dive deep into econometrics, not just conceptually but practically. Learn to use specialized software (e.g., EViews, Stata, R, Python) to run regressions, test hypotheses, and interpret results for your project and future roles.
Tools & Resources
EViews/Stata (student versions), R/Python with econometric libraries, Online courses (Coursera, NPTEL on econometrics), VISTAS computer labs
Career Connection
Indispensable for roles in economic modeling, forecasting, quantitative analysis, and research in financial services or government, opening doors to specialized positions.
Develop a Strong Portfolio through Project Work- (undefined)
Treat your final year project as a flagship deliverable. Choose a relevant, impactful topic, conduct thorough research, and present your findings professionally. Aim for a publication or a presentation at a student conference.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, VISTAS research guidelines, Academic databases, Statistical software, Presentation tools (PowerPoint, LaTeX)
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates research capability, analytical prowess, and initiative, significantly improving employability for research-oriented or consulting positions.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (undefined)
Identify target industries and roles early in your final year. Attend campus placement talks, mock interviews, and resume workshops. Network with alumni and professionals to gain insights and opportunities in your chosen field.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Alumni network events, Industry conferences, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for job market entry, enhances interview performance, and helps secure desirable placements in top Indian companies and government sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in the Higher Secondary Examination (10+2) or an equivalent examination recognized by the University.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (Theory) / 60% (Practical), External: 60% (Theory) / 40% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CEN101 | Foundation English - I | Part I | 3 | Communication Skills, Grammar Basics, Reading Comprehension, Sentence Structure, Vocabulary Building |
| 23CTM101/23CHT101/23CML101/23CFH101 | Foundation Tamil - I / Hindi - I / Malayalam - I / French - I | Part I | 3 | Basic Grammar, Prose and Poetry, Letter Writing, Translation Exercises, Cultural Aspects |
| 23CBA101 | Micro Economics - I | Core | 5 | Consumer Behaviour, Demand and Supply Analysis, Production Theory, Cost Analysis, Market Structures |
| 23CBA102 | Statistics for Economics - I | Core | 4 | Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Skewness and Kurtosis, Correlation Analysis |
| 23SBA101 | Allied - I: Mathematics for Economics - I | Allied | 4 | Basic Algebra, Functions and Graphs, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Matrix Algebra |
| 23NSS101 / 23NCC101 / 23PEC101 | NSS / NCC / Physical Education | Part V | 1 | Community Service, Leadership Skills, Physical Fitness, Discipline and Patriotism, Teamwork |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CEN201 | Foundation English - II | Part I | 3 | Advanced Grammar, Essay Writing, Report Writing, Public Speaking, Literary Appreciation |
| 23CTM201/23CHT201/23CML201/23CFH201 | Foundation Tamil - II / Hindi - II / Malayalam - II / French - II | Part I | 3 | Advanced Prose, Advanced Poetry, Drama Analysis, Cultural Studies, Creative Writing |
| 23CBA201 | Micro Economics - II | Core | 5 | Welfare Economics, Factor Pricing Theory, Rent, Wages, Interest, Profit, Market Failure, Externalities and Public Goods |
| 23CBA202 | Statistics for Economics - II | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Probability Distributions, Sampling Methods, Hypothesis Testing, Chi-Square Test |
| 23SBA201 | Allied - II: Mathematics for Economics - II | Allied | 4 | Optimization Techniques, Game Theory Basics, Linear Programming, Input-Output Analysis, Difference Equations |
| 23EBA201 | Environmental Studies | Environmental Science (Part IV) | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Sustainable Development, Environmental Policies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CBA301 | Monetary Economics | Core | 5 | Money and Banking, Theories of Money Supply, Inflation and Deflation, Monetary Policy, Central Banking Functions |
| 23CBA302 | Indian Economic Development | Core | 5 | Structure of Indian Economy, Economic Reforms in India, Agriculture Sector, Industrial Sector, Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment |
| 23SBA301 | Allied - III: Principles of Management | Allied | 4 | Management Concepts, Planning and Decision Making, Organizing and Staffing, Directing and Leading, Controlling and Coordination |
| 23SBA302 | Allied Practical - I: Statistical Packages for Economics | Allied Practical | 2 | Introduction to Statistical Software, Data Entry and Management, Descriptive Statistics, Regression Analysis, Hypothesis Testing |
| 23SKA301 | Skill Enhancement Course - I: Communicative English | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Presentation Skills, Group Discussion Techniques, Interview Preparation, Business Correspondence, Public Speaking |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CBA401 | Macro Economics - I | Core | 5 | National Income Accounting, Consumption and Investment Functions, Multiplier and Accelerator, IS-LM Model, Keynesian Economics |
| 23CBA402 | International Economics | Core | 5 | Theories of International Trade, Tariffs and Quotas, Balance of Payments, Foreign Exchange Markets, International Economic Organizations |
| 23SBA401 | Allied - IV: Principles of Marketing | Allied | 4 | Marketing Concepts, Marketing Mix (4 Ps), Consumer Behavior, Market Segmentation, Branding and Advertising |
| 23SBA402 | Allied Practical - II: Data Analysis using Spreadsheet | Allied Practical | 2 | Spreadsheet Basics, Data Organization and Filtering, Formulas and Functions, Charts and Graphs, Pivot Tables and Reporting |
| 23SKA401 | Skill Enhancement Course - II: Entrepreneurial Development | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Entrepreneurship Concepts, Business Plan Development, Funding and Venture Capital, Marketing for Startups, Legal Aspects of Business |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CBA501 | Macro Economics - II | Core | 5 | Business Cycles, Inflation and Unemployment, Economic Growth Theories, Fiscal Policy Analysis, Rational Expectations |
| 23CBA502 | Environmental Economics | Core | 5 | Environmental Valuation, Resource Scarcity, Pollution Control Policies, Sustainable Development, Climate Change Economics |
| 23CBA503 | Fiscal Economics | Core | 5 | Public Finance Principles, Taxation Theories, Government Expenditure, Budgetary Policy, Public Debt Management |
| 23CBAE5A | Programme Elective Course - I: Managerial Economics (Option A) | Elective | 3 | Demand Forecasting, Production Decisions, Pricing Strategies, Capital Budgeting, Risk Analysis |
| 23CBAE5B | Programme Elective Course - I: Rural Economics (Option B) | Elective | 3 | Rural Development, Agricultural Policies, Rural Poverty, Microfinance in Rural Areas, Rural Employment |
| 23CBAE5C | Programme Elective Course - I: Health Economics (Option C) | Elective | 3 | Health Care Markets, Demand for Health, Health Insurance, Public Health Policy, Health Disparities |
| 23CBAE5A | Programme Elective Course - II: Research Methodology (Option A) | Elective | 3 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Questionnaire Design, Report Writing |
| 23CBAE5B | Programme Elective Course - II: Industrial Economics (Option B) | Elective | 3 | Market Structure, Industrial Concentration, Mergers and Acquisitions, Industrial Policy, Research and Development |
| 23CBAE5C | Programme Elective Course - II: Computer Applications in Economics (Option C) | Elective | 3 | Economic Software, Data Processing, Statistical Analysis, Presentation Tools, Internet for Economics |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23CBA601 | History of Economic Thought | Core | 5 | Classical Economics, Marxian Economics, Keynesian Revolution, Neo-Classical School, Modern Economic Thought |
| 23CBA602 | Econometrics | Core | 5 | Regression Analysis, Classical Linear Regression Model, Multicollinearity, Heteroscedasticity, Time Series Analysis |
| 23CBA603 | Economics of Growth and Development | Core | 5 | Economic Growth Theories, Development Indicators, Poverty and Income Inequality, Human Development Index, Global Development Challenges |
| 23CBAE6A | Programme Elective Course - III: Banking and Financial Institutions (Option A) | Elective | 3 | Commercial Banking, Central Banking, Financial Markets, Non-Banking Financial Companies, Financial Regulations |
| 23CBAE6B | Programme Elective Course - III: Agricultural Economics (Option B) | Elective | 3 | Agricultural Production, Marketing of Agricultural Products, Agricultural Finance, Food Security, Farm Management |
| 23CBAE6C | Programme Elective Course - III: Gender Economics (Option C) | Elective | 3 | Gender and Development, Female Labour Force, Gender Wage Gap, Women''''s Empowerment, Policy Interventions |
| 23CBA6P1 | Project | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Data Collection and Analysis, Literature Review, Project Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
