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M-A-ECONOMICS in Economics at Visva-Bharati
Birbhum, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Economics at Visva-Bharati Birbhum?
This M.A. Economics program at Visva-Bharati University focuses on providing a deep theoretical and empirical understanding of economic principles and their application. The curriculum integrates core economic theories with quantitative methods and emphasizes development and policy issues relevant to the Indian context, preparing students for analytical roles in a rapidly evolving economy.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Economics, Statistics, or Mathematics seeking entry into diverse analytical and research roles. It also caters to aspiring civil servants, educators, and those looking to pursue further academic research, providing a solid foundation in advanced economic concepts.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in government agencies, financial institutions, research organizations, and consultancies in India. Potential roles include economic analyst, policy researcher, data scientist, or lecturer. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in the Indian market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Economic Theories and Quantitative Tools- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Quantitative Methods taught in the initial semesters. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts and solve numerical problems collaboratively. Utilize textbooks recommended by faculty and supplementary online resources to reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Core Textbooks (e.g., Varian, Mankiw, Wooldridge), NPTEL/Coursera courses on foundational economics, Practice problem sets
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for passing competitive exams like UGC NET/JRF, civil services, and for analytical roles requiring a solid theoretical base.
Develop Proficiency in Statistical Software- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the Computer Application in Economics course. Beyond classroom instruction, spend extra hours practicing with software like MS-Excel, SPSS, or R. Work on small data projects to apply statistical tools to real-world economic datasets, which are readily available from government sources.
Tools & Resources
MS-Excel, SPSS/R (free versions available or university licenses), Datasets from NSSO, MOSPI, RBI websites
Career Connection
Proficiency in data analysis software is a highly sought-after skill in research, analytics, and policy roles in India, improving employability in both public and private sectors.
Engage with Economic News and Policy Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond academics, regularly read financial newspapers (e.g., The Economic Times, Business Standard) and reputable economic journals/blogs. Participate in department seminars and discussions on current economic affairs, focusing on India-specific policy challenges and solutions. This builds practical context to theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Livemint, RBI Bulletin, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking about real-world economic problems, essential for policy analysis, journalism, and success in interviews for roles requiring a nuanced understanding of the Indian economy.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Elective Choices and Deep Dive- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSE) and Open Electives (OE) based on career interests (e.g., Econometrics for data science, Environmental Economics for sustainability). Go beyond the syllabus for chosen electives by reading advanced articles and research papers.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, IMF/World Bank working papers, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more targeted candidate for specific industry roles, allowing you to showcase deeper expertise and passion in a chosen domain during placements.
Undertake a Meaningful Project/Research- (Semester 3)
Utilize the Project Work opportunity (MAEC509) to conduct original research on an India-specific economic issue. Seek guidance from faculty, ensuring your project involves data collection (if feasible) and robust statistical analysis. Aim for a high-quality report that could be presented at a student conference or even published in a minor journal.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R/Python for analysis, Survey tools (Google Forms), Library resources for literature review, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
A strong research project is a significant resume builder, demonstrating analytical, problem-solving, and writing skills, which are critical for research-oriented roles and higher studies.
Network and Seek Internship Opportunities- (Semester 3)
Attend university career fairs and departmental events. Proactively search for internships during semester breaks, especially at economic research firms, NGOs working in development, or government bodies (e.g., NITI Aayog, state planning boards). Networking with alumni and faculty for leads is beneficial.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University placement cell, Alumni network, Internship portals (e.g., Internshala)
Career Connection
Internships provide practical exposure, help you apply theoretical knowledge, build industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting placement prospects.
Advanced Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 4)
Regularly update your CV/resume, focusing on skills acquired and project outcomes. Practice aptitude tests, group discussions, and mock interviews. Tailor your application and interview responses to the specific roles you are targeting, highlighting your M.A. Economics analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell workshops, Online aptitude test platforms, Mock interview sessions with faculty/alumni
Career Connection
Systematic preparation ensures you present yourself as a confident and competent candidate, maximizing your chances of securing desired roles in competitive Indian job markets.
Focus on Comprehensive Viva-Voce Excellence- (Semester 4)
Treat the Comprehensive Viva-Voce (MAEC518) as an opportunity to consolidate all your learning. Revise core concepts from all four semesters, including key theories, policy applications, and quantitative methods. Prepare to articulate your understanding clearly and concisely.
Tools & Resources
Semester-wise notes, Key textbooks and readings, Discussion with peers and faculty
Career Connection
Excelling in the viva demonstrates a holistic understanding of economics, which is highly valued by employers and academic institutions for roles requiring broad knowledge and quick recall.
Explore Higher Education or Civil Services Pathways- (Semester 4)
If interested in academia, start identifying PhD programs and faculty mentors for future research. For civil services, begin focused preparation for UPSC/state PSC exams, utilizing your strong economics foundation. Connect with alumni who have successfully navigated these paths for guidance.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC study materials, JNU/Delhi School of Economics PhD guides, Mentorship from senior students or alumni
Career Connection
Proactive planning for these competitive pathways increases your chances of success in fields that offer significant impact and intellectual growth within India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. (Hons.) examination in Economics/Statistics/Mathematics with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade) in aggregate, or B.A. (General) examination with at least 60% marks (or equivalent grade) in the relevant subject from Visva-Bharati University or any other recognized University (10+2+3 system).
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 76 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAEC401 | Microeconomic Theory-I | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Consumer Behaviour, Producer Behaviour, Market Structures, Factor Pricing, Welfare Economics |
| MAEC402 | Macroeconomic Theory-I | Core Course (CC) | 4 | National Income Accounting, Theories of Income and Employment, IS-LM Model, Money and Inflation, Business Cycles |
| MAEC403 | Quantitative Methods-I | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Matrix Algebra, Calculus (Differentiation and Integration), Analytical Geometry, Differential Equations, Optimization Techniques |
| MAEC404 | Public Economics | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Public Goods and Externalities, Theories of Taxation, Public Expenditure, Budgetary Policy, Public Debt |
| MAEC405 | Economics of Growth and Development | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Theories of Economic Growth, Capital Accumulation and Technical Progress, Dual Economy Models, Poverty, Inequality and Development, Sustainable Development |
| MAEC406 | Computer Application in Economics | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | MS-Excel for Data Analysis, SPSS/R Basics, Data Presentation and Visualization, Internet for Economic Data, Basic Statistical Analysis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAEC407 | Microeconomic Theory-II | Core Course (CC) | 4 | General Equilibrium Theory, Economics of Uncertainty, Information Asymmetry, Market Failure, Externalities and Public Goods |
| MAEC408 | Macroeconomic Theory-II | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Rational Expectations Hypothesis, New Classical and New Keynesian Economics, Open Economy Macroeconomics, Fiscal and Monetary Policy Debates, Financial Markets and Asset Pricing |
| MAEC409 | Quantitative Methods-II | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Probability Theory, Sampling Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Time Series Analysis Basics |
| MAEC410 | Indian Economic Policy | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Indian Agriculture and Rural Development, Industrial Policy and Growth, Fiscal and Monetary Policy in India, External Sector Reforms, Poverty, Inequality and Employment in India |
| MAEC411 | International Economics | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Theories of International Trade, Tariffs and Non-Tariff Barriers, Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate Regimes, International Economic Organizations |
| MAEC412 | Research Methodology | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Primary & Secondary), Sampling Techniques, Report Writing and Referencing, Ethics in Economic Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAEC501 | Econometrics | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 1 of 4 | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model (CLRM), Violations of CLRM Assumptions, Dummy Variables, Simultaneous Equation Models, Introduction to Time Series Econometrics |
| MAEC502 | Environmental Economics | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 2 of 4 | 4 | Environmental Externalities and Market Failure, Valuation of Environmental Resources, Environmental Policies and Regulations, Economics of Climate Change, Sustainable Development Concepts |
| MAEC503 | Agricultural Economics | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 3 of 4 | 4 | Agrarian Structure and Land Reforms, Agricultural Production and Productivity, Farm Marketing and Price Policy, Food Security and Public Distribution System, Agricultural Policy in India |
| MAEC504 | Economics of Education | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 4 of 4 | 4 | Human Capital Theory, Education and Economic Growth, Financing of Education, Returns to Education, Education Policy in India |
| MAEC505 | Financial Markets and Institutions | Open Elective (OE) - Option 1 of 4 | 4 | Money Market, Capital Market, Banking System and Financial Intermediaries, Financial Regulations and Reforms, Role of Reserve Bank of India |
| MAEC506 | Industrial Economics | Open Elective (OE) - Option 2 of 4 | 4 | Industrial Structure and Organization, Market Conduct and Performance, Industrial Growth Theories, Technological Change and Industrial Development, Industrial Policy in India |
| MAEC507 | Population Studies | Open Elective (OE) - Option 3 of 4 | 4 | Theories of Population, Population Growth and Composition, Age Structure and Demographic Dividend, Migration and Urbanization, Population Policy in India |
| MAEC508 | Labour Economics | Open Elective (OE) - Option 4 of 4 | 4 | Labour Supply and Demand, Wage Theories and Determination, Unemployment and Employment Policies, Trade Unions and Collective Bargaining, Labour Market Reforms in India |
| MAEC509 | Project Work | Project Work (PW) | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation and Viva Voce |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAEC510 | Development Economics | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 1 of 4 | 4 | Theories of Underdevelopment, Poverty and Income Inequality, Human Development Index, International Aid and Development Finance, Role of State in Development |
| MAEC511 | Welfare Economics | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 2 of 4 | 4 | Social Welfare Functions, Pareto Optimality, Market Failures and Public Goods, Public Choice Theory, Income Distribution and Equity |
| MAEC512 | Game Theory | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 3 of 4 | 4 | Static Games of Complete Information, Dynamic Games of Complete Information, Cooperative Games, Nash Equilibrium and Subgame Perfect Nash Equilibrium, Applications in Economics |
| MAEC513 | Behavioral Economics | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Option 4 of 4 | 4 | Prospect Theory, Heuristics and Biases, Nudges and Choice Architecture, Intertemporal Choice, Behavioral Finance |
| MAEC514 | Health Economics | Open Elective (OE) - Option 1 of 4 | 4 | Demand for Health and Health Care, Health Care Financing, Health Insurance Markets, Health Sector in India, Public Health Interventions |
| MAEC515 | Regional Economics | Open Elective (OE) - Option 2 of 4 | 4 | Theories of Regional Growth, Location Theory, Regional Disparities in India, Urbanization and Economic Development, Regional Planning |
| MAEC516 | History of Economic Thought | Open Elective (OE) - Option 3 of 4 | 4 | Classical Economists (Smith, Ricardo, Mill), Neoclassical School (Marshall, Walras), Marxian Economics, Keynesian Revolution, Modern Economic Thought and Schools |
| MAEC517 | Monetary Economics | Open Elective (OE) - Option 4 of 4 | 4 | Demand for Money Theories, Supply of Money and Monetary Aggregates, Monetary Policy Instruments, Inflation Targeting, Role of the Central Bank |
| MAEC518 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Grand Viva/Comprehensive Viva-Voce (CVV) | 4 | Overall Understanding of Economics, Analytical Skills, Research Aptitude, Presentation Skills, Application of Economic Principles |
