A PhD program in Economics is a research-focused degree program that prepares students to become experts in the field of economics. The program typically takes 4-6 years to complete and requires students to complete advanced coursework in economic theory, quantitative methods, and research methods.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of economic theory and its applications, as well as the skills necessary to conduct independent research. In addition to coursework, students are typically required to complete a dissertation, which is a substantial piece of original research on a topic of their choosing.
The program typically includes coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic theory, as well as specialized coursework in the student's area of interest. Students are also required to complete original research and write a dissertation that contributes to the field of economics.
Some common career paths for graduates with a PhD in Economics include:
Academia: Many graduates go on to become professors and researchers in economics departments at universities and research institutions.
Government: Graduates may work for government agencies such as the Federal Reserve, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or the Department of the Treasury.
Private sector: Graduates may work for consulting firms, financial institutions, or other private sector organizations.
Some of the highlights of pursuing a PhD in Economics include:
Advanced economic theory: The PhD program in Economics provides an in-depth understanding of advanced economic theory and models that are critical for conducting research in the field.
Research skills: The program emphasizes research skills, including statistical and econometric analysis, which are essential for conducting empirical research in economics.
Specialization: The program allows students to specialize in specific areas of economics, such as development economics, health economics, environmental economics, or labor economics.
Networking opportunities: Students have opportunities to attend conferences, present their research, and network with fellow scholars and professionals in the field.
Career opportunities: Graduates with a PhD in Economics are in high demand and have a wide range of career opportunities, including academia, government, and the private sector.
Salary potential: Graduates with a PhD in Economics typically earn higher salaries than those with a bachelor's or master's degree in the field, and the earning potential increases with experience and specialization.
Contribution to society: Economics research can have a significant impact on policy decisions and the well-being of individuals and society as a whole, making the pursuit of a PhD in Economics a meaningful and rewarding career path.
Course Level | Doctorate Degree |
Duration | 3 to 5 years |
Examination Type | Semester System |
Eligibility | Post-graduation in Economics |
Admission Process | Based on counseling after clearing Entrance Tests like UGC-NET for different colleges. |
Top Recruiting Companies | Bank of India, bharat forge, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, BSNL, Cognizant, Ericsson India, Flipkart, Future Group, Goldman Sachs, Grasim Honda Two Wheelers, Indian Oil, Infosys, JCB, L T L T Engineering and Construction, Local Oye, Mahindra Engineering, Microsoft, ONGC, Reliance, Reliance Industries Limited, TATA, Tata Power, TCS |
Job Positions | Accounting, Auditor, Banking and Finance, Insurance Investment, Marketing, Stock Broker, Media Analyst, Management, Manufacturing, Advertising, Communication, Actuarial |
Most universities require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) as part of the application process. Some universities may also require the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for non-native English speakers.
GATE
UGC NET
CSIR NET
JEST
Admission requirements for PhD in Economics programs vary by university, but typically include a bachelor's or master's degree in economics or a related field, a minimum GPA of 3.0, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, and a resume or curriculum vitae.
Applicants should have a strong academic record and a demonstrated aptitude for quantitative analysis, including coursework in economics, mathematics, and statistics. Some programs may require prior research experience or knowledge of a specific research area.
Education: Typically requires a master's degree in economics or a related field such as finance, mathematics, statistics, or business administration. Some programs may accept candidates with a bachelor's degree if they have a strong academic background.
Academic Performance: Excellent academic performance is generally expected, especially in courses related to economics, mathematics, and statistics. This can be determined by his GPA or grades in certain courses.
Standardized Test: Many universities require GRE (Graduate Record Exam) scores, especially in the quantitative section. If English is not your first language, some may ask for TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Letters of Recommendation: You may be asked to submit a letter of recommendation from a professor or professional who can attest to your academic ability and business research potential.
Statement of Purpose: Typically requires a well-written statement outlining your research interests and career goals and why you are interested in pursuing a PhD in economics.
Curriculum Vitae or Curriculum Vitae: You may be asked to submit a curriculum vitae detailing your academic and professional experience, research projects, publications, and relevant skills.
Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the application process to assess your suitability for the program and your research interests.
A PhD in Economics typically takes 4-6 years to complete, depending on the program and the student's progress. The program typically includes coursework in the first 2-3 years, followed by comprehensive exams and the completion of original research and a dissertation.
If you are interested in applying for an Economics PhD program, there are several criteria that are typically considered by admissions committees:
Academic qualifications: Admissions committees will look for evidence of your academic qualifications, including your GPA, the courses you have taken, and your performance in relevant subjects such as economics, mathematics, and statistics.
Research potential: Admissions committees will want to see evidence that you have the potential to conduct independent research, such as previous research experience, publications, or a strong statement of research interests.
Letters of recommendation: Strong letters of recommendation from faculty members or research supervisors can help demonstrate your academic potential and research capabilities.
Standardized test scores: Many Economics PhD programs require applicants to submit GRE scores or other standardized test scores.
Statement of purpose: A well-written statement of purpose that outlines your research interests, academic background, and goals can help demonstrate your suitability for the program.
To apply for an Economics PhD program, you will typically need to submit an online application that includes transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs may also require a writing sample or additional application materials.
It is important to carefully review the application requirements for each program you are interested in to ensure that you provide all the necessary information and meet the deadlines. Additionally, it can be helpful to reach out to faculty members or current students in the program to learn more about the program and ask any questions you may have.
The application form for Economics PhD programs is usually available online on the respective university's website. Candidates can download and fill the form, attach required documents, and submit it online.
The application form and process may vary by institution but typically involves submitting an online application, along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Some universities may also require applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT.
International students may also need to provide proof of English proficiency, such as through the TOEFL or IELTS exams.
The application fee varies from university to university. Generally, it ranges from INR 500 to INR 2,500.
The syllabus for Economics PhD programs includes microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, statistics, and research methodology. Additionally, students can choose elective courses based on their research interests.
Semester I
| Semester II
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Semester III
| Semester IV
International Trade and Finance |
Semester V
| Semester VI
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The salary of an Economics PhD graduate depends on the industry, position, and experience. On average, a fresh Economics PhD graduate can earn between INR 6-8 lakhs per annum. Economics PhD graduates can work in academia, research institutions, government agencies, financial institutions, and consulting firms.
Job Position | Job Description |
Lecturer/Professor | The NET is conducted to determine the eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship Award or Assistant Professor. A lecturer’s job provides a stable salary and gives you a chance to constantly increase your knowledge. |
Banker | Bankers give their customers a wealth of services. They assist in setting up certificates of deposit and opening a checking or savings account as well as handling trusts, investment accounts, deposits, lines of credit and much more. |
Economists | An economist researches and interprets trends related to goods, services, and resources. They provide advice on economics to businesses and individuals. |
Geographer | A geographer uses qualitative and quantitative methods to gather and analyze data, synthesizing it into maps, reports, and other usable formats. Geographers specialize in the study of physical and human characteristics of an area, such as vegetation or population density. Employment often requires at least a bachelor's degree - and more commonly a master's degree - and relevant experience. Professional GIS certification may also be required. |
Econometricians | Reaching agreements about research projects with internal or external clients Monitoring and evaluating the data collection process. Using statistical software to organize and analyze the information gathered |
Public Relations Officer | Public relations (PR) is about managing reputation. To provide support and understanding to the clients as well as to try to influence them by your opinions and behavior. All means of media and communication should be used to manage the reputation of the customers. |
Some of the top colleges in India offering Economics PhD programs are:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.