PhD Economics,Highlights, Entrance Exam, admission, Eligibility, Duration, Selection Criteria, How to Apply, Application Form, Application Process, fee, Syllabus,Salary and Jobs,career opportunities,Top Colleges in India
A PhD in Economics is a rigorous and advanced program of study that prepares students for careers in academia, government, and the private sector. The program typically takes four to six years to complete, depending on the student's background and research interests.
During the program, students take advanced courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and specialized topics in their field of interest. They also conduct independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to the field of economics.
Graduates of a PhD in Economics program are well-equipped to pursue careers as university professors, researchers in think tanks or government agencies, consultants, or analysts in the private sector. They possess advanced skills in research, data analysis, and critical thinking, and are able to apply economic theory and techniques to real-world problems.
If you're considering pursuing a PhD in Economics, it's important to have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and economics. Additionally, you should be prepared to commit several years to intensive study and research, and be passionate about advancing the field of economics.
PhD Economics Highlights
Some of the key highlights of a PhD in Economics program include:
Rigorous coursework: PhD in Economics programs typically involve advanced coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and specialized topics in the student's field of interest.
Research opportunities: Students have the opportunity to conduct independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to the field of economics.
Collaboration with faculty: PhD students work closely with faculty members, who serve as advisors and mentors, and who provide guidance and feedback on research projects.
Seminars and conferences: Students have the opportunity to attend seminars and conferences, where they can present their research, learn from other researchers, and build professional networks.
Career opportunities: Graduates of a PhD in Economics program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, government, and the private sector, and possess advanced skills in research, data analysis, and critical thinking.
Competitive compensation: PhD in Economics students typically receive a competitive stipend and may also receive additional funding for research, travel, and conference expenses.
Overall, a PhD in Economics provides an excellent foundation for a career in research, teaching, or policy analysis, and offers the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the field of economics.
PhD Economics Entrance Exam:
Most universities require applicants for a PhD in Economics program to take a standardized test, such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination). Some universities may also require subject-specific tests, such as the GRE subject test in Economics.
PhD Economics Admission and Eligibility:
Admission to a PhD in Economics program is highly competitive, and typically requires a strong academic record and research potential. The specific admission requirements may vary by university, but typically include:
A bachelor's or master's degree in economics or a related field
Strong academic record (minimum GPA requirement)
Standardized test scores (GRE)
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement or statement of purpose
Writing sample
English language proficiency (for non-native English speakers)
PhD Economics Duration:
The duration of a PhD in Economics program typically ranges from four to six years, depending on the student's research progress and dissertation completion.
PhD Economics Selection Criteria:
The selection criteria for admission to a PhD in Economics program typically includes a combination of academic record, standardized test scores, research potential, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.
PhD Economics How to Apply:
The application process for a PhD in Economics program typically involves the following steps:
Research programs: Research PhD in Economics programs and identify programs that align with your research interests and career goals.
Check eligibility: Review the admission requirements for each program, including GPA requirements, standardized test scores, and English language proficiency.
Prepare application materials: Prepare your application materials, which typically include standardized test scores, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample.
Submit applications: Submit your applications through the university's online application system, and pay the application fee.
Interview: If selected, you may be invited for an interview with the program faculty.
Decision: After the interview, the program will make a decision on your admission. If accepted, you will receive an offer of admission and funding package.
PhD Economics Application Form:
The application form for a PhD in Economics program can usually be found on the university's website. You will need to create an account, provide your personal and educational information, and upload your application materials.
PhD Economics Application Process:
The application process for a PhD in Economics program typically involves the following steps:
Research programs: Research PhD in Economics programs and identify programs that align with your research interests and career goals.
Check eligibility: Review the admission requirements for each program, including GPA requirements, standardized test scores, and English language proficiency.
Prepare application materials: Prepare your application materials, which typically include standardized test scores, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample.
Submit applications: Submit your applications through the university's online application system, and pay the application fee.
Interview: If selected, you may be invited for an interview with the program faculty.
Decision: After the interview, the program will make a decision on your admission. If accepted, you will receive an offer of admission and funding package.
PhD Economics Fee:
The application fee for a PhD in Economics program varies by university, but typically ranges from $50 to $100.
PhD Economics Syllabus:
The syllabus for a PhD in Economics program typically includes advanced courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and specialized topics in the student's field of interest. The specific course requirements may vary by university.
PhD Economics Salary and Jobs:
Graduates of a PhD in Economics program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, government, and the private sector. Some of the top career opportunities for PhD in Economics graduates include:
University professor
Research economist in government agencies or think tanks
Economic consultant
Analyst in the private sector (e.g., banking, finance, consulting)
Policy analyst in government or non-profit organizations
The salary for a PhD in Economics graduate varies depending on the career path and location, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 or more.
PhD Economics Top Colleges in India:
Some of the top colleges in India offering PhD in Economics programs include:
Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University
Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata
Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi
Madras School of Economics, Chennai
Institute of Economic Growth, Delhi
Centre for Development Studies, Thiruvananthapuram
Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai
Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune
Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research, Mumbai
Department of Economics, University of Calcutta, Kolkata.
Ph.D. (Economics) is a 3-year duration doctoral course. Generally the doctoral program involves macroeconomics and microeconomics. In this course candidates can get a career in teaching or formally researching economic subjects. Various canidates are interested in pursuing higher studies in this subject because of increasing its demand and importance. The course is most suitable for those candidates who have ample interests in research-oriented works. Mostly the PhDs are taken by person who are included in the Academics field. Ph.D. in Economics course could include admissions in prestigious institutions and placements in blue-chip companies. After its successful completion in Ph.D course candidates would be able to understand a wide range of theoretical debates in economics and business, analyze economic problems and evaluate the implications for economic policy and business planning & strategy.
Ph.D. (Economics) Admission Process:
Admission to the Ph.D. program shall be based on the students marks obtained in the entrance test conducted by the respective department or school of the particular university or institute. Those candidates who have complete GATE/NET/SET/ M.Phil/JRF Examination in the pertinent subject of the apex bodies as CSIR/UGC/ICAR/ICMR/DBT will be exempted from the Entrance Test. While giving the exemption, the Departmental Committee of the institute may consider research work/earlier Ph.D./experience done by the student. If a student already holds a Doctors degree in a relevant subject from a UGC Approved University or Institute, he/she may be exempted from entrance exam and pre Ph.D. coursework. After clearing the both steps the student will be eligible to pay course fee or registration fee. Only the predetermined number of candidates may be admitted to Ph.D. programme.
Ph.D. in Economics Employ Opportunities
Ph.D. in Economics job Position:
PH.D. ADMISSION PROCEDURE
DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
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.
NOTE:- Students are requested to note that their application will not be considered for admission if the above certificates are not enclosed with their application.
Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.
Program Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Economics |
Program Level | Doctorate Degree Courses |
Duration of the Program | 3 Years |
Examination Type | Year |
Eligibility | Postgraduate Degree in a Relevant Discipline With Minimum 55% Marks ( 50% for SC/ST Candidates ) |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Average Program Fee | Rs. 2 Lakh - Rs. 3 Lakh |
Syllabus of Management as prescribed by various Universities and Colleges.
Paper Code | Subjects of Study |
1 | Unit-1: |
2 | Introduction to philosophy of science and research methodology |
3 | Research Design: Need for research design, Features of a good research design, Different research design |
4 | Experimental survey: Basic principles of experimental design |
5 | Case studies - problems and limitations. |
6 | Planning and implementing research projects: planning a research project, problem formulation, research strategy and methods |
7 | Unit 1: Micro and Macro Economics |
8 | Consumer Demand Theory: Choice under Certainty and Uncertainty |
9 | Theory of Production and Cost |
10 | Inflation and Unemployment in the Closed and Open Economy |
11 | Macro policy options |
12 | Unit-2: |
13 | Methods of Data Collection: Direct method and Indirect methods |
14 | Data collection through questionnaires and schedules |
15 | Problems in data collection |
16 | Data processing: Operations and Problems in data processing |
17 | Sampling design: meaning and its applications |
18 | Measurement and scaling techniques: Measurement Scales and Sources of errors in measurement |
19 | Unit 2: International Trade, International Finance, Corporate Finance |
20 | Modern theory of trade and trade Policy, |
21 | Intra-Industry Trade, Free Trade versus Protection, Analysis of gains from free trade. |
22 | Theories of Balance of Payment and exchange rate determination |
23 | Policy Conflicts and Adjustment under Fixed and Flexible Exchange Rates |
24 | Modern Investment Theory |
25 | Financial Derivatives |
26 | Analysis of Data: Measures of and analysis Central Tendency, Dispersion, Skewness, and Kurtosis |
27 | Theoretical Distributions: Normal, Poisson and Binomial |
28 | Statistical Estimation and Testing of a hypothesis |
29 | Unit 3: Development and Growth Theory • Theories of under-development • Classical Growth Models • Endogenous Growth Models • Sustainable Development |
30 | Unit-4: • Methods of Analysis: Simple and Multiple Regression • Time series analysis • Problems in econometric estimation |
31 | Unit 4: Economic Issues and Policy-I • Planning and Economic Reforms • Financing of Infrastructure Development, Education Sector, • PSUs, Privatization and Disinvestment, • Fiscal and Monetary Policy Approaches Tax Reforms, Central Government Finances • |
32 | Unit-5: • Documentation - writing the research thesis • Introduction to statistical and econometric software |
33 | Unit 5: Economic Issues and Policy-II • Poverty, Income Distribution and Justice • Migration and Demographic Transition • Land Reforms in India and their impact on Agrarian Structure • Nature and Problems of Rural Development in India • Indian Industry a |
Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.