Master of Arts in Economics is a 2-year postgraduate degree program that focuses on offering advanced knowledge of economic theory, quantitative methods, and their application to real-world issues. The course covers subjects such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, public finance, international trade, development economics, and mathematical economics.
Those who have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum aggregate of 45%-60% marks are eligible to apply for the course. Usually, the candidates who have studied Economics/ Statistics/ Mathematics/ Commerce/ Accountsas one of the subjects will be preferred. The admissions are based on entrance examinations like CUET-PG or university-conducted exams. The total course fees range from INR 14K to 2.54 Lakhs.
The economic graduates are eligible to find jobs in both the government and the private sector. Some of the job roles available to them are Economist, Economic Advisor, Economic Analyst, Economic Consultant, Research Analyst, etc. The average salary ranges between INR 3.21 - 7 LPA.
Table of Contents
- MA Economics Key Highlights
- What is MA Economics?
- Why Study MA Economics?
- Who Should Pursue an MA in Economics?
- MA Economics Eligibility
- MA Economics Entrance Exam
- MA Economics Colleges in India
- MA Economics Admission Process
- MA Economics Syllabus
- MA Economics VS MA Sociology
- MA Economics Job Opportunities
- MA Economics FAQs
MA Economics Key Highlights
Some of the key details of the MA in Economics course are mentioned in the table below:
What is MA Economics?
An MA in Economics is a postgraduate degree that provides advanced knowledge of economic theories, quantitative methods, and their real-world applications. The program focuses on topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, public policy, international trade, and development economics. It equips students with analytical and problem-solving skills to understand complex economic issues, design policies, and conduct research. Graduates of the Master of Arts in Economics are prepared for careers in government, finance, academia, think tanks, international organizations, and the corporate sector, or for pursuing further studies such as a PhD in Economics.
Why Study MA Economics?
Studying an MA in Economics allows students to gain a deep understanding of how economies function, and helps analyze and address complex issues like inflation, unemployment, poverty, inequality, and economic growth. The program provides students with strong analytical, statistical, and research skills that are highly valued in policymaking, finance, consulting, and development sectors. With globalization and data-driven decision-making becoming central to businesses and governments, economics graduates are in high demand. Additionally, it offers a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing research, teaching, or a PhD in economics or related fields.
Who Should Pursue an MA in Economics?
An MA in Economics is well-suited for students who have a strong interest in understanding economic systems, policies, and data analysis. It is ideal for those with an undergraduate background in economics, commerce, mathematics, statistics, or related fields. Individuals who enjoy working with numbers, analyzing trends, and solving complex problems will find this program rewarding. It is also a good fit for those aspiring to careers in government agencies, financial institutions, research organizations, international bodies, or academia. Students who are curious to know about how economic factors impact society and want to influence policy or business decisions, pursuing an MA in Economics can be a great choice.
MA Economics Eligibility
The institutes have different admission criteria for admission into the MA Economics. Here are some of the basic requirements that one needs to fulfill to apply for admission to the MA Economics:
- Should have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Some institutions may ask for a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.
- Candidates are expected to have studied Economics/ Statistics/ Mathematics/ Commerce/ Accountsas one of the subjects.
- Should have secured a minimum of 45%-60 % marks or equivalent grade.
- Relaxation of 5% marks is offered to SC/ ST/ PwBD/ D-OBC (NCL)/ Defence/ KM)
MA Economics Entrance Exam
Most of the institutes accept national-level entrance examinations, i.e., CUET-PG, for MA admissions, and some institutions conduct their own entrance examination. Here are some of the entrance examinations that are considered for admission into the MA in Economics are mentioned below:
MA Economics Colleges in India
There are a lot of colleges and universities in India that offer master's courses in Economics. Some of the top NIRF-ranked institutes that offer the Master of Arts in Economics are mentioned below:
MA Economics Admission Process
The admission into the MA Economics is usually based on the entrance examination. Most of the institutes prefer CUET-PG scores, and some conduct their own entrance examination. Here is the admission process of the MA Economics as per Azim Premji University:
Step 1: Online Application - The interested candidates will have to visit the official website of Azim Premji University and fill up the online application form at the admission portal. The application form will include the basic personal information, education details, work experience, etc. The candidates will have to submit the form along with their documents and an application fee of INR 500.
Step 2: Entrance Exam - The applicants will have to appear for the entrance exam conducted by the institute at the assigned centres. The institute also accepts scores of external exams, so the candidates who have appeared for CUET-PG will be exempted from the entrance exam.
Step 3: Personal Interview - The candidates will be shortlisted based on the scores in the entrance exam or CUET-PG, and the shortlisted candidates will be called for the personal interview round.
Step 4: Offer Letter - The selected candidates will receive a provisional offer letter, which they will have to accept within the given date and pay the admission fees to confirm their admission.
Step 5: Admission - The candidates who have confirmed their admission will have to physically appear at Azim Premji University to complete the admission formalities and for document verification.
Documents Required:
- 10th Marksheets & Passing Certificate
- 12th Marksheets & Passing Certificate
- Graduation Marksheets & Degree Certificate
- Migration Certificates from the Institution / University last attended
- Aadhar Card
- Caste Certificate (for reserved category candidates)
MA Economics Syllabus
Here is the syllabus for the MA in Economics, followed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University:
The table below has the list of electives from which the students can choose in the last 3 semesters:
MA Economics VS MA Sociology
Mentioned below is the comparison between MA Economics and MA Sociology:
MA Economics Job Opportunities
The Master of Arts in Economics course will equip graduates with analytical, statistical, and research skills and open up a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some of the job roles available for MA in Economics graduates are mentioned below, along with the average salary as per PayScale:
MA Economics FAQs
What are the higher study options after completion of the MA Economics?
The MA Economic graduates can pursue M.Phil or PhD courses in Economics or various areas of economics like Behavioural Economics, Economics of Policy Making, Financial Economics, International Finance, Security Analysis and Portfolio Management, Financial Derivatives & Risk Management, Gender Economics, Urban Economics, etc.
What subjects are covered in the MA Economics curriculum?
The MA in Economics curriculum usually includes subjects like Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, International Trade, Public Economics, Development Economics, Mathematical Economics, and Research Methods, along with electives in fields like environmental or health economics.
Are research papers necessary in MA Economics?
Research papers are required in MA Economics as part of the curriculum, often serving as a demonstration of mastery in a specific field. There is also a research proposal or a substantial term paper instead, but original research work under faculty supervision is common.
Is an entrance exam mandatory for admission to the Master of Arts in Economics?
No. Not all institutes take admission for the MA Economics based on the entrance examination. Some of the institutes also evaluate the students based on their graduation marks. But the majority of the top institutions like SRCC, Delhi School of Economics, etc. accept admissions based on the entrance examination.
Can one find a job internationally after completing an MA in Economics in India?
Yes, many Indian MA Economics graduates find opportunities abroad, especially if they gain experience or pursue further studies. The MA Economic graduates are eligible for roles in international organizations, financial institutions, or global think tanks.
