Admissions Open 2024

B.A. (Hons) Economics

B.SC. & B.A. ECONOMICS (HONS)

FOUR YEARS PROGRAMME

About The Programme

The two JSGP undergraduate degrees in economics (B.A. and B.Sc Hons) are versatile and can lead to various employment choices. They endow students with vital skills to understand the interplay between economy, society and politics. Our graduates can evaluate economic problems from a global perspective and fashion solutions that are local and durable.
Students can pursue either the B.A. Economics (Hons.) or the B.Sc. Economics (Hons.) four-year degree programmes. They can opt to write a research-based dissertation in the final year. The first year is foundational for both programmes and is common for students in both B.A. and B.Sc. streams.

Second-year students must complete common and specialised courses from their respective streams. After that, students study a mix of both core and elective courses related to their chosen programme. Both programmes offer Honours with Research, conforming with the National Education Policy 2020.

The main difference between these two streams of undergraduate economics programmes (B.A. and B.Sc.) is their emphasis or thrust. B.Sc. Economics (Hons.) emphasises understanding Economics analytically, mathematically and empirically.

B.A. Economics (Hons.) emphasises cutting-edge tools that allow students to focus on global economics, business, and policy-making.
Both programmes provide a strong foundation in economics theories, models and ideas, enabling students to analyse and comprehend economic data and trends.

Both programmes offer students opportunities for dual-degree and study abroad programmes.
The B.A. Economics (Hons.) or B.Sc. Economics (Hons.) opens doors to pursue further studies in Economics, Public Policy, Management, Banking and Finance, Investment banking, Statistics, Data Science, etc. They equip students for careers in government, finance, consulting, academia, and international organisations, with excellent prospects for career advancement.

What Makes It Different at JGU

Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts/Science (BA/BSc) in Economics with Jindal School of Public Policy School can be a strategic and valuable choice for several reasons:

1. Interdisciplinary Approach: JSGP offerS an interdisciplinary approach to education. Studying economics within this context allows you to understand how economic principles intersect with various other fields like political science, sociology, law, and more. This holistic approach provides a well-rounded understanding of public policy issues.

2. Policy Relevance: Economics plays a fundamental role in shaping public policy. It provides the analytical tools and frameworks to assess the impact of policies on various economic factors such as growth, income distribution, and efficiency. By studying economics in JSGP, you will be better equipped to analyze and design policies that address real-world challenges.

3. Data and Quantitative Skills: Economics programs typically emphasize quantitative skills, data analysis, and statistical modelling. These skills are highly valuable in the field of public policy, where evidence-based decision-making is crucial. As a school we integrate these skills into our curriculum, preparing you to work with complex data sets and conduct rigorous policy analysis.

4. Policy Advocacy: If you're interested in advocating for specific policies or working in government, having a strong foundation in economics can be an asset. It allows you to understand the economic implications of policies and effectively communicate your ideas to policymakers and the public.

5. Career Opportunities: A BA/BSc in Economics from JSGP can open up a wide range of career opportunities. You can work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, international organizations, think tanks, consulting firms, or pursue further education in economics, law, or public policy at the graduate level.

6. Research Opportunities: JSGP faculty engage in research on pressing societal issues. Studying economics in this environment will provide you with opportunities to participate in meaningful research projects that have a direct impact on policy development.

7. Networking: JSGP faculty have strong networks with government agencies, advocacy groups, and industry professionals. This can provide you with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and connections that can help you launch your career in public policy and economics.

8. Global Perspective: JSGP has a global perspective, addressing not only domestic but also international policy challenges. Economics, as a global discipline, can help you understand the intricacies of international trade, finance, and development, which are vital in today's interconnected world.

In summary, pursuing a BA/BSc in Economics with JSGP can provide you with a comprehensive education that equips you with the knowledge, skills, and network needed to make a meaningful impact in the field of public policy. It combines the analytical rigor of economics with the practical focus of public policy, preparing you for a wide range of career opportunities in the public and private sectors.

JSGP offers students the opportunity to work on active research projects, enabling them to develop analytical and problem-solving skills. Students get exposure to the latest research trends and cutting-edge tools used in the field of economics. Working on research projects also helps students build a portfolio of work that can be showcased to potential employers.
JSGP provides students with a chance to join a global network through the International Development and Public Policy Alliance (IDPPA) and the International Public Policy Association (IPPA). These associations provide students with access to a global community of policymakers, researchers, and practitioners, facilitating collaboration and knowledge-sharing. This networking opportunity can lead to internships, job offers, and other career opportunities.

The eligibility criteria for the B.A. (Hons.) Economics programme at JSGP require successful completion of Class XII examination or equivalent from CBSE, State Boards, IB, ISC, Cambridge and other Government-recognized school leaving exams. While it is preferred for the applicants to have studied maths in grade XII, it is not mandatory.

The admission process for the programme follows a holistic approach conducted over three rounds, wherein applicants are evaluated based on a personal statement, supplemental application, Class 10 and 12 marks, faculty interview, and JSAT Score of 55% or equivalent (SAT, ACT, LSAT-India). This process ensures that the most deserving candidates are selected for the program.

The B.A. (Hons.) Economics programme offered by the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of economic interactions through theoretical and practical knowledge. The curriculum aims to equip students with the ability to carefully unpack and analyse economic problems. Graduates of the programme possess the following abilities:

  • Understand the relationship between the economy and society.
  • Consider economic issues from a global perspective and offer solutions at the local level.
  • Establish connections between different components of the economy.
  • Assess the implications of economic policy decisions.
  • Address economic problems arising from society in general and its various interacting units.

The curriculum of the B.A. (Hons.) Economics programme is mathematically intensive and analytically rigorous. The programme’s first two years are dedicated to building a strong foundation in quantitative skills and core economic sub-fields such as Micro, Macro-Economics and Econometrics. In the third year, students have the flexibility to choose electives based on their interests while also developing soft skills such as writing, reading, speaking and presentation.

The course curriculum of B.A. (Hons.) Economics programme is divided into three years, consisting of six semesters. Students are introduced to mathematics, statistics, principles of economics, and influential ideas in the evolution of economics during their first year. The second year is focused on topics such as econometrics, macroeconomics, game theory, applied economic analysis, politics of development, and public economics. In the third year, students can choose from a range of electives, including Indian economy, international trade, equity and fairness, and money and banking.

Students are also trained in statistical programming languages such as R and STATA, which are valuable skills in the field of economics. Regular workshops on statistical programming languages are conducted to help students develop their skills.

  1. Applied Econometrics
  2. Evaluation Methods
  3. Measures in Health and Health Care
  4. Health Systems: India and The World
  5. Economics of Health Care Financing
  6. Urbanisation & Development: Practice, Theory & Policy
  7. Policy Vs Politics
  8. Labour Policy
  9. Sustainable Water & Energy Governance
  10. Health Economics
  11. Further Topics in Microeconomics
  12. Health Policy Systems & Governance
  13. Governance, Technology & Welfare
  14. Applied Public Finance & Policy
  15. Advance Mathematics
  16. Political Economy of Public Policy
  17. Advanced Econometrics
  18. Qualitative Research Methods

The B.A. Honours Economics programme offered by Jindal School of Government and Public Policy is designed to provide students with a solid theoretical foundation as well as practical applications in the field of Economics. The programme seeks to offer a broad-based understanding of the subject while allowing students to explore areas of particular interest in greater depth.

Graduates of the Economics Honours programme will be equipped with a versatile skill set that can be applied across a range of industries and sectors. Career opportunities for graduates include roles in investment banks, asset management firms, management consultancy firms, banking and financial services, trading desks, tax and advisory firms, economic consultancy firms and policy think tanks. The programme aims to prepare students for a successful career path in the industry of their choice by providing a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum along with hands-on learning experiences.

Studying Economics today opens up several possibilities for the future. The B.A. Honours Economics programme at JSGP aims to guide students in selecting their own trajectory in career advancement, based on their interests and strengths. The programme is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, along with proficiency in statistical programming languages such as R and STATA. These skills are highly valued by employers across various industries, making graduates of the programme highly sought-after in the job market.

JSGP is a vibrant and active hub of student-led initiatives and clubs that foster critical thinking, policy debates, and social entrepreneurship. SOCH is one such student-driven initiative that organizes regular screenings of documentaries and films followed by discussions on issues related to politics, society, and international relations. Similarly, Policy Corner is an online writing platform where students discuss local, national, and global policy issues with a wider audience, providing a platform for debate and deliberation. The Public Policy Club provides students with hands-on experience in applying theoretical learning to real-life challenges, while Enactus fosters socially responsible entrepreneurship among JSGP students, empowering them to create sustainable business plans that address some of the most pressing problems of the world.

These student-led initiatives not only enrich the academic experience of JSGP students but also contribute to their personal and professional development.

FAQ's

1. What is the Eco Hons scope of a degree from JSGP?

A degree in Eco Hons from JSGP opens up a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in banking, finance, consulting, government, research, and academia. They can also pursue careers in international development, environmental economics, and public policy.

2. What is the B.A. Economics syllabus at JSGP?

The B.A. Economics syllabus at JSGP is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in economic theory and its applications. The program covers a wide range of topics, including

Microeconomics: The study of individual behavior and markets, including topics such as demand and supply, consumer theory, and firm theory.

Macroeconomics: The study of the economy as a whole, including topics such as inflation, unemployment, and economic growth.

Econometrics: The application of statistical methods to economic data, including topics such as hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and time series analysis.

Economic theory: The study of fundamental economic concepts and models, including topics such as general equilibrium theory, game theory, and public economics.

3. What are the career opportunities available to graduates of the B.A. (Hons) Economics programme at JSGP?

Graduates of the B.A. (Hons) Economics programme at JSGP are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some of the specific career paths that graduates may choose include Economist: Economists analyze economic data and trends to provide insights into economic issues, such as inflation, unemployment, and economic growth. They work in government agencies, think tanks, research institutions, and private companies.

Financial analyst: Financial analysts provide financial advice and recommendations to individuals and institutions. They work in banks, investment banks, asset management firms, and financial services companies.

Data scientist: Data scientists collect, analyze, and interpret large datasets to extract meaningful insights. They work in various industries, such as technology, healthcare, and retail.

Policy analyst: Policy analysts evaluate the effectiveness of government policies and programs. They work in government agencies, research institutions, and consulting firms.

Management consultant: Management consultants advise businesses on how to improve their operations and achieve their goals. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing.

4. What are the eligibility requirements for the B.A. (Hons) Economics programme at JSGP?

The eligibility criteria for the B.A. (Hons.) Economics programme at JSGP require successful completion of Class XII examination or equivalent from CBSE, State Boards, IB, ISC, Cambridge and other Government-recognized school leaving exams. While it is preferred for the applicants to have studied maths in grade XII, it is not mandatory.

5. What makes the B.A. (Hons) Economics programme at JSGP unique?

The B.A. (Hons) Economics programme at JSGP is unique in its emphasis on experiential learning, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary studies. Students have the opportunity to conduct research projects, work on internships, and participate in international study abroad programs. The program also offers a wide range of electives, allowing students to specialize in areas of their interest.