The Masters Programme in Economics at the Delhi School of Economics has come to be regarded as one of the best of its kind in Asia. The hallmark of the institute is the dynamic curriculum it offers, that is continuously reviewed and updated by the faculty in line with the changing trends in the global economy. This ensures that students are exposed the latest developments in Economics. Regular interactions with visiting faculty from prestigious institutions across the world through guest lectures and seminars form an integral part of the programme.

Admission to the programme takes place on basis of a rigorous written examination that tests the students’ knowledge of their fundamentals. Students from across the country take the test, with only the top 10% being finally selected into the programme.

The programme is spread out over a period of 2 years, and comprises 4 semesters. Each student is required to undertake 6 compulsory and 9 elective courses. The system of electives allows students to choose the discipline they wish to specialize in. Each elective serves as an independent module and a group of elective can be taken to form a specialization.

Students are also imparted training in the use of specialized econometric software, which enhances the students’ analytical skills, enabling them to better apply their theoretical knowledge and carry out independent research. A system of internal evaluation involving regular tests and term papers fosters academic discipline and independent thought.

The masters degree programme attempts to develop a perspective of an intelligent understanding and interpretation of economic problems, and to impart training in combing the analytical framework and empirical evidence in an integrated fashion by drawing on the tool-box of micro and macro economic analysis, statistical and econometric techniques as well as economic history. An attempt is made to transmit a general method of approaching the problem with the following inter-related elements.

  1. Analytical description of the problem.
  2. Conceptualization of the problem by abstracting critical features with reference to the development process
  3. Search for an appropriate analytical framework/ model which best approximates the conceptualization
  4. Relevance and adequacy of the selected model with reference to the empirical evidence and discussion of policies in the light of analytical framework.

The idea is to equip the students to handle analytically other problems that they may be confronted with during their professional careers as economic analysts.

The programme is structured in a manner that ensures a continuous evaluation of students – making them through with their concepts and instilling a strong work ethic. The process includes a system of internal assessment based on regular mid-semester tests and tutorial assessments as well as term papers, besides the end-of-semester examinations. There are also computer assignments in relevant course.

The emphasis is on inculcating questioning spirit among the students, instilling an ability to understand the basics and innovate the ideas imbibed during the course duration. This enhances their conceptual and analytical reasoning power.

The faculty being the most precious resource of the institute, the tutorial system allows for a more personal interaction between them and the students. This gives students a setting in which to clarify their doubts. This is invaluable in promoting a sound understanding of the subjects.

Term papers form an important part of the learning process in many of the courses. They test the students’ ability to apply theory and technical knowledge learnt in the classroom to real-world economic behaviour. The system of term papers lays emphasis on the following key areas.

A. Application of theory
The process of identification of an analytical framework appropriate for the topic of interest tests the students’ understanding of key concepts. Advanced econometric packages are then used for empirical analysis, forming the link between theory and practical knowledge.

B. Teamwork
Students generally form groups to present term papers. This approach incorporates a spirit of teamwork and knowledge sharing. It allows for discussion and exposure to different perspectives, giving a more comprehensive way of tackling the problem.

C. Presentation
The students are required to present their conclusions before a panel of experts and fellow students, explaining their methods and answering queries. This teaches them to be clear and articulate both in their thinking

 
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