Masters in Economics (MA/MSc) 2026 is a postgraduate program designed for students who want to gain advanced knowledge of economic theories, data analysis, and policy-making. The course focuses on core areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, public finance, and international economics. It helps students understand real-world economic issues like inflation, unemployment, growth, and development in the Indian and global context.
MA Economics is usually more theory-oriented, while MSc Economics emphasises quantitative and analytical skills. Graduates can explore careers in banking, finance, research, policy analysis, corporate strategy, and government services. With strong demand across public and private sectors, a master’s degree in economics offers excellent career growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities for higher studies such as a PhD, MPhil, or professional certifications.
A masters in economics is a two-year postgraduate degree providing in-depth knowledge of economic theory, policy, and quantitative methods. Programs are offered as either an MA Economics, emphasizing theoretical aspects, or an MSc Economics, emphasizing quantitative skills. Core subjects include Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, and Mathematical Economics. Graduates can find opportunities in institutions like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), research organizations, the finance sector, and data analytics firms. A masters in economics is suitable for individuals with backgrounds in finance, engineering, accounting, management, statistics, mathematics, or economics. The following table compares MA Economics and MSc Economics programs in India.
Feature
MA Economics
MSc Economics
Duration
2 years (typical)
2 years (typical)
Focus
Economic Theory
Quantitative Skills
Career Paths
Research, Analyst roles
Research, Analyst roles
Suitable for
Individuals with background in finance, engineering, accounting, management, statistics, mathematics or economics
Individuals with background in finance, engineering, accounting, management, statistics, mathematics or economics
Masters in Economics (MA/MSc) 2026
To be eligible for a masters in economics program in India, you typically need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks. Preference is often given to those with a background in economics or mathematics. Admission commonly involves entrance exams such as the DSE (Delhi School of Economics) entrance exam, JNU entrance exam, CUET-PG, and ISI entrance exam. Some colleges may also require a math background.
DSE Entrance Exam: Conducted by Delhi School of Economics
JNU Entrance Exam: Conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru University
ISI Entrance Exam: Conducted by Indian Statistical Institute
CUET-PG: Conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA)
GATE (Economics): Conducted by IITs
Individual College Entrance Exams: Conducted by individual colleges
Math background required for some programs
Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks required
Entrance – DSE
JNU
ISI dates
Entrance – DSE – June 2026, Highly Competitive
JNU – Own entrance exam
May 5, 2026 (last date for document upload)
Entrance – DSE – Requires math background
JNU – Conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru University
March 15, 2026 (application portal opens)
Entrance – DSE – Minimum 50% marks in bachelor’s degree
JNU – Eligibility criteria: bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks
Elite program with its own entrance exam
CUET-PG – Conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA)
JNU – Admission process: entrance exam and interview
Refer to ISI website for schedule
GATE (Economics) – Conducted by IITs
JNU – Fees: ₹ 40.04 Lakhs
Usually in February
DSE Entrance Exam – Requires bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks
JNU – Specializations: economics, finance, international trade
Application portal opens in March
JNU Entrance Exam – Own entrance exam
JNU – Duration: 2 years
Admission process: entrance exam and interview
ISI Entrance Exam – Elite program with its own entrance exam
JNU – Eligibility criteria: bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks
Minimum 50% marks in bachelor’s degree required
Top Colleges for Masters in Economics (MA/MSc) in India
India’s top economics colleges offer MA and MSc programs in Economics. Fees, rankings, placements, and alumni networks vary among institutions. Delhi School of Economics (DSE) is ranked #1, with a fee of ₹30,000. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has a total fee of ₹1,00,000. Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Kolkata has a fee of ₹20,000. Other colleges include Presidency, Jadavpur, and IGNOU. Private colleges like Ashoka University and OP Jindal offer programs with fees of ₹15,00,000 and ₹12,00,000, respectively. The following table compares these colleges.
Top Colleges – Fees
Ranking
Placements
Alumni
Delhi School of Economics (₹30,000)
Ranked #1 by NIRF
100% placement with average salary ₹8,00,000
Notable alumni include Nobel laureate Amartya Sen
Jawaharlal Nehru University (₹1,00,000 total)
Ranked among top 5 by QS World University Rankings
95% placement with average salary ₹7,00,000
Alumni include former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan
Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) Kolkata (₹20,000)
Ranked #1 in statistics by NIRF
99% placement with average salary ₹9,00,000
Notable alumni include statistician C.R. Rao
Ashoka University (₹15,00,000)
Ranked among top 10 private universities by QS World University Rankings
90% placement with average salary ₹6,00,000
Alumni include entrepreneurs and policymakers
OP Jindal (₹12,00,000)
Ranked among top 20 private universities by NIRF
85% placement with average salary ₹5,50,000
Alumni include industry leaders and researchers
Presidency University (₹50,000)
Ranked among top 10 universities by NIRF
80% placement with average salary ₹4,50,000
Notable alumni include economists and policymakers
Jadavpur University (₹20,000)
Ranked among top 10 universities by NIRF
75% placement with average salary ₹4,00,000
Alumni include industry leaders and researchers
IGNOU (₹10,000)
Ranked among top 10 distance learning universities by NIRF
60% placement with average salary ₹3,50,000
Alumni include working professionals and entrepreneurs
Masters in Economics (MA/MSc) 2026 Syllabus
The syllabus for a masters in economics is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied economics. The first year typically covers core subjects like microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and mathematical economics. The second year offers a range of electives, including financial economics, labor economics, and international trade. Students also complete a dissertation or research project. The syllabus balances theoretical and practical knowledge, focusing on developing critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills. The following table outlines a sample syllabus for a masters in economics program in India.
Semester 3: Development Economics, Public Economics, International Trade
Applied Econometrics, Research Methods
Financial Economics, Labor Economics
Semester 4: Dissertation Research
Advanced Statistical Analysis, Machine Learning
Environmental Economics, Health Economics
Semester 1: Indian Economy, Economic History
Mathematical Finance, Computational Economics
International Finance, Monetary Economics
Semester 2: Economic Growth and Development, Economic Systems
Empirical Finance, Experimental Economics
Public Policy, Economic Journalism
Semester 3: Human Resource Development, Population Studies
Demographic Techniques, Spatial Economics
Rural Development, Urban Economics
Semester 4: Thesis Writing, Research Seminar
Advanced Research Methods, Academic Writing
Career Development, Professional Ethics
Semester 1: Microeconomic Theory, Macroeconomic Theory
Quantitative Methods, Statistical Analysis
Econometrics, Mathematical Economics
Semester 2: Development Economics, International Trade
Applied Econometrics, Research Methods
Financial Economics, Labor Economics
Masters in Economics (MA/MSc) Fees
The fees for a masters in economics in India vary significantly depending on the type of institution. Elite institutions like the Delhi School of Economics (DSE) and the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) offer programs at lower fees, with DSE charging ₹30,000 per year and ISI charging ₹20,000 per year. State institutions typically charge between ₹15,000 and ₹40,000 per year. Private institutions can be more expensive, with Ashoka University charging ₹15 lakhs, Jindal Global University charging ₹12 lakhs, and Christ University charging ₹2 lakhs for their programs. Distance education options, such as those offered by IGNOU, are available at a lower fee of ₹15,000.
DSE: ₹30,000 per year (₹60,000 total)
JNU: ₹25,000 per year
ISI: ₹20,000 per year
State institutions: ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per year
Ashoka University: ₹15 lakhs
Jindal Global University: ₹12 lakhs
Christ University: ₹2 lakhs
IGNOU: ₹15,000 (distance education)
Institute Category
College Type / Examples
Average Fees
Elite Institutions
ISI, DSE, JNU, other top national institutes
₹20,000 – ₹40,000 per year
Top Elite Institutions
Top-ranked Indian institutes
₹50,000 – ₹60,000 per year
International / Global Institutions (India Campus)
International universities with Indian campuses
₹50,000 – ₹80,000 per year
State Universities
JNU, other state-funded universities
₹15,000 – ₹40,000 per year
Government-Funded Institutions
Central & state government colleges
₹10,000 – ₹25,000 per year
Private Universities (India)
Christ University, Ashoka University, Jindal Global University
₹2 lakhs – ₹15 lakhs (total course fee)
Top Private & International Universities
Premium private & global universities
₹10 lakhs – ₹40 lakhs (total course fee)
International Private Universities (India Campus)
Foreign universities operating in India
₹25 lakhs – ₹50 lakhs (total course fee)
Distance Education (Government)
IGNOU and similar institutions
₹5,000 – ₹20,000 per year
Online & Distance Programs
Online, correspondence, distance learning
₹10,000 – ₹60,000 per year
Career After Masters in Economics
After completing a Master’s in Economics (MA/MSc), graduates can explore diverse career paths across government, corporate, research, finance, and emerging data-driven sectors. The degree builds strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued across industries.
Government & Public Sector Careers
Economics postgraduates can work as economists, policy analysts, or officers through exams like UPSC, Indian Economic Service (IES), RBI Grade B, SEBI, NABARD, and State PSCs. These roles focus on economic planning, regulation, and public policy.
Banking, Finance & Corporate Sector
Many graduates enter banking, investment firms, fintech companies, and corporates as financial analysts, risk analysts, business economists, and strategy consultants. Strong demand exists in private banks, NBFCs, consulting firms, and multinational companies.
Data Analytics & Research Roles
With skills in econometrics, statistics, Python, R, or SQL, students can work as data analysts, data scientists, or economic analysts. Research roles are available in think tanks, NGOs, research organizations, and corporate research teams.
Academia & Teaching
Those interested in teaching and research can pursue PhD or MPhil and become lecturers, professors, or academic researchers in universities and colleges.
Media, Journalism & Development Sector
Economics graduates also work as economic journalists, news analysts, and development professionals in media houses, international agencies, and policy institutions.
Overall, a master’s in economics offers strong career flexibility, salary growth, and opportunities in both traditional and emerging sectors.
Masters in Economics (MA/MSc) Salary
Salaries for masters in economics graduates in India depend on the institution, sector, and job role. Graduates from DSE and ISI can earn between ₹12-25 LPA, while general graduates can earn between ₹5-10 LPA. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) offers salaries ranging from ₹12-15 LPA. Consulting firms like McKinsey hire economics graduates at salaries between ₹15-30 LPA. Academia offers salaries between ₹8-18 LPA, while data science roles can offer salaries between ₹15-40 LPA after acquiring skills in Python/R.
Data Analyst: ₹6-12 LPA (general), ₹15-40 LPA (data science)
Economics graduates across private & public sectors
₹5 – ₹10 LPA
Corporate Consulting
Consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Big 4)
₹15 – ₹30 LPA
Academia & Research
Universities, think tanks, research institutions
₹8 – ₹18 LPA
Data & Analytics
Data Scientist (with Python/R, ML skills)
₹15 – ₹40 LPA
Data & Analytics
Data Analyst (entry–mid level roles)
₹6 – ₹12 LPA
Finance Sector
Banking, investment, risk, finance roles
₹10 – ₹25 LPA
Policy & Governance
Government & private policy-making roles
₹8 – ₹20 LPA
Media & Journalism
News Analyst / Economic Reporter
₹4 – ₹8 LPA
Research & Analysis
Research Analyst (corporate, policy, NGOs)
₹7 – ₹14 LPA
Studies After Masters in Economics (MA/MSc)
After completing a Master’s in Economics (MA/MSc), students have multiple study options to specialize further, move into research, or gain professional expertise. Some of the most popular choices are listed below:
PhD in Economics
A PhD is ideal for students interested in research, teaching, or policy-making roles. It focuses on advanced economic theory, econometrics, and original research. Graduates work as professors, economists, or research analysts in universities, think tanks, and international organizations.
MPhil in Economics
MPhil is a research-oriented program that builds strong analytical and academic skills. It often acts as a bridge between a master’s degree and a PhD and is suitable for students planning academic or research careers.
MBA (Finance, Analytics, or Strategy)
An MBA helps economics graduates move into corporate leadership roles. Specializations like finance, business analytics, and strategy are popular for careers in consulting, banking, and management.
Professional Courses
Courses such as CFA, FRM, Actuarial Science, or Data Analytics enhance technical and financial expertise. These programs are well-suited for roles in investment banking, risk management, and financial analysis.
Government & Competitive Exam Preparation
Many graduates prepare for UPSC, Indian Economic Service (IES), RBI Grade B, SSC, and State Public Service exams. A strong economics background is highly beneficial for these roles.
International Studies
Students can also pursue a second master’s degree or specialized programs in economics, public policy, or development economics abroad for global career exposure.
These study options allow economics graduates to align their education with careers in academia, finance, policy-making, or corporate sectors.
FAQs
1. What can I study after completing MA/MSc Economics? After MA/MSc Economics, you can pursue PhD, MPhil, MBA, CFA, FRM, Data Analytics, Actuarial Science, or prepare for UPSC, RBI Grade B, and IES exams.
2. Is PhD in Economics a good option after master’s degree? Yes, a PhD in Economics is ideal for research, teaching, and policy roles, offering opportunities in universities, think tanks, international organizations, and government research institutions.
3. Can I do MBA after MA/MSc Economics? Yes, economics graduates can pursue MBA in Finance, Analytics, Strategy, or Consulting to build managerial skills and access leadership roles in corporate and financial sectors.
4. Which professional courses are best after MSc Economics? Popular professional courses include CFA, FRM, Actuarial Science, Data Science, and Business Analytics, helping graduates enter finance, investment banking, and risk management roles.
5. Are government jobs available after master’s in economics? Yes, graduates can appear for UPSC, Indian Economic Service, RBI Grade B, SSC, and State PSC exams for roles in administration, policy-making, and economic planning.
6. Is MPhil Economics necessary before PhD? MPhil is not mandatory for PhD but helps strengthen research skills, academic writing, and conceptual clarity, especially for students aiming for teaching and research careers.
7. Can I study economics abroad after MA in India? Yes, students can pursue specialized master’s or PhD programs abroad in economics, public policy, development studies, or applied economics for global exposure and careers.
8. What skills should I develop after MSc Economics? Students should build skills in data analysis, econometrics, statistical software, research methodology, critical thinking, and communication to improve career and academic prospects.
9. Is CFA useful for economics graduates? Yes, CFA complements economics knowledge with financial analysis and investment management skills, opening careers in portfolio management, equity research, and finance roles.
10. What is the best career-oriented study option after MA Economics? The best option depends on goals—PhD for academia, MBA or CFA for corporate roles, and competitive exams for government careers with long-term stability.
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