Centre for Development Studies ( MA in Economics )
The program aims to provide students with the tools to analyze modern economic issues, particularly related to development. It balances theory and practical application, fostering a diverse research community. Graduates are equipped with skills in economic theory, quantitative methods, and problem-solving, preparing them for careers in academia, government, journalism, business, and consulting. The degree is awarded by Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
Admission Procedure for MA in Economics
Admission is through an entrance test.
Eligibility Criteria for MA in Economics CDS
To be eligible for the MA Economics program at CDS, you need a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline. You should have at least 50 percent of marks under the 10+2+3 pattern. However, candidates from SC, ST, and Persons with Disability (PWD) categories are eligible, regardless of their percentage of marks in the qualifying degree. Additionally, if you are currently in the process of completing your final examinations, you can also apply for the program.
No. of Seats for MA in Economics CDS
There are a total of 25 seats available for MA in Economics students
Fees for MA in Economics CDS
The tuition fee for M.A students is Rs.8,000 per semester.
CDS Entrance Exam Syllabus
Here’s a breakdown of the topics included in the syllabus:
Microeconomics:
Consumer behavior: Utility maximization and demand, Theories of production and cost, Choice under uncertainty, Perfect competition and monopoly, Basic models of oligopoly, Cournot, Bertrand, and Stackelberg models
Macroeconomics:
National income accounting, Simple Keynesian model, IS-LM model, Solow growth model, Theories of money demand and money supply, Consumption and investment
Mathematics:
Algebra: Index numbers, logarithms, arithmetic, geometric and harmonic progression, permutations, and combinations, theory of equations. Matrix algebra: Concepts of matrices and vectors, matrix addition and multiplication, commutative, associative, and distributive laws, identity and null matrix, transpose and inverse of a matrix, determinant, Cramer’s rule. Calculus: Functions, limits, continuity, differentiation of functions of one or more variables including trigonometric functions, unconstrained optimization, definite and indefinite integrals, integration by parts and by substitution, first-order and second-order difference/differential equations.
Statistics:
Probability theory: Classical and axiomatic definitions of probability, calculus of probability, conditional probability, and statistical independence, random variables, distribution functions, density and mass functions. Descriptive statistics: Summarization of data, frequency distribution, and its graphical representation, bivariate and multivariate frequency distribution, measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, skewness, kurtosis, and correlation. Sampling: Concepts of population and sample, sampling design, and random sampling. Theoretical and sampling distributions: Moments of binomial, Poisson, negative binomial, geometric, normal, and rectangular distributions, concept of standard normal, Chi-Square, F distribution, and their moments. Statistical inference: Point estimation, unbiasedness, confidence interval, ordinary least square, goodness of fit, hypothesis testing, null and alternative hypothesis, type I and type II errors, size of a test, acceptance and rejection region, p-value, analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Indian Economy:
This section covers various issues in the contemporary Indian economy. Suggested references include the last two years’ Economic Survey published by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, Reserve Bank of India Bulletin and Annual Report, along with other relevant publications.
Candidates preparing for this entrance test should ensure that they have a strong foundation in economics, mathematics, and statistics, as these are essential for success in the examination. They should also stay updated on current economic issues and developments in the Indian economy.
CDS MA Economics Entrance Paper Pattern
The MA Economics entrance exam at CDS consists of 100 multiple-choice questions with a single correct answer for each. All questions are mandatory, and the total allotted time for the exam is two hours.
CDS MA Economics Entrance Exam Marking Scheme
The marking scheme for the exam is as follows: Each correct answer is awarded three marks. Each wrong answer results in a deduction of one mark. Questions that are left unattempted do not carry any marks (zero marks).
Placements after MA in Economics from CDS
CDS has a strong placement record with recruiters including KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, Nielsen, EY, JC Penny, J-Pal, Cognizant, and other reputable organizations.