Careers in Economics
Studying Economics in India
The main paths to studying economics in India, from school subjects to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, and how admissions work.
Many paths lead to a career in economics.
At school
- Economics is offered in classes 11 and 12 in most boards.
- Mathematics in classes 11 and 12 is strongly recommended, as many top economics programmes require or prefer it.
Undergraduate degrees
- BA (Honours) Economics at universities such as those in Delhi University.
- BSc Economics programmes with more mathematics and statistics.
- Integrated five-year programmes at some institutions.
- Admissions to central universities are largely through CUET since 2022.
Postgraduate degrees
- MA or MSc Economics at universities and specialised institutions such as the Delhi School of Economics, Indian Statistical Institute, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Madras School of Economics, Gokhale Institute and IGIDR, among others.
- Admissions are often through entrance exams.
Related fields
- Statistics, mathematics, data science, finance and public policy degrees can also lead to economics careers.
Studying abroad
Many students pursue master’s degrees and PhDs abroad, especially in the US and UK, often with scholarships.
Online learning
Free courses from universities and platforms like SWAYAM and NPTEL help students explore economics before committing.
A class 10 student who loves economics chooses mathematics in class 11 on her teacher's advice. Later, it helps her get into a BSc Economics programme and an MSc at a top institute.
Students from science, arts and commerce can study economics, though maths helps a lot.
- Economics is offered in classes 11 and 12; maths is strongly recommended.
- BA (Hons) and BSc Economics are common undergraduate routes.
- CUET is used for central university admissions since 2022.
- Postgraduate programmes at specialised institutes often use entrance exams.
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