IGNOU MA Economics Syllabus – Core & Elective Subjects

IGNOU, also known as Indira Gandhi National Open University, offers a two-year Master’s in Economics course. Spread over four semesters, this IGNOU MA course teaches skills such as advanced econometric modelling, quantitative skills, research abilities, economic forecasting, etc. The aim of the programme is to help learners understand the functioning of the economy and its effects. The course consists of core and elective subjects.

You can find the updated syllabus on this page. Direct link to download IGNOU MA Economics You pdf is also available. Anyone who has a bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution or an equivalent degree can apply to the programme. The curriculum offers four specialisations in the fourth semester. However, it is not mandatory to choose one. The total cost of the course is INR 19,000.  Let’s get into the details of the MA Economics IGNOU.

What are the subjects included in MA Economics Offered by IGNOU?

Indira Gandhi Open University offers a highly affordable MA Economics course. As previously discussed, MA Economics syllabus IGNOU is divided into four semesters. The students can also choose from the four specialisations in the last semester. Depending on an individual’s interest, they may choose a specific specialisation or opt out of it in the last semester. Let’s have a look at the MA Economics IGNOU syllabus. 

MA Economics First Year Subjects

MA Economics Second Year Subjects 

Now, let's have a look at the four specialisations offered. The students who opt for the mentioned four specialisations have to complete 20 credits from that particular group. For example, in group A, each subject carries four credits. Therefore, they have to achieve 20 credits in each course under the group A specialisation.

Specialisation A: Introductory Econometric Methods, Advanced Econometric Methods, Data Science and Big Data, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Project Work I

Specialisation B: Introductory Econometric Methods, Advanced Econometric Methods, Economics of Environment and Social Sector, Project Work I

Specialisation C: Introductory Econometric Methods, Advanced Econometric Methods, Actuarial Economics, Project Work I

Specialisation D: Introductory Econometric Methods, Gandhi’s Economic Thoughts, Women in the Economy, Gender Issues in Work, Employment and Productivity, Project Work II

What are the core subjects in IGNOU MA Economics course?

The MA Economics IGNOU syllabus is distinct and relevant to the present demands of the industries. As per the NEP guidelines 2020, programmes offered across India through any mode now have to offer multidisciplinary education. This means that a course has to have a mix of core courses, etc. This helps students to explore more professional opportunities outside their niche field. 

It covers core areas such as Economics, Finance, Globalisation, and Insurance in MA Economics first year and second year. There are also elective courses in the syllabus, such as Advanced Economic Methods, Economics of Environment, and Social Sector. The programme is coordinated by Professor Vijeta Banwari, who is an exceptional academician in her field.

In the fourth semester of MA Economics second year, there are also elective courses such as Gandhi’s Economic Thoughts belonging to the Master’s in Gandhi and Peace Studies. Then there is MWG:  Women in the Economy, which is an optional course. It covers important conceptual topics like women’s work, gender equality in the workforce, etc. The fourth semester also has project work, which helps you put what you have learnt throughout the semester into practical application.

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What Does it Offer to Students?

The MA in Economics, one of the popular IGNOU PG courses is in tune with the New Education Policy 2020. IGNOU MA Economics also follows the UGC guidelines, offering credit norms and multiple entry-exit options. In accordance with the National Higher Education Qualification Framework, the MA Economics is structured to meet industry element demands. The course is offered semester-wise and has been divided into four semesters. Each semester carries a credit of 20. The total credit for the MA Economics syllabus is 80 credits. All the courses in the first three semesters are compulsory for the MA in Economics from IGNOU. In the fourth semester of the MA Economics new syllabus, a student is free to choose an area of specialisation out of the four options. 

The specialisations offered for IGNOU MA Economics are Data Analytics, Energy and Environmental Economics, Insurance and Finance, and Social Policy. They can only choose a specialisation if they have completed 20 credit courses from that particular group. They also have the option of not choosing any specialisation. A student can legally opt out of the 20 credit courses out of the four groups as discussed above.

The MA in Economics IGNOU has been designed carefully by subject and industry experts. The programme aligns with the present demands of the industries and offers relevant skills and knowledge. An MA Economics from IGNOU develops the skills of learners to understand how the economy functions. It is also skilled at enhancing their quick thinking and analytical skills. This way, after completing Economics from IGNOU, students are more relevant to the job market. They can therefore easily find professional opportunities in their niche area.

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Concluding Notes

Indira Gandhi Open University offers an MA Economics course. It is a two-year postgraduate degree spread over four semesters. It offers advanced knowledge and skills in topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, the functioning of the economy, etc. For all students looking for distance learning in Economics, it is the perfect option. They can study at their own pace without the need for any in-person attendance. The curriculum is designed by experienced academicians and industry experts. It involves core courses along with electives.

There is also a project at the end of the fourth semester for practical learning. The course is perfect for individuals looking to pursue a degree while managing their personal commitments. The course is highly affordable and offers an enriching career. The course has been designed according to NEP guidelines, which opens up a lot more professional opportunities beyond the field of Economics. If you are looking to pursue an MA degree in Economics, be assured that the MA Economics IGNOU can be the perfect course for you.

FAQs

Q.1 Does IGNOU offer MA Economics?

Yes, IGNOU offers an MA Economics degree. It is a postgraduate degree of two years. The curriculum is spread over four semesters and has core plus elective subjects.

Q.2 Is an MA Economics degree from IGNOU valid?

Yes, an MA Economics degree from IGNOU is valid. IGNOU is a UGC-recognised university. Therefore, all its courses offered through online and distance learning are credible. They are also on par with regular courses offered by any other university.

Q.3 What is the duration of the MA Economics course at IGNOU?

The MA Economics course is two years. It is spread over four semesters. The curriculum is a blend of core subjects and electives. There are also four specialisations offered as part of the curriculum- Data Analytics, Energy and Environmental Economics, Insurance and Finance, and Social Policy.

Q.4 What elective subjects are available in the IGNOU MA Economics course?

Yes, IGNOU offers four different specialisations for its Economics course. They are Data Analytics, Energy and Environmental Economics, Insurance and Finance, and Social Policy.

Q.5 How to check the latest updates on the IGNOU MA syllabus?

You can simply log in to the official website and check the detailed syllabus of the course. You may also connect with any programme coordinators if needed.