What is Ph.D. in Economics: Full Form, Course Duration, Admission 2025, Colleges, Salary & Scope
The term PhD full form is Doctor of Philosophy in Economics. The course teaches the students the skills to study the finite resources. A PhD is the highest qualification. There is no fixed duration and a student can also specialize in different branches like Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, International Economics and Business Economics.
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PHD in Economics Course Details: Highlights
Candidates can see the key highlights below:
| Particulars |
Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name |
Ph.D in Economics |
| Course level |
Doctorate |
| Admission Procedure |
Merit and Entrance Based. |
| Entrance Exams |
|
| Course Fees |
INR 15,000 to INR 1.5 Lakh |
| Salary in India |
INR 8-15 LPA. |
| Job Profiles |
Professor, Financial Analyst, Investment Banker |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
- PhD in Economics Eligibility Criteria
- PhD in Economics Admission 2025
- PhD in Economics Entrance Exams 2025
- PhD Economics Syllabus 2025
- Best PhD in Economics Colleges in India
- Popular Private Ph.D. in Economics Colleges in India
- PhD in Economics Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- PhD Economics FAQs: 2025
- Popular Ph.D. in Economics Specializations
- Course Cutoffs
PhD in Economics Eligibility Criteria
Candidates can see the PhD in Economics eligibility below:
| Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualification |
Bachelor's degree 4 years, including 1 year of research in Economics or a relevant field from a recognized university or Master's degree in Economics or a relevant field from a recognized university.
|
| Minimum Marks |
Minimum 55% marks or equivalent CGPA in the Master's degree.
|
| Entrance Exams |
Many colleges require a valid score in national or university-level entrance exams like UGC NET, CSIR NET and GATE.
|
| Research Proposal |
Some colleges may require a research proposal outlining the intended research topic.
|
| Interview |
Shortlisted students often undergo an interview to assess their research aptitude and suitability for the program.
|
|
Age Limit |
No prescribed age limit. |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
PhD in Economics Admission 2025
You can have a general overview of the PhD in Economics admission process below.
- Make sure you meet the eligibility
- Apply online by flling up the form
- Take entrance exam
- Wait for the merit list and result
- If selected, attend the counselling session
- Get the documents verified and pay the fee to secure the seat
Note: The info is taken from other sites and can be different.
PhD in Economics Entrance Exams 2025
Candidates can see the list of exams below:
|
PhD Economics Entrance Exam |
Entrance Exam Schedule |
|---|---|
|
GATE |
|
|
UGC NET |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Important Exam Dates
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| Nov ' 25 | KIITEE 2026 Application Form TENTATIVE |
| 06 Nov ' 25 | ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 3: Seat Allotment & Document Upload |
| 07 Nov ' 25 | ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 3: Document Verification |
| 07 Nov ' 25 | ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 3: re-submission of documents |
| 07 Nov ' 25 | ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 3: Document Verification by the Universities |
| 07 Nov ' 25 | ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 3: Seat Acceptance Fee deposition |
| 10 Nov ' 25 | ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 4: Seat Allotment & Document Upload |
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 26 Oct ' 25 | TIFR GS 2026 Application deadline for completing REGISTRATION |
| 19 Oct ' 25 | TIFR GS 2026 Application deadline for choice of test center |
| 12 Oct ' 25 | TIFR GS 2026 Application deadline for Fee Waiver Requests |
According to the latest NTA UGC NET Exam Pattern exam consist 2 papers. Although, it will be conducted without any break in the fixed time duration of 3 hours, which means exam is conducted in single session. Exam is totally computer based. There is no negative marking so attempting all questions is compulsory. Both papers consist only MCQs. Paper 1 consist 50 questions of total 100 marks in an hour whereas paper 2 consists 100 questions of total 200 marks in 2 hours. Paper 2 is based on subject questions opted by the candidate. Paper 1 is totally based on teaching / research aptitude, reasoning ability, comprehension and general awareness. Hope the information helps.
GATE papers have three major sections; General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics & Specific Subject. There are 65 questions asked for 100 marks in GATE exam.
General aptitude questions are asked for 15 marks, Engineering mathematics in some paper codes, 13 marks and the rest 72 marks from the chosen subject.
In some paper codes engineering mathematics will be excluded only 15 marks general aptitude questions and rest 85 marks will be of chosen subject.
PhD Economics Syllabus 2025
Candidates can see the PhD in Economics syllabus below:
|
PhD in Economics Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
|
Research Methodology in Economics |
Advanced Econometrics |
|
Topics in Development Economics |
Advanced Economic Theory |
|
Econometric Methods |
Topics in Financial Economics |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Yes, you can pursue PhD Economics in distance mode. There are over 100 colleges in India that offer the course in distance mode out of which 52 are government colleges, 42 are private-run and 39 are semi-government colleges. Most of these colleges accept UGC NET, CSIR NET and GATE exam score for admission to the course.
Anyone who wishes to pursue a promising career in academics or economic policy-making or the banking industry can pursue Economics.Those candidates who have pursued Mathematics are favoured for UG courses in Economics since Statistics is one of the major subjects offered both in UG and PG courses in Economics.Many candidates also aspire to join government services through UPSC CSE, or State PSCs or UPSC IES and Economics is a popular optional subject in these examinations. Students who possess Research, Analytical, and Statistical skills can be admitted to Economics courses.
Best PhD in Economics Colleges in India
There are more than 170 PhD in Economics colleges in India. You can see some top options for government and private PhD Economics colleges below.
Best Government PhD in Economics Colleges in India
See the list of popular government colleges in India that offer PhD in Economics below.
|
Best Government Colleges |
Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
|
INR 13,860 |
|
|
INR 50,400 |
|
|
INR 1.19 Lakh - INR 2.06 Lakh |
|
|
INR 35,520 |
|
|
INR 21,000 |
|
|
INR 8.08 Lakh |
|
|
INR 3,900 |
|
|
INR 48,550 |
|
|
INR 40,400 - INR 1.15 Lakh |
|
|
INR 6,000 |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Best Private PhD in Economics Colleges in India
Here's a list of popular private colleges in India that offer PhD in Economics below.
|
Best Private Colleges |
Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
|
INR 3 Lakh - INR 16 Lakh |
|
|
INR 92,000 |
|
|
INR 3 Lakh |
|
|
INR 4.2 Lakh |
|
|
INR 24,570 |
|
|
INR 2.1 Lakh - INR 3 Lakh |
|
|
INR 3 Lakh |
|
|
INR 75,000 |
|
|
INR 90,000 |
|
|
INR 90,000 |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
#81 India Today
Popular Private Ph.D. in Economics Colleges in India
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Humanities & Social Sciences Applications open. Apply Now
PhD in Economics Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
Candidates who wish to make a career in the academics and wish to become a lecturer, professor or a researcher usually pursue PhD in Economics. Also, having a PhD in Economics degree make the career scope of an individual better and enhances the job prospects.
Top PhD in Economics Job Profiles
Candidates can see the list of jobs below:
|
Job Profiles |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
|
Economist |
4-6 lakh |
|
Lecturer |
5-7 lakh |
|
Consultant |
4-6 lakh |
|
Professor |
6-8 lakh |
|
Advisor |
4-6 lakh |
|
Management Consulting |
5-7 lakh |
|
Accountant |
6-8 lakh |
|
Investment Analysis |
7-9 lakh |
PhD in Economics Top Recruiters
Candidates can see the list of recruiters below:
| Top Recruiters for PhD in Economics | |
|---|---|
| Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited | Future Group |
| Grasim Honda Two-Wheelers | Bank of India, Bharat forge |
| Microsoft | BSNL |
| Mahindra Engineering | Flipkart |
| Cognizant | Infosys |
| Reliance Industries Limited | Reliance |
| JCB | Tata Power |
Candidates from any discipline can apply for the RBI Grade B exam for the general post. Candidates applying for this post must possess a graduation degree in any discipline with a minimum of 60 percent marks or a postgraduate degree with a minimum of 55 percent marks. The degree must be obtained from a recognised Indian or foreign University or institute.
Economics is one of the most sought-after courses. There are several reasons why candidates should choose to pursue a PhD Economics course. Some of these reasons have been listed below:
A PhD degree in economics opens up many job opportunities in the business, corporate, and government sectors.
The study of economics is directly applicable to the real world. A PhD in Economics will help the student navigate their own finances and they will learn to manage it.
All MNCs and bigger companies hire candidates with an in-depth knowledge of Economics, to predict the market and help the company grow efficiently. These companies offer high salaries and other perks in return for their service.
Candidates who have completed PhD Economics can serve the nation through service as policy-makers, financial analysts, economic advisors, etc. for the government.
Economics skills apply across industries and roles. PhD Economics graduates are also hired by public and private banks and other commercial companies.
A PhD enhances one's career prospects and serves as a gateway to a career in academia.
PhD Economics FAQs: 2025
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to PhD Economics:
Economics is a social science as it explains how our individual choices effect society by using a price mechanism. As consumers we like cheap prices, because we can buy more things that we like. And we decide on what we buy by looking at the prices and seeing what products we want. When given a price an individual is given the choice to buy or not, it is their decision to make. Economics studies the variables that effect the decision of multiple individuals. This includes the price and the alternative products available to buy. If there aren't any choices to make then we all do the same thing and there are no decisions to study and no need for economics.
Popular Ph.D. in Economics Specializations
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3 Colleges
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Course Cutoffs
News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered 3 weeks ago
If you are planning to pursue a PhD at Lovely Professional University (LPU), here's a simple guide to help you:
First, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. You need a Master's degree in a relevant field with a good academic record—usually a minimum of 55% marks or equivalent CGPA, as per the
S
Contributor-Level 6
Answered a month ago
Biosciences students at Chandigarh University are guided effectively for pursuing higher studies like M.Sc. and Ph.D. Programs are designed to prepare students with strong research skills, analytical abilities, and scientific writing expertise. Faculty mentors assist students in selecting appropriat
R
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
Of course, you can. In fact, a master's degree is the first basic requirement for a PhD aspirant. No matter which subject you choose, a relevant master's degree from a UGC-approved university will be required to pursue a PhD.
For instance, if you have completed your MA in Psychology, then you can pu
S
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates who have complete master's degree or PG Diploma or its equivalent in any discipline with first-class or BTech/4-year degree with 6.5 CGPA or equivalent are eligible to apply for PhD programme at IIM Amritsar.
Aspirants with any professional qualification such as CA/ ICWA/ CS/CFA- Level-II
N
Guide-Level 15
Answered 2 months ago
The application fee for PhD admission at Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University is INR 1000 for general and OBC category. The fee is INR 500 for SC/ST/Category 1 candidates. Late application fee is INR 500.
h
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The minimum eligibility for four year UG students applying for PhD at Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University is having a minimum 75% of aggregate marks in UG. Along with this candidates must attempt the entrance conducted by the university and the counselling sessions conducted hence.
h
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The minimum eligibility for PhD at Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University is that the candidate must hold a 2 year PG degree and 3 year UG degree/ 1 year PG degree and 4 year UG degree. For students having a four year UG degree and directly applying for PhD, the minimum eligibility is having 75
h
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The word count of a Statement of Purpose for a PhD should be typically between 800 and 1,500. However, it is important to check the SOP guidelines for every university you apply to, because requirements can differ. For example, Oxford requests 1,500 words, while MIT asks for a 2-page maximum. Alway
N
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, you can. Here are some college options you can consider for a Part time PhD in Psychology in India:
| Part-time PhD in Psychology Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Amity University Noida | INR 3.02 Lakh |
| Amity University Mumbai | INR 1.89 Lakh |
| Amity University Lucknow | INR 2.43 Lakh |
| Karnavati University Ahmedabad | INR 3.3 Lakh |
| Sigma University | INR 2.8 Lakh |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
G
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
See, earlier, the conventional path to apply for an RCI licensure was the MPhil, which has been phased out. So now, what you can do is to search for the institutes that are RCI-approved. They will provide the training and professional courses in fields related to rehabilitation and special education
M
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Here are options for the best University for PhD in Psychology in India:
| PhD in Psychology Universities | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Parul University Noida | INR 3 Lacs - 16 Lakh |
| Christ University Bangalore | NA |
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University | NA |
| Lovely Professional University | INR 3 Lakh |
| Parul University | INR 3 Lakh |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
I
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, a few college options are available for a PhD in Psychology in Delhi:
| PhD in Psychology Colleges in Delhi | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University Delhi | NA |
| Jamia Millia Islamia | NA |
| IIT Delhi | NA |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
L
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
For a PhD in Psychology at IGNOU, you'll need to have a:
- Master's degree in Psychology (For example, MA in Psychology)
- The degree must be UGC-recognized
- With a minimum of 55% aggregate score
- 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/PwD/EWS categories
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Of course, it is. For the past few years, mental health has been a significantly growing concern, and people have started considering it as a big deal, leading to the growing demand for Psychology professionals. Meanwhile, a doctoral degree is the highest form of education, and if you plan to invest
S
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Including speciality, contractual and permanent faculty members at Indo Global Group of Colleges, there are a total of 22 PhD holders across various departments. Furthermore, IGGC features 100+ faculty members with MBA and M.Tech backgrounds. With a total of over 250 Faculty members, Indo Global Gro
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Only a few scholars enrolled on a PhD in third countries, who are selected by the Euroculture Erasmus Mundus Consortium, are eligible to contribute to this joint programme. Therefore, requests generated only through the officially established channels are considered, and no unsolicited requests for
R
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates who have passed a master's degree with 55% aggregate (50% aggregate for SC/ ST/ OBC/ Differently-abled and other categories of candidates as per the policy of Government of Maharashtra) or Grade- B in the UGC 7-point scale can apply for PhD programme at Sri Balaji University Pune. Besides
N
Guide-Level 15
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates are selected for the PhD course at Himachal Pradesh National Law University, based on their scores in the HPNLU Entrance Test/ UGC-NET/ JRF. Candidates must appear for any of these exams and achieve a valid aggregate in the same to take admission in the PhD course at Himachal Pradesh Nati
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
According to the official portal, university PhD students who have qualified both ACUET and the final selection interview are eligible for grant-in-aid (?20,000 per month + HRA or hostel facility) offered through the 'ACU Ph.D. Scholarship' Program, applicable to both Indian and Foreign Nationals. A
h
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Following specialisations are offered in the PhD programme at Adichunchanagiri University:
- PhD Civil engineering / Mechanical Engineering/ Electronics & Communication engineering/ Computer Science & Engg/ Mathematics
- PhD Anatomy/ Physiology/ Medical Biochemistry/ Microbiology/ Community Medicine/ Path
h
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Al Falah University offers a doctorate programme for students who are eligible for the same. The common eligibility is a second class master degree with not less than 55% marks of a university or a grade 'B' in the UGC 7- point scale. Alternatively, the candidate must complete M.Phil course work wit
h
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Plaksha University offers admission to PhD programme based on entrance exam scores of the candidates. The university prefers aspirants with scores in CSIR NET-JRF, DBT-JRF, UGC-NET-JRF, GATE, IIT JAM, etc. Such shortlisted aspirants are exempted from appearing for the written test conducted by Plaks
N
Guide-Level 15
Answered 2 months ago
Joining NLU Kochi (NUALS) - The National University of Advanced Legal Studies for PhD course is generally considered a good option. Candidates must consider factors such as infrastructure, faculty experience, hostel and mess facilities, curriculum, etc. while taking admission. They can apply online
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
NLU Kochi (NUALS) - The National University of Advanced Legal Studies accepts the UGC NET or the Departmental Admission Test (DAT) which is conducted by the university itself for admission in the PhD course. Candidates must ensure fulfilling the eligibility criteria required for admission in the cou
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Including specialty, contractual and permanent faculty members at NPGC Lucknow there are a total of 21 PhD holders in the Arts department, 6 in Commerce department, 15 in the Science department, 6 in Management department, 1 in the Computer Science department, 1 in the Journalism and Mass Communicat
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Including speciality, contractual and permanent faculty members at Bhaskar Engineering College in Telangana, there are a total of 7 PhD holders across various departments. Furthermore, Bhaskar Engineering College features 71 faculty members with Master's backgrounds from various streams. With a tota
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Including specialty, contractual and permanent faculty members at St Edmunds College Shillong there are a total of 38 PhD holders across various departments. Furthermore, St Edmunds College features 67 faculty members with Master's backgrounds from various streams. With a total of 105 Faculty member
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, Motherhood University conducts a Research Aptitude Test or RAT for admission to PhD programme. Candidates can apply for RAT on the official website of the university. Aspirants who have copleted 1-year or 2-year master's degree with at least 55% aggregate can apply for the test. Those who have
N
Guide-Level 15
Answered 2 months ago
Joining PhD course at RV College of Architecture is generally considered a decent option. Candidates must consider factors like infrastructure, faculty experience, hostel and mess facilities, curriculum, etc. while taking admission. They can apply online or offline for admission at RV College of Arc
S
Contributor-Level 10
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