Ashoka University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous coursework, research seminars and an extended dissertation. In the initial years students typically take advanced courses in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory and econometrics, together with specialised electives that reflect faculty strengths and student interests (for example development economics, public economics, labour economics, industrial organisation, international trade, finance and behavioural economics).

Coursework emphasises mathematical and statistical foundations, causal inference and empirical methods. Students participate in regular research seminars, present work-in-progress, and join reading groups. After completing required courses and passing qualifying/comprehensive examinations, students develop and defend a research proposal and then concentrate on independent dissertation research under the supervision of one or more faculty advisors.

• Core modules: Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics, Advanced Econometrics/Statistical Methods
• Typical electives: Development Economics, Public Economics, Labour Economics, Industrial Organisation, International Trade and Finance, Behavioural and Experimental Economics
• Research training: Research Methods, Seminar Series, Fieldwork and Data Analysis workshops
• Assessment: coursework grades, qualifying examinations, dissertation proposal, and final doctoral dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong academic record, typically a Master’s degree in economics or a closely related quantitative discipline (such as economics with honours, econometrics, mathematics, statistics, or finance). Candidates with exceptional performance in a rigorous bachelor’s programme and substantial quantitative preparation may also be considered.

Typical application components include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, a research proposal or sample of academic writing, two or more academic letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose prior instruction was not in English. Evidence of aptitude for advanced quantitative work—such as coursework in real analysis, probability and statistics, or prior research experience—is strongly preferred. Admissions are competitive and based on the overall profile of academic preparation, research potential and fit with faculty supervision.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in a range of research-intensive roles. Common career paths include academic positions in universities and colleges, research roles in think tanks and policy institutes, and analytic or economic research positions in central banks, government departments and international organisations. PhD economists from the programme also move into private-sector roles that require advanced quantitative and causal-inference skills, such as economic consulting, data science teams in industry, and research roles at financial institutions.

Why study at Ashoka University

Ashoka University offers a research-focused environment with a liberal-arts ethos that encourages interdisciplinary perspectives. The economics faculty include scholars working across theoretical, empirical and policy domains, enabling close mentorship and collaboration. Students benefit from a regular seminar series, opportunities to present research, and interactions with other departments and specialised research centres on campus, which support applied and policy-oriented projects.

The campus environment promotes engagement with broader social and policy debates, while institutional support for research—through access to data resources, methodological workshops and potential funding or assistantships—helps students develop into independent researchers prepared for both academic and non-academic careers.