M.Sc. In Economics
“Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) is an advanced research institute established and fully funded by the Reserve Bank of India for carrying out research on development issues from a multi-disciplinary point of view.
IGIDR was registered as an autonomous society on November 14, 1986 and as a public trust in January 1987. On December 28, 1987 the campus was inaugurated by Late. Shri Rajiv Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India.
Subsequently, the Institute was recognized as a Deemed University under Section 3 of the UGC Act.
Starting as a purely research institution, it rapidly developed into a full-fledged teaching cum research organisation when it launched a Ph.D. program in the field of development studies in 1990. The objective of the Ph.D. programme is to produce researchers with diverse disciplinary backgrounds who can address issues of economics, energy and environment policies. In 1995, the institute initiated the M. Phil programme. The M.Sc. programme commenced in 2003 to introduce students to the world of research at an earlier stage.
At present the Institute has about 188 employees and students, that include about 26 full time faculty members, 22 non-academic staff and about 140 M.Sc./M.Phil/Ph.D students.
About M.Sc.
The two-year M.Sc (Economics) programme was launched in 2003. The objective of the programme is to provide a sound training in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Econometric methods. A slew of elective courses are also offered. It is possible to choose from one of the following specializations: Development Economics, Econometrics, Energy & Environment, Macroeconomics and Microeconomics. In order to be eligible for award of the degree, one is required to successfully complete, over the course of four semesters, 16 courses or 15 courses and write the Masters thesis. The option of completing the programme requirements within 5 or a maximum of 6 semesters can also be exercised in line with the rules. In line with the UGC regulation an exit option is available at the end of the second and third semesters.
Summer Internships
IGIDR students enrolled in the M.Sc. programme have, after completion of the first year of course work, interned at leading corporates, financial institutions and academic institutions. The institute has a placement week in December which facilitates summer placement. It is fairly common for students to receive pre-placement offers following successful completion of summer internship.
Vision of the Programme
The two-year M.Sc. programme trains students in economic theory, quantitative methods, and real-world policy analysis. With options to complete 16 courses or 15 plus a Master’s thesis, the curriculum is ideal for students with strong quantitative skills. It focuses on issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, health, and finance. Guided by expert faculty and backed by advanced infrastructure, students gain research experience and practical insight. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in academia, policy, and industry, contributing to inclusive and sustainable development.
Career Outcomes for M.Sc. Students
IGIDR alumni are working in diverse sectors and in various roles including banking, business analytics, consulting, data science, and economic research.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Admission in the MSc programme will be treated as provisional and subject to meeting the eligibility requirements as applicable. The final official mark sheets of qualifying degree, as relevant, must be submitted to IGIDR at the time of admission or by 15 September 2025 in the event of delay in declaration of the undergraduate results.
Fee Structure
Duration
Need-based financial assistance is available to Master’s students in accordance with the Institute’s guidelines. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate genuine financial need and meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the academic and administrative committees. The aid aims to ensure that no deserving candidate is deprived of quality education due to economic constraints. Interested students are encouraged to apply through the official channels during the application window, along with relevant financial documentation. Final decisions are made after a thorough review of each applicant’s background and needs.
Resources
