The Programme is conceived with a view to providing a research based exposure to development issues for the fresh post-graduates equipping them for a career in research work. It will also provide a theory– linked training and fresh insights into problems of applied economics to planners, administrators and professionals/activists from all fields as well as a new orientation in teaching of economics to the academics.

Admission Eligibility

Master’s in Economics with > 50% marks; or
Other Social Sciences, Humanities, Law with > 55% marks; or
Sciences, Technology, Life Sciences with > 60% marks .
The programme follows an inter-disciplinary approach and those from non-economics background are encouraged to apply.

Those awaiting results of the Master’s Programme can also apply, provided they would have completed all requirements of such degree at the time of commencement of the Programme.

SC/ST candidates and PH candidates with more than 40% disability are eligible irrespective of their percentage of marks and are exemopted from payment of the application fee.

Admission Offer

MPhil Programme has an annual intake of about 15 candidates.
Two seats are available for officers deputed by the Government of Kerala.
Journalists and postgraduates in journalism can utilize a fellowship of the Journalism Education Trust to undergo either the coursework or the full programme.

Reservation: 15% for SC; 7.5% for ST and 3% for Physically Challenged candidates.

How to Apply The Application Form can be downloaded from the site. Applicant should enclose a DD for Rs. 200 drawn on any nationalised Bank in favour of Centre for Development Studies, payable at Trivandrum. (Foreign nationals: US$ 20)

Application and Prospectus can also be obtained from the Programme Office, CDS on payment of Rs. 200. (Enclose the DD for Rs. 200 if requested by mail) (Foreign nationals: US$ 20)

Completed Application along with the research proposal and self attested copies of marksheets/grade cards/ degree certificates should be reach the Programme Office on or before May 19, 2008.

Foreign nationals should ensure to submit their applications preferably by March, so as to facilitate early clearances on equivalence of Degrees by JNU.

Selection Process

Applicants are shortlisted for interview on the basis of their scores for academic record (from +2 onwards) and the research proposal submitted witht eh application.

The research Proposal is a tool for evaluation of the applicant’s interest and aptitude for undergoing this Programme and is a key element of the application. It should ideally have:

• Review of relevant literature on the chosen topic
• A cogent exposition on the study problem
• Objectives of the study
• Theoretical Framework
• Methodology and sources of data
• List of References.
• It can be in any field of study with an applied economics approach.
• It should ideally be around 1500 words, neatly typed/ word-processed.
• It should be the candidate’s own work.