UG degree at economics institute opens doors to top international schools

Chennai: As many as 20 of 57 students pursuing BA Economics (honours) degree at Madras School of Economics (MSE) have secured admissions in top international schools such as London School of Economics, Barcelona School of Economics, Columbia University, and National University of Singapore for the academic year 2026-27.

Students said the strong curriculum and quantitative training received at undergraduate (UG) level helped them bag admissions to reputable economics colleges.

Maahika mathur, a third-year BA student, was accepted at three institutions, including London School of Economics, National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University (Singapore).

"I wasn't among the conventional toppers. The exposure to mathematical concepts and projects, building apps such as Python-based evaluation system and deep engagement with data helped me secure admissions to master's programmes offered by top schools," Maahika told TOI.

Hariharasudhan Selvaraj, another third-year student, has bagged admission to applied economics at the National University of Singapore with 50% scholarship.

"The course focuses on quantitative aspects, which is unique to MSE. The college also offered me teaching assistantship where I taught my juniors. My interaction with professors, who are active researchers, also motivated me to write research papers," Hariharasudhan told TOI.

From the first BA Economics batch last year, 11 of 51 students joined international economics schools.

"The UG programme has adopted some of the best practices followed by US and Europe universities. It has a combination of economic theory with a strong quantitative treatment. Students also learn about big data, AI and real-world issues in both govt and private sectors," said N R Bhanumurthy, director of MSE.

"The institute has some of the best faculty in areas such as economics, mathematics and finance, which helps produce quality students," he added.

MSE has converted BA Economics into five-year integrated MA degree with exit options in third year as BA Economics with honours and fourth year BA Economics with honours and research degrees.

The admission to this degree and other MA programmes are based on an entrance test. Candidates can apply till May 11 for this test.


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