MA Economics vs MSc Economics: Which One Should You Pick—And Why It Matters More Than You Think

You’re standing at a crossroads.

You’ve chosen economics. Great.But now comes the bigger question—MA or MSc?

Both are postgraduate degrees in economics. Both open doors.But they don’t take you down the same road.

Let’s not rush this.Your career, your time, and your interests deserve a better answer than “just follow the crowd.”

So let’s break it all down.

First Things First: What’s the Real Difference?

The MA is more about understanding the world.The MSc is more about measuring it.

To put it differently:

• An MA Economics course usually explores theory, policy, development, and the economy's big-picture impact on society.

• An MSc Economics course dives into numbers—data modelling, statistics, advanced maths.

One focuses on why people behave a certain way economically.The other focuses on how to quantify it, predict it, and simulate it.

Sounds simple enough. But is it?

What Do You Actually Study in Each Program?

Let’s start with MA Economics.

It’s not just about reading textbooks and writing essays (though you’ll do that too).It’s about understanding people, institutions, and economies in motion.

Expect subjects like:

• Micro and macro theory

• Development economics

• Political economy

• History of economic thought

• Basic econometrics

• Public finance

If you enjoy debates, reading papers, or discussing government policies over chai—MA might feel like home.

Now let’s talk MSc.

This is more intense, at least mathematically. You’re not just understanding economic theory—you’re testing it.

Courses include:

• Quantitative methods

• Mathematical economics

• Advanced econometrics

• Game theory

• Forecasting models

• Computational economics

• Statistics and linear algebra

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys solving puzzles, coding models, or plotting graphs on R or Python—this is your playground.

Career Goals? Let’s Talk Outcomes

Here’s what everyone’s really asking:“What kind of jobs can I get with either degree?”

Let’s break it into two clear paths.

Where Can an MA in Economics Take You?

• Public policy and government advisory roles

• Civil services (UPSC, RBI Grade B, etc.)

• Development organizations and NGOs

• Research think tanks

• Teaching or academic research

• Journalism and economic writing

Basically, if you care about the big picture, social development, and public good—MA gives you tools to influence it.

And Where Can an MSc in Economics Take You?

• Data analytics in banks and finance companies

• Policy consulting for big firms

• Tech companies (think Google, Amazon, fintech start-ups)

• Research roles in quantitative economic modelling

• Risk analysis, actuarial sciences, financial engineering

• PhDs in high-end quantitative economics or finance

In short?MSc Economics is the route for problem-solvers who love structured thinking and tight logic.

Top Colleges: Where Should You Apply?

Let’s not pretend this doesn’t matter.The college tag can change your trajectory.

Top MA Economics Programs in India:

• Delhi School of Economics (DSE) : EXCEPTION ITS MORE QUANTITATIVE

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

• Madras School of Economics

• Ashoka University

• University of Hyderabad

• Gokhale Institute (Pune) : Both MA & MSc

• IIT Madras

These programs are respected, well-established, and produce top minds in public policy and academic research.

Top MSc Economics Programs in India:

• Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) - MSQE

• IGIDR, Mumbai

• IIT Kanpur / 

• IIT Delhi 

• IIT Roorkee

If you’re eyeing high-skill analytics jobs or top global PhD programs—these are excellent launchpads.

So… Which Exams Will You Face?

This depends on what you choose.

Entrance Exams for MA Economics: 

• Delhi School of Economics (DSE) : CUET PG Economics

• JNU : CUET PG Economics

• Ashoka’s internal test and interview : THEIR OWN

• Hyderabad University : CUET PG Economics

• Madras School of Economics : THEIR OWN

• GIPE : CUET PG Economics

For MSc Economics:

• ISI admission test (very quant-heavy) - ISI MSQE

• IIT JAM Economics or GATE Economics (for IITs)

• IGIDR : CUET PG Economics

Here, you’ll need a strong grip on calculus, algebra, statistics, and even probability theory.

Now for the Big Question—Which One Is Harder?

Let’s be real.

They’re both tough.But tough in different ways.

• If you fear numbers and aren’t into formula-based thinking, MSc will stretch you.

• If you dislike writing theory-heavy answers or don’t enjoy critical reading, MA will test your patience.

But don’t choose based on what’s “easy.”Ask yourself: Which one feels like me?

What About Studying Abroad?

That’s another important angle.

If your future includes an Ivy League or Oxbridge dream, you’ll want to know this:

• MA Economics from Indian universities is respected by global public policy and development programs.

• MSc with solid quant exposure makes it easier to get into data-driven programs abroad—especially in the US and Europe.

If PhD is on your mind, MSc helps if it’s a quantitative field. MA is great if your interest lies in theory or policy-based economics.

Still Not Sure What to Pick? Here's a Quick Litmus Test

Ask yourself these five questions:

1. Do I enjoy math more than reading and writing?

2. Do I want to work in the private sector or in government/policy?

3. Do I like coding or get anxious around it?

4. Am I aiming for research and academia—or jobs right after PG?

5. Do I prefer structured data analysis—or exploring social outcomes?

Your answers will show you where your instincts lie.

Preparing for the Exam? You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

Whichever path you choose, preparation is where the real game begins.

And it’s not something you want to figure out through trial and error.

That's where expert help makes all the difference.

👉 Check out the MA/MSc Economics Entrance Exam Course offered by Arthapoint.It’s built for students exactly like you—smart, ambitious, but sometimes unsure which way to go.

What Makes This Course Different?

• It covers both MA and MSc entrance syllabi—so you don’t have to pick prematurely

• Live sessions, test series, personal mentorship, and crash courses

• Designed by mentors who’ve cleared these exams themselves

• Fits around your college or work schedule

• Affordable and incredibly practical

So instead of feeling stuck between two options…You get to prepare for both—and decide later, from a position of strength.

Final Words: Pick the Path That Feels Right—Not Just What’s Popular

In the end, this is more than just choosing a degree.It’s choosing the kind of economist you want to become.

Want to create better policy, advise governments, or enter academia?MA might be your fit.

Want to forecast the market, crunch big data, or build predictive models?MSc could be your ticket.

Whatever you choose—do it with intention.And don’t wait too long to start preparing.

The earlier you start, the clearer it becomes.

Want to crack top MA or MSc programs?Begin your journey with Arthapoint’s all-in-one MA/MSc Economics Entrance Exam Course and study with people who’ve been where you’re going.