Madras School of Economics Integrated Course Draws Strong Local Interest
Chennai witnessed a notable trend in higher education as the Madras School of Economics (MSE) reported that more than 80% of students enrolled in its five-year integrated economics degree for the 2025-26 academic year hailed from Tamil Nadu. This marks a significant increase from previous years, highlighting growing local engagement with the program.
Student Numbers Show Sharp Rise
Out of 73 students admitted to the course, a substantial 61 came from within the state. This figure represents a clear jump from the 38 Tamil Nadu students enrolled in the prior year. Professors at the institute attribute this surge to heightened awareness among school students regarding the promising career paths available to economics graduates.
Director N R Bhanumurthy emphasized the shift. "There is increased awareness about careers in economics among school students. It is one of the main reasons for MSE getting more students from the state to the integrated degree," he stated. The course itself includes a 35% reservation for Tamil Nadu students, and the current intake has comfortably exceeded this quota.
Graduate Success and Program Structure
The first batch of students who completed the BA economics course in 2025 have already secured admissions to prestigious global institutions. These include the London School of Economics, Barcelona School of Economics, Stockholm School of Economics, and Columbia University for further studies.
The integrated degree program offers flexible exit options. Students can choose to leave after the third year with a BA economics (honours) degree or after the fourth year with a BA economics (honours with research) degree. This structure provides multiple pathways tailored to individual academic goals.
Admission Process and Eligibility
For the 75 available seats in the integrated degree, MSE received 373 applications, indicating strong competition. Admission is based solely on a written test, ensuring a merit-based selection process.
The program demands a robust quantitative foundation. As such, only students who have studied mathematics in Class XII are eligible to apply. Applications for the upcoming academic year will open in February, giving prospective students time to prepare.
Bhanumurthy highlighted the academic rigor. "The level of economics taught is at a higher level. BA students acquire skills almost like what postgraduate students acquire elsewhere," he explained. This advanced curriculum equips graduates with competitive expertise.
Broader Educational Offerings and Outcomes
Beyond the integrated degree, MSE provides five MA degree programs and an MBA in finance and business analytics. These postgraduate courses have demonstrated strong employment outcomes.
Graduates from MSE's postgraduate programs typically secure an average annual salary package of around 14 lakh rupees. They often take on roles such as analysts and economists in various sectors, showcasing the practical value of their education.
Among the 61 Tamil Nadu students in the integrated course, 11 came from government model schools across the state. This inclusion reflects the program's accessibility and its appeal to a diverse student body.
