Top 12 Jobs After an MA in Economics: A Comprehensive Guide

The field of economics offers diverse and impactful career opportunities in various sectors, such as finance, government, consulting, and policy analysis. As India’s economy continues to expand and develop, the need for professionals who can quickly analyze market trends, develop economic models, and provide strategic insights is increasing. Graduates with an MA in Economics are well-equipped to work in banking, public policy, international trade, and other industries. Whether as financial analysts or as policymakers and advisors, these professions require a deep understanding of economic principles and quantitative analysis. In this blog, we will look at the best jobs after an MA in economics for you. This guide will help you identify a career that aligns with your skills, interests, and professional aspirations. By exploring these opportunities, you can make informed decisions about your career trajectory and maximize your potential for career growth and advancement.

List of Jobs After an MA in Economics

Whether you are interested in shaping public policy, driving business growth, or uncovering insights through data analysis, there’s a role for each of your skills and interests. Given below are the career options after an MA in Economics:

1. Economist

An economist is a key career option after an MA in economics. They are responsible for analyzing economic issues and trends affecting industries, governments, and societies. Their role includes various research and analytical tasks. This includes analyzing economic data, developing models to forecast economic trends, and researching inflation, employment, and economic growth. 

Economists may advise businesses, governments, or individuals on economic policies and strategies and prepare reports and presentations. Moreover, they contribute to policy formulation by interpreting complex economic concepts and data.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become an economist:

• Proficiency in economic modeling software, such as STATA and MATLAB to conduct rigorous economic analyses and generate accurate forecasts.
• Strong research skills to design and execute studies that investigate various economic factors, trends, and policies.
• Advanced ability to analyze large datasets and statistical information using tools like R, Python, and SAS software for data mining and econometric analysis.
• Capability to assess fiscal policies and their impact on economic stability, inflation, and employment through detailed reports and presentations.
• Sound knowledge of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics to interpret market conditions and suggest data-backed policy improvements.
• Expertise in preparing high-quality written reports, policy briefs, and academic papers for stakeholders or publication in research journals.
• Strong presentation and communication skills to explain complex economic concepts to non-technical audiences, including policymakers and corporate clients.

ii. Average Salary: ₹5 LPA – ₹15 LPA

Pro Tip: Start your career as an economist with an internship. Find an opportunity at prestigious organizations to gain valuable experience like RBI, UN, etc. Learn how to get an internship at RBI to kickstart your career with a research opportunity in economics. 

2. Trade Analyst

Trade analysts play a key role in today’s global economy. They study international trade data to identify market trends and understand how goods and services move between countries. By analyzing trade flows, such as imports and exports, they can pinpoint patterns and assess the effects of various factors, like changes in trade policies.

A major part of their work involves evaluating how tariffs (taxes on imports and exports), trade agreements between countries, and regulations impact businesses and economies. For instance, they might look at how a new trade agreement between two nations affects the cost of certain products or how tariffs influence the competitiveness of local businesses. Trade analysts also provide valuable insights to companies looking to expand into new international markets or grow their presence in existing ones. 

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a trade analyst:

• Advanced knowledge of international trade regulations and policies, including trade agreements, tariffs, and quotas, to assess market entry and trade barriers.
• Proficiency in analyzing import and export data using Excel, Tableau, and trade-specific software, such as TRAINS and WITS.
• Strong capability to interpret global supply chain trends and assess their impact on trade dynamics and corporate strategies.
• Research skills to evaluate new markets and prepare competitive analyses for businesses seeking international growth opportunities.
• Detailed understanding of trade compliance, risk management, and logistical requirements in cross-border transactions.
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide actionable insights on supply chain optimization and trade cost reduction.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹6 LPA – ₹14 LPA

3. Credit Analyst

A credit analyst evaluates whether individuals, companies, or financial assets (like stocks and bonds) are reliable enough to receive loans or credit. This is a popular job after an economics master’s because of its importance in the financial world. The role involves carefully analyzing financial statements, such as income reports or balance sheets, to figure out how risky it would be to lend money to a person or business. 

Furthermore, they work closely with loan officers and financial institutions to help them manage credit portfolios, which are collections of loans and credit accounts. They ensure that lending decisions comply with financial policies and minimize risk for the lender. This collaboration is crucial in maintaining the overall health and stability of the financial system.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a credit analyst:

• Strong knowledge of financial statement analysis to assess a borrower’s creditworthiness through balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow projections.
• Proficiency in using credit risk analysis software to make data-driven decisions.
• Expertise in preparing detailed credit reports with recommendations based on risk factors, such as leverage ratios, liquidity, and profitability metrics.
• Deep understanding of banking regulations and credit rating frameworks used to comply with lending policies.
• Ability to build financial models to assess the impact of changing interest rates, foreign exchange fluctuations, and macroeconomic factors on credit risk.
• Excellent business communication skills to explain credit decisions to clients and management teams.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹4 LPA – ₹10 LPA 

4. Financial Analyst

Financial analysts help businesses, investors, and organizations make smart financial decisions. Their main job is to assess the financial health of companies, projects, or potential investment opportunities. By studying financial data and market trends, financial analysts can predict future earnings and identify potential risks.

One of the key tools financial analysts use is financial modeling. These models help them forecast how a business or investment might perform in the future based on current data. For example, they might create a model to estimate how profitable a new product launch could be or whether an investment is likely to grow over time.

Some financial analysts choose to specialize in specific areas. For example, an ‘equity analyst’ focuses on stocks and shares, a ‘portfolio manager’ manages collections of investments, and a ‘risk analyst’ focuses on identifying and minimizing financial risks.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a financial analyst:

• Advanced Excel modeling skills to create financial forecasts, budgeting scenarios, and detailed valuation models.
• A certification in financial modeling and valuation course. 
• Proficiency in using financial analysis platforms to track market trends, stock performance, and economic indicators.
• Strong analytical abilities to evaluate company financials, assess profitability, and perform competitive benchmarking.
• Expertise in preparing detailed financial reports, including profit and loss analysis, balance sheet analysis, and cash flow forecasting for stakeholders.
• Knowledge of financial regulations and accounting principles to ensure compliance with legal and reporting requirements.
• Presentation skills to communicate findings and recommendations to management teams, investors, and key stakeholders.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹6 LPA – ₹16 LPA

5. Actuary

An actuary is a high-demand job after an MA in economics, focusing on risk management and financial planning. Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to evaluate financial risks, particularly in the insurance and finance industries. They analyze data to estimate the probability and potential cost of events like death, sickness, injury, or property loss. Actuaries design insurance policies, pension plans, and other financial strategies to minimize risk and ensure financial stability. They collaborate with other professionals to develop pricing models and set premium rates.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become an actuary:

• Strong command of probability theory and statistical analysis to assess risk factors and determine insurance premiums.
• Proficiency in actuarial software, such as R and Excel for performing risk calculations, forecasting, and stress testing.
• Ability to interpret and model financial risks related to insurance, pensions, and investments and provide sound advice on minimizing liabilities.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks governing actuarial practices and insurance standards.
• Advanced skills in performing detailed actuarial valuations for pension funds, life insurance policies, and health plans.
• Clear communication skills to explain complex actuarial concepts and results to stakeholders, including management, investors, and regulatory authorities.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹7 LPA – ₹18 LPA

6. Policy Analyst

Policy analysts are professionals who study public policies to understand how they affect society. They research and evaluate policies to determine how well they are working and what could be improved. Their work involves collecting and analyzing data on various social, economic, or political issues. For example, a policy analyst might study the effectiveness of a government healthcare program by looking at data on access to care, health outcomes, and costs. 

By assessing the results of existing policies, they can identify what works, what doesn’t, and why. After gathering data, policy analysts prepare detailed reports, policy briefs, and presentations that outline their findings. These reports inform decision-makers, including government officials, non-profit organizations, or think tanks, about potential improvements or new policy ideas. Policy analysts often specialize in certain areas like healthcare policy, education policy, environmental policy, economic development, etc.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a policy analyst:

• Strong research skills to evaluate public policies, legislation, and economic impacts by analyzing data from various sources.
• Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods to interpret data and develop policy recommendations.
• Ability to write detailed policy briefs, reports, and presentations to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders.
• In-depth understanding of public policy development, implementation, and analysis across sectors, such as healthcare, education, or finance.
• Expertise in using data analytics tools, such as SPSS, STATA, or R, to interpret economic data and measure policy effectiveness.
• Advanced project management skills to manage policy research initiatives from inception to completion.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹4 LPA – ₹12 LPA

7. Consultant

A consultant is a versatile career option after an MA in Economics, offering expertise to businesses on economic strategies, market dynamics, and operational efficiency. Consultants analyze data, assess industry trends, and provide recommendations to help clients optimize processes or solve economic challenges. This job often involves project-based work in areas like market entry, cost reduction, and financial restructuring. Consultants are essential for businesses seeking to adapt to economic shifts and enhance their competitive position.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a consultant:

• Strong problem-solving skills to develop tailored solutions for businesses and organizations based on thorough analysis of their challenges.
• Proficiency in management consulting tools, such as SWOT analysis and financial modeling to guide strategy development.
• Ability to collaborate with stakeholders to assess needs, gather data, and provide actionable insights for growth, efficiency, or cost reduction.
• Expertise in preparing comprehensive reports and presentations with clear, data-backed recommendations for clients.
• Experience in managing client relationships, coordinating project timelines, and ensuring that objectives are met.
• Ability to adapt to diverse industries, including healthcare, finance, technology, and public services, based on client needs.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹8 LPA – ₹20 LPA

8. Research Associate

Research associates dive deep into specific topics, such as economics, markets, or industries, to gather insights and contribute to academic studies, business strategies, or policy development. 

Their work is critical in helping organizations and researchers make informed decisions based on data. A major part of their job involves designing research methodologies, which are detailed plans on how to collect and analyze data. For example, a research associate studying market trends might gather data from surveys, reports, or statistics. 

Furthermore, they often collaborate with senior researchers, economists, or professors. They may work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutions, or private organizations. Their work contributes to larger projects, providing the foundational research that helps others develop strategies, make decisions, or advance knowledge in their field.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a research associate:

• Proficiency in data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather information relevant to the research project.
• Advanced knowledge of statistical software, including SPSS, SAS, and R, to analyze data and develop research findings.
• Strong report writing skills to prepare literature reviews, methodology summaries, and research publications.
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior researchers and interdisciplinary teams to contribute to research design and execution.
• Experience in presenting research findings at conferences or in academic journals to disseminate results.
• Familiarity with ethical research practices and regulatory compliance in data collection and analysis.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹3.5 LPA – ₹8 LPA

9. Investment Banker

Investment bankers facilitate financial transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), and debt or equity financing. This is one of the best job opportunities after an MA in economics. It involves advising corporations, governments, or other entities on raising capital and executing complex financial deals. 

Investment bankers perform financial analyses, conduct due diligence, structure deals, and negotiate terms. They work in high-pressure environments to help clients achieve their financial and strategic goals.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become an investment banker:

• Expertise in financial modeling and valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow (DCF), leveraged buyouts (LBO), and mergers and acquisitions (M&A).
• Proficiency in financial tools like Bloomberg Terminal, Excel, and Capital IQ to assess market conditions and corporate performance.
• Strong negotiation skills to facilitate complex financial transactions, including IPOs, mergers, and acquisitions.
• Thorough understanding of capital markets, securities laws, and investment strategies to guide clients in raising capital.
• Ability to conduct due diligence on companies’ financial statements and market potential during deal-making processes.
• Excellent communication skills to prepare pitch books, negotiate terms, and present investment opportunities to clients and stakeholders.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹12 LPA – ₹30 LPA

10. Stockbroker

A stockbroker buys and sells securities (stocks, bonds, or mutual funds) on behalf of their clients. These clients can be individuals looking to grow their personal investments or large institutional investors, like pension funds or corporations. One of the key responsibilities of a stockbroker is to provide advice on investment opportunities. They help clients decide which investments to make based on their financial goals and risk tolerance. 

Additionally, they may manage investment portfolios, which are collections of a client’s investments, ensuring they are diversified and aligned with the client’s financial objectives. Stockbrokers follow regulatory requirements, which are rules set by financial authorities to ensure fairness and transparency in the market. 

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a stockbroker:

• Expertise in trading platforms, such as Zerodha, NSE NOW, or Motilal Oswal to execute trades in real-time and manage client portfolios.
• In-depth understanding of equity markets, bonds, derivatives, and commodities to provide clients with sound investment advice.
• Ability to analyze market trends, economic conditions, and financial reports to identify potential trading opportunities.
• Strong client relationship management skills to maintain regular communication, execute orders, and provide market updates.
• Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance procedures governing stock market trading to ensure ethical practices.
• Advanced analytical skills to evaluate investment strategies, portfolio performance, and risk levels based on current market conditions.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹5 LPA – ₹15 LPA

11. Quantitative Analyst

A quantitative analyst, or ‘quant,’ uses mathematical models to predict financial market trends and manage risks. This job option after an economics master’s is common in investment banks, hedge funds, and financial institutions. They develop algorithms and models for pricing, trading strategies, risk management, and portfolio optimization. They often specialize in areas, such as derivatives, fixed income, or algorithmic trading. Their work involves large datasets and complex statistical methods, making them critical for maximizing returns and minimizing risk in financial markets.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a quantitative analyst:

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, and C++ to develop mathematical models and implement trading algorithms that analyze market conditions and asset pricing.
• Strong mathematical and statistical aptitude to apply stochastic calculus, time series analysis, and machine learning for financial forecasting and risk assessment.
• Ability to build and validate complex quantitative models using data from various sources, ensuring accurate backtesting and scenario analysis.
• Experience with financial markets, products, and derivatives to create algorithms that help optimize investment strategies.
• Expertise in working with large datasets, utilizing statistical tools, such as MATLAB, SQL, and Excel to automate data analysis and decision-making.
• Clear communication skills to present complex technical findings to traders, portfolio managers, and senior executives.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹8 LPA – ₹25 LPA

12. Statistician

Statisticians design experiments, surveys, or studies to collect data, which they analyze and interpret to provide insights and solve problems. In economics, statisticians apply statistical methodologies to understand economic phenomena, evaluate policies, or forecast trends. They work with governmental agencies, research organizations, or private firms, preparing reports and visualizations to communicate findings. Statisticians ensure data quality, select appropriate analytical techniques, and contribute to evidence-based practices by turning raw data into actionable information.

i. Key Skills

Here is a list of key skills required to become a statistician:

• Advanced proficiency in statistical software, such as SPSS, SAS, R, and STATA to analyze and interpret complex datasets.
• Strong quantitative skills in probability theory, inferential statistics, and hypothesis testing to design and conduct data analysis projects.
• Ability to develop predictive models, conduct surveys, and perform experiments to draw actionable insights from raw data.
• Experience with data visualization tools, such as Tableau and Power BI, to present statistical results and trends clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Expertise in statistical methodologies, including regression analysis, multivariate analysis, and time series forecasting.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with teams, explain statistical methodologies, and produce detailed research reports.

ii. Average Salary Range: ₹4 LPA – ₹10 LPA

Conclusion

The job options after an MA in economics open a range of possibilities in industries like finance, consulting, and public policy. To succeed in your career, you should learn to leverage both theoretical and practical skills, such as economic forecasting, statistical analysis, and policy evaluation. Internships with organizations like NITI Aayog, the RBI, or the private sector can greatly enhance your career prospects and chances to land a job. Remember to stay updated on economic trends and technological advancements like data analytics and AI that influence the modern economy. 

Are you looking for high-paying opportunities in economics where your skills will be most valued? Check out our detailed guide on the best-paying jobs with an economics degree.

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