More than 80% of students who joined the five-year integrated economics degree at the Madras School of Economics (MSE) for the 2025–26 academic year are from Tamil Nadu. Out of a total of 73 students enrolled in the course, 61 are from the state. This is a big increase compared to the previous year, when only 38 students were from Tamil Nadu.
Teachers at MSE say this rise is mainly due to better awareness among school students about career options in economics. Many students are now seeing economics as a strong subject that offers good opportunities in higher education, research, and global careers.
The success of the first batch has also encouraged more students to apply. Students who completed the BA economics course in 2025 went on to study at top international universities, including the London School of Economics, Barcelona School of Economics, Stockholm School of Economics, and Columbia University.
MSE Director N R Bhanumurthy said the growing interest shows that students are becoming more informed about careers in economics. He added that this awareness has helped the institute attract more students from within the state.
The five-year integrated course also 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).
Of the 61 students from Tamil Nadu, 11 are from government model schools across the state, showing increased participation from students of different backgrounds.