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Science education and labor market outcomes in a developing economy

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  • Tarun Jain
  • Abhiroop Mukhopadhyay
  • Nishith Prakash
  • Raghav Rakesh

Abstract

We examine the association between studying science in higher secondary school and labor market earnings in India. Studying science in high school is associated with 22% greater earnings than studying business or humanities. Earnings for science students are further enhanced with some fluency in English. Science education is also associated with more years of education, completing a professional degree, returns to entrepreneurship and working in public sector positions. Primary survey of high school students shows no discernible differences in behavioral characteristics of science students compared to others.

Suggested Citation

  • Tarun Jain & Abhiroop Mukhopadhyay & Nishith Prakash & Raghav Rakesh, 2022. "Science education and labor market outcomes in a developing economy," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 60(2), pages 741-763, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecinqu:v:60:y:2022:i:2:p:741-763
    DOI: 10.1111/ecin.13044
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