Master in Development Studies (MDEVS)

Pokhara University
2 years
Rs.
Updated December 7, 2025

University

Pokhara University

Duration

2 years

Fee

Rs.

Summary

Two-year interdisciplinary master’s program designed to develop professional capacity in development theory, practice, planning, analysis, and leadership across governmental, international, and civil society organizations.

The Master in Development Studies (MDEVS) under Pokhara University is designed to address the emerging demands of development science, governance, social transformation, and applied development practice. The curriculum blends theoretical, technical, and field-based learning across four semesters, emphasizing social engineering, public policy, planning systems, globalization, natural resource management, and specialization tracks. The program targets aspiring development professionals, analysts, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs.
Total credits: 60.

Description

Curricular Structure (Tables)

Total Credits: 60 | Four Semesters

First Semester

S.NoCourse Title
1Advanced Development Studies
2Social Engineering in Development
3Public Policy Studies
4Planning Theory and Practice
5Statistics for Social Sciences

Second Semester

S.NoCourse Title
1Spatial Organization of Development
2Natural Resources and Development
3Globalization and Development
4Research Methods for Development Studies
5Information Technology for Social Research

Third Semester

S.NoCourse Title
1Development Program Management
2Development Analysis and Planning Techniques
3Specialization I
4Specialization II
5Planning Workshop (Field Based)

Fourth Semester

S.NoCourse Title
1Comprehensive National Development Plan for Nepal
2Specialization III
3Specialization IV
4Seminar on Contemporary Development
5Dissertation

Specialization Themes and Courses

Theme A: Humanistic Development

  • Societal Transformation and Inclusive Development
  • Gender and Development
  • Population and Development
  • Social Works for Humanistic Development

Theme B: Human Settlements Development

  • Sustainable Development in the Himalayan Region
  • Public Works and Development Management
  • Transformation of Human Settlements System and Development
  • Service Delivery System

Theme C: Development Practice

  • Development Program Monitoring and Evaluation
  • Employment, Income, and Livelihood
  • Institutions of Development
  • Conflict in Development Management

Features

Features

  • Strong interdisciplinary curriculum spanning policy, planning, analysis, and field practice
  • Specializations that align with Nepal’s development priorities
  • Emphasis on analytical skills, research, and field-based learning
  • Designed to produce development leaders for national and international organizations
  • Affordable fee structure and scholarship opportunities

Admission Process

Eligibility

  • Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university
  • Admission based on entrance exam conducted by SDSE
  • Scholarships: 20% of total seats (entrance topper or semester topper)

Job Prospects

Job Prospects

  • Development officer in government ministries and local governance units
  • Program/project manager in NGOs, INGOs, UN agencies
  • Development analyst and policy researcher
  • Social entrepreneur and development innovator
  • Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) specialist
  • Specialist in human settlements, livelihoods, gender, or public policy
  • Community development and social mobilization expert
  • Consultant in development planning, governance, and social engineering
  • Academic researcher or lecturer in development studies