MSc in Natural Resources Management and Rural Development

Interdisciplinary master’s program designed to produce professionals capable of managing, conserving, and optimizing natural resources through scientific, economic, and socio-environmental approaches.

The MSc in Natural Resources Management and Rural Development is structured to develop analytical and managerial capacity for solving complex resource-use problems. The program integrates ecological science, climate change knowledge, governance, geospatial techniques, and community development approaches. Graduates are trained to navigate policy, planning, ecosystem management, watershed systems, and sustainable development practices. The curriculum emphasizes field-based learning, research proficiency, and application of technical tools for decision-making in natural resource sectors.

Curricular Structure (Table)

Semester-wise Course Breakdown

Grand Total: 60 Credits

Features

• Interdisciplinary and field-oriented curriculum
• Strong integration of climate science, policy, GIS, watershed and ecosystem studies
• Research-intensive final semester (15-credit thesis)
• Annual intake of 20 students ensures better mentorship
• High relevance to Nepal’s environmental and rural development sectors
• Balanced technical, managerial, and socio-development components

Fee (Approximation*)

• Typical range for Pokhara University MSc programs at private affiliated colleges: NPR 4,00,000 – 6,00,000 for the full program.
  (*Exact fee may vary per institution; nec generally falls within this band.)

Admission Process (Points)

• Obtain application form from KAFCOL, IOF Pokhara, or IOF liaison office Kirtipur
• Meet eligibility requirement: bachelor’s degree with 15 years schooling in approved fields
• Submit application with required documents
• Sit for Pokhara University entrance exam
• Secure a pass score to be considered for selection
• Merit-based admission from the entrance result list
• Final enrollment at Nepal Engineering College (nec)

Job Prospects

• Natural resource manager in government and NGO sectors
• Environmental analyst, environmental officer
• Watershed and ecosystem management specialist
• Climate change adaptation/mitigation officer
• Forestry and biodiversity conservation professional
• Rural development and livelihood specialist
• GIS and remote sensing analyst
• Consultant in environmental assessment and auditing
• Project manager in development and resource-centric programs
• Researcher in environment, climate, and conservation fields