Central Department of Rural Development
Tribhuvan University Campus, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Kirtipur
About Central Department of Rural Development
College Overview
The Central Department of Rural Development (CDRD), a cornerstone of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Tribhuvan University, stands as the premier institution for rural development studies in Nepal. Established in 2002, CDRD was founded with the strategic vision of addressing the complex socio-economic challenges inherent in Nepal's predominantly rural landscape. The department provides an academic platform for deep critical analysis, research, and policy formulation aimed at uplifting marginalized communities and fostering sustainable growth across the nation.
As the administrative and academic hub for rural development education, the department is dedicated to producing high-caliber professionals equipped with the interdisciplinary knowledge required to navigate the nuances of rural sociology, economics, and environmental management. Its mission is to bridge the gap between theoretical academic constructs and practical field applications, ensuring that graduates are prepared to lead transformation in both government and non-government sectors. The vision of CDRD is to evolve into a center of excellence for rural studies in South Asia, promoting evidence-based research that influences national planning and global development discourses.
University Affiliations & Recognition
Tribhuvan University (TU)
The Central Department is a core constituent unit of Nepal's oldest and largest university.
- Affiliation Type: Constituent Department
- Accreditation: University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal
- Recognition: Ministry of Education, Nepal
- Programs: MA in Rural Development, PhD in Rural Development
Programs Offered by University
Master of Arts (MA) in Rural Development
Degree Level: Postgraduate
Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum second division or equivalent CGPA.
Career Opportunities: Development Officer, Social Researcher, NGO/INGO Manager, Policy Analyst, Local Government Consultant.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Rural Development
Degree Level: Doctorate
Duration: 3-5 Years
Eligibility: Master’s degree in Rural Development or related social sciences with a strong academic and research record.
Career Opportunities: Academic Professor, Senior Researcher, Lead Consultant, International Development Expert, Government Advisor.
Fee Structure
| Program | University | Duration | Approx. Total Fee (NPR) | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA in Rural Development | Tribhuvan University | 2 Years | Rs. 60,000 - 80,000 | Rs. 5,000 |
| PhD in Rural Development | Tribhuvan University | 3-5 Years | As per TU Research Norms | Varies |
* Note: Fees are subject to change according to Tribhuvan University's internal regulations. Contact the department office for the latest structure.
Facilities & Campus Infrastructure
Departmental Library
Access to a specialized collection of books, journals, and research papers focused on rural economics, sociology, and development theories.
Research Lab
Equipped with analytical software for data processing and social science research projects.
Smart Classrooms
Modern lecture halls integrated with audio-visual tools to facilitate interactive learning and international seminars.
TU Central Facilities
Students have full access to the Tribhuvan University Central Library, sports grounds, and the university health center.
Hostel Accommodation
Limited housing facilities available through the TU Central Campus for students from remote districts.
Auditorium
Large venue used for hosting national conferences, workshops, and guest lectures from development experts.
Faculty & Teaching Methodology
The Central Department of Rural Development boasts a faculty composed of renowned scholars, seasoned practitioners, and research experts. The teaching methodology goes beyond traditional lectures, incorporating field-based learning, case studies, and participatory rural appraisal (PRA) exercises. The faculty emphasizes a research-driven culture, encouraging students to engage in primary data collection and analysis.
Interaction with industry professionals, including experts from various UN agencies and major NGOs, is a regular feature. This ensures that the curriculum remains relevant to the evolving landscape of global development trends and local grassroot needs.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
Student life at CDRD is vibrant and intellectually stimulating. The Rural Development Students' Society (RDSS) plays a pivotal role in organizing seminars, cultural programs, and community service initiatives. Students participate in:
- Fieldwork and Rural Surveys across different ecological zones of Nepal.
- Leadership Workshops and Policy Debates.
- Collaborative Research Projects with international universities.
- Sports and Athletics during the TU Sports Week.
Career Support & Placement Assistance
The department maintains strong ties with the development sector. Through the Central Department of Rural Development placements and internships, students find opportunities in:
- Government Bodies: Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, National Planning Commission.
- NGOs/INGOs: UNDP, USAID, Save the Children, and local development cooperatives.
- Consultancy: Firms specializing in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Social Impact Assessment (SIA).
Admission Process
Steps to Join Central Department of Rural Development
- Eligibility Check: Ensure completion of a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
- Entrance Exam: Appear for the TU Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FoHSS) entrance examination.
- Merit List: Admission is strictly based on entrance scores and previous academic performance.
- Documentation: Submit transcripts, character certificates, and migration certificates during the counseling session.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
CDRD offers several financial aid options to ensure inclusive education:
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to top-performing students in each semester.
- Reserved Category Scholarships: Support for students from marginalized, Dalit, and indigenous communities as per TU norms.
- UGC Grants: Research grants for PhD scholars and high-achieving Master's students.
- District-Based Aid: Support for students hailing from extremely remote geographical areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Send an Official Inquiry
Direct your academic queries to Central Department of Rural Development's admissions desk. They'll get back to you shortly.