Department of Conflict, Peace and Development Studies Tribhuvan University
Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Kathmandu
About Department of Conflict, Peace and Development Studies Tribhuvan University
College Overview
The Department of Conflict, Peace and Development Studies (DCPDS) stands as a pioneering academic hub within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Tribhuvan University, Nepal. Established in 2007 through a strategic international partnership with the University of Tromsø, Norway, the department was born out of a critical necessity to understand and address the complexities of conflict and the pathways to sustainable development in post-conflict societies. Situated in the historic academic grounds of Kirtipur, Kathmandu, DCPDS has evolved into a center of excellence for multidisciplinary research and higher education.
History and Evolution
DCPDS was conceptualized during a transformative period in Nepal's history, following the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Accord. Recognizing that peace is not merely the absence of war but a proactive process of building inclusive social and political structures, the department initially focused on the Master of Arts in Conflict, Peace, and Development Studies. Since its inception, it has benefitted from the Norwegian Master’s Programme (NOMA) and later the NORHED project, facilitating academic exchanges and global standard curricula.
Mission and Vision
Vision: To become a premier regional center for academic excellence in peace and development studies, fostering a culture of non-violence and sustainable growth in South Asia.
Mission: To equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to analyze conflicts, design peace-building strategies, and integrate development initiatives that respect human rights and social justice. The department aims to produce high-level human resources capable of leading national and international organizations in the fields of diplomacy, governance, and humanitarian assistance.
Academic Strengths
- Interdisciplinary Framework: The curriculum integrates sociology, political science, economics, and international law.
- Global Collaboration: Ongoing partnerships with universities in Norway, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.
- Research Focus: A strong emphasis on empirical research, particularly focusing on the Himalayan region and South Asian geopolitics.
- Subsidized Public Education: As a central department of Tribhuvan University, it provides world-class education at government-regulated affordable rates.
University Affiliations & Recognition
Tribhuvan University (TU)
Affiliation Type: Central Department
Accreditation: University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal
Recognition: Government of Nepal, Ministry of Education
Programs: MA in CPDS, PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies
Primary AffiliationInternational Partners
Partners: University of Tromsø (Norway), University of Ruhuna (Sri Lanka), COMSATS (Pakistan)
Type: Academic Collaboration & Exchange
Accreditation: International Academic Standard Compliance
Global PartnershipPrograms Offered by University
Master of Arts in Conflict, Peace and Development Studies (MA CPDS)
This is a four-semester (two-year) intensive program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of conflict and the processes of peace and development.
Course Components:
- Theories of Conflict and Peace
- Research Methodology in Social Sciences
- Human Rights and International Law
- Gender, Peace, and Security
- Governance and State Building
- Development Theories and Practices
Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in any discipline with a minimum second division.
Career Opportunities:
Graduates find roles in International NGOs (INGOs), UN Agencies, Foreign Ministry, Conflict Mediation Centers, Research Institutions, and Academic Faculty roles.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD program offers advanced research opportunities for scholars looking to contribute original knowledge to the field of Peace and Development. It involves rigorous coursework followed by a dissertation.
Duration: 3-5 Years
Eligibility: Master's degree in CPDS or related social science fields with high academic standing.
Fee Structure
| Program | University | Duration | Approx. Total Fee (NPR) | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA in CPDS | Tribhuvan University | 2 Years | Rs. 1,20,000 - 1,50,000 | Rs. 15,000 |
| PhD | Tribhuvan University | 3-5 Years | As per TU Research Norms | Varies |
Facilities & Campus Infrastructure
Specialized Library
Access to an extensive collection of books, journals, and digital archives specifically focused on peace studies, international relations, and development sociology.
ICT & Computer Lab
Equipped with high-speed internet and software for qualitative and quantitative data analysis (SPSS, NVivo) to support student research.
Smart Classrooms
Seminar-style classrooms equipped with multimedia projectors and video conferencing tools for international guest lectures.
Research Cell
A dedicated unit that facilitates field visits, data collection, and publications for both faculty and students.
Wi-Fi Campus
The entire department premises are covered by a high-speed wireless network for seamless access to online academic resources.
Seminar Hall
A venue for hosting national and international conferences, workshops, and student presentations.
Faculty & Teaching Methodology
Faculty Expertise
The department boasts a team of highly qualified professors and lecturers with PhDs from renowned international universities. Many faculty members are active consultants for the Government of Nepal and international development partners.
Teaching Methodology
DCPDS employs a student-centered approach, shifting away from traditional rote learning. The methodology includes:
- Case Study Analysis: Deep dives into global conflict zones and successful peace processes.
- Interactive Seminars: Regular presentations and debates to sharpen critical thinking.
- Field Research: Mandatory field visits to observe community-level development and peace initiatives.
- Guest Lectures: Sessions from visiting professors from Norway and other partner institutions.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
Student life at DCPDS is vibrant and intellectually stimulating. Students come from diverse ethnic, geographic, and academic backgrounds, creating a rich multicultural environment.
- CPDS Student Club: Organizes debates and social awareness campaigns.
- Simulation Exercises: Mock UN sessions and peace negotiation drills.
- Annual Sports Week: Part of the wider TU Kirtipur sports events.
- Community Outreach: Volunteering opportunities in local peace committees.
Career Support & Placement Assistance
The department provides dedicated support to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world. The alumni network of DCPDS is highly active, with members occupying key positions in various sectors.
Internship Programs
Partnerships with organizations like the National Human Rights Commission and local NGOs for credit-based internships.
Career Counseling
Regular workshops on CV writing, interview skills, and navigating the UN recruitment system.
Alumni Engagement
Annual alumni meets and mentorship programs where seniors guide current students in their career paths.
Admission Process
- Eligibility Check: Completion of a Bachelor's degree (10+2+3 or 10+2+4) from a recognized university.
- Entrance Examination: Candidates must appear for a written entrance test conducted by the department (covering General Knowledge, Current Affairs, and English).
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates from the written test are called for a personal interview.
- Document Submission: Required documents include academic transcripts, character certificates, citizenship copy, and recent photographs.
- Final Merit List: Based on the combined score of the entrance test, interview, and previous academic performance.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Merit-Based Scholarships
The semester topper in the MA program receives a tuition fee waiver and a stipend as per TU norms.
Need-Based Assistance
Financial support is available for students from marginalized communities and remote geographic areas.
Collaborative Grants
Historically, the NOMA and NORHED projects have provided full scholarships to selected students, including exchange opportunities in Norway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Send an Official Inquiry
Direct your academic queries to Department of Conflict, Peace and Development Studies Tribhuvan University's admissions desk. They'll get back to you shortly.