Faculty of Agriculture, Agriculture and Forestry University
Rampur, Bharatpur-15, Chitwan, Nepal, Bharatpur
About Faculty of Agriculture, Agriculture and Forestry University
College Overview
The Faculty of Agriculture (FoA) at the Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) stands as a premier center for agricultural excellence in Nepal. Located in the fertile valley of Rampur, Bharatpur, Chitwan, the institution is dedicated to advancing the agricultural sector through high-quality education, innovative research, and community-driven extension services.
History and Evolution
The Faculty of Agriculture traces its roots back to the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS) under Tribhuvan University. In 2010, the Government of Nepal established the Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) as the nation's first technical university by merging the Rampur Campus of IAAS and the Hetauda Campus of the Institute of Forestry. Since then, the Faculty of Agriculture has emerged as the largest and most influential academic wing of AFU, steering the country toward modern agricultural practices and food security.
Our Mission
To produce highly competent human resources in the field of agriculture and allied sectors who can contribute significantly to the sustainable development of the nation. We aim to foster an environment where scientific inquiry meets practical application, ensuring that our graduates are ready to solve real-world farming challenges.
Our Vision
To be recognized globally as a center of excellence in agricultural education and research. AFU envisions a future where Nepal is self-sufficient in food production through the integration of biotechnology, climate-smart agriculture, and socio-economic empowerment of rural farming communities.
Institutional Highlights
- • First technical university in Nepal dedicated specifically to agriculture and forestry.
- • Extensive research farms covering hundreds of hectares in the heart of Chitwan.
- • Strong collaborations with international research organizations like IRRI, CIMMYT, and USAID.
- • A diverse faculty comprising renowned scientists and agricultural experts.
- • Modern laboratories equipped for molecular biology, soil science, and tissue culture.
University Affiliations & Recognition
Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU)
The Faculty of Agriculture is a primary constituent body of AFU. As a state-owned university, it operates under the Agriculture and Forestry University Act of Nepal.
- Recognition: University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal
- Accreditation: Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Nepal
- Programs: Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD in Agriculture
International Partners
AFU maintains active partnerships with various global agricultural research centers and universities for student exchange and joint research initiatives.
- Partners: ICAR (India), Cornell University (USA), Wageningen University (Netherlands)
- Focus: Climate Resilience, Food Security, Livestock Productivity
Programs Offered by University
| Program Name | Level | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Sc. Agriculture (Hons) | Undergraduate | 4 Years (8 Semesters) | 10+2 Science or I.Sc. Ag with minimum 50% marks and passing AFU Entrance Exam |
Career Opportunities
Graduates find roles as Agricultural Officers, Research Scientists, NGO/INGO Project Coordinators, Farm Managers, and Entrepreneurs in the agribusiness sector.
The Faculty of Agriculture offers M.Sc. degrees in several specialized departments:
- M.Sc. Ag. in Agronomy
- M.Sc. Ag. in Horticulture
- M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Pathology
- M.Sc. Ag. in Entomology
- M.Sc. Ag. in Soil Science
- M.Sc. Ag. in Agricultural Economics
- M.Sc. Ag. in Agricultural Extension
- M.Sc. Ag. in Genetics and Plant Breeding
- M.Sc. Ag. in Conservation Ecology
- M.Sc. Ag. in Sociology/Agro-ecology
Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters). Eligibility: B.Sc. Ag or equivalent with merit in the AFU PG entrance examination.
Research-based PhD programs are offered across all major agricultural departments, focusing on national and global agricultural challenges. Scholars are expected to contribute original research to the field.
Fee Structure
As a government-funded institution, AFU offers two main tracks: Merit/Regular (Subsidized) and Full-Paying (UDF/CDF). Fees are subject to university revisions.
| Program | Category | Duration | Approx. Total Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Sc. Agriculture (Hons) | Regular/Scholarship | 4 Years | 75,000 - 1,00,000 |
| B.Sc. Agriculture (Hons) | Full-Paying (UDF) | 4 Years | 4,50,000 - 6,00,000 |
| M.Sc. Agriculture | Regular | 2 Years | 60,000 - 90,000 |
| M.Sc. Agriculture | Full-Paying | 2 Years | 2,50,000 - 3,50,000 |
| PhD in Agriculture | Research-based | 3-5 Years | As per University norms |
*Note: The fee mentioned above is an estimate. Additional charges for examination, field visits, and lab materials apply. Contact the Dean's office for the latest fee schedule.
Facilities & Campus Infrastructure
Central Library
A vast repository of agricultural literature, digital journals, and research papers accessible to all students and faculty members.
Research Farms
Extensive land for crop trials, livestock rearing, and experimental farming, allowing students to gain hands-on field experience.
Specialized Labs
State-of-the-art labs for Molecular Biology, Tissue Culture, Soil Testing, and Entomology research.
Residential Hostels
Separate residential blocks for boys and girls with facilities for dining, recreation, and study.
IT & Wi-Fi
High-speed internet connectivity across the campus and computer labs for statistical analysis and digital learning.
Sports & Culture
Fields for football, cricket, and volleyball, along with halls for cultural events and student gatherings.
Faculty & Teaching Methodology
Expertise and Excellence
The Faculty of Agriculture boasts a team of highly qualified academics, most of whom hold PhDs from prestigious international universities. The teaching staff is deeply involved in national policy-making and agricultural research projects.
Pedagogical Approach
- Experimental Learning: Significant emphasis on 'Learning by Doing' through field practicals.
- Research Integration: Students are encouraged to participate in faculty-led research projects from early semesters.
- ICT in Education: Use of smart classrooms and digital modules for technical subjects.
- Interdisciplinary Focus: Integrating socio-economics with biological sciences to create holistic solutions.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
Life at AFU Rampur is more than just academics. It is a vibrant community where students engage in diverse activities that shape their leadership and technical skills.
Student Organizations
Various students unions and professional bodies like the Agricultural Students Council organize events, workshops, and awareness campaigns throughout the year.
Agri-Fest & Exhibitions
The annual agricultural fair allows students to showcase innovative farming models, new crop varieties, and modern irrigation techniques to local farmers and the general public.
Career Support & Placement Assistance
AFU Rampur maintains strong ties with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD), Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), and various private agribusiness firms.
- Internships: Final-year B.Sc. Ag students undergo a Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) program, spending a semester in rural communities.
- Job Placement: Graduates are highly sought after for Civil Service (Lok Sewa) positions, NGO roles, and banking sectors (Agricultural Credit Officers).
- Entrepreneurship: The university provides incubation support for students wishing to launch their own agri-tech startups.
Admission Process
Entrance Exam Mandatory
Admission to all programs at AFU Faculty of Agriculture is strictly based on the merit of the entrance examination conducted by the University.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check official notification on afu.edu.np.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Pay the application fee via the designated banking channel.
- Appear for the competitive entrance exam (Focus: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Math, and General Agriculture).
- Participate in the counseling session based on merit rank.
Required Documents
- SLC/SEE Character and Marksheet
- 10+2/I.Sc. Ag Transcript and Migration Certificate
- Citizenship Certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Quota certificates (if applying for reserved seats)
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
University Merit Scholarship
Awarded to toppers of the entrance exam and subsequent semester toppers.
Government Reserved Quotas
Seats and scholarships are reserved for marginalized communities, female students, and remote district residents as per the Government of Nepal policy.
NARC & NGO Fellowships
Postgraduate students often receive research grants and fellowships from organizations like NARC, CIMMYT, and various NGOs for their thesis work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Send an Official Inquiry
Direct your academic queries to Faculty of Agriculture, Agriculture and Forestry University's admissions desk. They'll get back to you shortly.