Pokhara University, FoHSS, Admission Open for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Development Studies
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pokhara University, is pleased to announce Admission Open for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Development Studies and invites eligible applicants from all across the globe.
The program seeks candidates with strong academic backgrounds who are highly motivated and have curiosity and a desire for intellectual excellence.
About the Program
The PhD in Development Studies program aims to produce experts and specialized high-level human resources for teaching, research, and professional expert services.
The program comprises of 24 credits of extensive coursework (Philosophy, Research Methodology, Academic Writing and Seminar Skills, Core Courses, Elective Courses, and Independent Study) structured in two semesters.
After successfully completing the coursework, the scholar can opt for either 9 credits dissertation and pursue an MPhil degree or 36 credits dissertation for PhD degree. The normal duration of the PhD programme is 3 years with a total of 60 credits.
Eligibility
A master's degree in any field from Pokhara University or any other recognized university along with the following specific qualifications:
[i] Two years working experience for those who have passed Master Level with 3.00/4.00 CGPA or high Second Division (55%);
[ii] One-year working experience for those who have passed the Master's level with 3.30/4.00 CGPA or First Division;
[iii] There will be no requirement of working experience for those who have passed the Master's level with 3.75/4.00 CGPA or Distinction Division.
Admission Process
Admission to the PhD in Development Studies programme will be on a merit basis based on a total score (200) obtained from:
[i] Entrance test (100): The entrance test will be based on MCQ comprising of modules - Research Aptitude (20); Conceptual Knowledge of Development Studies (20), Quantitative Ability (15), Logical Reasoning (15), and English Proficiency (15); and Essay Writing (15)
[ii] Interview (30)
[iii] Statement of purpose (10)
[iv] Research synopsis (10)
[iv] Academic achievement (40)
[v] Research & publication (10)
Key Dates
• Last Date for application form submission: 24 August 2026
• Entrance Examination: 27 August 2026 (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM), Venue: Academic Complex, Pokhara University
• Personal Interview: 27 August 2026 (1:00 PM onwards), Venue: Academic Complex, Pokhara University
• Period of Admission: 1-8 September 2026
• Program Orientation: 15 September 2026
• Class Start: 16 September 2026
Documents to be Submitted
[i] Duly completed application form and bank voucher of Rs. 5,000.
[ii] Bank: Kamana Sewa Bikas Bank Ltd
Account Name: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pokhara University
Account No: 01700300211470000001
[iii] Self-attested copies of academic certificates (mark sheets/transcripts, character certificates).
[iv] Statement of Purpose (SOP) of not more than one page focusing on motivation for PhD study and career objective, Research synopsis within 2,000 to 3,000 words (in prescribed format).
[v] Curriculum Vitae (CV), Letters of recommendation from two referees, No objection letter from current employer
Number of Seats
10 (Additional 5 seats are allocated separately for international students*).
Note
Application form, formats for a statement of purpose, research synopsis, portfolio of work experience, letter of recommendation, no objection certificate, check-list for document submission, and information brochure can be downloaded from https://pu.edu.np/academics/faculties/fhss or obtained from the Office of the Dean, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pokhara University.
*Guidelines for International Student Admission will be followed to admit international students. For details, international students may contact at internationalrelation@pu.edu.np.
For Online Application
• Applications for admission to the PhD in Development Studies Program can be submitted online at
https://forms.gle/hiqMPh63P2p8bYH17
• Two copies of the letter of recommendation should be submitted with the application form. Each recommendation form must be completed in the given format and signed by the referee himself/herself; otherwise, the recommendation will not be considered. The print copies of letters of recommendation with a seal should be submitted at the office of the dean before the entrance test. The letter of recommendation can also be submitted by the referee at https://forms.gle/iyhHf9ap9cpnoz9K6 or phd.fhss@pu.edu.np
For Details
Office of the Dean
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pokhara University
Pokhara-30, Kaski, Nepal; Email: phd.fhss@pu.edu.np
Member Secretary, Faculty Doctoral Committee (9856059755)
Admission Staff (061-504078)
https://pu.edu.np/academics/faculties/fhss
