The Master of Arts in Rural Development (MRD) at Rastriya College, Sukhad, is a two-year postgraduate program affiliated with Tribhuvan University.
It provides students with the knowledge and analytical tools needed to understand and address the complex issues faced by rural communities in Nepal.
This program is designed for those who want to contribute to local development planning, policy research, and community transformation.
It connects academic theory with Nepal’s rural realities through classroom learning, case studies, and field-based research.
Develop a critical understanding of rural development theories and their practical applications.
Strengthen skills in planning, monitoring, and evaluating rural development projects.
Prepare professionals for leadership roles in NGOs, government agencies, and community-based initiatives.
Promote research on local development, poverty, gender, and resource use
The MRD program is divided into four semesters over two academic years. It includes:
16 courses (compulsory and elective)
Thesis or Term Paper in the final semester
Total Credit Hours: 60
Semester-wise Structure:
| Semester | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| 1st | Theories of Rural Development, Research Methods, Rural Sociology |
| 2nd | Development Economics, Gender Issues, Environment and Sustainable Development |
| 3rd | Governance, Planning, Entrepreneurship, Electives |
| 4th | Thesis Writing or Term Paper, Seminar, Project Work |
The course uses lectures, case analysis, group discussions, and project-based learning. Students also participate in fieldwork to study real-world development issues in rural settings.
Graduates will be able to:
Analyze rural development challenges from multiple perspectives
Design and assess development policies and programs
Conduct field-based research with practical relevance
Engage effectively in rural leadership and institutional planning
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Rural Development or any discipline from a recognized university. Selection is based on academic records and college-level entrance procedures.
A dedicated library with development journals and resources
Internet, computer lab, and multimedia tools for research and presentations
Mentorship support for thesis and field projects
Access to counseling, seminars, and skill-based workshops
Graduates can pursue roles such as:
Rural Development Officer
Program Coordinator in NGOs/INGOs
Local Government Planner
Policy Researcher or Field Analyst
Community Education or Advocacy Worker
Rastriya College provides financial support to students from marginalized, remote, or economically vulnerable backgrounds, based on both merit and financial need.
