PhD Programs
Overview
Pokhara University offers research-focused doctoral (PhD) programs designed to foster innovation and contribute to knowledge creation in various fields. These programs aim to address complex societal and academic challenges by producing scholars capable of impactful contributions.
Program offered
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Development Studies (Coursework-Research Track)
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pokhara University
1. About the Program
The PhD in Development Studies (Coursework-Research Track) is a rigorous academic program designed to develop high-level human resources specializing in teaching, research, and policy formulation in the interdisciplinary field of development studies. The program blends theoretical coursework and independent research, preparing scholars to address complex development challenges. It consists of 24 credits of coursework over two semesters, followed by 36 credits of dissertation research. Scholars have the option to complete an MPhil (with 9 credits of dissertation) or continue toward a full PhD with 36 credits of dissertation research.
The normal duration of the program is three years, with a total of 60 credits. Scholars engage in courses such as philosophy, research methodology, academic writing, seminars, core and elective courses, and an independent study.
2. Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following qualifications:
- Educational Qualification:
- A Master’s degree in any field from a recognized university with:
- CGPA of 3.00/4.00 or 55% (High Second Division): Requires two years of relevant work experience.
- CGPA of 3.30/4.00 or 60% (First Division): Requires one year of relevant work experience.
- CGPA of 3.75/4.00 or Distinction Division: No work experience required.
- A Master’s degree in any field from a recognized university with:
- Additional Requirements:
- Submission of a Statement of Purpose.
- Research Synopsis outlining proposed research objectives and methodology.
3. Admission Process
Admission is based on merit through a competitive selection process involving the following components:
- Entrance Test (100 Marks): Comprising multiple-choice questions and essay writing to assess:
- Research Aptitude (20 Marks)
- Conceptual Knowledge of Development Studies (20 Marks)
- Quantitative Ability (15 Marks)
- Logical Reasoning (15 Marks)
- English Proficiency (15 Marks)
- Essay Writing (15 Marks)
- Interview (30 Marks): Evaluates research potential and alignment with the program’s objectives.
- Other Evaluations:
- Statement of Purpose (10 Marks)
- Research Synopsis (10 Marks)
- Academic Achievement (40 Marks)
- Research & Publications (10 Marks)
Applicants must achieve a minimum qualifying score to proceed in the selection process.
4. Admission Guidelines
- Successful candidates are provisionally admitted to the program.
- Full registration as a PhD candidate occurs only after:
- Successful completion of coursework with a minimum CGPA of 3.3.
- Approval and defense of the PhD research proposal.
Scholars are expected to adhere to the academic and ethical guidelines provided by Pokhara University throughout the program.
5. Financial Assistance
- Scholarships and financial aid are available through Pokhara University for deserving candidates.
- The program encourages applications from scholars with diverse backgrounds, particularly from underrepresented groups.
- Details about specific scholarships, funding opportunities, and eligibility criteria are provided annually on the university’s website.
PhD in Management – Faculty of Management Studies, Pokhara University
About the Program:
The PhD in Management program is structured to develop scholars with expertise in management, economics, and related disciplines. It includes 24 credits of coursework completed over two semesters. Upon successful completion of coursework, scholars may:
- Pursue an MPhil degree
- Register for the PhD program, specializing in areas such as General Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Finance, Accountancy, Economics, and Development.
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must hold a master’s degree in management or economics from a recognized university and meet the following requirements:
- Work Experience Requirements:
- Two years of experience for candidates with a CGPA of 3.00/4.00 or 55% marks (High Second Division).
- One year of experience for candidates with a CGPA of 3.30/4.00 (First Division).
- No work experience required for candidates with a CGPA of 3.75/4.00 (Distinction Division).
- Registration Requirement:
- Candidates must secure a minimum CGPA of 3.3 in the coursework and successfully defend their PhD proposal to register as doctoral candidates.
Admission Process:
Admissions are based on merit (total 200 marks) as follows:
- Entrance Test (100 Marks):
- Quantitative Ability: 20 marks
- Logical Reasoning: 20 marks
- English Proficiency: 20 marks
- Conceptual Knowledge of Management and Economics: 20 marks
- Research Aptitude: 20 marks
- Interview: 30 marks
- Statement of Purpose: 5 marks
- Research Synopsis: 10 marks
- Academic Achievement: 40 marks
- Research Publication & Work Experience: 15 marks (10 for research, 5 for work experience)
Candidates initially receive provisional admission and will be registered as doctoral candidates only upon successful completion of coursework and approval of their PhD proposal.
Additional Guidelines:
- Coursework involves intensive modules to prepare scholars for advanced research.
- A PhD candidate must demonstrate consistent academic performance and meet the prescribed university milestones.
Financial Assistance:
Pokhara University provides scholarships based on merit and need, subject to availability and university guidelines. Financial aid details must be verified through the university’s scholarship office or official website.
PhD in Health Sciences – Faculty of Health Sciences, Pokhara University
1. About the Program
The PhD in Health Sciences is a rigorous research-oriented program designed to develop advanced expertise in health sciences disciplines. It comprises 18 credits of coursework (12 mandatory and 6 specialization credits) followed by 42 credits of original research in a selected field of specialization. The program emphasizes independent research to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in health sciences. The minimum duration is three years, with the flexibility to extend the program up to six years under specific conditions.
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Qualification: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a relevant discipline aligned with their proposed research area.
- Work Experience Requirements:
- Two years for candidates with a CGPA of 3.00/4.00 or 55% (High Second Division).
- One year for candidates with a CGPA of 3.30/4.00 or First Division.
- No work experience is required for those with a CGPA of 3.75/4.00 or Distinction Division.
- Registration Requirement: Applicants must be registered with the relevant professional council in Nepal.
- Additional Documents: Candidates must submit a Statement of Purpose (up to 3,000 words) detailing their academic background, research goals, and future plans, as well as recommendation letters from two referees (one academic referee is mandatory).
3. Admission Process
Admission is based on merit and involves the following components:
- Entrance Test (100 marks):
- Quantitative Ability (20 marks)
- Logical Reasoning (20 marks)
- English Proficiency (20 marks)
- Research Aptitude (20 marks)
- Conceptual Knowledge of Health Sciences (20 marks)
- Interview: 30 marks
- Statement of Purpose: 5 marks
- Research Synopsis: 10 marks
- Academic Achievement: 40 marks
- Research Publication and Work Experience: 15 marks Applicants must submit all required documents and meet admission deadlines announced annually.
4. Admission Guidelines
- Candidates are provisionally admitted until they complete the coursework with a minimum CGPA of 3.3 and successfully defend their PhD proposal.
- Full registration as a PhD candidate is contingent upon meeting these criteria.
- The medium of instruction and evaluation is English.
5. Financial Assistance
- Scholarships and financial aid are available according to university provisions, designed to support eligible and deserving candidates.
- Specific details about financial assistance may vary and are updated annually. Prospective students should refer to the Pokhara University Scholarship Section for the latest updates.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Humanities (Research-Only Track)
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pokhara University
1. About the Program
The PhD in Humanities (Research-Only Track) offered by Pokhara University focuses on in-depth research in areas related to humanities, management, social sciences, and sustainable development. The program is managed by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and aims to produce highly specialized professionals capable of excelling in teaching, research, and professional services. This track emphasizes independent research and scholarly contributions in the field.
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed an MPhil degree in a relevant field with a minimum CGPA of 3.30 (on a 4.00 scale) or 60% in the aggregate system.
- Work Experience: Specific work experience may not be mandatory for this track, but candidates should demonstrate strong academic and research potential.
3. Admission Process
Admission is based on a rigorous evaluation process:
- Entrance Test: The written test assesses quantitative reasoning (30 marks), verbal reasoning (30 marks), and analytical writing (40 marks).
- Evaluation of Documents: Includes academic records, a research proposal, and a statement of purpose.
- Interview: Candidates are evaluated on their research aptitude and alignment with program objectives.
4. Admission Guidelines
Applicants must submit the following:
- Completed application form.
- Statement of Purpose outlining their research objectives.
- A preliminary research proposal (up to 2,000 words).
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Portfolio of prior academic or professional works.
5. Financial Assistance
Pokhara University offers reasonably structured fees for the PhD programs and may provide scholarships or financial assistance based on merit or need. Details about specific funding opportunities are available through the university’s scholarship programs.