Bachelor of Development Studies (BDevS) is an undergraduate program designed to cover all aspects related to the study of social, economic, political and environmental development. Students pursuing this course are provided with the requisite knowledge as well as skills needed for carrying out analyses related to development problems, designing community programs and contributing to sustainable development.

Duration of Course and Structure

This course takes approximately 3–4 years to complete, comprising of 6–8 semesters. Some of the elements that comprise this course include core subjects in development theory, economics and other social science fields, fieldwork, community projects, researches and internships within non-governmental organizations, international non-governmental organizations and development organizations.

Subjects in Bachelor of Development Studies

Some of the core subjects offered in the Bachelor of Development Studies include:

Development Theory and Practice
Anthropology and Sociology
Development Economics
Urban and Rural Development
Gender Issues and Social Inclusion
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change
Project Planning and Management
Research Techniques and Data Analysis

Skills You Will Learn

Some of the professional skills learned through BDevS are:

Knowledge about development issues and policies
Project planning, monitoring, and evaluation
Fieldwork and community work experience
Data collection and analysis
Communication and report writing skills
Problem solving abilities related to environmental and social issues

Career Prospects after BDevS

After completing BDevS, you can go for the following career options:

Development Officer/Program Officer
Project Coordinator for NGO/INGO projects
Social Researcher/Policymaker
Community Development worker
Monitoring and Evaluation specialist
Development Officer of the Government sector

There is huge employment potential in various sectors like NGOs, INGOs, Government organizations, International bodies, research institutions and local community development projects.

Relevance of BDevS to the current situation in Nepal

Because of Nepal's emphasis on development, poverty alleviation, and sustainable growth, there is great scope for BDevS graduates within the following fields:

NGOs and INGOs operating in health, education, rural development, etc.
The Nepali government's development departments
International organizations, including UN organizations, development partners
Local development projects and CBOs
Research and policy-making institutions

Practical Work and Internship

BDevS also involves practical work including:

Working in community based development projects
Getting involved in programs organized by NGOs/INGOs
Carrying out surveys and research studies
Assisting in project planning and implementation.

Higher Education Choices after BDevS

After graduating with BDevS, individuals have the option of furthering their education in areas such as:

Development Studies Master’s Degree
Public Administration/Public Policy Master’s Degree
Master’s Degrees in Social Work/Sociology
Environmental/Rural Development Master’s Degree
Ph.D. in Development Studies or related field

Why BDevS?

BDevS is perfect for individuals interested in pursuing a career in development studies, and those that wish to make a positive impact on society and communities. With BDevS, you will be able to secure a successful career and have an opportunity to work towards development goals in your nation and around the world.