Due to the growing need for skilled professionals in Engineering Geology both within the country and internationally, Tribhuvan University established the M.Sc. Engineering Geology program. This field plays a crucial role in engineering projects by investigating geological conditions that can impact the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of large infrastructure like dams, tunnels, highways, water resources development, natural hazard mitigation, and environmental management.

The program aims to develop qualified manpower capable of meeting the demands of both industry and academia in the field of Engineering Geology.

Duration of the Program
The M.Sc. in Engineering Geology is structured over four semesters, completed in two academic years, with students allowed a maximum of five years to finish the course. In the first semester, students must choose a specialization course, which includes practical work, compulsory fieldwork, and a dissertation.

Objectives

• To train highly skilled and competent professionals in engineering geology to meet national and international demands.

• To provide advanced knowledge grounded in geology, geotechnics, and engineering principles essential for practical application and research in engineering geology.

• To involve students in research activities to develop broad research and analytical skills, along with practical experience in engineering geology. The program fosters research facilities and promotes international collaboration with universities and institutions.

Key Details

• Medium of instruction: English

• Duration: Four semesters over two academic years (maximum completion time five years)

• Working days per semester: 90

• Total credits: 70

• Full marks: 1750

Credit and Hour Breakdown

• Theory: 1 credit equals 15 lecture hours and 25 marks. A 1-credit theory course involves one lecture hour per week.

• Practical: 1 credit equals 45 lab hours and 25 marks, with three practical hours per week for each 1-credit practical course.

• Fieldwork: 1 credit equals 56 hours of fieldwork/lectures and 25 marks. Fieldwork involves 56 hours per week.

• Dissertation: Carries 4 credits and is completed in the fourth semester, including 4 to 6 weeks of fieldwork.

Evaluation System

• Theory: 40% internal assessment based on assignments, attendance, seminars, and internal exams; 60% final exam.

• Practical: Evaluated separately with full 100% marks.

• Dissertation: Submitted to the Scientific Committee of the Central Department of Geology for evaluation and defense.

• Seminar: Students must present at least one seminar paper and attend others; evaluation based on presentation and attendance.

Grading System
Students must pass each compulsory paper individually. Passing marks for theory and practicals are 50%. The grading scale (on a 4-point scale) is as follows:

• A (4.0): 90 and above (Distinction)

• A- (3.7): 80–89.9 (Very Good)

• B+ (3.3): 70–79.9 (First Division)

• B (3.0): 60–69.9 (Second Division)

• B- (2.7): 50–59.9 (Pass)

• F (0): Below 50 (Fail)

Certificate
Students who successfully complete all theory, practical, fieldwork, project work, seminars, and dissertation requirements will receive a Master of Science degree in Engineering Geology from Tribhuvan University.

Eligibility
Applicants must have a B.Sc. degree in Geology from Tribhuvan University or an equivalent university/institution and should have completed prescribed geological field training at the B.Sc. level.

Entrance Examination
The entrance exam is a 2-hour test worth 100 marks, based on the B.Sc. Geology syllabus. The format is multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each carrying one mark. A minimum of 35% is required to pass.

Admission Procedure
Candidates must appear for the entrance exam organized by the Central Department of Geology. Admission is based on a merit list, which is calculated from 20% of the B.Sc. examination marks and 80% of the entrance exam marks. Only candidates who appear and pass the entrance exam will be admitted.

Seat Allocation
For Tribhuvan University’s central department and affiliated campuses, 80% of seats are filled through open competition, while 20% are reserved for certain categories. Applicants in the reserved category must meet specific criteria such as passing SLC from community schools, being permanent residents of backward regions, and having completed their Bachelor’s from constituent or community campuses of Tribhuvan University.