The Institute of Engineering (IOE), Tribhuvan University introduced the M.Sc. in Architecture in Energy for Sustainable Social Development (MSESSD) in November 2015. This two-year, four-semester program is conducted under the Department of Architecture at the Central Campus, IOE. Initially launched in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology (NTNU) and supported by EnPe (NORAD), Norway, the program is now fully integrated into IOE’s regular academic offerings.

Program Overview

MSESSD is a pioneering postgraduate program in Nepal that blends architectural design, energy planning, and sustainable development, with a particular focus on the Nepalese context—both rural and urban. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to plan, design, and manage energy systems while considering environmental, technical, and social factors. A key emphasis is placed on case-based learning, fieldwork, and real-world problem-solving.

This program follows a "whole-to-part" approach starting with macro-level planning and narrowing down to micro-level design preparing graduates for leadership roles in energy strategy, sustainability, and social development sectors.

Key Features

• Focused on both core and elective modules in sustainable energy design, urban-rural energy systems, and policy analysis.

• Strong emphasis on research, field-based learning, and practical project work.

• Participation in national and international conferences and seminars encouraged.

• Courses are designed to reflect current global practices in energy sustainability and innovation.

Group Project

In the third semester, students collaborate in small groups (typically 2–4 members) on real-world energy challenges. These group projects aim to deliver practical, community-relevant solutions through research and analysis.

Thesis

In the final semester, students must complete an independent research-based dissertation that addresses issues related to energy, sustainability, and development. Students are encouraged to publish their research findings in academic journals.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for admission to the MSESSD program, applicants must:

• Hold a five-year Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Agricultural, or Industrial Engineering from Tribhuvan University or a recognized equivalent.

• Meet the minimum entrance score set by the IOE Faculty Board.

Admission Process

• Entrance Exam: Candidates must pass an entrance test set by the Entrance Examination Board of IOE.

• Selection: Admission is merit-based, with rankings determined by entrance exam scores.

• Enrollment Categories:

  • Regular Fee-Paying Students

  • Full-Fee Paying Students

  • Sponsored Students

Curriculum Structure

First Semester (16 Credits)

• Sustainable Energy Design for Social Development – 4 credits

• Energy in Sustainable Urban and Rural Planning – 4 credits

• Sustainable Energy Technology – 4 credits

• Research Methodology – 4 credits

Second Semester (16 Credits)

• Case Study Research and Stakeholder Methodology – 4 credits

• Sustainable Energy Planning and Policy Analysis – 4 credits

• Elective I (choose one):

  • Energy and Rural Reconstruction

  • Off-grid Energy Solutions for Urban/Rural Areas – 4 credits

• Elective II: Management of Micro-Level Clean Energy Projects – 4 credits

Third Semester (12 Credits)

• Elective III:

  • Stakeholder Inclusion: Gender Mainstreaming and Energy Innovation – 4 credits

• Elective IV (choose one):

  • Sustainable Building Design and Planning

  • Inter-Departmental Course (MS Urban Planning/MSRE/MSESPM) – 4 credits

• Group Project – 4 credits

Fourth Semester (16 Credits)

• Thesis/Dissertation – 16 credits