Engineering has never been just about machines or construction sites. It’s about solving real problems, often in the background, where the results quietly shape people's lives. In Nepal, where development efforts touch everything from electricity to digital infrastructure, engineers do the heavy lifting—sometimes quite literally.
Let’s face it: Engineering drives progress, whether building earthquake-resistant schools in remote villages, designing irrigation canals that prevent seasonal food shortages, or improving our internet systems. This makes this even more relevant today because the country needs a new generation of skilled minds to turn knowledge into practical solutions. That’s precisely why this topic matters.
Students who have just finished 12th grade often find themselves stuck between personal interest and practical career paths. Parents, relatives, even neighbors weigh in. But the real question remains: Which engineering field aligns with your goals and offers sustainable opportunities here and abroad? This article provides insights based on what’s happening in Nepal—from job prospects and college quality to real salary data. No fluff. Just facts, stories, and guidance that can help you make a smart decision.
Table of Content
- Top Engineering Courses After 12th in Nepal
- Top Engineering Universities in Nepal
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics and Communication Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architecture
- Information Technology (IT) Engineering
- Entrance Exams and Admission Process
- Career Paths and Salary Trends
- Choosing the Right Engineering Field
- Future Outlook for Engineers in Nepal
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Top Engineering Courses After 12th in Nepal
In Nepal, the path to an engineering degree typically starts with completing the 10+2 Science stream. Mathematics is a must if you're applying to top universities like Tribhuvan University (TU) or Kathmandu University (KU).
There are three common pathways:
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+2 Science with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM)
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+2 Science with Biology and Extra Mathematics (accepted in some programs)
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Diploma in Engineering from CTEVT (for lateral entry)
Colleges often assess students through entrance exams that check their strength in math, science, and logical reasoning. Preparation for these exams can start as early as Grade 11 for students who are clear about their goals.
|
Course Name |
Brief Description |
Potential Career Paths in Nepal |
|
Civil Engineering |
Focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure like buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems. |
Infrastructure development, hydropower projects, urban planning, government agencies, consulting firms, construction management. |
|
Computer Engineering |
Combines computer science with electrical engineering, emphasizing software development, hardware design, networking, and digital systems. |
Software development, network engineering, cybersecurity, database administration, web development, IT consulting. |
|
Electrical Engineering |
Covers the principles of electricity, electromagnetism, and electronics, including power generation, transmission, control systems, and renewable energy. |
Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), hydropower plants, telecommunications, manufacturing industries, renewable energy sector, electrical design and consultancy firms. |
|
Electronics and Communication Engineering |
Deals with the design and development of electronic circuits, communication systems, and information technology, including telecommunications, signal processing, and embedded systems. |
Telecommunication companies (NTC, Ncell), internet service providers (ISPs), broadcasting organizations, IT companies, hardware design and manufacturing, research and development. |
|
Software Engineering |
Focuses on the systematic approach to the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software systems and applications. |
Software development, web development, mobile app development, software testing, UI/UX design, database administration. |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
Encompasses the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems and devices, including machinery, engines, and thermal systems. |
Manufacturing industries, hydropower plants, automobile engineering, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), industrial automation, design and consultancy firms. |
|
Architecture |
Integrates artistic design with engineering principles to plan and design buildings and other structures, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. |
Architectural firms, construction companies, urban planning and development agencies, interior design, landscape architecture, private consulting. |
|
Information Technology (IT) Engineering |
Provides a comprehensive understanding of information and communication technologies, including network systems, software development, database management, and cybersecurity. |
Network administrator, system analyst, IT consultant, cybersecurity analyst, web developer, database administrator, IT support specialist. |
Top Engineering Universities in Nepal
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Tribhuvan University (Institute of Engineering - IOE)
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Kathmandu University (KU)
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Pokhara University (PU)
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Purbanchal University
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Far Western University
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Manmohan Technical University
These universities offer most of the country's undergraduate engineering programs through their constituent and affiliated colleges.
Civil Engineering
Civil engineering involves designing, constructing, and maintaining public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water supply systems, and hydropower plants.
Nepal’s frequent exposure to floods, landslides, and earthquakes requires skilled civil engineers. These professionals build new structures and retrofit and upgrade existing ones to improve safety.
A key part of their job is planning practical and sustainable solutions, especially in rural areas with limited resources. With growing investment in urban planning, green buildings, and transportation systems, civil engineers today are expected to balance functionality with long-term environmental awareness. Their contribution extends beyond construction—it supports better living conditions, safer travel, and efficient disaster preparedness.
Typical Subjects:
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Structural Analysis
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Soil Mechanics
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Fluid Mechanics
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Surveying
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Hydraulics
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Construction Management
Top Colleges:
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IOE Pulchowk Campus
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Kathmandu University
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Nepal Engineering College (NEC)
Job Roles: Site engineer, hydropower consultant, urban planner, government project officer.
Salary: Starting: NPR 20,000 to 40,000 Experienced: NPR 80,000 to 100,000+
Computer Engineering
Computer engineering combines logic, creativity, and problem-solving. It focuses on how computers work, both in terms of software development and essential hardware functions. This might be your space if you like writing code, debugging, or building apps that solve problems. What sets computer engineering apart is its versatility. You get to work on everything from system programming, mobile apps, network design, and cybersecurity. In Nepal, the demand for skilled professionals in this field has grown fast, especially with the rise of tech startups and digital businesses. You can contribute to real solutions with the right skills and mindset—from automating agriculture to supporting remote learning platforms.
Typical Subjects:
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Programming Languages (C, Java, Python)
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Data Structures
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Operating Systems
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Computer Networks
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Database Systems
Top Colleges:
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NCIT
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Kathmandu Engineering College
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IOE Pulchowk
Job Roles: Software developer, network administrator, systems engineer, security analyst.
Salary: Starting: NPR 25,000 to 40,000 Experienced: NPR 50,000 to 120,000
Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering generates, transmits, and distributes electrical power. It also covers the systems that control these processes, such as automation, power grids, and smart monitoring. In Nepal, where hydropower is considered a leading renewable resource, electrical engineers play a central role in national development.
Electrical engineering is hands-on and deeply needed. Its work involves designing hydropower stations and maintaining electric lines across rural hills. This field blends theoretical knowledge with practical implementation. Students study how electricity flows and learn to create systems that reduce waste and increase efficiency.
With growing infrastructure projects, expanding energy demands, and rural electrification efforts, the need for skilled electrical engineers continues to rise. Those with a strong foundation in circuit analysis, power systems, and control engineering can find work in utility companies, construction firms, and government agencies. There's also the opportunity to contribute to sustainable energy solutions across Nepal's diverse geography.
Typical Subjects:
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Circuit Theory
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Power Systems
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Electrical Machines
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Renewable Energy Technologies
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Control Systems
Top Colleges:
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IOE Pulchowk
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KU
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NEC
Job Roles: Hydropower engineer, electrical designer, maintenance supervisor, system analyst.
Salary: Starting: NPR 30,000 to 50,000 Experienced: Up to NPR 115,000
Electronics and Communication Engineering
Electronics and Communication Engineering blends hardware design with communication systems. It combines circuit development and signal transmission, enabling everything from mobile networks to satellite systems.
This field has strong roots in physics and practical technology. Students learn to design microcontrollers, work with sensors, and create systems that allow devices to communicate clearly and securely.
In Nepal, this field supports major industries such as telecom, TV broadcasting, and online connectivity. It also plays a growing role in smart city planning, wireless technology, and automation.
Whether you're designing components for a radio station or helping improve internet speed in rural areas, this field offers wide practical use. It suits students who enjoy solving technical problems and thinking in systems.
Typical Subjects:
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Signal Processing
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Digital Electronics
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Embedded Systems
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Communication Systems
Top Colleges:
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KU
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Kathford International
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Pokhara University-affiliated colleges
Job Roles: Telecom engineer, ISP specialist, R&D engineer, electronics developer.
Salary: Starting: NPR 25,000 to 40,000 Experienced: NPR 45,000 to 100,000
Software Engineering
Software Engineering fully centers on designing, building, and maintaining software systems. It teaches students how to write clean code, manage development projects, and solve real-life problems using logic and structured programming.
Unlike broader computer engineering programs, this field doesn’t dive into hardware. Instead, it focuses on front-end and back-end development, mobile app creation, and software deployment in real environments. It’s all about getting students ready for work that matters—whether it’s building apps for rural health services or automating small businesses.
The curriculum mixes theory with hands-on experience. Many programs in Nepal include practical labs, live projects, and internships with IT companies. These opportunities help students apply their learning and build a portfolio before graduation.
With Nepal’s growing interest in digital services and remote platforms, software engineers are finding more freelance options, startup roles, and remote jobs. This field is for those who want to create, test, and improve everyday tech tools.
Typical Subjects:
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Web Development
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Mobile App Development
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Software Testing
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UI/UX Design
Top Colleges:
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Gandaki College
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NCIT
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KU
Job Roles: Frontend developer, backend developer, software tester, DevOps associate.
Salary: Starting: NPR 30,000 to 50,000 Experienced: Up to NPR 150,000
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering covers the science behind machines, motion, and materials. It blends physics with practical engineering to solve problems in energy, manufacturing, and automation.
This field helps design and maintain systems that produce power or perform mechanical work. It plays a central role in many industries, from car engines to hydro turbines. Students often work with tools, CAD software, and lab equipment to test and improve mechanical designs.
This field supports manufacturing, construction, transportation, and hydropower in Nepal. Engineers often help improve factory efficiency or build machinery that meets local needs.
It's an excellent choice for students who enjoy working with hands-on projects, figuring out how things move, or designing systems that improve how machines work in real life.
Typical Subjects:
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Thermodynamics
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Machine Design
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Fluid Mechanics
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Solid Mechanics
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Manufacturing Processes
Top Colleges:
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IOE Thapathali Campus
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KU
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NEC
Job Roles: Plant engineer, HVAC technician, design engineer, manufacturing specialist.
Salary: Starting: NPR 25,000 to 40,000 Experienced: NPR 50,000 to 100,000
Architecture
What It Covers: Architecture blends structure with imagination. It teaches students to design functional spaces that reflect social needs and cultural values.
The course trains future architects to think spatially, work with digital tools, and sketch ideas that respond to real-life environments. Students often begin with drawing and modeling before advancing into design theory and sustainable planning.
In Nepal, architecture is closely linked to urban development, tourism, and earthquake resilience. Professionals in this field help design affordable housing, preserve heritage, and improve the usability of public spaces.
This discipline suits those who enjoy combining math with art, and structure with storytelling. It's not just about buildings—it's about shaping how people live and interact in physical spaces.
Typical Subjects:
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Design Studios
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Building Construction
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Architectural History
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Urban Planning
Top Colleges:
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IOE Pulchowk
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KU
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NEC
Job Roles: Architect, landscape designer, conservation consultant, and interior planner.
Salary: Starting: NPR 20,000 to 35,000 Experienced: Up to NPR 80,000
Information Technology (IT) Engineering
What It Covers: Information Technology (IT) Engineering centers on building and managing systems that handle data, software, and secure networks. It blends core computing elements with practical tools used in real work settings.
Students in this field learn to manage databases, maintain digital infrastructure, and support secure communications across platforms. The courses often include hands-on labs and group projects, encouraging collaborative problem-solving.
This field is well-suited for technology enthusiasts who don’t necessarily want to focus on hardware or pure software development. It offers flexibility to work across sectors, such as education, banking, health, and government.
In Nepal, skilled IT engineers manage school systems, digital payments, logistics, and public data systems. This growing field requires structured thinking, patience, and constant learning.
Typical Subjects:
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Computer Networks
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Database Systems
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Programming
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Cybersecurity
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Cloud Computing Basics
Top Colleges:
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NCIT
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KU
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CITE
Job Roles: Network admin, system analyst, support specialist, data officer.
Salary: Starting: NPR 25,000 to 45,000 Experienced: NPR 50,000 to 100,000+
Entrance Exams and Admission Process
Entrance exams are mandatory for nearly all engineering colleges in Nepal. They test basic concepts and problem-solving skills in science and math.
Main Exams:
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IOE Entrance: TU’s most competitive test, required for Pulchowk and affiliated campuses.
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KUCAT: Conducted by Kathmandu University.
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PU Entrance: Organized by Pokhara University and its affiliates.
Preparation Advice:
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Focus on math and physics.
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Practice past papers.
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Time management is key.
Career Paths and Salary Trends
Engineering careers in Nepal are expanding with economic development. The highest-paying fields are software, electrical, computer, and civil engineering.
Salaries vary by experience, sector, and skill level. Engineers with international certifications or specialized expertise often earn more.
Choosing the Right Engineering Field
Don’t choose based only on money or what others say. Look at your interests, strengths, and future goals. Love problem-solving? Try Computer or Mechanical. Prefer design and social impact? Civil or Architecture might be your thing.
Also, consider where you want to work—urban, rural, private sector, government, or abroad. Visit college websites, talk to seniors, and explore real job descriptions before finalizing your path.
Stories from the Field
“When I applied to Civil Engineering, I had no idea it would take me to rural Karnali, helping build earthquake-resistant schools. The work is tiring, but when I see students walk into those buildings, it feels worth it.”
“I always liked computers. Software Engineering gave me the skills to freelance during college. By graduation, I had already worked with clients from three countries.”
Future Outlook for Engineers in Nepal
Nepal is entering a phase in which urban development, clean energy expansion, and technological modernization are beginning to shape long-term priorities. These transitions change how cities grow and resources are used, managed, and sustained.
Engineers are central to this shift. Whether civil engineers are working on safer road networks, electrical engineers are designing hydropower grids, or software engineers are contributing to Nepal's emerging digital services, their expertise is becoming deeply embedded across critical sectors. With these transformations underway, engineering graduates can expect lasting career opportunities in the public and private sectors.
Infrastructure planning, renewable energy, software development, and telecom fields are especially promising. These fields offer career growth that aligns with national development goals and the growing demand for technical innovation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right engineering course after 12th is a big decision. But it becomes a decisive step forward when guided by real data, personal strengths, and long-term vision. Whether you're building bridges, writing code, or designing smart cities, your role will shape Nepal’s future. Stay curious, stay informed, and make a career that truly fits who you are.
FAQs
What do I need to study engineering in Nepal?
You need a 10+2 Science background with PCM subjects. Diploma holders in engineering can also apply.
Is Computer Engineering better than Software Engineering?
Depends on your interests. Computer Engineering includes hardware. Software Engineering is fully focused on code and applications.
What is the scope of Civil Engineering in Nepal?
Strong demand in infrastructure and hydropower, especially in rural development and government projects.
Can I get a scholarship for engineering studies?
Yes. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships. Some also provide need-based financial aid.
Which is the most in-demand engineering field right now?
Software and electrical engineering currently have Nepal's highest demand and pay scale.
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