Overview
MPhil in Information and Communication Technology at Nepal Open University
Program Overview
The MPhil in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Nepal Open University is an 18-month (three semesters) research-based postgraduate program. This course aims to immerse students and researchers in specific research areas within Information Technology. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of recent trends in IT and conduct research-led activities in their chosen domains. Key focus areas include emerging technologies such as Data Science, Cloud Computing, Big Data, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Program Objectives
The objectives of the MPhil program are to:
- Produce highly qualified professional manpower for teaching, research, and academic fields, as well as for government, non-government, public, and private enterprises.
- Enhance independent research abilities among teachers, academics, and professionals in various fields.
- Provide in-depth knowledge and research skills in key areas such as information science, communication technology, organization behavior, research methodologies, human resource management, and IT governance.
- Prepare students to pursue a PhD in the field of ICT.
Eligibility
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Master’s degree in ICT or IT recognized by Nepal Open University with at least a second division and a minimum CGPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale.
- Proficiency in English is essential as the medium of instruction, examination, and writing term papers and thesis is English.
- Candidates must pass an entrance test for admission to the MPhil in ICT. The program accommodates a maximum of 50 students and a minimum of 10 students.
Curricular Structure
Course Duration:
- Minimum: 1.5 years (Full-time)
- Maximum: 4.5 years (Part-time)
Mode of Delivery:
- Online, face-to-face, and blended learning
Scholarships:
- 10% of admitted students receive tuition fee waivers as per university rules and regulations.
Evaluation Scheme:
- In-semester: 40%
- End-semester: 60%
In-Semester Evaluation (40%)
- Unit Assignment/Project/Task: 20%
- Critical Comment/Review: 15%
- Interaction with the Tutor: 5%
End-Semester Evaluation (60%)
- Short answer questions
- Long answer questions or research paper writing
- Focus on higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, evaluation, and innovation
Curricular Structure:
First Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ICT 701 | Advanced Research Methodology | 3 |
| ICT 702 | Data Science | 3 |
| ICT 703 | Digital Governance | 3 |
| ICT 704 | Advanced Programming Techniques | 3 |
| ICT 705 | IT Management | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
Second Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ICT 751 | Cloud Computing and Big Data | 3 |
| ICT 752 | Integrated Communications | 3 |
| ICT 753 | Database Management Systems | 3 |
| ICT 754 | Advanced Software Engineering | 3 |
| ICT 755 | Research Project (Preliminary Dissertation Works) | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
Third Semester
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ICT 801 | Elective | 3 |
| ICT 899 | Dissertation | 6 |
| Total | 9 |
Electives:
- Machine Learning
- Knowledge Engineering
- Deep Learning
- Fuzzy Logic
- Embedded System
- Modeling and Simulation
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computational Mathematics
- Analytical Hierarchical Process
- Wireless Sensor Network
- Data Mining
- Mobile Computing
- Web Technology
- Natural Language Processing
- Geographical Information System
- Educational Technology
- Internet of Things
- Wireless Communication
- 5-G Network
- Information Security
The MPhil in ICT at Nepal Open University is designed to develop researchers capable of contributing to national development in various areas of Information Technology, addressing emerging challenges and advancing the field.
