From the Academic Year 2017-18, the School of Law is offering a two-year Masters by Research degree in the area of Energy & Infrastructure Law. We are seeking outstanding students to engage in legal research focusing on corporate aspects of energy and infrastructure, international investment, trade, and related regulatory issues. The degree aims to produce specialists with advanced knowledge and skills in research.

The proposed programmes aim to fulfil the following objectives:

• To provide graduates with specialized knowledge in greater depth and complexity than at undergraduate level in the given legal fields;
• To enhance the research skills of the students as they undertake a detailed investigation in an area of their interest and enable them to carry out further research;
• To prepare students for a higher level of professionalism in analysis and argument, equipping them intellectually for legal practice or work as a legal academic at the highest level, as well as for a wide range of other intellectually demanding roles;
• To produce specialists in Nepal with practical knowledge and problem-solving skills to address critical problems faced by the business and investment communities, particularly in the corporate sector;
• To provide students with global and local networks and connections to further their careers as specialists in the relevant areas.

For admission to the Masters by Research programme, students must have completed a five-year integrated BBM-LL.B degree of Kathmandu University or an equivalent undergraduate degree in law with at least 50 percent marks or a GPA of at least 2.5 on a scale of 4. Additional interdisciplinary education, internships, work experience, or publications demonstrating interest in relevant subjects will be considered advantageous.

The application process begins with submitting an application to the School of Law according to KU Research Directives 2063 BS, accompanied by an Online/Paper Form, a research proposal, and any other supporting documents required by the School. Applicants will be assessed based on the following criteria:

a) Entry Requirements for Potential Applicants

1. Online/Paper Form;
2. A CV/résumé;
3. Interest/motivation towards the subject;
4. Work/experience;
5. A sample of written work (at least 2,000 words);
6. English language requirement (for non-English instruction backgrounds);
7. References/letters of recommendation (at least two, with preference for academic references).

b) Research Proposal

Candidates must provide a research proposal (approximately 600 words) outlining their intended research, evaluated on coherence, originality, motivation, and feasibility.

c) Entrance Examination

An entrance examination may be required based on the subject area of the research proposal.

d) Performance at Interview(s)

Interviews will assess English proficiency, independent work capability, and communication skills.

The initial offer of a place is not dependent on securing funding. However, the offer will not be confirmed until the student completes a financial declaration.

Students earn their Masters by Research degree after completing 30 credits over 24 months. This includes 9 credit points of coursework and 21 credit points of research work. The thesis must be published or of publishable quality. KU Research Directives 2063 BS will apply.

Graduates can pursue academic posts, doctoral research, or industry roles as experts. They may enter legal practice, become legal advisors, or bridge scholarly research with industrial practices.

The programme consists of 30 credits: 21 for dissertation and 9 for intensive coursework. The coursework includes a compulsory course in Advanced Legal Research Methodology and specialized subjects. The programme emphasizes research and publication.

The programme requires a 30,000-word dissertation worth 21 credits. The dissertation must be of publishable quality. All requirements should be completed within 24 months, with a possible extension of up to 6 months.

The School adheres to global ethical standards. Research involving humans, animals, or genetic modification requires specific ethics approval, which will be guided and supported by the University.

Dissertations must be of publishable quality. Students will receive support from supervisors in preparing their thesis for publication in a recognized journal.

Admission depends on the availability of faculty, research opportunities, and facilities. The School of Law sets limits on the number of students admitted each year.

Supervision is assigned by the School of Law, with possible co-supervisors. Changes in supervision may occur due to various reasons. Admission is based on academic merit and fulfillment of entry requirements.

While the School aims to adhere to the programme description, changes may occur, which will be reviewed by the Faculty Board or Planning Advisory Committee.

Examinations will comply with KU Research Directives 2063 BS, including thesis format, evaluation, submission procedure, and viva voce.