Nepal's higher education landscape just took a major leap forward. Pokhara University has officially introduced a brand-new undergraduate program in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, becoming one of the first universities in the country to offer formal bachelor-level education in this cutting-edge field. Even better news for aspiring students: the university is offering full scholarships to 9 students out of a total intake of 48 seats per semester, opening doors for talented but financially constrained students to build a career in one of the fastest-growing tech domains in the world.
If you are a class 12 graduate exploring options in technology, engineering, or computer science, this article breaks down everything you need to know about the Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science program at Pokhara University — from eligibility criteria and scholarship details to curriculum structure and career prospects.
What Is the New AI & Data Science Program at Pokhara University?
Pokhara University has launched a four-year Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science program, marking the first time this subject is being taught formally at the undergraduate level in Nepal. The program is being run at the university's first constituent campus, Shramik Shanti Campus, located in Chyasal, Lalitpur. The first semester of the program has already been completed successfully, and the curriculum for semesters two through eight has also been finalized by the Faculty of Science and Technology.
According to the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, the program does not focus solely on the theoretical use of artificial intelligence. It also covers application development, AI safety and ethical use, along with in-depth training in data analysis — skills that are in extremely high demand across every industry today, from banking and finance to healthcare, government, and private technology companies.
Full Scholarship for 9 Students: Key Highlights
One of the most attractive aspects of this new program is its scholarship scheme. Out of the total intake of 48 students per semester, Pokhara University has reserved full scholarships for 9 students. In addition, one topper from every semester will also receive further fee concessions as a merit-based incentive to maintain academic excellence throughout the program.
- Total seats per semester: 48 students
- Full scholarships available: 9 students
- Additional merit concession: 1 top-performing student per semester
- Program duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
- Total credit hours: 122 credits
- Campus location: Shramik Shanti Campus, Chyasal, Lalitpur
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
Unlike many technology-related programs that require a science background from grades 11 and 12, Pokhara University has kept the eligibility criteria flexible for this course. Students from any faculty stream — science, management, or humanities — can apply for this program, as long as they have studied Mathematics or Computer Science as a subject during their higher secondary education (grade 11 and 12).
This inclusive approach opens the door for a much wider pool of students who may not have taken the traditional science stream but still possess strong analytical and computational skills, making this one of the more accessible AI-focused degree programs currently available in Nepal.
Curriculum Structure and Learning Approach
The four-year program is structured around a total of 122 credit hours, broken down into three components: 105 credits of theoretical coursework, 36 credits of tutorial and guided learning, and 91 credits of hands-on practical and laboratory work. This heavy emphasis on practical training ensures that graduates are not just familiar with AI concepts on paper but are genuinely equipped to build, test, and deploy real-world data science and AI solutions.
The curriculum has been designed to cover a broad spectrum of topics including machine learning fundamentals, data analysis and visualization, application development using AI tools, cybersecurity considerations, and the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence technologies.
Internship and Career Opportunities
A standout feature of this program is its structured internship component. Students enrolled in the AI and Data Science program will get the opportunity to intern at companies actively using artificial intelligence, as well as at various Government of Nepal agencies, where they can work as data analysts. This practical exposure is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry expectations, giving graduates a head start in the competitive tech job market.
With AI and data-driven decision-making becoming central to nearly every sector — from fintech and e-commerce to healthcare and public policy — graduates of this program are likely to find strong demand for their skills both within Nepal and internationally.
Why This Scholarship Opportunity Matters
Artificial intelligence and data science are widely regarded as among the most valuable skill sets of the next decade. By offering full scholarships to 9 meritorious students, Pokhara University is not only making cutting-edge tech education more accessible but also encouraging talented students from all financial backgrounds to pursue careers in this transformative field without the burden of tuition costs.
For students who have always been curious about how AI systems work, how data shapes decision-making, and how technology is reshaping industries, this program represents a rare and timely opportunity to gain a formal, structured education in Nepal itself — without needing to look abroad for specialized AI degrees.
How to Apply
Interested students should keep a close eye on the official Pokhara University scholarship portal and admission notices for application deadlines, entrance examination schedules, and required documents. Since scholarship seats are limited to 9 out of 48 total seats, admission is expected to be competitive, and applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare early for the entrance examination and gather all necessary academic documents well in advance.
Final Thoughts
Pokhara University's new Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science program, backed by a generous full-scholarship scheme for 9 students, marks an important milestone for technology education in Nepal. With a practical, industry-aligned curriculum, flexible eligibility requirements, and strong internship pathways, this program offers a compelling option for students who want to build a future-proof career in one of the world's most in-demand fields — right here at home.
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