The Master in Population, Gender and Development Programme was initiated in 2003 with a Post -Graduate Diploma (PGD) leading to a Master's Degree. This programme was launched under tripartite agreement between UNFPA, Government of Nepal and Pokhara University to strengthen the university's capacities in teaching, training and research in the field of development with cross-cutting issues of population and gender.

The objective of the Population, Gender and Development programme is to produce highly qualified development professionals and academics professing theoretical and practical knowledge in Population, Gender and Development. Fundamentally students would impart technical knowledge on development issues and practical skills on related research. The thrust of the programme is on development where population and gender are integrated as cross-cutting issues.

The Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies was launched in 2010 with an objective to produce mid level development profressionals.