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NSU Graduate Programs Cost Guide: Complete Investment Analysis for Master’s Degrees

Graduate Fee Structure

Program/DegreeAdmission FeeTuition Fee Per CreditStudent Activities Fee/SemesterLibrary Fee /SemesterComputer Lab Fee/Semester
Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)20,0006,5004,5001,5003,000
MS in Economics20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MS in Computer Science and Engineering20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MS in Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MS in Electrical and Electronic Engineering20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MS in Biotechnology20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MPharm in Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics20,0005,0004,5001,5003,000
MPharm in Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy20,0005,0004,5001,5003,000
Master of Public Health (MPH)20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
Executive Master of Public Health (EMPH)20,0005,0004,5001,5003,000
MS in Environmental Science and Management20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MA in English20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
Master in Public Policy and Governance (MPPG)20,0004,5004,5001,500300
Master of Laws (LL.M)20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
Master of Business Administration (MBA)20,0006,0004,5001,5003,000
Master in Development Studies (MDS)20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
MA in History and Asian Studies20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
Executive Masters in Policy and Governance (EMPG)20,0004,5003,0001,0002,000
Master of Science in Civil Engineering (M.S. in CE)20,0004,5004,5001,5003,000
Master of Science in Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences (AMCS)20,0004,5004,5001,5001,500

North South University (NSU) has established itself as a leading destination for graduate education in Bangladesh, offering 20 diverse master’s programs across four specialized schools. For working professionals and recent graduates considering advanced degrees, understanding the complete financial investment required is essential for making strategic career decisions.

Graduate education represents a significant financial commitment, with NSU’s master’s programs ranging from BDT 2,46,000 to BDT 4,32,000 in total costs. This comprehensive guide analyzes every graduate program at NSU, breaking down tuition fees (calculated at BDT 6,500 per credit hour) and additional semester expenses to help you plan your educational investment wisely.

Whether you’re seeking career advancement, specialized expertise, or a complete career transition, this detailed cost analysis will guide you toward the program that best aligns with your professional goals and financial capacity.

Understanding NSU’s Graduate Cost Structure

NSU’s graduate programs operate on a credit-based system where students pay BDT 6,500 per credit hour. Programs range from 33 credits (most engineering programs) to 60 credits (MBA), creating substantial variation in total tuition costs. Graduate students also pay higher additional fees compared to undergraduates, reflecting enhanced facilities, resources, and support services.

The university’s four graduate schools offer distinct pricing tiers. Engineering programs typically require fewer credits, making them more cost-effective, while business programs command premium pricing due to their comprehensive curriculum and industry connections. Health sciences programs vary widely based on specialization, and humanities programs maintain consistent moderate pricing.

Graduate additional fees total BDT 10,500 per semester, representing a 50% increase over undergraduate rates. This premium reflects access to advanced research facilities, specialized libraries, professional development resources, and enhanced career services designed specifically for graduate students.

School of Business & Economics

Master of Business Administration (MBA) (Code: 60)

Total Program Investment: BDT 4,32,000

The MBA represents NSU’s flagship graduate program, requiring 60 credits over 4 semesters (2 years). With tuition costs of BDT 3,90,000 and additional fees of BDT 42,000, this program demands the highest financial investment among all graduate offerings.

The MBA’s premium pricing reflects its comprehensive curriculum covering all business disciplines, extensive case study methodology, industry partnerships, and strong alumni network. Students benefit from corporate internships, international exposure opportunities, and direct recruitment by leading multinational companies.

Career advancement typically justifies the investment within 2-3 years post-graduation. MBA graduates often see 50-100% salary increases compared to their pre-MBA earnings, with leadership roles in banking, telecommunications, manufacturing, and consulting becoming accessible.

Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) (Code: 90)

Total Program Investment: BDT 3,67,000

The EMBA requires 50 credits over 3-4 semesters, designed specifically for senior executives and business owners. At BDT 3,25,000 in tuition plus BDT 42,000 in additional fees (assuming 4 semesters), this program offers premium business education with flexible scheduling.

EMBA classes typically occur on weekends and evenings, allowing participants to continue their current roles while pursuing advanced business education. The program attracts CEOs, directors, and senior managers seeking to enhance their strategic thinking and leadership capabilities.

The executive format commands the same per-credit rate as regular MBA but requires fewer total credits, making it more cost-efficient for experienced professionals. Participants benefit from peer learning with other senior executives and often see immediate application of concepts in their current roles.

Master in Development Studies (MDS) (Code: 51)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,85,000

MDS requires 39 credits over 3 semesters (1.5 years), making it one of the most cost-effective graduate options at BDT 2,53,500 tuition plus BDT 31,500 additional fees. This program specifically targets development professionals working in NGOs, international organizations, and government agencies.

The curriculum focuses on development theory, project management, policy analysis, and field research methodologies. Students often continue working while completing evening or weekend classes, minimizing opportunity costs.

Career prospects include leadership roles in UNDP, World Bank, USAID, local NGOs, and government development agencies. The program’s affordability and practical focus make it particularly attractive for development sector professionals seeking career advancement.

MS in Economics (Code: 53)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,85,000

The Economics master’s program requires 39 credits over 3 semesters, sharing the same cost structure as MDS. With BDT 2,53,500 in tuition and BDT 31,500 in additional fees, this program offers excellent value for aspiring economists and policy analysts.

The curriculum emphasizes quantitative analysis, econometric modeling, and economic policy research. Students develop skills in data analysis, economic forecasting, and policy evaluation highly valued in banking, government, and international organizations.

Graduates pursue careers in central banking, commercial banks, research institutions, and international development organizations. The program’s research focus prepares students for PhD studies or immediate employment in analytical roles.

School of Engineering & Physical Sciences

MS in Computer Science and Engineering (Code: 50)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,46,000

The CSE master’s program requires just 33 credits over 3 semesters, making it the most cost-effective graduate option at NSU. With BDT 2,14,500 in tuition and BDT 31,500 in additional fees, this program offers exceptional return on investment given the technology sector’s growth trajectory.

Students can specialize in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, software engineering, or data science. The program combines advanced coursework with research projects, preparing graduates for leadership roles in tech companies or PhD studies.

Bangladesh’s expanding IT sector creates strong demand for MS in CSE graduates, with starting salaries often exceeding BDT 80,000-120,000 monthly for experienced professionals. The program’s affordability and career prospects make it highly attractive for software engineers seeking advancement.

MS in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Code: 52)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,46,000

EEE master’s programs require 33 credits with identical cost structure to CSE. Students invest BDT 2,14,500 in tuition plus BDT 31,500 in additional fees over 1.5 years.

Specialization areas include power systems, renewable energy, telecommunications, and control systems. The program addresses Bangladesh’s growing energy and infrastructure needs, creating excellent career prospects in both public and private sectors.

Graduates find opportunities in power companies, telecommunications firms, manufacturing industries, and consulting companies. The program’s focus on practical applications and industry collaboration ensures strong job placement rates.

MS in Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering (Code: 56)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,46,000

This specialized program requires 33 credits focusing on telecommunications and electronic systems. The same cost structure as other engineering programs makes it highly accessible for electronics engineers seeking specialization.

The curriculum covers advanced topics in wireless communications, network engineering, signal processing, and embedded systems. Students work with cutting-edge laboratory equipment and industry-standard software tools.

Career opportunities exist in telecommunications companies, electronics manufacturers, and technology consulting firms. Bangladesh’s expanding digital infrastructure creates growing demand for specialists in this field.

Master of Science in Civil Engineering (M.S. in CE) (Code: 65)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

Civil Engineering master’s requires 36 credits over 3-4 semesters, with BDT 2,34,000 in tuition and BDT 31,500 in additional fees. This program addresses Bangladesh’s massive infrastructure development needs.

Students can specialize in structural engineering, transportation, environmental engineering, or construction management. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications relevant to Bangladesh’s development challenges.

Graduates pursue careers in construction companies, consulting firms, government agencies, and international development projects. The program’s focus on sustainable development and environmental considerations aligns with global infrastructure trends.

Master of Science in Applied Mathematics and Computational Sciences (AMCS) (Code: 58)

Total Program Investment: BDT 3,02,000

AMCS requires 40 credits over 4 semesters, representing the highest investment among engineering programs at BDT 2,60,000 tuition plus BDT 42,000 additional fees. This interdisciplinary program combines mathematics, statistics, and computer science.

The curriculum covers advanced topics in mathematical modeling, data science, machine learning, and computational methods. Students develop skills highly sought after in fintech, research institutions, and technology companies.

Career prospects include data scientist roles, quantitative analyst positions in financial institutions, research positions in academia, and consulting opportunities. The program’s mathematical rigor and computational focus create unique career advantages in Bangladesh’s emerging data economy.

School of Health and Life Sciences

Master of Public Health (MPH) (Code: 80)

Total Program Investment: BDT 3,73,500

MPH requires 51 credits over 4 semesters, making it the second most expensive graduate program. Students invest BDT 3,31,500 in tuition plus BDT 42,000 in additional fees for comprehensive public health education.

The program covers epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and health management. Students develop competencies for leadership roles in healthcare systems, international health organizations, and government health agencies.

Career opportunities include positions with WHO, UNICEF, CDC, government health departments, and private healthcare organizations. The program’s comprehensive approach to population health creates graduates capable of addressing complex health challenges in Bangladesh and globally.

Executive Master of Public Health (EMPH) (Code: 81)

Total Program Investment: BDT 3,73,500

EMPH offers the same curriculum as regular MPH but with executive format scheduling for working healthcare professionals. The 51-credit program maintains identical cost structure while providing flexibility for practicing doctors, nurses, and health administrators.

Weekend and evening classes allow participants to continue their clinical or administrative work while pursuing advanced education. The executive format attracts senior healthcare professionals seeking policy and management roles.

This program particularly benefits medical officers transitioning to health administration, NGO health program managers, and international health professionals seeking formal qualifications in public health.

MS in Environmental Science and Management (Code: 76)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

Environmental Science and Management requires 36 credits over 3 semesters, with BDT 2,34,000 tuition and BDT 31,500 additional fees. This program addresses growing environmental challenges and sustainability demands.

Students study environmental assessment, pollution control, sustainable development, and environmental policy. The program combines scientific knowledge with management skills essential for environmental leadership roles.

Career prospects include environmental consulting firms, government environmental agencies, international organizations focused on climate change, and corporate sustainability departments. Bangladesh’s increasing environmental awareness creates expanding opportunities for graduates.

MS in Biotechnology (Code: 70)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

Biotechnology master’s requires 36 credits with focus on advanced biological research and industrial applications. The program costs BDT 2,34,000 in tuition plus BDT 31,500 additional fees over 1.5-2 years.

Students engage in cutting-edge research in genetic engineering, pharmaceutical biotechnology, agricultural biotechnology, and industrial microbiology. Laboratory-intensive coursework provides hands-on experience with modern biotechnology equipment and techniques.

Graduates find opportunities in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, agricultural biotechnology firms, and international research collaborations. The program’s research focus prepares students for PhD studies or immediate employment in biotechnology industries.

MPharm in Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics (Code: 73)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

This specialized pharmacy program requires 36 credits focusing on drug formulation, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and biopharmaceutics. Students invest BDT 2,34,000 in tuition plus BDT 31,500 additional fees.

The curriculum covers advanced pharmaceutical sciences, drug delivery systems, quality control, and regulatory affairs. Students work with pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment and learn industry-standard practices.

Career opportunities include pharmaceutical manufacturing companies, regulatory agencies, research and development departments, and consulting firms. The program’s industry focus ensures graduates meet specific needs of Bangladesh’s expanding pharmaceutical sector.

MPharm in Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy (Code: 72)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

Clinical Pharmacy master’s requires 36 credits emphasizing patient care, clinical research, and therapeutic drug monitoring. The program costs BDT 2,34,000 tuition plus BDT 31,500 additional fees.

Students study clinical pharmacokinetics, therapeutic drug monitoring, pharmacy practice management, and clinical research methodology. Hospital rotations and clinical experiences provide practical training in patient care settings.

Graduates pursue careers in hospital pharmacy departments, clinical research organizations, pharmaceutical companies’ medical affairs divisions, and regulatory bodies. The program addresses growing demand for clinical pharmacy specialists in Bangladesh’s healthcare system.

School of Humanities & Social Sciences

Master of Laws (LL.M) (Code: 54)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

LL.M requires 36 credits over 3 semesters, with BDT 2,34,000 tuition and BDT 31,500 additional fees. This program offers legal specialization for practicing lawyers and law graduates seeking expertise in specific areas.

Students can focus on corporate law, international law, human rights, constitutional law, or commercial law. The program combines academic rigor with practical applications relevant to Bangladesh’s legal system.

Career advancement includes senior positions in law firms, corporate legal departments, government legal services, and international legal organizations. LL.M graduates often see significant salary increases and partnership opportunities in legal practice.

Master in Public Policy and Governance (MPPG) (Code: 85)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

MPPG requires 36 credits focusing on policy analysis, governance structures, and public administration. Students invest BDT 2,34,000 in tuition plus BDT 31,500 additional fees for comprehensive policy education.

The curriculum covers policy formulation, implementation strategies, governance theory, and public sector management. Students develop analytical skills for addressing complex policy challenges in developing countries.

Graduates pursue careers in government agencies, international organizations like UN and World Bank, think tanks, and NGOs focused on governance and policy research. The program particularly benefits civil servants seeking career advancement.

Executive Masters in Policy and Governance (EMPG) (Code: 86)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

EMPG offers the same curriculum as MPPG but with executive format scheduling for working government officials and policy professionals. The 36-credit program maintains identical cost structure while accommodating professional schedules.

Weekend and evening classes allow senior government officials, policy makers, and NGO leaders to pursue advanced education without career interruption. The executive format facilitates peer learning among experienced policy professionals.

This program particularly attracts deputy secretaries, joint secretaries, and senior NGO managers seeking enhanced policy analysis and leadership skills for higher administrative positions.

MA in English (Code: 55)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

English master’s requires 36 credits over 3 semesters, with BDT 2,34,000 tuition and BDT 31,500 additional fees. This program offers advanced study in literature, linguistics, and language teaching methodologies.

Students can specialize in contemporary literature, postcolonial studies, linguistics, or English language teaching. The program combines scholarly research with practical applications in education and media.

Career opportunities include university teaching positions, publishing houses, media organizations, international schools, and cultural institutions. The program also prepares students for PhD studies in English literature or applied linguistics.

MA in History and Asian Studies (Code: 57)

Total Program Investment: BDT 2,65,500

History and Asian Studies master’s requires 36 credits focusing on regional history, cultural studies, and research methodology. Students invest BDT 2,34,000 in tuition plus BDT 31,500 additional fees.

The curriculum emphasizes South Asian history, cultural analysis, archival research, and historiographical methods. Students develop expertise in regional studies highly relevant to Bangladesh’s cultural and historical context.

Graduates find opportunities in museums, cultural institutions, research organizations, publishing, and international development agencies focusing on South Asian affairs. The program also provides excellent preparation for doctoral studies in history or cultural studies.

Comprehensive Cost Analysis

Investment Tiers

Premium Investment Programs (Above BDT 3,50,000):

  • MBA: BDT 4,32,000 – Highest investment with strongest corporate ROI
  • MPH/EMPH: BDT 3,73,500 – Healthcare leadership premium

Moderate Investment Programs (BDT 2,85,000 – 3,50,000):

  • EMBA: BDT 3,67,000 – Executive convenience with reduced credits
  • MS in Applied Mathematics: BDT 3,02,000 – Specialized quantitative skills
  • MDS/MS Economics: BDT 2,85,000 – Development and economic analysis focus

Cost-Effective Programs (Under BDT 2,85,000):

  • All 33-credit Engineering programs: BDT 2,46,000
  • All 36-credit programs: BDT 2,65,500 (most humanities and health sciences)

School-by-School Investment Analysis

School of Business & Economics offers the widest cost range (BDT 2,85,000 – 4,32,000), reflecting diverse program positioning from development-focused degrees to premium MBA education. Business programs generally provide strong ROI through salary advancement and career progression opportunities.

School of Engineering & Physical Sciences provides the most affordable graduate options (BDT 2,46,000 – 3,02,000), making advanced technical education accessible while maintaining high quality. Engineering master’s degrees often lead to immediate salary increases and technical leadership roles.

School of Health and Life Sciences ranges from BDT 2,65,500 to 3,73,500, with public health programs commanding premium pricing due to their comprehensive scope and strong job market demand. Specialized health programs offer excellent career security and growth potential.

School of Humanities & Social Sciences maintains consistent pricing at BDT 2,65,500 across all programs, providing predictable investment planning for students in diverse humanities fields. These programs often lead to careers in education, government, and cultural institutions.

Graduate vs. Undergraduate Investment Comparison

Graduate additional fees (BDT 10,500 per semester) represent a 50% increase over undergraduate rates, justified by enhanced resources including access to specialized research facilities, advanced laboratory equipment, dedicated graduate study spaces, enhanced library services with research databases, career counseling focused on professional advancement, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Graduate programs also offer shorter duration (1.5-2 years vs. 4-5 years for undergraduate), allowing faster entry into enhanced career roles. The concentrated learning format and professional focus create immediate applicability of knowledge in workplace settings.

While graduate programs require higher semester fees, the reduced duration often results in lower total additional fees compared to undergraduate programs, especially for 33-credit programs completed in 3 semesters.

Return on Investment Analysis

High ROI Programs

MBA graduates typically see 50-100% salary increases within 2-3 years, with senior management roles becoming accessible. Despite the highest upfront cost, strong earning potential creates excellent long-term returns.

MS in Computer Science graduates benefit from Bangladesh’s booming tech sector, often doubling their salaries upon completion. The program’s low cost and high demand create exceptional ROI.

Public Health programs address growing healthcare administration needs, with graduates finding well-compensated roles in international health organizations and government agencies.

Specialized Career Programs

Engineering master’s programs provide technical leadership credentials, typically resulting in 30-50% salary increases and promotion to senior engineering roles. The programs’ affordability makes them accessible for most working engineers.

MPharm programs offer pharmaceutical industry specialization, leading to research and development roles with competitive compensation in Bangladesh’s growing pharmaceutical sector.

Policy and governance programs prepare graduates for senior government positions and international organization roles, providing career advancement in public service with strong job security.

Financial Planning Strategies

Budget Planning Approach

Graduate program investments range from BDT 2,46,000 to BDT 4,32,000, requiring careful financial planning. Students should consider total program costs including opportunity costs from reduced working hours or career breaks.

Many graduate students continue working while studying, particularly in executive programs, minimizing income loss during studies. Part-time study options allow spreading costs over extended periods while maintaining current income.

Employer sponsorship opportunities exist for many programs, particularly MBA and technical master’s degrees. Companies often invest in employee education for key personnel, significantly reducing individual financial burden.

Cost-Benefit Decision Framework

For Career Advancement: MBA and executive programs offer fastest career progression despite higher costs. Calculate potential salary increases against program investment for ROI analysis.

For Technical Specialization: Engineering and science programs provide affordable paths to technical leadership with relatively quick payback periods through salary advancement.

For Career Transition: Consider programs aligning with target industry salary levels. Higher-cost programs may be justified if transitioning to significantly higher-paying fields.

For Academic Preparation: Research-focused programs prepare for PhD studies and academic careers, where ROI calculation extends beyond immediate salary considerations.

Program Selection Guide

By Budget Constraints

Under BDT 2,50,000: All 33-credit engineering programs offer excellent technical advancement at minimal cost.

BDT 2,50,000 – 3,00,000: Most 36-39 credit programs provide moderate investment with diverse career applications.

Above BDT 3,50,000: Premium programs (MBA, MPH) offer comprehensive education with strong career advancement potential.

By Career Stage

Early Career Professionals: Consider cost-effective programs like MS in CSE or Economics that provide specialization without excessive financial burden.

Mid-Career Professionals: MBA, specialized master’s programs, and technical degrees offer career acceleration opportunities justifying higher investment.

Senior Professionals: Executive programs (EMBA, EMPH, EMPG) provide advancement without career interruption, maximizing convenience and networking benefits.

By Industry Focus

Technology Sector: MS in CSE and AMCS offer direct pathways to technical leadership and data science roles.

Healthcare Industry: MPH, EMPH, and MPharm programs provide specialized knowledge for healthcare advancement.

Business and Finance: MBA and EMBA create pathways to senior management across all industries.

Public Service: Policy, governance, and development programs prepare for government and international organization careers.

Investment Recommendations

Graduate education at NSU represents a strategic investment in career advancement and professional development. The most cost-effective programs (33-credit engineering degrees) offer excellent returns for technical professionals, while premium programs (MBA, MPH) provide comprehensive education justifying higher costs through superior career prospects.

Consider your current career trajectory, target roles, and financial capacity when selecting programs. Engineering and computer science programs offer the best cost-to-benefit ratio for technical professionals, while business programs provide broader career applications despite higher costs.

Executive programs offer unique value for senior professionals who cannot afford career breaks, justifying identical per-credit costs through convenience and networking benefits. Development and policy programs serve specific career niches with moderate investment requirements.

Conclusion

NSU’s graduate programs offer diverse pathways for professional advancement, with total investments ranging from BDT 2,46,000 to BDT 4,32,000. The cost variation reflects program complexity, duration, and career impact potential.

Engineering programs provide the most affordable advanced technical education, business programs offer premium career advancement despite higher costs, health sciences programs address growing healthcare demands with strong job security, and humanities programs provide moderate-cost pathways to specialized careers.

The key to maximizing your graduate education investment lies in aligning program selection with career goals, current financial capacity, and long-term earning potential. NSU’s reputation for quality education and industry connections ensures that graduates from all programs benefit from enhanced career prospects justifying their educational investment.

Whether you choose the comprehensive MBA experience, specialized technical master’s degrees, or focused professional programs, NSU’s graduate education provides the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary for career success in Bangladesh’s evolving economy.

For detailed program information, admission requirements, and scholarship opportunities, contact NSU’s graduate admissions office to begin planning your advanced education investment.

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