National Defence University
Islamabad, Pakistan • Founded 1987
Overview
A public university based in Islamabad, Pakistan, National Defence University was founded in 1987 and operates as a higher-education provider. Its institutional context places it within Pakistan's wider academic ecosystem.
Programmes at National Defence University cover bachelor's through doctoral programmes, structured through a single faculty. The institution administers a catalogue of active programmes across its academic units.
Location & Contact
Below are the location pin, postal details, and primary contact methods for National Defence University. International applicants should account for postal mail processing time when sending physical documents.
Academic Details
These figures give a quick read on National Defence University's scale, staffing levels, and academic standing. Use them to ground decisions about programme fit and institutional capacity.
Degrees
The full range of degrees National Defence University awards is grouped by level below. Awards typically map to recognised qualifications frameworks, easing credit transfer abroad.
Bachelor's 7 programs
Bachelor's programmes build foundational expertise, preparing graduates for entry-level professional roles and further postgraduate study.
- Government
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- International Studies
- Leadership
- Management
- Peace and Disarmament
- Public Administration
Master's 7 programs
Master's programmes develop advanced specialised expertise, suited to senior industry positions and applied research.
- Government
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- International Studies
- Leadership
- Management
- Peace and Disarmament
- Public Administration
Doctoral 7 programs
Doctoral programmes train independent researchers, leading to academic, scientific, and senior advisory careers.
- Government
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- International Studies
- Leadership
- Management
- Peace and Disarmament
- Public Administration
Faculties & Divisions
Below: the faculties and divisions inside National Defence University. Faculty member affiliations sometimes span multiple units, particularly for interdisciplinary scholars.
Contemporary Studies. (Faculty) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Government
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- International Studies
- Leadership
- Management
- Peace and Disarmament
- Public Administration
Programs Offered
National Defence University's programme catalogue is grouped by level below — use the filter to narrow your shortlist. Programme entry windows and admissions criteria typically appear on each programme's dedicated page.
Bachelor's Degree
6 programmes
These 6 programmes make up National Defence University's undergraduate catalogue. A bachelor's degree is the baseline credential for most graduate careers and advanced study.
BS Economics Economics
BS Peace and Conflict Studies Peace and Development Studies
BS International Relations Politics & International Relations
BS Strategic Studies Peace and Development Studies
BS Government and Public Policy Public Policy
BS Leadership and Management Studies Business & Management
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Master's Degree
6 programmes
National Defence University provides 6 programmes at master's level for graduates who want to specialise further or strengthen their standing for doctoral applications.
MS Strategic Studies Peace and Development Studies
MS Peace and Conflict Studies Peace and Development Studies
MS International Relations Politics & International Relations
MS Government and Public Policy Public Policy
MS Leadership and Management Studies Business & Management
MS Economics Economics
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Master of Philosophy
6 programmes
National Defence University provides 6 programmes at master's level for graduates who want to specialise further or strengthen their standing for doctoral applications.
MPhil Peace and Conflict Studies Peace and Development Studies
MPhil International Relations Politics & International Relations
MPhil Strategic Studies Peace and Development Studies
MPhil Government and Public Policy Public Policy
MPhil Leadership and Management Studies Business & Management
MPhil Economics Economics
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Doctorate
6 programmes
At the highest level, National Defence University runs 6 programmes. These doctoral programmes are built around a sustained research project rather than taught coursework.
PhD Peace and Conflict Studies Peace and Development Studies
PhD International Relations Politics & International Relations
PhD Strategic Studies Peace and Development Studies
PhD Government and Public Policy Public Policy
PhD Leadership and Management Studies Business & Management
PhD Economics Economics
No programmes match your filter in this level.
How to apply to National Defence University
Application guidance for National Defence University, structured as five practical steps with attention to documents and admissions communication.
- 1 Identify the right programme
National Defence University's catalogue includes 24 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
- 2 Check entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for National Defence University's admissions process.
- 3 Prepare your application documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
- 4 Submit via the institution
Submit your completed application through National Defence University's official website at ndu.edu.pk. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
- 5 Get in touch with admissions
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about National Defence University
Below are the key facts most prospective students ask about National Defence University, drawn directly from institutional records.
When was National Defence University founded?
National Defence University was established in 1987 (approximately 39 years ago).
Where is National Defence University located?
National Defence University is located in Islamabad, Pakistan.
What is National Defence University's control type?
National Defence University operates as a public institution.
What programmes are available at National Defence University?
National Defence University delivers bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes across its academic units.
Who recognises National Defence University?
The institution holds recognition from Higher Education Commission, Pakistan.
Where can I learn more about National Defence University?
National Defence University's official website is ndu.edu.pk.
Top-Ranked Universities in Pakistan
Top Pakistan universities often run international branch campuses. National Defence University's international footprint compared to this benchmark signals global engagement scale.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Within easy reach of National Defence University, these institutions host comparable faculties and admissions structures — useful for regional shortlisting. Regional universities often coordinate on credit transfer and joint programme delivery.
Where Else to Study Peace and Development Studies
Peace and Development Studies is taught at multiple universities across Pakistan — these alternatives to National Defence University are worth weighing. Each programme reflects different academic traditions, industry connections, and research priorities.
Universities Often Compared with National Defence University
Mid-career outcome data (5–10 year post-graduation) is harder to source but more revealing than starting-salary data. Where available for peer institutions, it is worth comparing.
