University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) – Annual Application Outline
About the University
The University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) is Papua New Guinea’s specialist institution for training professionals in agriculture, marine resources, environmental management, and sustainable development. Formerly known as the Vudal Agricultural College, UNRE gained university status in 1997 and continues to operate from its main campus at Vudal in East New Britain Province, with additional training centers in different regions.
The university’s mission is to support PNG’s long-term food security, environmental conservation, and resource management through quality education, research, and innovation. UNRE places strong emphasis on hands-on learning, fieldwork, and community-based extension programs.
Campuses
- Vudal Campus, East New Britain – Main Campus
- Takubar Campus, Kokopo, East New Britain – Postgraduate Programs & Business Studies
- Popondetta Campus, Oro – Agricultural Training & Community Development
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| University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) Application Forms and Requirements |
Schools and Faculties
UNRE is structured into specialised academic schools that deliver programs aligned with PNG’s natural resource industries and sustainability priorities.
Official Schools, Departments, and Programs
SCHOOL OF NATURAL RESOURCES
- Department of Agriculture
— Bachelor in Sustainable Tropical Agriculture - Department of Fisheries
— Bachelor in Sustainable Fisheries Marine Resources - Department of Forestry
— Bachelor in Sustainable Tropical Forestry - Department of Animal Science
— Bachelor in Sustainable Livestock Production
SCHOOL OF SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT & BUSINESS STUDIES
- Department of Tourism & Hospitality
— Bachelor in Sustainable International Tourism - Department of Business & Economics
— Bachelor in Sustainable Business in Accounting & Finance
SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENT & CLIMATE CHANGE
- Department of Climate Change, Health & Development
— Bachelor in Environment & Climate Change - Department of Environmental Engineering
— Bachelor in Renewable Energy & Environmental Engineering
🎓 POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMS
- Centre for Postgraduate Studies & Research
— Masters in Management
— Postgraduate Diploma in Management
Additional Schools Listed in Prospectus
- School of Agriculture and Environment – Crop production, livestock, soil science, agronomy, and environmental studies.
- School of Natural Sciences – Biological sciences, chemistry, environmental chemistry, and applied sciences.
- School of Sustainable Livelihoods and Development – Community development, rural development, applied economics, and food security.
- School of Marine Studies – Fisheries, marine resource management, aquaculture, coastal ecosystems.
- Postgraduate Studies and Research – Master’s and doctoral programs in natural resource fields.
Each school integrates classroom learning with laboratory work, field research, and community engagement.
Course Programs Offered
- Undergraduate Programs: Agriculture, Environmental Science, Fisheries & Marine Resources, Sustainable Development, and Natural Resource Management.
- Postgraduate Programs: MSc, Master of Environmental Management, Postgraduate Diplomas, and PhD research.
- Diplomas and Certificates: Agriculture, Fisheries, Agribusiness, Environmental Studies.
- Short Courses: Tailored training for farmers, extension officers, NGOs, and rural communities.
Admission Requirements
For Local Students
- Grade 12 completion with required GPA
- English & Mathematics compulsory
- Sciences required for most degrees
- School leavers apply through DHERST NOAS
- Non-school leavers apply directly to UNRE
For International Students
- Equivalent Grade 12 qualification
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport, transcripts, references
- Valid student visa required
Application Process
For Local Applicants (School Leavers)
- Apply via DHERST NOAS (Aug–Oct)
- Selections released in December
- Offer letters issued by UNRE
- Registration begins in February
For Non-School Leavers & International Applicants
- Collect application form
- Submit certified documents
- Applications close in October
- Admissions Committee reviews submissions
- Offer letters issued to successful applicants
- Students register at start of year
General Timeline
- Applications: June–October
- DHERST Selections: Nov–Dec
- Offer Letters: January
- Registration: February
- Mid-Year Intake: June–July (selected programs)
Tuition and Fees (Estimated)
- Undergraduate (Local): K2,500–K5,500
- Undergraduate (International): K7,000–K12,000
- Postgraduate: K9,000–K18,000
- Accommodation: K2,000–K4,000
Summary
UNRE plays an essential role in preparing PNG’s future agricultural scientists, environmental managers, fisheries specialists, and rural development professionals. With a strong focus on sustainability and practical learning, it is one of the country’s key training institutions for natural resources and environmental stewardship.
Also check out other Universities in PNG
- University of Papua New Guinea
- University of Goroka
- Western Pacific University
- Divine Word University
- Pacific Adventist University
- Enga Innovative University
- PNG University of Technology
- Lutheran University