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.
University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) Application Forms and Requirements
Schools and Faculties
UNRE is structured into several academic schools, each dedicated to fields that directly support PNG’s natural resource sectors:
- School of Agriculture and Environment – Covers crop production, livestock management, soil science, agronomy, and environmental studies.
- School of Natural Sciences – Focuses on biological sciences, chemistry, environmental chemistry, and applied natural sciences.
- School of Sustainable Livelihoods and Development – Provides training in community development, rural development, applied economics, and food security.
- School of Marine Studies – Offers programs related to fisheries, marine resource management, aquaculture, and coastal ecosystems.
- Postgraduate Studies and Research – Coordinates master’s and doctoral research in agriculture, environmental management, and related disciplines.
Each school integrates classroom learning with laboratory work, field research, and community engagement.
Course Programs Offered
UNRE delivers a wide range of programs linked to PNG’s primary industries and sustainability goals:
- Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor of Agriculture, Bachelor of Environmental Science, Bachelor of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Bachelor of Sustainable Development, and Bachelor of Natural Resource Management.
- Postgraduate Programs: Master of Science (MSc), Master of Environmental Management, Postgraduate Diploma programs, and PhD research opportunities.
- Diploma and Certificate Courses: Diploma in Agriculture, Diploma in Fisheries, Certificate in Agribusiness, and Certificate in Environmental Studies.
- Extension and Short Courses: Tailored for farmers, agricultural officers, NGOs, and rural communities.
Programs focus strongly on practical skills, scientific research, and innovation relevant to PNG’s land, sea, and environmental challenges.
Admission Requirements
For Local Students:
- Completion of Grade 12 with a GPA that meets the university’s yearly cutoff.
- Compulsory subjects include English and Mathematics.
- Science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Agriculture, or Applied Science) are required for most degree programs.
- School leavers apply through the DHERST National Online Application System (NOAS).
- Non-school leavers submit applications directly to UNRE with supporting documents.
For International Students:
- Must have completed a qualification equivalent to PNG’s Grade 12 or pre-university level.
- English language proficiency is required through IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent assessments.
- Certified academic transcripts, passport identification, and references must be included.
- International applicants must secure a valid student visa before entering PNG.
Application Process
For Local (School Leaver) Applicants:
Apply through DHERST’s National Online Application System (NOAS) between August and October.
- Select UNRE and nominate preferred programs.
- DHERST finalizes selections in December.
- Successful students receive an offer letter from UNRE.
- Registration and orientation occur in February before the start of Semester One.
For Non-School Leavers and International Applicants:
- Collect an application form from the Admissions Office or provincial centers.
- Submit the completed form with certified copies of transcripts, references, and identification.
- Applications close around October for the following academic year.
- The Admissions Committee evaluates all submissions and issues offer letters to successful candidates.
- Accepted applicants proceed with enrollment and, where necessary, visa arrangements.
- Students attend orientation and register at the beginning of the academic year.
- Application and Enrollment Dates (General Timeline)
- Application Period: June to October.
- National Selection Results (DHERST): November–December.
- Offer Letters Issued: January.
- Registration and Orientation: February.
- Semester One Begins: February or early March.
- Mid-Year Intake: Offered for selected programs, usually between June and July.
Tuition and Fees (Annual Estimates)
UNRE’s tuition fees are program-specific and adjusted each year. General estimated annual costs include:
- Undergraduate Local Students: K2,500 – K5,500 per year.
- Undergraduate International Students: K7,000 – K12,000 per year.
- Postgraduate Students: K9,000 – K18,000 per year depending on program and research requirements.
- Accommodation and Boarding Fees: K2,000 – K4,000 per year for on-campus housing (subject to space availability).
Students should note that all fees are reviewed yearly to reflect operational and economic conditions.
Summary
The University of Natural Resources and Environment plays a vital role in preparing PNG’s future agricultural scientists, environmental specialists, fisheries experts, and rural development professionals. With its strong focus on sustainability, community engagement, and practical learning, UNRE remains a key institution for students passionate about managing and protecting the country’s natural resources.
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