IRDP Dodoma: Courses Offered, Fee Structure & How to Apply (2026)

The Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP), popularly known as "Chuo cha Mipango" – Dodoma, is one of Tanzania's long-standing public institutions specializing in rural development planning, research, and consultancy. If you're looking for clear information on the courses offered, fee structure, and how to join IRDP, this guide covers the essentials.

Quick Facts

Full name	Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP)
Established	1980, by Parliamentary Act No. 8
Location	Mbwanga Street, P.O. Box 138, Dodoma, Tanzania
Campuses	Main Campus (Dodoma) & Lake Zone Center
Phone	+255 26 2963037
Official website	www.irdp.ac.tz
Application portal	https://oas.irdp.ac.tz

About IRDP

IRDP is a government institution under the Ministry of Finance. Since its establishment in 1980, it has trained rural development practitioners through post-secondary education, research, and consultancy services.

Courses Offered at IRDP

IRDP offers programmes at four main levels:

1. Certificate Programmes

Short, entry-level technical programmes, including:

• Basic Technician Certificate in Rural Development Planning
• Technician Certificate in Rural Development Planning

2. Bachelor's Degree Programmes

Undergraduate degrees for students who meet the required entry qualifications, focused on rural development planning, community development, and related fields.

3. Postgraduate Diploma Programmes

IRDP is well known for its postgraduate diplomas, popular among working professionals looking to specialize. These include:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management
• Postgraduate Diploma in Regional Planning
• Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Planning
• Postgraduate Diploma in Governance and Sustainable Development

4. Short Courses

Run through the Directorate of Research & Consultancy, these are shorter, specialized courses aimed at working professionals who need specific skills quickly.

Note: The full, up-to-date list of programmes (with entry requirements for each) is published on the official "Programmes Offered" page at www.irdp.ac.tz, since the list is reviewed and updated for each academic year.

Fee Structure

Like other public institutions, IRDP's fees vary depending on:

• The level of study (certificate, diploma, bachelor's, or postgraduate)
• Whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time
• The academic year (fees are reviewed annually)

Because fees change each academic year, the most reliable way to get the current, official fee structure (PDF) is to check:

1. The official IRDP website — www.irdp.ac.tz, or
2. IRDP's Finance/Admissions office directly (phone number above)

How to Apply to IRDP

Applications are submitted online through IRDP's OAS (Online Application System): https://oas.irdp.ac.tz

Steps:

1. Visit the OAS portal and read the application instructions.
2. New applicants click "Start Application"; returning applicants click "Login".
3. Create your account using your Form Four index number (centre number, serial number, and completion year).
4. Carefully select your application category and entry qualification — application fees are billed based on this choice and are non-refundable.
5. Fill in your personal information completely.
6. Select at least three (3) programmes you wish to study, following the official Admission Guide Book.

Why Choose IRDP?

• Over 40 years of history and experience in rural development planning education.
• A strong track record of producing professionals now working in government, international organizations, and the private sector.
• Innovation opportunities through the Innovation & Incubation (MEI–HEET) Project, which helps students launch and register their own businesses (examples include wood art products, baobab jam, and other student-led ventures).

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