Kathmandu University Launches Master in Film Studies
Kathmandu University has started a master’s level program in Film Studies for the first time in Nepal. The Department of Language and Mass Communication under the University’s School of Arts shared this information on Monday through a press conference, stating that it is launching the “Master in Film Studies” (MFS) program.
Department Head Prof. Dr. Nirmal Mani Adhikari said classes will begin from February 2026 at the School of Arts campus in Hattiban, Lalitpur. He said the two-year program has 66 credit hours and will provide knowledge related to film theory, history, aesthetics, cultural significance, and practical skills.
According to him, the curriculum includes the following subjects:
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Film production
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Narrative design and screenwriting
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Dramaturgy
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AI and film
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Research methodology
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Film form and narrative
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Narrative-related studies
He said the program will focus on skills development aligned with the industry along with academic study. Students will gain practical experience through partnerships with filmmakers and institutions. He added that teaching will involve professors with national and international academic backgrounds and industry experience.
According to him, students can complete the master’s degree in two years. He also said students can take a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in one year after completing 30 credits, and later return to complete the full degree.
Film Development Board Chairperson Dinesh Raj Dahal said that once film studies begin within Nepal, quality films will be made. He expressed confidence that films made by people who have studied film will be of international standard and capable of competing in external markets. He also said that, in the international arena, technology and cinema are currently the main mediums for establishing oneself.
He said, “In the coming days, when film studies take place in Nepal, I think films made by educated people will be made to international standards to fight at the international level. They will be capable. I think that in this era, either through technology or through cinema alone, we will be established in the international world quickly.”
Film director Yadav Kharel said that Kathmandu University has, for the first time, started teaching film-related subjects within the formal education system. Mentioning that the university is starting classes not offered by other universities, he urged that it be continued regularly.
Kathmandu University has stated that the MFS program aims to produce skilled human resources in areas such as film production, criticism, research, education, film festivals, screenings, and archiving.
College News KU