Kathmandu University to Offer Nepal’s First Master’s in Film Studies, Redefining Academic Path for Cinema

Kathmandu — Kathmandu University Launches Nepal’s First Master’s in Film Studies Program

The Department of Language and Mass Communication under the Faculty of Arts at Kathmandu University has officially launched the country’s first Master in Film Studies (MFS) program, marking a historic milestone in Nepalese higher education. The program was announced during a press meet on Monday.

The two-year postgraduate program (66 credits) is set to begin in February 2026 at the School of Arts campus in Hattiban, Lalitpur. The program aims to formally establish film studies as an academic discipline in Nepal and will provide students with training in film theory, history, aesthetics, cultural studies, as well as practical filmmaking skills.

Renowned filmmaker Yadav Kharel, the program’s chief guest, praised Kathmandu University’s initiative as a visionary step, emphasizing that film is not just entertainment but a field integrating technology, science, culture, and innovation. “Recognizing film studies at the postgraduate level for the first time in Nepal is a historic achievement in itself,” he said.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Dinesh D.C., Chairman of the Nepal Film Development Board, filmmaker Tin Dhirudamal, Janakdeep Parajuli, President of the Nepal Film Directors’ Society, Samipyaraj Timilsina, President of the Nepal Film Critics’ Society, and documentary filmmaker and co-founder of Women in Film Nepal, Prashna Dangol.

In his welcome remarks, Professor Nirmal Mani Adhikari, head of the Department of Language and Mass Communication, highlighted the university’s commitment to creative education and noted that film studies has been formally integrated into the academic structure alongside programs ranging from undergraduate to doctoral levels.

Special guest Dinesh D.C. stressed the importance of establishing film studios, using advanced technologies, and implementing real-time box office systems in Nepal. He said formally trained professionals in film studies could help produce international-quality films in the country.

Samipyaraj Timilsina, President of the Film Critics’ Society, expressed optimism that the program would bridge the gap between filmmaking and critical review. “It is encouraging to see film criticism included in the curriculum; this will help close the gap between creation and critique,” he said.