Program Overview

The Master in Film Studies (MFS) at Kathmandu University School of Arts is a rigorous two-year, 66-credit academic program that seamlessly blends theoretical, critical, and practical approaches to filmmaking. Designed to embrace creativity and cultural engagement, the program prepares students with advanced skills in film production, analysis, and research, preparing them for dynamic careers in the global and regional film industries. Graduates earn a Master’s degree in Film Studies, with an option to exit after one year with a Postgraduate Diploma upon completing 30 credits.

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of the MFS, students are expected to have attained:

• Comprehensive knowledge of film principles, theories, and practical skills, including history, aesthetics, and cultural significance.
• Advanced critical understanding of cinema with strong analytical skills for interpreting narratives, styles, and industry practices.
• Specialized skills in film production combining technical and creative proficiency.
• The ability to conduct in-depth research in film studies, contributing to broader fields like media, communication, and cultural studies.
• Leadership capabilities for key roles in film and media sectors.
• A solid foundation for further academic or professional development.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the MFS program are well-prepared for diverse careers in the film and media industries, including:

• Filmmaking: Director, producer, screenwriter, cinematographer, editor, sound designer.
• Film Criticism: Critics, journalists, or analysts for media outlets and publications.
• Academic and Research: Teaching positions, researchers in film and media studies.
• Film Curation: Curators for film festivals, museums, archives, or streaming platforms.
• Further Prospect: The program’s emphasis on both practical and theoretical skills enables graduates to pursue further studies in graduate programs or certifications in media and creative industries.

Program Highlights

• Relevant Curriculum: Contemporary curriculum according to market demand.
• Labour Market Driven: Meets demands of academia, film industry, and media organizations.
• Strong Theoretical Foundation: Integrates film theories and analytical methodologies for critical insights.
• Practice-Oriented: Emphasizes hands-on digital audiovisual production; students create three short films, maintaining a portfolio.
• Research-Centric: Includes courses on qualitative/quantitative methods and advanced film research projects.
• Individual and Collaborative Competence: Develops teamwork and leadership with ethical values.
• Broad Career Opportunities: Prepares graduates for diverse roles in global film/media industries.
• Internationally Benchmarkable: Aligns with global standards, informed by leading programs worldwide.

Course Structure

The semester-wise course structure is outlined as follows:

Year I / Semester I

Year I / Semester II

Year II / Semester I

List of Elective Courses

Elective I

• MAFS 509 – Cinema Auteurs
• MAFS 546 – Film Directing Techniques (Practicum)
• MEDS 549 – Photography and Visual Culture
• MAFS 510 – Film Producing & Legal Issues
• MAFS 511 – Entrepreneurship in Media & Creative Industries
• MAFS 512 – Indigenous Visual Cultures in Nepal and Asia

Elective II (3 Credits):

• MAFS 513 – Global Women Filmmakers
• MAFS 547 – Acting for Screen (Practicum)
• MAFS 548 – Cinematography in South Asia (Practicum)
• MAFS 514 – Audience, Exhibition & Local Markets
• MAFS 515 – Moving Image Archiving & Preservation
• MAFS 516 – Climate Change and Green Filmmaking

Elective III (3 Credits):

• MAFS 517 – Film-Philosophy
• MAFS 549 – Advanced Screenplay Writing (Practicum)
• MAFS 550 – Sound and Cinema (Practicum)
• MAFS 551 – Moving Image Design (Practicum)
• MAFS 518 – International Co-production in Nepal and South Asia
• MEDS 529 – Nepali Society, Culture and Communication

Year II / Semester II

A minimum 3.00 CGPA is required to graduate.

The MFS program, with its student-centered approach, combines theoretical seminars with hands-on practicum and project-based learning, continually evolving through innovative teaching methodologies.

• Workshop-based learning: Practicum courses in screenwriting, directing, and cinematography emphasize hands-on skill development.
• Seminars and critiques: Courses like Film Theory and Film Analysis Techniques foster critical thinking through discussions and analytical exercises.
• Project-based learning: Collaborative and individual projects, such as the Graduation Film Production, integrate theoretical and practical skills.
• Industry engagement: Internships and courses like Industry Transformations connect students with real-world media challenges.

Assessment includes in-semester evaluations (70%) and final exams (30%) for most courses, with practicum-based courses evaluated through ongoing internal assessments, ensuring readiness for professional creative environments.

Admission Requirements and Process

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 45% or 2.0 CGPA.
• Additional Requirements: Candidates must pass an entrance exam and interview.
• Application Process: Submit applications through the Kathmandu University School of Arts website or contact via email.
• Enrollment Structure: Prospective students are encouraged to visit KUSOA website for application forms and deadlines. International applicants should contact the program office for additional guidance.

Student Support and Resources

• Academic Advising and Mentorship: Personalized guidance from faculty with expertise in film and media.
• Facilities: Access to modern media labs, editing suites, and production equipment.
• Career Counseling: Support for internships, job placements, and graduate school applications.
• Financial Aid: Information on scholarships and payment plans available through the program office.
• Cultural Resources: Opportunities to engage with Nepal’s rich cultural heritage through community-based projects and regional cinema studies.

Contact Details