KU New Religious Studies Program: Launching BA and B.Ed. for Nepalese Students

5th February 2026, Kathmandu

Kathmandu University is set to diversify its interdisciplinary offerings with the proposed launch of a dual-track Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Religious Studies.

KU New Religious Studies Program

To ensure the curriculum is both academically rigorous and culturally authentic, the Department of Languages and Mass Communication (DOLMC) recently hosted an intensive course discussion with religious leaders, spiritual scholars, and academic experts.

A Collaborative Approach to Curriculum

The consultation provided a unique platform where representatives from various faiths collaborated with faculty to outline a curriculum that reflects Nepal’s rich, multi-religious tapestry.

Prof. Nirmala Mani Adhikary, Head of DOLMC, opened the session by highlighting that the program’s integrity depends on the collective input of diverse religious groups. The goal is to create a program that doesn’t just study religion from a distance but engages with the lived experiences and philosophies of different communities.

Key Features of the Proposed Program:

Dual Specialization: Students can pursue a BA for academic research or a B.Ed. for teaching and pedagogical roles.

Core and Professional Courses: Presented by Program Coordinator Prof. Vidyanath Koirala, the curriculum is split into foundational religious philosophy and professional skill-based subjects.

Working Groups: Specialized committees based on different religious traditions have been formed to refine specific content, ensuring deep authenticity in the final syllabus.

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Why Religious Studies in Nepal?

As a nation known for its religious harmony and diverse cultural heritage, Nepal offers a unique environment for this field of study. The initiative aims to equip Nepalese graduates with the tools for:

Interfaith Diplomacy: Fostering dialogue in a globalized world.

Education & Social Work: Preparing teachers and social mobilizers who understand the cultural nuances of their communities.

Heritage Preservation: Providing a scholarly lens to the history and philosophy of local traditions.

Future Prospects for Graduates

The graduates of the BA/B.Ed. in Religious Studies will be prepared for diverse career paths, ranging from roles in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international diplomacy to careers in media, language studies, and high-level academic research.

By integrating the perspectives of both spiritual leaders and seasoned academics, Kathmandu University is positioning itself as a hub for inclusive, multi-religious knowledge in South Asia.

Program Summary

For more: KU New Religious Studies Program