Kathmandu University
Nepal • Founded 1991 • World Rank #2116
Updated May 2026
Overview
Operating from Dhulikhel, Nepal, Kathmandu University delivers higher education as a public institution established in 1991. It serves as a higher-education provider within Nepal.
Academically, Kathmandu University spans bachelor's through doctoral programmes, hosted within multiple faculties. The university runs a catalogue of active programmes across these constituent units.
Globally, Kathmandu University sits at #2116 globally and #1 within Nepal. The institution participates in Nepal's academic ecosystem alongside other higher-education providers.
Location & Contact
The geographic and contact details below cover where Kathmandu University is and how to reach its administrative offices. Campus emergency contact is typically distinct from general inquiries.
Academic Details
Kathmandu University's student-to-faculty composition and recognition standing are listed below. Student support staff (advisers, counsellors) are typically separate from academic staff and often uncounted here.
Degrees
Kathmandu University's academic tracks grouped by qualification level. Some awards are conferred by Kathmandu University directly, others validated by a partner institution; the distinction matters for credential portability.
Bachelor's 27 programs
Bachelor's programmes build foundational expertise, preparing graduates for entry-level professional roles and further postgraduate study.
- Applied Physics
- Architecture
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Business Administration
- Business Computing
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Dentistry
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Fine Arts
- Hotel Management
- Law
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Media Studies
- Medicine
- Music
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Power Engineering
- Surveying and Mapping
- Telecommunications Engineering
- Tourism
Master's 21 programs
Master's programmes develop advanced specialised expertise, suited to senior industry positions and applied research.
- Biotechnology
- Business Administration
- Chemistry
- Computer Engineering
- Development Studies
- Education
- Educational Administration
- Energy Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Information Technology
- Management
- Mathematics
- Mathematics Education
- Mechanical Engineering
- Music
- Pharmacy
- Physics
- Power Engineering
- Primary Education
- Surveying and Mapping
- Telecommunications Engineering
Doctoral 8 programs
Doctoral programmes train independent researchers, leading to academic, scientific, and senior advisory careers.
- Biotechnology
- Education
- Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Management
- Mathematics
- Pharmacy
- Physics
Faculties & Divisions
Each faculty at Kathmandu University covers specific subject clusters. Cross-faculty supervision arrangements at the postgraduate level are sometimes available for students whose research spans disciplines.
Arts (School) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Design
- Development Studies
- Fine Arts
- Media Studies
- Music
Education (School) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Education
- Educational Administration
- Mathematics Education
- Primary Education
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Engineering (School) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Information Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Power Engineering
- Surveying and Mapping
- Telecommunications Engineering
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Law (School) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Management (School) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Business Administration
- Management
- Tourism
Common Career Paths
- Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- HR Manager
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Medical Sciences (School) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Dentistry
- Medicine
- Nursing
Common Career Paths
- Physician
- Clinical Researcher
- Healthcare Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science (School) 10 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Applied Physics
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry
- Environmental Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- Pharmacy
- Physics
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Programs Offered
Look through Kathmandu University's programmes by level or filter for keywords. Programme-level scholarships exist alongside institution-wide ones; the programme page typically lists them.
99 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Nepal
Bachelor's Degree 30 programmes
Showing 10 of 30.
Master of Business Administration 2 programmes
Master of Philosophy 5 programmes
Master's Degree 39 programmes
Showing 10 of 39.
Doctorate 17 programmes
Showing 10 of 17.
Postgraduate Diploma 5 programmes
How to apply to Kathmandu University
Application guidance for Kathmandu University, structured as five practical steps with attention to documents and admissions communication.
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1
Research programmes at Kathmandu University
Use the programme finder to browse Kathmandu University's 99 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Programme-level requirements at Kathmandu University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Lodge your application
Kathmandu University processes applications through www.ku.edu.np. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at 977-11-415100. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kathmandu University
Quick answers to the most common questions about Kathmandu University — covering location, founding, ranking, programmes, and admissions context.
When was Kathmandu University founded?
Kathmandu University was established in 1991 (approximately 35 years ago).
Where can I find Kathmandu University?
The institution is located in Dhulikhel, Nepal.
Is Kathmandu University a public or private institution?
Kathmandu University is a public institution.
What is Kathmandu University's ranking?
It ranks #2116 globally and #1 in Nepal.
What programmes are available at Kathmandu University?
Kathmandu University delivers bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes across its academic units.
Is Kathmandu University officially recognised?
The institution holds recognition from University Grants Commission (UGC).
What is Kathmandu University's official website?
Kathmandu University's official website is www.ku.edu.np.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
If Kathmandu University is on your shortlist for studying Education & Teaching, these peer institutions in Nepal offer comparable academic depth, industry links, and graduate outcomes. Cross-applying to multiple is common practice in this discipline.
Universities Compared with Kathmandu University
Universities at a similar tier to Kathmandu University appear below, useful for cross-comparison on academic credentials. Comparable institutions often share faculty mobility patterns and external recognition signals.
Studying in Nepal: guides and resources
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