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BFA Syllabus — Kathmandu University (KU)
Bachelor of Fine Arts at Kathmandu University School of Arts — eight-semester, credit-based program with Graphic Communication and Studio Art specializations.
BFA at Kathmandu University (KU)
Part of BFA Syllabus in Nepal · See also BFA at Tribhuvan University (TU)
The KU Bachelor of Fine Arts is run by the Department of Art and Design, School of Arts. It is a four-year, eight-semester, credit-based program (≈136 credits) with a strong emphasis on intensive studio practice, critical learning, and developing an independent visual idiom.
Quick facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| School | School of Arts, Kathmandu University |
| Duration | 4 years / 8 semesters |
| Format | Semester, credit-based (~136 credits total) |
| Specializations | Graphic Communication, Studio Art |
| Specialization starts | Third year |
| Medium | English |
Program structure
| Phase | Semesters | Credits (each) | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | I – IV | 18 | Core drawing, painting, sculpture, art studies |
| Specialization | V – VI | 17 | Chosen major + electives |
| Specialization | VII | 18 | Advanced major work |
| Specialization | VIII | 15 | Final project / graduating body of work |
The breakdown below is an indicative structure drawn from KU's published course list. Exact per-semester sequencing, credits, and electives are set by KU and revised periodically — confirm the current curriculum from the official syllabus before relying on it.
Course contents by year
Years 1–2 — Foundation (Semesters I–IV, taken by all students)
| Subject strand | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Drawing | Observational and structural drawing, line, form, and proportion |
| Painting | Colour, media, and painting techniques |
| Sculpture | 3D form, modelling, and material exploration |
| 2D / 3D Foundation | Elements and principles of design in two and three dimensions |
| World Art Studies | History of world art — major periods, movements, and global traditions |
| South Asian Art Studies | History of South Asian and Nepali art, iconography, and visual culture |
| Materials & Methods | Tools, materials, and techniques across media |
| Photography Basics | Camera, composition, and image-making fundamentals |
| Graphic Design Basics | Type, layout, and digital design fundamentals |
| Printmaking Basics | Introduction to print processes |
| Writing & Rhetoric | Academic writing, critique, and communication |
Years 3–4 — Specialization (Semesters V–VIII)
Students choose one major in the third year. Each includes one elective (Illustration, Photography, or Extra Traditional Art Practice), and Semester VIII centres on a final project / graduating body of work.
Graphic Communication major
| Subject strand | What it covers |
|---|---|
| History of Graphic Design | Evolution of graphic design and visual communication |
| Design Principles & Typography | Layout systems, grids, and type |
| Digital Tools | Industry-standard design software and workflows |
| Package & Campaign Design | Applied branding, packaging, and advertising projects |
| Advertising Theory | Concepts, messaging, and communication strategy |
Studio Art major
| Subject strand | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Studio Art I–III | Sustained studio practice toward an independent visual idiom |
| Traditional Art Practice | Traditional and regional art forms and techniques |
| Art Theory & Aesthetics | Critical theory, aesthetics, and contextual analysis |
| Art in Education | Teaching and community application of art |
Common electives (≈3 credits each): Animation, Ceramic / Pottery, Printmaking, Creative Non-fiction, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Art Therapy.
Eligibility
- +2 / Intermediate / A-level or an equivalent degree from an institute recognized by Kathmandu University
- Pass the KU BFA entrance test
References
For the current curriculum, credits, and entrance details, confirm with these Kathmandu University offices:
- Department of Art and Design, School of Arts, Kathmandu University
- KU Art + Design — syllabus documents and entrance-test information