Central Department of History, Tribhuvan University
University Campus, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal, Kathmandu
About Central Department of History, Tribhuvan University
College Overview
The Central Department of History (CDH) at Tribhuvan University stands as the pioneering institution for historical research and higher education in Nepal. Established concurrently with the university's inception in 1959, the department has been the cornerstone for developing the nation's historiography. It is located within the serene University Campus at Kirtipur, providing an academic sanctuary for scholars and students dedicated to uncovering the past to inform the future.
History: For over six decades, the department has transitioned from traditional teaching methods to a research-intensive semester system. It has produced the majority of Nepal's leading historians, diplomats, and civil servants. The department was instrumental in moving beyond mere dynastic chronologies to exploring the socio-economic, cultural, and political dimensions of Nepalese and South Asian history.
Mission and Vision: The department aims to produce high-level human resources capable of conducting independent research and providing critical analysis of historical events. Its vision is to remain a center of excellence for Himalayan and South Asian historical studies, fostering a spirit of inquiry and intellectual rigor.
Academic Strengths: The department boasts a faculty comprised of seasoned professors who are authorities on Nepalese inscriptions, medieval architecture, and modern political movements. Its strength lies in its extensive archive and its affiliation with the Tribhuvan University Central Library, the largest in the country.
University Affiliations & Recognition
Tribhuvan University (TU)
Affiliation Type: Constituent Central Department
Accreditation: University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal
Programs: MA, M.Phil, PhD in History
Recognized by Government of NepalInternational Recognition
The department collaborates with various international universities for historical research projects and faculty exchange programs across Asia and Europe.
Programs Offered by University
Postgraduate and Research Programs
Master of Arts (MA) in History
Degree Level: Master's (Postgraduate)
Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Preference is given to those with a background in History, Culture, or Social Sciences.
Career Opportunities: Education, Research, Civil Service (Public Service Commission), Archaeology, Museum Curation, and Journalism.
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) in History
Degree Level: Research Degree
Duration: 1.5 Years (3 Semesters)
Eligibility: Master's degree in History with a minimum of a second division or equivalent CGPA.
Career Opportunities: Higher Education Teaching, Professional Research, Policy Analysis.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in History
Degree Level: Doctorate
Duration: 3-5 Years
Eligibility: M.Phil in History or a Master's degree with significant research experience and publication record, subject to proposal approval.
Career Opportunities: Post-doctoral Research, Academic Leadership, Specialist Consultants.
Fee Structure
| Program | University | Duration | Total Fee (Approx.) | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA in History | Tribhuvan University | 4 Semesters | NPR 45,000 - 60,000 | NPR 5,000 |
| M.Phil in History | Tribhuvan University | 3 Semesters | NPR 70,000 - 90,000 | NPR 8,000 |
| Ph.D. in History | Tribhuvan University | 3-5 Years | NPR 120,000 - 150,000 | NPR 15,000 |
Facilities & Campus Infrastructure
TU Central Library
Access to the largest collection of historical manuscripts, rare books, and international journals in Nepal.
Research Seminar Room
Dedicated space for M.Phil and PhD scholars to present their research findings and participate in academic discourse.
Smart Classrooms
Equipped with multimedia projectors and high-speed internet to facilitate modern pedagogical methods.
Hostel Accommodation
Available for students coming from outside the Kathmandu Valley on a merit basis within the university campus.
Wi-Fi Campus
The department provides free internet access to all registered students for digital research purposes.
Sports & Cafeteria
Access to university-wide sporting facilities and subsidized cafeteria services for students.
Faculty & Teaching Methodology
The faculty at the Central Department of History comprises renowned academics with expertise in diverse fields such as Epigraphy, Numismatics, Modern Political History, and South Asian Studies. The teaching methodology has evolved from traditional lectures to interactive seminars, group discussions, and field visits to historical and archaeological sites.
- Research Culture: Students are encouraged to engage with primary sources at the National Archives.
- Historiography: A strong emphasis is placed on understanding the philosophy of history and different schools of thought.
- Guest Lectures: Frequent sessions with international historians and visiting scholars.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
Life at the Kirtipur campus is vibrant and intellectually stimulating. Students are not just confined to classrooms; they are part of a broader academic community. Activities include:
- History Club: Organizing debates on historical interpretations and current affairs.
- Field Trips: Educational tours to Lumbini, Gorkha, and the Kathmandu Valley's heritage sites.
- Publication: Opportunities for students to contribute to the departmental journal, 'Voice of History'.
- Cultural Events: Participation in university-wide cultural and ethnic festivals.
Career Support & Placement Assistance
While the department primarily focuses on academic excellence, it provides significant support for career development:
- Civil Service Preparation: The curriculum is highly aligned with the General Studies and History papers of the Public Service Commission (Lok Sewa Aayog).
- Research Internships: Links with NGOs and INGOs working on cultural heritage preservation.
- Alumni Network: Access to a network of alumni working in top governmental and academic positions worldwide.
Admission Process
Admission to the Central Department of History is merit-based. The process follows these steps:
- Eligibility: Verify the required academic credentials for the specific program.
- Entrance Examination: Students must pass the Central Department's Entrance Test (TUSEE).
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates for M.Phil and PhD must undergo a viva/interview.
- Documents: Submission of transcripts, migration certificates, and citizenship copies.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Tribhuvan University offers various financial support options for deserving students:
- Merit Scholarships: Awarded to semester toppers.
- Jehendar Scholarship: Provided to students with excellent academic records from public schools.
- Research Grants: Specifically for PhD and M.Phil candidates through the UGC and TU research division.
- Reserved Category Support: Financial aid for students from marginalized and underprivileged communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Send an Official Inquiry
Direct your academic queries to Central Department of History, Tribhuvan University's admissions desk. They'll get back to you shortly.