Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication | Tribhuvan University
Pradarshani Marg, Kathmandu, Kathmandu
About Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication | Tribhuvan University
College Overview
The Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (CDJMC) stands as the premier academic hub for media studies in Nepal. Located at the historic Pradarshani Marg in Kathmandu, this department is a constituent wing of Tribhuvan University, the oldest and largest university in the country. Since its inception, the department has been instrumental in shaping the media landscape of Nepal by producing high-caliber journalists, media researchers, and communication specialists. The history of journalism education at Tribhuvan University dates back to the mid-1970s when it was first introduced as an elective subject in the Bachelor of Arts program. However, the realization of the need for advanced professional training led to the establishment of the Central Department to offer specialized Master’s and doctoral level research programs.
Our mission is to foster a critical understanding of the role of media in a democratic society while providing students with the technical skills required in the modern digital age. We envision becoming a center of excellence in South Asia for media research and journalism training. The academic strengths of the department lie in its rigorous curriculum, which balances theoretical frameworks with practical media production. Institutional highlights include its strong ties with the Federation of Nepali Journalists, various media houses, and international communication bodies, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to global trends while addressing local socio-political contexts.
University Affiliations & Recognition
Tribhuvan University
Affiliation Type: Constituent Central Department
Accreditation: University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal
Recognition: Government of Nepal, Ministry of Education
Programs: MA in Journalism and Mass Communication, M.Phil, and PhD in Media Studies.
Academic Standards
The department adheres to the semester system guidelines set by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FoHSS) at Tribhuvan University, ensuring a credit-based evaluation system that meets international standards.
Programs Offered by University
Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (MA JMC)
This is the flagship program of the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication. It is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of communication theories, media ethics, research methodology, and digital journalism.
- Degree Level: Post-Graduate (Master's)
- Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
- Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum second division or equivalent CGPA. Candidates must pass the TU Entrance Examination.
- Career Opportunities: Investigative Journalists, News Editors, Digital Content Managers, Communication Officers in INGOs/NGOs, Public Relations Officers, and Media Academics.
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) in Media Studies
An advanced research-oriented degree that bridges the gap between a Master's degree and a PhD.
- Degree Level: Research Master's
- Duration: 1.5 Years (3 Semesters)
- Eligibility: Master’s degree in Journalism or relevant social science field with high academic standing.
- Career Opportunities: Media Analysts, Policy Advisors, Senior Researchers, and University Professors.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Media Studies
The highest academic credential offered by the department, focusing on original research contributing to the field of mass communication.
- Degree Level: Doctorate
- Duration: 3 to 5 Years
- Eligibility: M.Phil or exceptional Master's record with a published research proposal approved by the Research Committee.
- Career Opportunities: Academic Leadership, Specialized Consultants, and International Media Researchers.
Fee Structure
The fee structure at the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication is highly subsidized as it is a government-funded constituent department of Tribhuvan University. The fees listed below are indicative and subject to change based on university decisions.
| Program | University | Duration | Approx. Total Fee (NPR) | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA in JMC | Tribhuvan University | 2 Years | 60,000 - 80,000 | 10,000 |
| M.Phil Media Studies | Tribhuvan University | 1.5 Years | 85,000 - 110,000 | 15,000 |
| PhD | Tribhuvan University | 3-5 Years | As per TU Norms | Variable |
Facilities & Campus Infrastructure
Media & Computer Labs
Equipped with modern desktop systems and high-speed internet, the lab supports video editing, layout design, and digital journalism projects.
Central Department Library
A specialized collection of journalism textbooks, global journals, research papers, and archives of national newspapers.
Smart Classrooms
Classrooms are integrated with multimedia projectors and audio-visual equipment to facilitate interactive learning sessions.
Research Facilities
Dedicated space for scholars pursuing M.Phil and PhD, with access to online databases and academic archives.
Wi-Fi Campus
The entire department premises are covered with high-speed wireless internet for student and faculty research needs.
Cafeteria
The central university cafeteria provides hygienic and affordable meals for students and staff within the Pradarshani Marg complex.
Faculty & Teaching Methodology
The faculty at the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication consists of seasoned academics and industry veterans. Many of our professors hold PhDs from prestigious international universities and have decades of experience in mainstream media. The department emphasizes a research-led teaching methodology, where students are encouraged to question existing media structures and explore emerging trends in digital communication.
Instruction includes a blend of traditional lectures, case study analysis, group projects, and hands-on workshops. Students are required to produce news reports, documentaries, and research papers as part of their assessment. Regular guest lectures from working editors, media rights activists, and communication experts from international organizations provide students with a grounded perspective on the professional world.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
Life at CDJMC is vibrant and intellectually stimulating. Beyond the classroom, students engage in various media-related activities. The TU Journalism Students' Society often organizes workshops on photojournalism, mobile journalism (MoJo), and investigative reporting. The department also encourages participation in university-wide events, including sports meets and debating competitions.
Community service is another pillar of student life, with many students working on communication campaigns for social awareness. Participation in film screenings, book launches, and seminars at the nearby Nepal Academy or City Hall further enriches the cultural and academic experience of the students.
Career Support & Placement Assistance
The Central Department has a robust network of alumni who occupy senior positions in Nepal's leading media houses like Kantipur, The Kathmandu Post, and Radio Nepal. While there is no formal placement cell, the department acts as a bridge between media employers and graduating students. Internship placements are an integral part of the MA curriculum, where students spend time in television stations, newspapers, or digital portals.
Career counseling sessions help students identify their niche, whether it be in political reporting, corporate communication, or academic research. The department also holds networking events where students can interact directly with media executives and recruiters.
Admission Process
The admission process for the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication programs is highly competitive and merit-based.
- Eligibility: Completion of Bachelor's degree from any university recognized by TU.
- Application: Fill out the entrance application form available at the department or the FoHSS online portal.
- Required Documents: Academic transcripts (SLC/SEE to Bachelor), Character certificates, Citizenship copy, and Passport-sized photographs.
- Entrance Examination: Candidates must sit for a written exam covering general knowledge, current affairs, and communication theory.
- Result & Interview: Successful candidates in the written exam may be called for an interview before final selection.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
As a public institution, the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication offers several financial aid options:
- TU Merit Scholarship: Awarded to the top-ranking students in the entrance exam and semester toppers.
- Inclusive Scholarships: Reserved seats and fee waivers for students from marginalized communities, indigenous groups, and remote areas as per TU policy.
- UGC Grants: Research grants available for M.Phil and PhD scholars through the University Grants Commission of Nepal.
- Institutional Support: Occasional assistantships for students to work on departmental research projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Send an Official Inquiry
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