Bachelor of Arts in Music (BMus)

Four-year ethnomusicology and performance degree designed to train musicians and researchers capable of documenting, preserving, and creatively developing Nepal’s musical traditions while acquiring broad intercultural musical literacy.

Curriculum merges practical musicianship with ethnomusicological theory, cultural studies, and audio-media competency. Training centers on Nepali and South Asian musical traditions, endangered repertoires, global musical systems, and analytical frameworks for music in society. Heavy practical-music load develops performance proficiency; academic modules build research, documentation, and cultural interpretation skills. Students engage directly with traditional musicians, field documentation, and contemporary applications of heritage preservation. Program produces graduates equipped for performance, research, cultural work, production, and media-based roles.

Curricular structure (condensed table)

Features
• Participatory, discussion-driven learning model.
• Integration of field documentation, preservation methods, and cultural analysis.
• High ratio of practical-music training each semester.
• Coverage of Nepalese, South Asian, Western, and global traditions.
• Training in sound recording, amplification, and studio techniques.
• Focus on safeguarding endangered musical traditions.
• Pathways into performance, research, media, and cultural institutions.

Eligibility
• 10+2 or equivalent with ≥ 50% or CGPA 2.5 (out of 4).
• Admission through KUSAAT.

Fee
• Nepali students: NPR 530,000
• SAARC students: 1.5× domestic fee = NPR 795,000
• Non-SAARC students: 2× domestic fee = NPR 1,060,000

Admission process (points)
• Meet academic eligibility.
• Sit for KUSAAT entrance exam.
• Program evaluates musical aptitude and readiness through its selection process.
• Admission finalized by KU School of Arts upon seat availability.

Job prospects
• Music performer (traditional, contemporary, fusion).
• Ethnomusicologist and field researcher.
• Cultural-heritage documentation specialist.
• Music educator (schools, academies, community programs).
• Audio-media practitioner: recording, production, studio support.
• Cultural consultant for tourism, festivals, and international presentation.
• Archivist for musical heritage preservation projects.
• Program contributor in NGOs/INGOs working with culture or community arts.