Nepal's higher education system has developed rapidly over the past few decades, with universities offering a wide range of programs in science, engineering, management, medicine, humanities, and more. This article provides an overview of the leading universities in Nepal, the courses they offer, and their affiliated colleges to help students make informed decisions.

1.Kathmandu University (KU)

Kathmandu University is one of Nepal’s most reputed institutions, established in 1991 with a commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Located in Dhulikhel, KU is known for its well-maintained campus, international collaboration, and modern curriculum. It operates under an autonomous structure and places strong emphasis on research, professional development, and industry relevance.Kathmandu University operates primarily through its own academic units and has 7 constituent schools with fewer than 5 affiliated colleges.

Programs Offered:

• School of Science: B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Computer Science, etc.
• School of Engineering: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Computer Engineering (B.E., M.E.)
• School of Management: BBA, MBA, Executive MBA, MPPM
• School of Arts: Media Studies, Development Studies, Music, Economics
• School of Medical Sciences: MBBS, Nursing, Dentistry, Public Health
• School of Education: M.Ed., MPhil, and Ph.D.
  
  

Affiliated/Constituent Colleges:

• Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM)
• Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences (in collaboration with Dhulikhel Hospital)
• Norvic Institute of Nursing Education (affiliated)
  

2.Tribhuvan University (TU)

Founded in 1959, Tribhuvan University is the oldest and largest university in Nepal. It has played a vital role in the development of the country's education sector by establishing a wide network of constituent and affiliated campuses throughout Nepal. TU offers programs in almost every field and serves a diverse population of students from across the country.Tribhuvan University has the largest network, with 62 constituent campuses and over 1,100 affiliated colleges across Nepal.

Programs Offered:

• Institute of Engineering: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics, and Computer Engineering
• Institute of Medicine: MBBS, BDS, B.Sc. Nursing, Public Health
• Faculty of Management: BBA, BIM, BBS, MBA, MBS, MBM
• Faculty of Science and Technology: B.Sc., M.Sc., MPhil, Ph.D. in various disciplines
• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences: Sociology, Literature, Journalism, Psychology, etc.
• Faculty of Education, Law, and Agriculture
  
  

Affiliated Colleges:

• St. Xavier’s College
• Tri-Chandra College
• Shanker Dev Campus
• Patan Multiple Campus
• Amrit Science Campus (ASCOL)
• Nepal Law Campus

3.Pokhara University (PU)

Established in 1997, Pokhara University has quickly gained popularity for its modern academic system and emphasis on market-oriented education. It follows a semester system and encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and professional readiness among students. PU is also recognized for its collaborations with private institutions and flexible course structures.Pokhara University includes 4 constituent campuses and approximately 60 affiliated colleges throughout the country.

Programs Offered:

• Faculty of Science and Technology: Computer Engineering, Civil Engineering, Software Engineering, IT
• Faculty of Management Studies: BBA, BHM, MBA, Executive MBA
• Faculty of Health Sciences: Pharmacy, Nursing, Public Health, Medical Laboratory Science
• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences: English, Social Work, Development Studies
  

Affiliated Colleges:

• Ace Institute of Management
• LA GRANDEE International College
• Nepal College of Information Technology (NCIT)
• Pokhara Engineering College
• Crimson College of Technology
  

4.Purbanchal University (PU)

Purbanchal University, established in 1994 in Biratnagar, aims to decentralize higher education and make it accessible in eastern Nepal. It has gradually expanded its academic offerings to include professional, technical, and health sciences programs. The university plays an active role in educational reform and regional development.Purbanchal University oversees 5 constituent campuses and more than 116 affiliated colleges.

Programs Offered:

• Faculty of Science and Technology: Engineering, IT, and technical programs
• Faculty of Management: BBA, MBA, MPA
• Faculty of Medical and Allied Sciences: MBBS, Nursing, BPH, Pharmacy, Public Health
• Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry, Law, and Education
  
  

Affiliated Colleges:

• Nobel Medical College
• College of Biomedical Engineering and Applied Sciences
• Kantipur College of Management and IT
• Universal College of Medical Sciences
  
  

5.Mid-West University (MWU)

Mid-West University was established in 2010 in Surkhet to improve access to higher education in the Mid-Western region of Nepal. Though relatively new, MWU is steadily growing its academic offerings and building infrastructure to serve students across diverse disciplines.Mid-West University has around 16 constituent campuses

Programs Offered:

• Faculty of Education, Management, Humanities, and Sciences
• Emerging programs in Engineering and Health Sciences
  

Affiliated Colleges:

• Multiple constituent and newly affiliated colleges in Karnali and Mid-Western provinces
  

6.Far Western University (FWU)

Established in 2010, Far Western University is located in Mahendranagar and was developed to support higher education in Nepal’s Far-Western region. It focuses on inclusive, affordable education and has been expanding its reach through new faculties and strategic partnerships.Far Western University consists of 15 constituent campuses.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education, Management, Social Sciences, and Science
• Focus areas include rural development, sociology, economics, and education
  
  

Affiliated Colleges:

• Constituent campuses across Sudurpaschim Province
• Affiliated colleges focused on regional academic needs
  
  

7.Lumbini Buddhist University (LBU)

Lumbini Buddhist University was founded in 2005 in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. While it specializes in Buddhist philosophy and cultural studies, it also provides courses in development studies, humanities, and social sciences. LBU is aimed at promoting peace, ethics, and interdisciplinary learning. LBU has 6 campuses.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Buddhist Studies, Development Studies, and Culture
• Doctoral research opportunities in related fields
  
  

Affiliated Colleges:

• Lumbini International Academy of Science and Technology (LIAST)
• Multiple Buddhist study centers and academic partners

8.Nepal Sanskrit University (NSU)

It was founded in 1986 and was formerly known as Mahendra Sanskrit University (2043 BS). Modernizing Sanskrit education in the nation is NSU's goal. With 18 campuses (four affiliated and fourteen constituent), 3,742 students, 484 faculty, and 376 administrative personnel across its eight programs at various levels, NSU's headquarters office is situated in Beljhundi, Dang. Uttar Madhyama (Sanskrit), Shastree (Sanskrit), Kabiraj (Intermediate in Ayurved), Bachelor of Ayurveda, Aacharya (Sanskrit), Ph. D. (Sanskrit), Language Training, and Yoga Training are among the Sanskrit-related courses offered by NSU.