Film schools FTII and SRFTI gain university status, set to launch doctoral programs

The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, and Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), Kolkata, two of India’s premier film schools, have officially been granted deemed-to-be university status by the Ministry of Education.

This move allows both institutions to offer degree programs—including doctoral studies—marking a significant shift from their previous mandate of awarding only diplomas.

"FTII Pune and SRFTI Kolkata have been granted deemed-to-be university status under section 3 of the UGC Act. The status has been notified following a recommendation made by the University Grants Commission," a senior MoE official said.

With their new academic standing, the institutes are now set to introduce research-led and innovative programs, participate in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), and align with the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) system.

"Both institutes will launch doctoral, research, and innovative academic programs. They will also participate in NIRF Rankings and integrate with the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC). Aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, this landmark decision will pave the way for greater autonomy, innovation, and academic excellence in film and media education," the official added.

This recognition strengthens the role of FTII and SRFTI as national centers of cinematic learning and innovation, aligning their growth with the broader goals of NEP 2020.