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Arts Course Introduction

 

Chennai, South India’s cultural capital, is a top destination for Arts education, with institutions like Loyola College, Stella Maris College, and the University of Madras offering affordable English, Journalism, Fine Arts, and more courses. Known for its rich traditions in music and dance, the city provides a vibrant cultural and academic environment. Top recruiters like The Hindu, Sun TV, and Ogilvy offer Arts graduates salaries ranging from Rs 3.5 LPA to Rs 8.5 LPA, making Chennai ideal for students seeking academic excellence and diverse career opportunities.

 

Creative thinking, culture, society, and how people express themselves are all explored in art classes. These include literature, history, psychology, political science, the fine arts, and the performing arts. Students who want to join these programmes must usually have completed their higher education (10+2) in any stream and be able to think critically, communicate effectively, and analyse information. Graduates in the arts can work in education, media, public relations, social work, civil service, content creation, design, the performing arts, and more.

 

Arts Course Highlights

Category

Details

Arts Courses

  • Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Education

  • Master of Arts
  • Master of Education

Arts Courses Level

  • Undergraduate (BA)
  • Postgraduate (MA)

Arts Courses Duration

  • 3-4 years for UG course (may vary as per NEP 2020)

  • 1-2 years for PG course (may vary as per NEP 2020)

Arts Courses Education Mode

Full-Time, Distance, Part-time and Online

Arts Courses Eligibility Criteria

  • 10+2 with minimum 50% marks in any stream for BA

  • Graduation with minimum 65% marks for MA

Arts Courses Admission Process

Merit and entrance exam scores

Arts Courses Entrance Exams

CUET UG, CUET PG, State CET, TISS BAT, JML CET, and more.

Arts Courses Average Fees

Rs 5,000 - Rs 3.00 Lakhs

Arts Courses Job Profiles

Lawyer, Writer, Fashion Designer, Educator, Digital Marketer, Government Service, Journalist, Editor and more.

Arts Courses Average Salary

Rs 3.00 - Rs 7.00 LPA

Undergraduate Arts Courses in Chennai

 

A bachelor's degree or professional diploma is one of the most basic requirements to move towards career growth in the design industry. It prepares you for entry-level positions and enhances your practical knowledge. It teaches you the techniques for implementing your skills in a practical situation.

Here are some standard undergraduate courses that you can pursue after 10+2 from the Arts stream:

 

 

Undergraduate Arts Courses Eligibility and Entrance Exam

  1. Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Arts Courses:

  • Candidates have to complete 10+2 in any stream from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their 10+2.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.

  1. Entrance Exams for Undergraduate Arts Courses:

  • CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduates)
  • Madras Christian College (MCC) Entrance Exam
  • Loyola College Admission Test

 

 

 

Postgraduate Arts Courses in Chennai

 

Postgraduate courses or master's degrees become necessary to attain advanced knowledge and a high-level position in your career. It prepares you to handle managerial positions and acquire leadership skills. Depending on your job preferences, you can pursue these high-level courses part-time or through online classes.

The following postgraduate courses are available to enhance your knowledge and skills in the Arts stream:

Postgraduate Arts Courses Eligibility and Entrance Exam

  1. Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Arts Courses:

  • Candidates must complete graduation in any stream or equivalent from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their graduation or equivalent.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.

 

  1. Entrance Exams for Postgraduate Arts Courses:

  • CUET PG (Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduation)
  • Madras Christian College (MCC) Entrance Exam
  • Loyola College Admission Test

 

Top Arts Colleges in Chennai as per India Today Rankings 2024

Institute Name

Average Placement Package

Madras Christian College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 5.00 LPA

Loyola College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 6.00 LPA

Stella Maris College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.50 LPA

Women's Christian College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Ethiraj College For Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Guru Nanak College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Hindustan College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Anna Adarsh College for Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Shrimathi Devkunvar Nanalal Bhatt Vaishnav College for Women

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Dwaraka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 4.50 LPA

Patrician College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Shri Shankarlal Sundarbai Shasun Jain College for Women

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Arts and Science College for Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Annai Violet Arts and Science College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 4.50 LPA

Nazareth College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Thiruthangal Nadar College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

St Joseph's College (Arts and Science)

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

**actual figures might differ**

Top Arts Colleges in Chennai as per Outlook Ranking 2025

Institute Name

Average Placement Package

Madras Christian College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 5.00 LPA

Loyola College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 6.00 LPA

Stella Maris College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.50 LPA

Women's Christian College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Ethiraj College For Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Hindustan College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Shrimathi Devkunvar Nanalal Bhatt Vaishnav College for Women

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Chevalier T. Thomas Elizabeth College For Women

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Anna Adarsh College for Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Guru Nanak College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Patrician College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Arts and Science College for Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

**actual figures might differ**

Top Arts Colleges Fees in Chennai

Institute Name

Average UG Fees

Average PG Fees

Madras Christian College

Rs 70,000 - Rs 80,000

Rs 30,000 - Rs 40,000

Loyola College

Rs 40,000 - Rs 50,000

Rs 10,000 - Rs 15,000

Stella Maris College

Rs 60,000 - Rs 70,000

Rs 25,000 - Rs 35,000

Women's Christian College

Rs 35,000 - Rs 42,000

Rs 30,000 - Rs 35,000

Ethiraj College For Women

Rs 75,000 - Rs 80,000

Rs 76,000 - Rs 83,000

Guru Nanak College

Rs 20,000 - Rs 30,000

Rs 25,000 - Rs 35,000

Hindustan College of Arts and Science

Rs 35,000 - Rs 42,000

Rs 30,000 - Rs 35,000

Anna Adarsh College for Women

Rs 70,000 - Rs 77,000

Rs 45,000 - Rs 50,000

Shrimathi Devkunvar Nanalal Bhatt Vaishnav College for Women

Rs 20,000 - Rs 30,000

Rs 25,000 - Rs 35,000

Dwaraka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College

Rs 25,000 - Rs 35,000

Rs 18,000 - Rs 55,000

Patrician College of Arts and Science

Rs 35,000 - Rs 42,000

Rs 30,000 - Rs 35,000

Shri Shankarlal Sundarbai Shasun Jain College for Women

Rs 32,000 - Rs 37,000

Rs 30,000 - Rs 40,000

Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies

Rs 28,000 - Rs 30,000

Rs 32,000 - Rs 35,000

Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Arts and Science College for Women

Rs 15,000 - Rs 25,000

Rs 20,000 - Rs 30,000

Annai Violet Arts and Science College

Rs 50,000 - Rs 56,000

Rs 50,000 - Rs 60,000

Nazareth College of Arts and Science

Rs 4,800 - Rs 11,200

Rs 8,400 - Rs 14,000

Thiruthangal Nadar College

Rs 10,000 - Rs 14,000

Rs 15,000 - Rs 20,000

St Joseph's College (Arts and Science)

Rs 14,000 - Rs 19,000

Rs 20,000 - Rs 30,000

**actual figures might differ**

Arts Course Specialisation

  1. Education
  2. English
  3. History
  4. Political Science
  5. Sociology
  6. Economics
  7. Psychology
  8. Philosophy
  9. Geography
  10. Anthropology
  11. Journalism and Mass Communication
  12. Hindi
  13. Urdu
  14. Political Science
  15. Public Administration
  16. Environmental Studies
  17. Archaeology
  18. Sanskrit
  19. Home Science
  20. International Relations
  21. Women’s Studies
  22. Social Work

 

Best Major Subjects in Arts Courses

  1. Education
  2. English
  3. Political Science
  4. Economics
  5. Psychology
  6. Sociology
  7. History
  8. Philosophy
  9. Geography
  10. Anthropology
  11. Journalism and Mass Communication
  12. Social Work

Arts Course Admission Process

Top Scholarships for Arts Courses in Chennai

 

  1. Government Scholarships

 

 

  1. Private Scholarships

 

 

Distance Arts Course

 

A Distance Arts Course allows students to study the arts and humanities without attending regular on-campus classes. It will enable you to learn quickly, making it suitable for working professionals, homemakers, and people who cannot relocate to school. Unlike traditional courses, it is frequently more affordable and accessible, allowing students to mix education with other responsibilities. Furthermore, remote courses usually include digital materials and online interactions, promoting individual learning while adhering to academic norms.
 

Eligibility Criteria for Distance Undergraduate Arts Programme

 

  • Candidates have to complete 10+2 in any stream from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their 10+2.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Distance Postgraduate Arts Programme

 

  • Candidates must complete graduation in any stream or equivalent from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their graduation or equivalent.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.

Admission Process for Distance Arts Courses

 

  • Clear the university entrance exam.
  • Complete the registration process.
  • Upload all the required information and documents.
  • Pay the admission fee after admission confirmation.
  • You will receive the books via email or courier.

Part-Time Arts Course

 

A Part-Time Arts Course is an adaptable option for persons preoccupied with work, family, or other responsibilities to study the arts and humanities. Classes are typically held in the evenings or on weekends, making it more straightforward to accommodate a busy schedule. Unlike full-time courses, it allows you to learn and acquire a qualification without interrupting your other activities. It's an excellent choice for everyone who wants to study while managing their time wisely.

Eligibility Criteria for Part-Time Undergraduate Arts Programme

 

  • Candidates have to complete 10+2 in any stream from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their 10+2.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Part-Time Postgraduate Arts Programme

 

  • Candidates must complete graduation in any stream or equivalent from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their graduation or equivalent.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.

Admission Process for Part-Time Arts Courses

 

  • Clear the university entrance exam.
  • Complete the registration process.
  • Upload all the required information and documents.
  • Pay the admission fee after admission confirmation.
  • You will receive the books via email or courier.

Online Arts Courses

 

An Online Arts Course allows you to study arts and humanities from anywhere over the internet. Lessons, videos, and assignments may be accessed whenever you choose, making it ideal for those who are too busy or unable to attend conventional classes. It's adaptable, inexpensive, and lets you learn quickly while obtaining a recognised certificate. Online courses are ideal for balancing learning with employment or other responsibilities.

Eligibility Criteria for Online Undergraduate Arts Programme

 

  • Candidates have to complete 10+2 in any stream from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their 10+2.
  • Depending on the institute, candidates might have to appear for the entrance exams.
  • There is no age limit in undergraduate arts programmes.

Eligibility Criteria for Online Postgraduate Arts Programme

 

  • Candidates must complete graduation in any stream or equivalent from a recognised institute.
  • Candidates should have a minimum of 50% marks in their graduation or equivalent.
  • There is no age limit for online postgraduate arts programmes.

Admission Process for Online Arts Courses

 

  • Complete the registration process.
  • Upload all the required information and documents.
  • Pay the admission fee after admission confirmation.
  • Learn from recorded lectures and online classes.

Living Cost in Chennai for Arts Students

On average, monthly rent for a shared apartment in popular areas ranges from Rs 8,000 to Rs 15,000, while single rooms may cost between Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. The costs can vary based on proximity to educational institutions and facilities.

Areas of Expenses

Average Cost Monthly

Groceries

Rs 2,000 -  Rs 3,000

Dining Out

Rs 5,000 - Rs 10,000

Public Transportation

Rs 600 - Rs 1,200

Utilities

Rs 1,500 - Rs 2,500

Internet

Rs 500 - Rs 800

Personal Items

Rs 1,000 - Rs 1,500

**The actual figures might differ**

Accommodation for Students in Chennai

Private Hostels

Eugene House

Rs 10,000/Month

Zolo Cruze Hostel

Rs 7,000/Month

Zolo Nook Hostel

Rs 8,000/Month

AJ Elite Hostel

Rs 6,000/Month

Engineering Students’ Hostel

Rs 5,000/Month

Private PGs

Sri Sreenivasa Imperial Towers

Rs 8,000/Month

VK Villa

Rs 7,500/Month

Prapancha Apartment

Rs 9,000/Month

Galaxy Hospitality

Rs 8,500/Month

Colive 306 Golden Square

Rs 11,500/Month

Rental Apartments in Chennai: Students can rent apartments or houses near their college on the basis of availability and preferences.

**The actual figures might differ**

Arts Placement Records & Top Recruiters in Chennai

Institute Name

Average Placement Package

Top Recruiters

Madras Christian College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 5.00 LPA

Deloitte, EY, Wipro

Loyola College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 6.00 LPA

Deloitte, KPMG, EY, PwC

Stella Maris College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.50 LPA

TCS, Wipro, EY

Women's Christian College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Deloitte, KPMG, EY

Ethiraj College For Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Deloitte, EY, Wipro

Guru Nanak College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Deloitte, EY, HDFC Bank

Hindustan College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Infosys, TCS, Wipro

Anna Adarsh College for Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

TCS, Wipro, Cognizant

Shrimathi Devkunvar Nanalal Bhatt Vaishnav College for Women

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

TCS, Wipro, Cognizant

Dwaraka Doss Goverdhan Doss Vaishnav College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 4.50 LPA

Deloitte, EY, KPMG

Patrician College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

TCS, Wipro, Cognizant

Shri Shankarlal Sundarbai Shasun Jain College for Women

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

Deloitte, EY, KPMG

Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Infosys, TCS, Wipro

Sri Kanyaka Parameswari Arts and Science College for Women

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

TCS, Wipro, Cognizant

Annai Violet Arts and Science College

Rs 3.00 - Rs 4.50 LPA

Deloitte, EY, KPMG

Nazareth College of Arts and Science

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

TCS, Wipro, Cognizant

Thiruthangal Nadar College

Rs 2.50 - Rs 4.00 LPA

TCS, Wipro, Cognizant

St Joseph's College (Arts and Science)

Rs 2.00 - Rs 3.50 LPA

Infosys, TCS, Wipro

**The actual figures might differ**

Arts Course Job Profiles

Job Title

Average Salary

Content Writer

Rs 3.00 - Rs 6.00 LPA

Public Relations Specialist

Rs 4.00 - Rs 8.00 LPA

Social Media Manager

Rs 5.00 - Rs 10.00 LPA

Human Resources Manager

Rs 6.00 - Rs 12.00 LPA

Market Research Analyst

Rs 4.00 - Rs 8.00 LPA

Educational Consultant

Rs 4.00 - Rs 9.00 LPA

Event Manager

Rs 5.00 - Rs 10.00 LPA

Editor

Rs 4.00 - Rs 8.00 LPA

Journalist

Rs 3.00 - Rs 7.00 LPA

NGO Manager

Rs 4.00 - Rs 9.00 LPA

**actual figures might differ**

Top Recruiters Who Hire Arts Graduates in Chennai

Alpha Group of Institutions

Knack Studios

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Cognizant

Narayana E-Techno School

Artisan Media Solutions

Times Group

The Hindu

RISHS International School

Glitz Info Solutions

Scope of Arts in Chennai

Chennai, often called the cultural capital of South India, is a renowned destination for Arts education, offering a blend of academic excellence and rich cultural heritage. Prestigious institutions such as the University of Madras, Loyola College, Stella Maris College, and the Asian College of Journalism provide specialized courses in English, Journalism, Fine Arts, Performing Arts, History, and Cultural Studies. The city's vibrant cultural atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions in music, dance, and literature make it a top choice for Arts students.

 

Famous Alumni Who Excelled in Arts from Chennai

 

  • A.R. Rahman: A world-famous composer and music producer, Rahman is an alumnus of the Madras Conservatory (now part of the University of Madras) and has won numerous awards, including Oscars.

  • S. Shankar: Acclaimed filmmaker is known for his work in Tamil cinema, particularly in the science fiction genre, with films like Enthiran (Robot).

  • R. K. Laxman: Legendary cartoonist, best known for his creation of The Common Man and his work in The Times of India.

 

Placement Records for Arts Graduates in Chennai (Last 5 Years)

 

  • Employment Rate: Around 70-80% of Chennai's Arts graduates secure employment in reputed media outlets, advertising agencies, corporate firms, and cultural organizations.

  • Top Recruiters: Companies such as The Hindu, Sun TV Network, Infosys, TCS, Ogilvy, Kalakshetra Foundation, and UNESCO are prominent employers for Arts graduates in Chennai.

  • Salary Range: Starting salaries for Arts graduates typically range from Rs. 3.5 LPA to Rs. 8.5 LPA. Alums from institutions like Loyola College, Stella Maris College, and the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) often receive higher offers, especially in journalism, advertising, and cultural research roles.

 

Diversity Among Arts Students in Chennai

 

Chennai's institutions attract a diverse student base, including many international students. Approximately 10-15% of the city's arts students are from abroad, bringing global perspectives that enrich the academic environment. The city's emphasis on cultural exchange and its cosmopolitan nature make it a welcoming space for students worldwide.

 

Top Companies Hiring Arts Graduates from Chennai

 

  • Media & Journalism: The Hindu, Sun TV Network, Deccan Chronicle, Puthiya Thalaimurai.
  • Advertising & Branding: Ogilvy, Dentsu, MullenLowe Lintas, Publicis.
  • Technology & Content Strategy: Infosys, TCS, Cognizant, Accenture.
  • Cultural Research & Preservation: Kalakshetra Foundation, DakshinaChitra, Roja Muthiah Research Library, UNESCO.

 

FAQs

 

  1. What are the subjects in Arts education?
    In this context, the Arts can include Performing Arts education (dance, drama, music), literature and poetry, storytelling, visual arts education in film, craft, design, digital arts, media and photography.

 

  1. What is the future of the Arts Stream?
    From mass media studies to economics, students in the Arts stream have excellent career options. This stream provides great scope for students wanting to explore their creativity skills. It aids students in developing their communication, decision-making, critical thinking and analytical skills.

 

  1. Which job is best for Arts students?
    Some of the the best Arts stream jobs can be:
  • Lawyer
  • Writer
  • Fashion Designer
  • Hotelier
  • Educator
  • Digital Marketer
  • Government Service
  • Journalist

 

  1. Is Arts Stream good for IAS?
    The best graduation degree for UPSC is generally agreed to be a Bachelor of Arts degree. Choosing Arts or Humanities can be quite beneficial for your UPSC examination because you will be learning courses like history, politics, and so on that are part of the UPSC syllabus and will aid you in your UPSC examination.

 

  1. Which stream is perfect?
    The Humanities or Arts stream is ideal for artistic students. The Arts/Humanities stream is gaining popularity due to its wide array of unique and exciting career opportunities. Offers a broad spectrum of career paths, including high-paying jobs.

86 Colleges

86 Colleges