One aspect of this tendency is the increasing popularity of Master of Fine Arts programmes. The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programme aims to help creatively oriented individuals in refining their creative skills so that they can produce more significant, engaging, and polished art. The training aims to elevate the art form, which might range from technologically intensive professions like graphic design and film sound mixing to non-tech forms like dance, drawing, and painting. As the demand for these programmes grows, so will the need for trained instructors. Today, MFA programmes are accessible in both visual and performing arts.
The MFA programme contains professional, rigorous courses that, most crucially, provide a scientific grasp of the art field. As a result, by the time the student completes the course, he or she has developed critical thinking skills.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Course Objectives
A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a terminal degree in visual and performing arts, as well as creative writing. The program's curriculum includes classes that prepare students for careers in college, teaching art history, writing about art, and gallery curating. Its curriculum is meant to help artists hone existing skills and learn new ones. The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programme will place a higher emphasis on practical work, thus the results should be professional.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Course Highlights
Full Form |
Master of Fine Arts |
Course Level |
Masters |
Course Duration |
2 years |
Eligibility |
Bachelor in Fine Arts from a recognised institute. |
Entrance Exams |
PUBDET, SET, CUET, BHU CUET, etc. |
Average Fees |
Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 200,000 |
Average Salary |
Rs. 300,000 to Rs.600,000 |
MFA Eligibility
Before applying for admission to a college, one should understand the
MFA eligibility requirements for the programme. This would save the individual from further heartache if admission is denied owing to a difference in eligibility standards.
- Qualifying degree: The candidate must hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from a recognised institute or college in the relevant specialisation.
- Marks in the qualifying examination: Colleges like Amity School of Fine Arts require a minimum of 50% in BFA, while others like Jamia Millia Islamia want at least 60% aggregate marks in graduation. So, to gain a clear understanding, it is best to consult the college to which one is applying for admission.
- Age Limit: While most universities have no age requirements, a few, such as AMU, demand that the candidate be no older than 27 years old as of July 1 of the entrance year.
Top MFA Exams
Distinct colleges have distinct admissions processes. Students must pass national or state MFA entrance exams, such as the PUB DET, SET, BHU PET, or AMU, among others. Applicants have the option of attending business schools or participating in coaching courses to prepare for entrance exams. The admission exam provides an overview of the subject and a glance into the entire programme.
One distinguishing feature of these MFA exams is that they are specialisation-specific. For example, in an MFA in Music degree, the test may involve a music performance by the candidate. However, in an MFA in Painting programme, students will not be required to demonstrate their singing abilities.
MFA Specialisations
There are different sorts of MFA programmes that include nearly every artistic subject. These specialised MFA programmes are designed to meet the needs of fiction writers, dramatists, choreographers, ballet dancers, painters, theatre and film directors, and fashion designers.
MFA Syllabus
The MFA syllabus would be tailored to the individual area of specialisation. For example, if the candidate is pursuing a course in MFA (Applied Arts), the syllabus will differ from that of an MFA (Painting) course. Furthermore, the MFA syllabus will differ based on the college, as each college has its own unique features. Below are sample syllabuses.
Year - 1 |
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Year - 2 |
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MFA and MA
Candidates can pursue an MFA or an MA in any of the Fine Arts specialisations. Candidates must be aware of the following distinctions between these two courses:
Criteria |
MFA |
MA |
Course Name |
Master of Fine Arts |
Master of Arts |
Academic Outcomes |
It is offered specifically in the field of Fine Arts with a special focus on practical aspects. |
It focuses more on the academic aspect of Fine Arts or other humanities subjects. |
Professional Outcomes |
Fine Art painters, Sculptors |
Museum Curators, Art Historian |
Who Can Pursue a Master of Fine Arts (MFA)?
Students who are artistic in nature and want to work as social workers, teachers, or researchers might take this course. The MFA degree is considered the best option for those interested in working in Human Rights, Commercial Arts, Theatre, Healthcare, Exhibition Design, Social Services, and other disciplines.
Students who pursue an MFA course benefit from better analytical and critical thinking skills, which help them learn about their subject. Many fine arts courses are available to students, allowing them to put their skills and passions to work. Painting, screenwriting, and filmmaking are examples of fine arts.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Future Scope in India
Fine arts is one of the world's most flexible and dynamic industries. As India's economy and culture develop, the opportunities for artists expand fast. There is a great demand for professional artists, and those with training and experience in the sector will find numerous options. The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a terminal degree that recognises mastery of a specific media or topic of study in the fine arts. An MFA can lead to a variety of professional opportunities, both in India and overseas. An MFA can lead to careers as a professional artist, gallery owner, art dealer, or curator. You may also pursue a profession in education, arts administration, or non-profit work.
A student with an MFA degree can work with:
- Museums
- Art galleries
- Dance academies
- Music studios
- Gaming industry
- TV channels
Career or Job Opportunities after receiving a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree
Various companies constantly demand talented artists. In many disciplines, particularly the arts, an MFA is a highly sought-after degree. Despite the popularity of technology-driven work, there are still numerous opportunities for persons holding a Master of Fine Arts.
An MFA can lead to careers in teaching, museums, and other arts-related professions. Whether you want to expand your knowledge of studio art or pursue a profession in the arts, an MFA may be for you.
Commercial Artist
As a commercial artist, you can work alone, with an agency, or be fully employed in an organisation to design or create graphics or art consignments.
Graphic Designer
A graphic designer's job is to creatively arrange or integrate images to create an appealing layout. You can pick between working with advertising agencies, electronic or print media, and so forth.
Art Director
An MFA degree in Set and Art Design allows you to work as a set or art designer for a film production company. You might also consider working as a set designer for theatres or media firms.
Animator
If you picked animation as your specialism in the MFA study, you will be able to work as an animator. You can collaborate with an organisation and produce cartoons, caricatures, or images based on their preferences. Media houses, production houses, and advertising agencies are frequently in search.
Art Teacher
The art teacher is responsible for honing the applicants' practical abilities and teaching theory in various art disciplines, such as painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, and ceramics.
Musician
A musician is an artist who creates and performs music for live audiences or recordings. He or she can perform solo or with choirs, bands, or orchestras.
Top Companies Hiring Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Graduates
The top companies hiring Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Graduates are-
- Times of India
- Colours TV
- Prime Focus
- Flintobox Times of India
- SKETS Studio
- Technicolor
- Prime Focus
- DQ Entertainment
- Inbound Mantra
- Flintobox
MFA Top Colleges
Amity University, LPU, College of Arts, MIT-WPU, and BHU are among the top government and private universities that offer MFA programmes. These colleges offer full-time MFA degree degrees.
Students and working professionals who do not choose to pursue full-time or conventional MFA programmes can do online short-term diploma courses in the performing arts. Before making a decision, students should research the public and private universities that offer this course. The colleges stated in the table are listed alphabetically, not in any sort of ranking hierarchy.
Shrishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design & Technology, Bangalore |
Sister Nivedita University |
World University of Design |
FAQs
1. Which entrance exam is needed for the Master of Fine Arts (MFA)?
The MFA programme can be accessed by passing a variety of entrance exams. Although there isn't a set entry test, colleges do a written entrance test followed by a personal interview.
2. Is there a good career after a Master of Fine Arts (MFA)?
After completing an MFA program, there are numerous employment options available, depending on their interests and skill set.
3. Which course is best in fine arts?
Animation, Photography and Painting are some of the best career opportunities in contemporary times owing to the increasing demand for skilled and creative designers who are hired by companies for their unique designs.
4. What are the required skills for MFA Candidates?
- Composition skills
- Colour techniques
- Organisation skills
- Decision-making skills
- Research skills
- Attention to detail
- Interpretive skills
- Teamwork
5. What is the course duration of the Master of Fine Arts (MFA)?
Master of Fine Arts is a 2-year course.