MFA
Master of Fine Arts
MFA Syllabus 2026
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) syllabus covers a structured programme spanning 2 Years designed to build both foundational knowledge and specialised expertise. The curriculum varies by specialisation, with 3 specialisations available including Applied Art, Painting, Sculpture. Below is the detailed semester-wise subject breakdown and programme structure.
MFA Semester-wise Subjects
MFA Syllabus & Subjects
The MFA curriculum is heavily studio-based, with approximately 70% of the coursework focused on advanced artistic practice and 30% on art theory, criticism, and research methodology. Students select a specialisation at admission and work intensively under the mentorship of faculty artists toward a thesis exhibition in the final semester.
Specialisation Streams
Core Theory Subjects
Studio Practice Components
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Advanced Studio Practice | 25–30 hours/week in dedicated studio spaces; development of individual artistic language |
| Life Drawing & Figure Study | Continued exploration of human form through drawing and painting from live models |
| Material Experimentation | Working with unconventional materials — mixed media, installation, site-specific art |
| Critique Sessions | Regular group critiques with faculty and visiting artists; developing articulation of artistic intent |
| Thesis Exhibition | Final semester solo/group exhibition of 15–25 artworks + written thesis (8,000–15,000 words) |
| Study Tours | Visits to biennales, national galleries, artist residencies, and heritage sites |
Specialisation-Specific Subjects
| Specialisation | Key Subjects |
|---|---|
| Painting | Oil Painting, Acrylic Techniques, Mural Painting, Abstract Composition, Mixed Media Painting |
| Sculpture | Metal Casting, Stone Carving, Welding & Fabrication, Installation Art, Public Sculpture |
| Printmaking | Intaglio, Lithography, Woodcut, Serigraphy (Screen Print), Experimental Print Techniques |
| Applied Art | Advanced Typography, Packaging Design, Advertising & Branding, Digital Illustration, Publication Design |
MFA Programme Structure & Credit Distribution
MFA Semester-wise Curriculum
The MFA is structured across 4 semesters over 2 years. The first year builds advanced studio competence and theoretical depth, while the second year focuses entirely on thesis research and the culminating exhibition.
Year 1 — Advanced Studio & Theory
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Advanced Specialisation Studio I | Advanced Specialisation Studio II |
| Drawing & Visual Analysis | Experimental Drawing & Mixed Media |
| Indian Art History (Post-Independence) | Contemporary Global Art Practices |
| Aesthetics & Art Philosophy | Art Criticism & Curatorial Theory |
| Research Methodology | Thesis Proposal Development |
| Seminar Presentations | Visiting Artist Workshops |
Year 2 — Thesis Research & Exhibition
| Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
|---|---|
| Thesis Studio Work (Intensive) | Final Thesis Exhibition |
| Thesis Writing & Documentation | Thesis Dissertation Submission |
| Cross-Disciplinary Elective | Viva Voce & External Jury Evaluation |
| Professional Practice & Art Market | Portfolio & Artist Statement Refinement |
| Mid-Thesis Group Critique | Public Exhibition & Catalogue Preparation |
Evaluation Pattern
| Component | Weightage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Practice | 50% | Quality, originality, and technical skill of artworks produced |
| Thesis Exhibition | 20% | Final body of work (15–25 pieces) displayed in curated exhibition |
| Written Thesis | 15% | Research paper (8,000–15,000 words) linking practice to theory |
| Theory Papers & Viva | 15% | Art history exams, seminar participation, and oral examination |
Cross-Disciplinary Electives (Semester 3)
Skills Developed in MFA
Skills Developed in MFA
The MFA develops advanced artistic, intellectual, and professional competencies that prepare graduates for careers as practising artists, educators, curators, and creative professionals.
Advanced Artistic Skills
Mastery of Chosen Medium
Deep technical expertise in a specialisation — advanced oil painting techniques, bronze casting, intaglio printmaking, or mixed media — developed through intensive studio hours over two years.
Conceptual Thinking & Visual Research
Ability to develop, articulate, and execute a coherent body of artwork informed by research — connecting personal expression to broader cultural, social, and philosophical themes.
Experimental & Interdisciplinary Practice
Working across media boundaries — combining painting with installation, sculpture with video, or printmaking with digital processes. The MFA encourages pushing creative boundaries.
Composition & Aesthetic Judgement
Refined sensibility for colour, form, space, and visual rhythm. The ability to make sophisticated aesthetic decisions that communicate meaning and emotion.
Critical & Intellectual Skills
Art Criticism & Theoretical Writing
Ability to critically analyse artworks, write exhibition reviews, artist statements, and academic papers. Essential for academic careers, curatorial work, and art journalism.
Art Historical Knowledge
Deep understanding of Indian and global art movements — from Ajanta murals to Bengal School, Abstract Expressionism to contemporary installation art — contextualising one's own practice within art history.
Research Methodology
Practice-based research skills for visual arts — formulating research questions, literature review, visual documentation, and connecting artistic practice to written analysis.
Presentation & Articulation
Confidently presenting and defending artistic work in critiques, seminars, and exhibitions. Articulating creative intent to diverse audiences — peers, critics, collectors, and the public.
Professional & Career Skills
Exhibition Planning & Curation
Designing exhibitions, selecting artworks, writing curatorial notes, managing gallery spaces, lighting, and audience experience. Practical experience gained through the thesis exhibition.
Portfolio & Documentation
Professional-quality photography of artworks, catalogue design, artist CV preparation, and building a cohesive portfolio for galleries, grants, and academic applications.
Teaching & Mentorship
MFA is the minimum qualification for teaching fine arts at university level. Graduates develop pedagogical skills through studio assistantship and seminar facilitation during the programme.
Grant Writing & Artist Residencies
Writing proposals for grants (Lalit Kala Akademi, ICCR, India Foundation for the Arts), fellowships, and artist residency applications — essential for sustaining a professional art practice.
Tools & Materials
MFA Specialisations
The syllabus and curriculum differ by specialisation. Explore all 3 available specialisations: