MA Drawing and Painting: Eligibility, Top Colleges & Admissions

• Updated on  13 Aug, 2025 by Vasudha Sharma

MA Drawing and Painting is a two-year postgraduate course for students who want to enhance their artistic abilities. The course involves both rigorous practical work and critical theory to help the students enhance their technical proficiency in drawing and painting, including older techniques. It focuses on personal expression, imaginative exploration, and the creation of a unique visual language.

 

The candidates who have completed their graduation in any stream from a recognized university are eligible to enroll in the MA in Drawing and Painting course. The candidates can apply to various colleges, including Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University, Kanoria College, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Banasthali Vidyapeeth, etc. The admission process of these colleges is merit-based.

 

With the help of professional and skilled artists and scholars, students learn to explore a variety of media, styles, and concepts. By offering exhibitions, critiques, and interdisciplinary projects, the program fosters an active/supportive artistic community. Moreover, it fosters engagement with debates about contemporary art and critical thinking while also helping students to understand the cultural and historical significance of their work.

 

The MA in Drawing and Painting course helps candidates in opting for the potential career opportunities, including professional artists, educators, illustrators, curators, or those working in galleries and creative industries. This course provides a transformative experience that enhances artistic expression and prepares individuals for various art careers.

 

Table of Contents

  1. MA Drawing and Painting Highlights
  2. What is MA Drawing and Painting?
  3. Why Study MA Drawing and Painting?
  4. Who Should Study MA Drawing and Painting?
  5. MA Drawing and Painting Eligibility Criteria
  6. MA Drawing and Painting Colleges
  7. MA Drawing and Painting Admission Process
  8. MA Drawing and Painting Syllabus
  9. MA Drawing and Painting VS MA Fine Arts
  10. MA Drawing and Painting Job Prospects
  11. MA Drawing and Painting FAQs

 

MA Drawing and Painting Highlights

The candidates need to get complete information about the MA in Drawing and Painting course and the top colleges that offer this course. The highlights table given below will give the details about the course.

Particulars

Details

Course Name

MA Drawing and Painting

Course Level

Postgraduate

Duration

2 years

Course Type

Full-time

Admission Process

Merit-based.

Eligibility Criteria

The candidates need to complete their graduation from a recognized board.

Course Fees

INR 10,000- INR 40,000

Top Colleges

Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University, Kanoria College, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Banasthali Vidyapeeth, etc.

Job Profiles

Artist, Illustrator, Cartoonist, etc.

Top Recruiters

Gaming Companies, Ad Agencies, Publishing House, etc.

Average Salary in India

INR 3 LPA - INR 6.5 LPA

 

What is MA Drawing and Painting?

The MA Drawing and Painting course primarily focuses on providing an advanced study and practice of the visual arts, specifically in drawing and painting. This course is an ideal option for individuals with a background and experience in art who want to develop their creative practice, technical skills, and theoretical knowledge.

 

Studio work is a common feature of the program, where students can explore multiple materials and styles in drawing or painting, including classical and contemporary styles. Along with the theoretical knowledge, students learns to incorporate critical thinking and critical studies through research projects. Students can develop not only their artistic abilities but also their intellectual capacity to engage in cultural and intellectual debates.

 

The candidates, after completing the MA in Drawing and Painting course, have the opportunity to pursue careers in the arts, such as self-taught artists, teachers, or contributors to the wider creative community. Additional opportunities for academic research or doctoral studies in fine arts are also available with the degree program.

 

Why Study MA Drawing and Painting?

The candidates who enroll in the MA in Drawing and Painting can enhance their abilities, broaden their artistic horizons to better understand contemporary and historical art forms. Additionally, with the help of the expertise and guidance, this course promotes personal and artistic development. The candidates are allowed to explore new media, experiment with different techniques, and engage in critical reflection of their artistic process.

 

The course helps the candidates to increase their critical thinking and research skills by assisting them through practice with cultural, social, and theoretical contexts. Through studio work, critiques, seminars, and exhibitions, students gain valuable feedback as well as the opportunity to be a professional presenter. By fostering collaboration and networking within a dynamic artistic community, the course helps the candidates in opting for various opportunities.

 

In addition to this, the MA Drawing and Painting adds to career advancement in various creative industries. After this course the candidates can pursue careers as practicing artists, art educators, curators, illustrators, or in galleries and art organizations.

 

Who Should Study MA Drawing and Painting?

The MA in Drawing and Painting course is a great option for candidates who are passionate about visual art and want to improve their skills, whether as a hobby or professionally. The MA in Drawing and Painting is the course for:

  • For artists aspiring to improve their technical skills with the help of a range of media, including pencil and charcoal, watercolors, acrylics, and oil paint.
  • The program is focused on the candidates who are interested in exploring visual storytelling and creating a portfolio to showcase their artistic talents.
  • The course is for art graduates and candidates who have a background in design, illustration, or fine arts to refine their style and prepare for higher education, such as a PhD in Fine Arts.
  • It's also available for those who are inexperienced or self-taught artists, but want structured guidance and support to have an advanced career.
  • The course is a valuable opportunity for educators, designers, and creative professionals to enhance their abilities and incorporate artistic elements into their professions.
  • Those who enjoy hands-on practice and visual representation are well equipped to use this tool.

 

MA Drawing and Painting Eligibility Criteria

The candidates need to check the eligibility requirements that they need to fulfill to enroll in the course at their desired college. The eligibility requirements for most colleges are almost similar; however, some criteria may vary based on the educational qualifications, minimum mark requirements, and other factors. The detailed eligibility criteria of the MA in Drawing and Painting course are given below:

  • The candidates are required to complete their graduation in any stream from a recognized university.
  • The candidates need to score at least 50% to 60% marks in their graduation.

 

MA Drawing and Painting Colleges

Once the candidates fulfill the eligibility criteria for the course, they need to move forward with choosing the college they want to apply to. The complete details of the colleges that offer this course are given below, including the course fees and admission process.

College Name

Location

Fees for 2 years (approx.)

Admission Process

Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University

Kanpur

INR 19,800

Based on merit

Kanoria College

Jaipur

INR 22,000

Based on merit

Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University

Uttarakhand

INR 14,000

Based on merit

K.S. Saket PG College

Ayodhya

-

Based on merit

SVC Aligarh

Aligarh

-

Based on merit

Banasthali Vidyapeeth

Rajasthan

-

Based on merit

Jodhpur National University

Rajasthan

INR 36,000

Based on merit

 

MA Drawing and Painting Admission Process

The candidates need to follow a simple admission process to enroll in the MA Drawing and Painting course at their preferred college. As most colleges invite applications based on merit, they follow a common admission process. The MA in Drawing and Painting admission process of Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University, Kanpur is given below:

 

Step 1: The candidates need to start by visiting the official website of the Chhatrapati Sahuji Maharaj University and head to the admission tab.

 

Step 2: Upon heading to the admission page, the candidates need to start the registration process by registering themselves by entering their email address and mobile number.

 

Step 3: Now, the candidates need to fill out the application form by entering the details, including personal details, educational qualifications, details of correspondence, etc.

 

Step 4: The candidates have to upload a scanned copy of the documents required for the admission process at Chhatrapati Sahuji Maharaj University.

 

Step 5: The candidates now have to save the entered details and pay the application fee to submit the application form.

 

Step 6: The university will release the list of selected candidates on its official website.

 

Step 7: The university will call the selected candidates for the counselling process and document verification.

 

Step 8: The candidates, if selected, need to appear for the document verification and counselling process.

 

Step 9: Once done with the document verification, the candidates need to confirm their admission by paying the course fee.

 

Step 10: The candidates will receive all the updates regarding the commencement of the classes and the schedule of the course via email or mobile number, upon the successful payment of the course fee.

 

Documents Required

The candidates need to submit some documents for the admission process at Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University, Kanpur, which are as follows:

  • 10th Marksheet
  • 12th Marksheet
  • Graduation Marksheets
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Seat Allotment Letter
  • Migration Certificate
  • Government-issued ID proof
  • Transfer Certificate.

 

MA Drawing and Painting Syllabus

The candidates need to have an overview of the subjects they will be going to learn in the course after deciding to enroll in the course. The syllabus of the MA in Drawing and Painting course at Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University, Kanpur, is given below.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Study Of Indian Traditional Arts And Culture

Critical Appreciation Of Art And Introduction To Research Methods

Aesthetics (Modern Indian Concepts)

New Media and Contemporary Practices In Art

Figurative Composition I

Figurative Composition II

Portrait And Life Study

Portrait and Life Study

Landscape

Traditional Arts Of India

-

Landscape

-

Cityscape (Architectural Study)

-

Research Project/Dissertation

Semester 3

Semester 4

History Of Western Art: Primitive Era 13th Century

History Of Western Art 13th Century 18th Century

Philosophy Of Modern Art From The 18th Century Onwards (Neo Classicism To Fauvism)

Philosophy Of Modern Art (Cubism, Abstract Expressionism)

Creative Composition

Creative Composition II

Mural

Mural II

Graphic Design

Graphic Design II

Digital Painting I

Digital Painting II

Print Making And Textile Printing I

Print Making And Textile Printing II

-

Research Project/Dissertation

 

MA Drawing and Painting VS MA Fine Arts

Mentioned below is the comparison between MA in Drawing and Painting and MA in Fine Arts:

Aspect

MA in Drawing and Painting

MA in Fine Arts

Focus Area

Specializes in drawing and painting techniques, history, and styles

Broad study of multiple visual art forms (painting, sculpture, digital art, etc.)

Core Subjects

Art history, life drawing, oil painting, watercolor, and composition

Visual arts theory, studio practice, multimedia art, installations

Career Paths

Professional artist, art teacher, illustrator, gallery exhibitor

Fine artist, curator, art director, multimedia artist, educator

Suitability

Ideal for those passionate specifically about painting and sketching

Best for those interested in exploring diverse art forms

Program Scope

Narrow and deep

Broad and exploratory

Work Environment

Art studios, galleries, and educational institutions

Studios, museums, digital art spaces, and design firms

 

MA Drawing and Painting Job Prospects

The MA Drawing and Painting course opens a wide range of career options ot the candidates in various industries, including the museum, illustration, gaming, publishing, Ad agencies, etc. The table given below will help the candidates.

Job Role

Salary (Year)

Potential Employers / Sectors

Fine Artist / Painter

INR 2,00,000 – 4,00,000

Galleries, art collectors, freelance/self-employed

Illustrator

INR 2,50,000 – 4,50,000

Gaming companies, film studios, animation firms

Graphic Designer (Art-focused)

INR 2,00,000 – 5,00,000

Publishing houses, ad agencies, and design studios

Art Teacher / Lecturer

INR 2,40,000 – 5,00,000

Schools, universities, and art institutes

Animator / Concept Artist

INR 3,00,000 – 6,00,000

Museums, galleries, and cultural institutions

Muralist / Wall Painter

INR 2,00,000 – 4,00,000

Art galleries, museums

Freelance Artist

INR 1,50,000 – 4,00,000

Media, advertising, publishing

 

MA Drawing and Painting FAQs

What skills can the candidates learn upon enrolling in the MA Drawing and Painting course?

The curriculum of the course is a unique blend of the theoretical and practical aspects of the arts and aesthetics. The candidates can learn concepts with the help of the practicals and project work. The candidates, upon enrolling in the course, will gain observational drawing, Life drawing, Color theory, Acrylic, oil, and watercolor painting, Perspective and composition, Concept development, Art critique and analysis, Studio practice, and professional presentation, etc.

Will this MA Drawing and Painting course help in becoming a professional artist?

Yes, the candidates, upon enrolling in the MA in Drawing and Painting course, will learn the advanced techniques that are incorporated in the art and drawing, which will help the candidates in having advanced career options. They have multiple options to opt for multiple roles, including illustrator, artist, etc.

Is painting a good career option?

Painting is a good career option because the demands of the painting industries are always steady both at the creative and commercial levels provided an individual concentrates on the niche market areas or develops a business on his own. Expert painters can also get the freedom of being financially independent through proper preparation and management of the business despite physical requirements and competition.

Which painting is in demand?

Paintings on demand now involve contemporary and modern forms of arts and original, innovative and personalized arts are gaining popularity. Artists who are breaking the rules and experimenting with art forms and new media are on the rise and art collectors will frequent find themselves scurrying to find the works of young stars in contemporary art markets. Also, the usual fine art such as landscapes, abstracts, and portraiture continues to have a steady market fetish in people.

What is the future of painting?

The employment of the field of painting seems to be bright as job growth is to be maintained in a stable increase, as well as expanding possibilities into digital and mixed media art. Technological advancements and increased demands of unique and handmade pieces of art allow the maintenance of one. Being a painter can further lead to being an art entrepreneur in art restoration and consultation work which is a wide area to work in.

What are the platforms where the candidates can showcase their artworks?

The candidates will learn to create advanced and aesthetic artworks that will help them in landing a good job. To showcase their artworks and portfolios, the candidates can opt to participate in the End-of-term exhibitions, Competitions, Open studios, Online galleries, or school-run publications. Showcasing the artworks on these platforms helps build exposure and confidence.

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