JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) School of Design, Media and Creative Arts
School of Design, Media and Creative Arts

MFA
Painting

A two-year, research-based and studio-intensive programme advancing artistic practice, conceptual thinking, technical mastery and professional identity.

Explore Curriculum
DegreeMaster of Fine Arts
Duration2 Years / 4 Semesters
ProgrammeMFA Painting
ModeStudio + Research
01 / Programme Overview

Advanced creative practice.
Research, studio, profession.

A two-year, research-based and studio-intensive postgraduate programme designed to advance creative practice, conceptual clarity and professional identity.

The programme integrates advanced studio practice, research, experimentation, theory and professional exposure. Students develop an individual creative language while building the ability to communicate ideas through sustained practice.

The curriculum progresses from advanced exploration and research foundations to independent projects, professional presentation and a major final-stage project.

02 / Programme

A deeper creative
practice.

The programme combines advanced studio practice, research, experimentation, theory and professional development.

01

Research-Integrated Practice

Studio work is supported by research, critique and contextual inquiry.

02

Advanced Creative Practice

Develop conceptual clarity, visual language and technical confidence through sustained studio work.

03

Digital and Emerging Media

Engage with digital tools, interactive practices and contemporary creative technologies.

04

Theory and Critical Thinking

Build stronger practice through visual culture, art history and critical inquiry.

05

Professional Exposure

Connect studio learning with live projects, internships, collaborations and professional practice.

06

Independent Major Project

Bring research, experimentation and professional presentation together in a final project.

03 / Admissions

Ready to take
your practice further?

Here's what you need to know before applying for the MFA programme.

Eligibility

  • BFA / BA / BDes / equivalent degree in the relevant creative discipline, subject to university regulations.
  • A strong portfolio demonstrating creative practice, conceptual clarity and technical skills.
  • Minimum qualifying score as prescribed by the university.

Selection and Portfolio

  • Portfolio review to assess creative practice, conceptual development and technical ability.
  • Personal interview / interaction as required by the admission process.
  • Applicants should present work demonstrating a clear interest in advanced postgraduate creative practice.
04 / Curriculum

Four semesters.
One evolving practice.

The curriculum progresses through studio practice, research, experimentation, professional development and an independent final-stage project.

Semester 1
  • Creative Drawing
  • Introduction to Cultural and Social Anthropology
  • New Media Art
  • Studio 1: Contemporary Art Practice
  • Photography and Creative Expression
Semester 2
  • Visual Semiotics and Image Interpretation
  • Narrative Photography
  • Studio 2: Personal Narrative and Form Exploration
  • Installation Art
  • Creative Painting
Semester 3
  • Art History and Visual Cultures
  • Studio 3 Research Led Painting and Interactive Media
  • Professional Curatorial Project
  • Design Research Seminar
Semester 4
  • Graduation Project
  • Mural Art
  • Internship
Note: Courses on offer are subject to change between semesters or academic years based on recommendations from industry, academia and other stakeholders.
05 / Professional Edge

Practice beyond
the studio.

Learning combines studio practice, research, workshops, reviews and professional presentation.

Learning Methods

  • Studio-Based Learning and Individual Critiques
  • Research-Integrated Artistic Practice
  • Material and Experimental Workshops
  • Artist Talks, Masterclasses and Demonstrations
  • Gallery, Museum and Exhibition Visits
  • Interdisciplinary Projects
  • Live Art Projects and Community Engagement
  • Exhibitions, Open Studios and Art Reviews
  • Portfolio Development and Professional Practice Labs

Assessment Methods

  • Continuous assessment through studio practice, research journals and process documentation
  • Artwork presentations and artist statements
  • Exhibition and portfolio evaluation
  • Research dissertation
  • Major Studio Project
  • Viva Voce
06 / Opportunities

Where can
your practice take you?

Graduates can pursue professional, independent, academic, research and creative-industry pathways.

01

Professional Artist

02

Contemporary Artist

03

Contemporary Painter

04

Portrait Artist

05

Mural Artist

06

Mixed Media Artist

07

Installation Artist

08

Public Art Practitioner

09

Illustration Artist

10

Digital Artist

11

Concept Artist

12

Visual Development Artist

13

Gallery Professional

14

Exhibition Coordinator

15

Art Curator

16

Art Consultant

17

Museum and Cultural Institution Professional

18

Generative and AI Art Practitioner

19

Immersive / New Media Artist

20

Art Educator / Academic Researcher

07 / Career Path

Build your practice.
Build your career.

Progress from developing a distinctive creative practice to independent professional, leadership and research opportunities.

Advanced Practice

Develop a distinctive body of work through sustained studio practice, experimentation and critique.

Research and Specialisation

Use research and contextual inquiry to deepen creative projects and develop a focused practice.

Professional Portfolio

Translate projects and process into a coherent portfolio for studios, agencies, galleries, organisations or independent practice.

Independent Practice

Pursue freelance, consultancy, entrepreneurial, exhibition or other self-directed opportunities.

Leadership and Research

Progress towards creative leadership, teaching, academic research and advanced research pathways.

08 / FAQ

Questions worth
asking.

A few of the questions students often have about the programme.

Is MFA Painting only for students who want to become painters?
No. The programme prepares students for professional art practice, galleries, museums, curation, digital art, new media, education, research and creative entrepreneurship.
How is MFA Painting different from BFA Painting?
BFA develops foundational artistic skills and broad studio experience, while MFA focuses on advanced specialisation, independent artistic practice, research, conceptual depth and professional artistic identity.
Can students experiment beyond traditional painting?
Yes. Students can explore mixed media, installation, photography, digital art, generative art, AI-assisted art, immersive practices and interdisciplinary approaches.
Can MFA Painting graduates pursue teaching and research?
Yes. The programme provides a foundation for academic careers, research and further doctoral studies, subject to applicable institutional and regulatory requirements.
What kind of professional portfolio will students develop?
Students develop a coherent body of artworks, process documentation, artist statement, research documentation and professional portfolio suitable for exhibitions, residencies, further studies and creative opportunities.
Admissions Open 2026

Your practice deserves
a wider canvas.

Speak to our admissions counsellor for clarity on courses, careers, eligibility and the application process.