The Master of Visual Arts (MVA) is a two-year postgraduate program focusing on
creative skills, visual communication, conceptual understanding, and professional practice across
various art forms. Updated for 2026 and aligned with NEP 2020,
the syllabus emphasizes studio practice, research methodology, digital media, and project-based learning.
The program prepares students for careers in art studios, galleries, media industries, design
agencies, academia, and professional exhibitions.
MVA Course Structure (2026)
- Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
- Credit System: CBCS (Choice Based Credit System)
- Evaluation: Studio Assignments + Theory + Viva
- Final Component: Dissertation / Major Project & Exhibition
Semester 1: Foundation & Conceptual Development
- Art History & Aesthetics: Art movements, Indian & Western traditions, Modernism.
- Drawing & Composition: Observational drawing, composition techniques, color theory.
- Visual Communication: Typography, media design, illustration basics.
- Studio Practice I: Hands-on painting, sculpture, and applied arts exercises.
Semester 2: Applied Arts & Digital Foundations
- Applied Arts: Product design, illustration, mixed media techniques.
- Photography Basics: Studio photography, lighting, and visual storytelling.
- Research Methodology: Art research, proposal writing, critical analysis.
- Digital Art Fundamentals: Graphic tools, animation basics, photo editing.
Semester 3: Specialisation & Advanced Studio Practice
- Specialisation Paper I & II: Painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, or applied arts.
- Advanced Studio Practice: Independent creative projects, experimentation with mediums.
- Art Criticism: Conceptual analysis, theoretical frameworks, aesthetic judgment.
- Seminar: Presentation of creative work and research findings.
Semester 4: Dissertation, Exhibition & Professional Practice
- Dissertation / Major Project: Independent research or large-scale creative project.
- Exhibition Work: Curation, display, portfolio presentation.
- Internship / Professional Exposure: Design studios, galleries, media houses.
- Viva-Voce: Evaluation of research and creative work.
Recommended Books for MVA Students
| Subject |
Book & Author |
| Art History |
A World History of Art – Hugh Honour & Fleming |
| Aesthetics |
Art and Visual Perception – Rudolf Arnheim |
| Painting |
The Art of Colour and Design – Maitland Graves |
| Sculpture |
Techniques of Sculpture – John Mills |
| Photography |
The Photographer’s Eye – Michael Freeman |
| Research |
Research Methods in Education & Fine Arts – McMillan |
FAQs about MVA Syllabus 2026
Q1. What is the duration of the Master of Visual Arts program in 2026?
The MVA is a two-year postgraduate program divided into four semesters, blending studio practice,
theoretical study, and research-driven creative projects.
Q2. Are digital media and multimedia included in the MVA syllabus?
Yes. The syllabus incorporates digital arts, graphic design, animation, and photography to align with
contemporary art and industry trends.
Q3. Are exhibitions and studio projects mandatory in MVA?
Most universities require students to present semester-end exhibitions, submit portfolios, and
participate in critiques to assess practical skills, creativity, and conceptual development.
Q4. When can students choose specialisations in the MVA program?
Specialisations are usually selected in the second year, allowing students to focus on areas like
painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, applied arts, or visual communication.
Q5. Is research and dissertation work compulsory in MVA?
Yes. Students must undertake research, write a dissertation, and link their creative practice
to theoretical study, which enhances analytical thinking and conceptual depth.
