What is MPA: Full Form, Course Duration, Admission 2026, Colleges, Syllabus, Salary & Scope

Updated on Dec 3, 2025 04:47 IST

MPA full form is Master of Performing Arts. MPA is a 2-year PG course designed to provide knowledge regarding the different specializations under Performing Arts. This includes dance, music, film, and theatre. Students can pursue a General MPA course or specialize in a focused area. There are many MPA speacializations also which are Music, Dance, Theatre, Film.

The MPA course focuses on programs to be general, covering a broad range of performing arts, or specialised in a specific area like dance, music, or theatre. MPA Graduates learn skills like Leadership Skills, Critical Thinking, Creative Expression, Effective Communication, Team Collaboration, Stage & Performance Confidence, and Cultural Sensitivity. The MPA syllabus is a Combination of theory and practical workshops for holistic learning, along with Courses in theatre, dance, music, and dramaturgy, and Regular live performances, recitals, and project work.

After pursuing Master of Performing Arts, students can find jobs as a Stage Actor, Dancer, Musician, Choreographer, Theatre Director and get entry into performing arts companies, film industry, cultural institutions, and NGOs.

Students who are interested in pursuing Master of Performing Arts can read the article further.

Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Course: Highlights

The table below gives quick information about the course types, duration, course fees, and entrance exams for pursuing an MPA course. Candidates can check this table for an idea about the average salary offered after completing this course as well as the top recruiters for MPA graduates. Check key points related to courses related to MPA course in the table below:

Particulars

Details

MPA full form

Master of Performing Arts

MPA Course Level

Post-Graduation

MPA Course Duration

2 years

MPA Course Fee

upto INR 10 lakh

MPA Course Top Institutes

Banaras Hindu UniversityRabindra Bharati University, School of DesignAmity University

MPA Course Average Salary

INR 3.6 - 10.5 lakh

MPA Course Top Recruiters

Film and Television Institute of India, Balaji Telefilms, YRF Studios, Universal Arts, Iris Media

MPA Course Entrance Exams

CUET PG, CUET, LPUNEST

MPA Course Job Positions

Actor, Drama Artist, Choreographer, Musician, Therapist, Theatre Director, Cinematographer, Community Arts Worker, Theatre Teacher

Note: This information is taken from the official website and may differ.

Q:   What is Master of Performing Arts course?
A:

There is a MPA Course that is a two-year specialisation course in dance, drama, music, or theater. MPA Full form is Master of Performing Arts.

Students who pursue an MPA may have the chance to focus on one or more performing arts disciplines, such as dance, theater, music, or film. As a result, they may be able to advance their expertise and understanding in that field and improve their all-around performance.

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Q:   What are the benefits of performing arts course?
A:

Communication and teamwork abilities can be enhanced of a person by taking courses in the performing arts. As you will gain knowledge on how to collaborate with others to put on a performance. Plus, you will also discover efficient ways to interact with your audience. Your social skills will be strengthened by studying performing arts classes. You will pick up social skills, relationship-building techniques, and teamwork abilities.

Hope this helps!!!

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Table of contents
  • Master of Performing Arts Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026
  • Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Entrance Exams 2026
  • Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Course Syllabus
  • Masters of Performing Arts Best Colleges in India
  • Popular Private MPA (Master of Performing Arts) Colleges in India
  • Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Career Scope
  • Important FAQs related to MPA
  • Popular MPA (Master of Performing Arts) Specializations
View More

Master of Performing Arts Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026

The eligibility requirements for a Master of Performing Arts is made to ensure that yo have the educational base which is relevant to succeed in the course. Below are the common eligibility needs for the MPA course you can check.

Particulars

Details

Master of Performing Arts Academic Qualifications

  • Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.

Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Marks Criteria

  •  Applicants should have a minimum aggregate of 50% marks for the unreserved category. A relaxation of 5% is given to the reserved category.
  • Candidates should have a valid score on the entrance exam.

Master of Performing Arts Age Limit

  • There is no age limit for pursuing a Master's in Performing Arts Course.

MPA Admission 2026

Here is the general step-by-step guide for Admission to Master of Performing Arts Course:
  • First of all you need to check the eligibility criteria of the college and the specialization you want to pursue in MPA.

  • Then you have to fill the application form and provide all the necessary details.

  • Submit all required documents like mark sheets ID proof and portfolio or performance recordings if needed

  • Some colleges may conduct entrance exam audition or interview to assess your talent and skills

  • After selection pay the course fees to confirm your admission

  • Complete the enrollment process and get ready to start your classes

Q:   How can I pursue MPA in Hindustani Classical Music?
A:

MPA in Hindustani Classical Music is a two-year course. Candidates must have completed Bachelor's in Performing Arts (Hindustani Classical Music) and clear PG-entrance examination. The following colleges offer MPA in Hindustani Classical Music:

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Q:   Can a B.A. Student can apply for Masters in performing arts.
A:

Yes, after your graduation, you can apply for Masters in performing arts. Good luck.

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Q:   What are some scholarship programs for MPA at MIT Vishwashanti Sangeet Kala Academy MIT-ADT University?
A:

There is no information available about the scholarship for MPA at MIT Vishwashanti Sangeet Kala Academy MIT-ADT University. Students are advised to contact the univeristy at the time of admission and get details about the scholarhships.

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Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Entrance Exams 2026

Multiple entrance examinations are required for which candidates will become eligible for admission to the MPA course. Some universities also accept students on a merit basis, Thus, it is suggested to check the website of colleges. Candidates must prepare for these entrance examinations by thoroughly understanding the syllabus and also preparing for practical examinations. 

MPA Course topics you might be interested in: 

CUET Colleges 2025: List of Participating Universities

Is General Aptitude Test Mandatory for CUET UG 2026?

CUET Performing Arts Syllabus: Get Important Topics, Exam Pattern

CUET Fine Arts Syllabus: Get Important Topics, Exam Pattern

Candidates who are interested in pursuing Master's in Performing Arts can check the names of some popular MPA entrance examinations below:

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
Dec ' 25

CUET PG Exam Notification

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for BA LLB

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for BA LLB (with late fee)

TENTATIVE
Jan ' 26 - Feb ' 26

CUET PG 2026 Application Process

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

AMU Entrance Exam 2026 Online Registrations for LLM

TENTATIVE
Feb ' 26 - Apr ' 26

IPU CET 2026 Application Form Availability

TENTATIVE
Mar ' 26

CUET 2026 Application Process

TENTATIVE
DatesPast Exam Dates
To Be Notified

PUBDET 2026 2nd Round Seat Allotment

To Be Notified

PUBDET 2026 1st Round Seat Allotment

To Be Notified

PUBDET 2026 Counselling Seat Matrix

Q:   How do I prepare for CUET Performing Arts?
A:

Having a good level of understanding of the syllabus is the first stage in exam preparation. This will help you to determine the topics that you should cover and the amount of time you should devote to each one.

In order to concentrate in your study on the areas where you need development, you can also test the last year's papers to determine your strengths and shortcomings. Candidates can refer to BPA syllabus as well as reasoning topics in order to prepare for the entrance.

Hope this helps!!!

Q:   How can I get art degree in India?
A:

The general process for geting an art degree in India are mentioned below. Also click to read Fine Arts Courses After 10th.

  • First of all Research about all the art programmes that are available in India.
  • Choose the specific field of art.
  • Check out the eligibility criteria for the programmes that you have chosen.
  • Prepare and sit for the required entrance exams.
  • Complete the application process and submitting necessary documents.
  • Attend interviews or portfolio reviews, if it is required.
  • After the acceptance, confirm enrollment according to institution instructions.
  • Actively participate in coursework and practical assignments.
  • Find internship opportunities and build a network in the art community.

Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Course Syllabus

A Master of Performing Arts MPA course syllabus differs between colleges. Certain courses can be chosen based on the area of specialization of the performing art. This includes art forms such as theatre, dance, music. Students can check out the table below to know more about MPA Subjects:

M.A. in Performing Arts Syllabus - Semester 1 

Mapping and Identification of Indian Performing Arts Introduction to World Performing Arts Performance Studies

Master of Performing Arts Syllabus - Semester 2

Concepts and Theories in a Comparative Framework Cultural History of Indian Performing Arts – Pre-modern Society Living Traditions / Eastern and North Eastern Indian Performing Arts 

MPA Course Syllabus - Semester 3

Cultural History of Indian Performing Arts – Modern Society Designing Performance Text and Performance: Adaptations and Translations / Dance in India: Practice and Theory / Sound and Music

MPA Masters Degree Subjects - Semester 4

Theatre and Acting Dance and Body in Society Performing Arts Management/ Performance Policy

Note: This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.

MPA Syllabus for Specializations

Different courses allow students to customize their education to fit their interests and career goals. 

MPA Dance Subjects

History of Dance – Dance and Sculpture

Dance in Sanskrit Treatises
Traditional Folk Dances and Folk Theatre of North and South India

Critical Study of the Practical & Theoretical Aspects of Dance

MPA Music Subjects

Analytical Study of Ragas and Talas

Critical & Comparative Study of Components of Prescribed Ragas & Talas

Indian Aesthetics

Performance of a Choice Raga and Performance of Other Genres

MPA Theatre Subjects

Dramatic Literature – Western Drama

Fundamentals of Visual Design

Physical Exercise and Theatre Games

Improvisation, Mime, and Choreography

Note: This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.

Links Related to MPA Syllabus:

MPA in Dance Syllabus

MPA in Classical Dance Syllabus

Q:   How can I do MPA in Tabla?
A:

MPA in Tabla is a postgraduate programme of 2 years duration. It is offered by the following colleges, namely:

Q:   What specializations are available in an MPA course?
A:

The Specializations that are available in an MPA course are:

  • Music (vocal or instrumental)
  • Dance (classical or contemporary)
  • Drama and theater
  • Film studies
  • Choreography
Q:   Where can I pursue MPA in Bharatnatyam?
A:

The folowing colleges offer MPA in Bharatnatyam course on the basis of scores secured in CUET-PG examination. The colleges are as follows:

Masters of Performing Arts Best Colleges in India

India is home to many good colleges for MPA courses. There are many top government and private colleges that offer MPA courses you can check in the table below.

Best MPA Government Colleges

Some of the top government colleges for pursuing MPA courses are here. Check the table.

MPA Government Colleges Average Fees
Visva Bharati University INR 2.4 K
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University INR 2.45 K
Shivaji University INR 3.17 K - 22 K
University of Rajasthan INR 4.82 K - 48.32 K
Banaras Hindu University INR 5.16 K - 36 K
Bangalore University INR 10 K
University of Hyderabad  INR 14.9 K - 22.35 K
MSU INR 20.56 K
Rajiv Gandhi University INR 30.85 K
Gujarat University NA

Note - This information is taken from the official website of the college.

Quick links relevant to MPA Courses:

Top Acting Schools in India: Offered Courses, Fees & Famous Alumni

Best Western Music Colleges in India: Specialisations, Fees & more

Top Private Colleges for MPA

Some of the top private colleges for pursuing MPA courses are here. Check the table.

MPA Top Private Colleges Average Fees
Sri Sri University INR 24 K - 2 L
Mewar University INR 66 K
MIT Vishwashanti Sangeet Kala Academy INR 68 K - 82 K
Swami Vivekanand University INR 78 K
Swami Vivekanand Subharti University (SVSU) INR 78 K
SAGE University INR 80 K
NIMS School of Humanities and Social Sciences INR 80 K
LPU INR 2 L
GLS University, Ahmedabad INR 2.5 L
World University of Design INR 3.1 L

Note - This information is taken from the official website of the college.

Relevant Links Related to MPA Course:

Top PhD in Music Universities in India 

Top 10 Performing Arts Colleges In India: Courses, Duration & Fee

Bachelor of Fine Arts: BFA Specializations, Scope, and Career Options

Diploma in Photography in India 2025: Top Colleges, Eligibility, Jobs & Salary

 

28 Courses
2.4 K - 2.49 L
8 - 9 LPA
1.2 K - 13.2 K
4.0
1.4 L - 9.36 L
3.6

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

1.3 L - 9.6 L
4.35 - 5.5 LPA

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

3 Courses
480
16 LPA
27 Courses
2.9
3.3
Q:   Which are the top private colleges for MPA course?
A:

Some of the private colleges include Deemed-to-be Universities as well as other autonomous dramatics and theatre institutes. They provide excellent infrastructure and experts in the field of acting, theatre and filmmaking, which makes these colleges popular for pursuing MPA courses. The colleges are as follows:

MPA Top Private CollegesAverage Fees (in INR)
AISECT University28,000
Swami Rambhadracharya Handicapped University 4,000
LPU 2 lakh
MIT Vishwashanti Sangeet Kala Academy82,000
NIMS School of Humanities1 lakh
SAGE University80,000
Sri University 2 lakh
Swami Vivekanand University32,600
SVSU91,500
World University of Design2.7 lakh
Q:   Which are the top colleges offering MPA in India?
A:

There are various Top colleges that offer MPA Courses, also known as Master of Performing Arts in India, which are mentioned below:

Premier Institutes such as:

  • National School of Drama (NSD) – Theatre
  • Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai – Bharatanatyam
  • Kathak Kendra, Delhi
  • Sangit Natak Akademi-affiliated schools

Private/Deemed Universities also provide MPA Courses such as:

  • Anupam Kher's Actor Prepares (Theatre)
  • KM Music Conservatory, Chennai
  • MIT ADT (School of Performing Arts)
  • SRM University – Music and Dance
  • Lovely Professional University (LPU) – Dance and Music
Q:   Which are top government colleges for MPA course?
A:

Some of the top government colleges for pursuing MPA course includes various central and state universities. The government colleges are as follows:

MPA Top Government CollegesAverage Fees (in INR)
Banaras Hindu University9,530
Visva Bharati University2,400
Bangalore University 10,000
University of Hyderabad 14,900
University of Rajasthan 39,930
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University 2,000
Gujarat University 
Rajiv Gandhi University 30,850
Shivaji University 3,170 - 22,000

Popular Private MPA (Master of Performing Arts) Colleges in India

1.4 L - 9.36 L
3.6

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

1.3 L - 9.6 L
4.35 - 5.5 LPA

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

30 K - 5.18 L
4.5 - 7.5 LPA
7 Courses
80 K - 10.5 L

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

3.4 L - 6 L
3.68 LPA
1.6 L

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing ) Applications open. Apply Now

Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Career Scope

An MPA degree can lead to a variety of employment options in the performing arts and associated fields. Depending on their areas of interest and specialization (such as theatre, dance, or music), MPA Masters Degree graduates may have a variety of professional options.

Job Profiles and Average Salary After MPA

Postgraduates in performing arts can avail of job opportunities at places such as art studios, music academies, music companies, publishing houses, advertising agencies, the film & television industry, dance academies, production houses, educational institutions, and so on. Given below are popular job profiles that MPA students can take up after completing the course:

Job Profile Job Description Average Salary 
Actor An actor is a performer who depicts various characters in stories using his/ her voice, appearance, body, and gesture. An actor can work for films, television, theatre, commercials, etc.   INR 2 LPA - INR 20 LPA
Musical Theater Performer A musical theatre performer is a professional who combines songs, dialogues, acting as well as dance to perform for a live theatre audience.  INR 1.7 LPA - INR 4.8 LPA
Dance Teacher A dance teacher teaches students dancing techniques for various styles of dance such as jazz, ballet, kathak, contemporary, etc. A dance teacher can work for public or private schools or dance studios. INR 1.3 LPA - INR 6.4 LPA
Choreographer A choreographer is a professional who designs as well as directs routines used in dances and performances. A choreographer is responsible for teaching dancing steps to performers during rehearsals. INR 3 LPA - INR 10 LPA
Theatre Director A theatre director is responsible for the practical as well as creative interpretation of a dramatic script. A theatre director works with the technical crew, producer, and other supporting staff like the music director to collaborate on extensive production designs. INR 9.7 LPA - INR 80 LPA

Note: This information is sourced from multiple sources on the web. Hence, is subject to vary. 

Master of Performing Arts Top Recruiters

There are many career options available after finishing MPA. Top recruiters include film agencies, dance schools, theatre companies, directing houses, production houses as well as museums and arts organizations. They hire skilled and trained MPA graduates who possess the relevant experience in their respective fields.

Some of the top recruiters for MPA graduates include:

Top Recruiters for MPA Graduates
Saregama India Universal Arts Ministry of Culture, Government of India
HT Media Iris Mediaworks Sangeet Natak Akademi
Balaji Telefilms Bollywood and Regional Cinema Doordarshan

Quick Links About Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Course:

What is the difference between Fine Arts and Visual Arts?

 

Q:   What are the career prospects in India and abroad for MA in performing arts (theater and television)?
A:

India has always been a platform to perform the traditional Indian arts. The careers were less thought of in the old ages. But for the last 4-5 decades, a big change has come. More parents prefer the performing arts as must have skills for their children. The above observation opens teaching as a career for a PG. More than anything, an MA in performing arts is always helpful in getting a job as cultural or literary/drama Instructor.

An MA in performing arts (Theater & Television) carries serious concerns over careers. The candidates do need to carry the theatre activities demo. We also see healthy opportunities after doing a PG degree in Film-TV Production which shows India respects theatre people always. The digital learning has caused in turn a benefit in the mind of the user. There are good prospects for the above-mentioned degrees. However, Theater and Television channels are easier to put before the selectors.

Q:   What is the scope of performing arts?
A:

In performing arts, you have different specialisation like dance, drama, music, etc. According to your course you have core subjects. Majoring in performing arts involves study that integrates the overlapping fields of drama, music and dance practices. Even when students specialize in one of the three areas, they will take courses in the other performance arts disciplines as well, as well as taking some general education courses.

Performing arts are all pervading bringing colour and joy to numerous festivals and ceremonies, and reaffirming the faith of the people in their heritage. These facets have been responsible for sustaining the long continuities of ancient traditions. They are the link between the past and the present. It thus exemplifies the complex, organic interaction of all aspects of life implicit in all tribal and folk art forms; art is not seen as something apart from life, a mere ornamentation or entertainment, but as an intrinsic part of it.

A performing arts B.A. Programme may include courses in the following subject areas:

  • Music performance
  • Theatre history
  • Dance and culture
  • Musical theatre
  • Dance technique
  • Dramatic literature

The Courses in Performing Arts include:- 

  • B.A. (Music Tabla)
  • B.A. (Theatre)
  • B.A. (Music Vocal)
  • BPA (Music Tabla)
  • BPA (Theatre)

Following are the Career opportunity:-

  • Actor
  • Community arts worker
  • Dancer
  • Dramatherapist
  • Music therapist
  • Theatre director

Thes are the Top Colleges for Performing Arts:-

  1. Loyola College, Chennai
  2. Christ University, Bangalore
  3. Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar
  4. St. Xavier's College, Mumbai
  5. K. J Somaiya College of Arts and Commerce, Mumbai.

Important FAQs related to MPA

Important FAQs related to MPA:

Q:   I want to pursue MPA from IGNOU. What is the scope of MPA? Can I get a job in government or private sector?
A:

The administration is required in every organization, either government or any private and MNC. MPA helps you to acquire the knowledge of administration policy, how to apply, what different problems faced by the organization in different aspects and how to handle it and so on. You must pursue the course and definitely will get a better job with enough facilities both in government, private or any MNC.

Q:   What are the benefits of performing arts course?
A:

Communication and teamwork abilities can be enhanced of a person by taking courses in the performing arts. As you will gain knowledge on how to collaborate with others to put on a performance. Plus, you will also discover efficient ways to interact with your audience. Your social skills will be strengthened by studying performing arts classes. You will pick up social skills, relationship-building techniques, and teamwork abilities.

Hope this helps!!!

Q:   What jobs can an MPA degree get you?
A:

A Master of Public Administration also known as MPA degree can lead to a number of job opportunities in the public, nonprofit and even private sectors. You can check out the typical career paths for those having an MPA degree in the table below:

Job TitleDescription
Government AdministratorManaging programs, policies, and public services in government agencies.
Nonprofit ManagerLeading nonprofit organizations, overseeing operations and fundraising.
Policy AnalystAnalyzing public policies, proposing improvements, and providing research.
Urban PlannerPlanning land use strategies, transportation systems, and community facilities for sustainable urban development.
International Aid WorkerManaging aid programs, coordinating humanitarian efforts worldwide.
Healthcare AdministratorOverseeing healthcare facilities, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance.
Public Relations ManagerHandling communication strategies, managing public perception.
Environmental PolicyDeveloping policies for environmental conservation and sustainability.

Hope this helps!!!

Q:   What is a MPA Kathak Course?
A:

MPA in Kathak full form is Master of Performing Arts in Kathak. It is a 2 years Master's degree which teaches the students all the aspects of Kathak dance that 2 years that include choreography, musicology, and dance iconography.

Q:   Is performing arts good for career?
A:

Jobs which are directly related to a performing arts degree are actor, community arts worker, dancer, music therapist or theatre director. It can become a great career for you if you are a creative person. Performing arts tends to include a wide range of spealisations which are acting, dance, voice, physical theatre, music theatre, sound design and digital video.

Hope this helps!!!

Popular MPA (Master of Performing Arts) Specializations

Following are the most popular MPA (Master of Performing Arts) Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

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