Performing Arts: Courses, Admission 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Job Profiles and Salary
Performing Arts courses are available at various educational levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. programs. Some of the courses offered include the Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) and the Master of Performing Arts (MPA). These programs provide a range of career opportunities in the creative sector, including positions for Dancers, Choreographers, and Actors. The fees for Performing Arts courses typically range from INR 50,000 to INR 6 lakh.
The course has different Performance art-related subjects, including Music, Dance, Acting, and Theatre. Apart from the course curriculum, students are also taught about various theories related to art programming, organizational management, and curatorship.
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There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.There are different careers one can pursue after the Performing Arts course, including Actor, Dancer, Musical Theatre Performer, and Arts Administrator. The average salary ranges from INR 3.6 - 10.5 lakh. Some of the top companies recruiting Performing Arts candidates include HT Media, Universal Arts, and Saregama India.
Q: What is meant by Music course?
Since, the dawn of civilisation, music has been considered as an inborn talent of man, which can be vocal and instrumental. Music is sung or played for self-expression, self-satisfaction, offering worship, and entertaining others. Instrumental music refers to the music produced by instruments like guitar sarod, sitar, piano, keyboard, tabla, flute, violin, etc.
Q: What is the fees required to pursue a course in Theatre?
Hi Jeenu,
The fees required to pursue a course in theatre can range from 10,000 to 1.5 lakhs depending upon the type of course i.e part time certificate course, weekend workshop, Advance weekend programme etc.
All the best!
Q: What is a BPA Course?
Bachelor of Performing Arts is a three to four-year undergraduate program that concentrates on three primary components of the performing and entertainment industries: music, dance, and theatre.
Bachelor of Performing Arts graduates frequently achieve success by fusing their creative talents with business, originality, and a love of the arts and entertainment sector. The course assists students in honing their skills and becoming successful artists in any of the three distinct genres of performing arts: dance, theatre, and music.
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Performing Arts Course Details: Highlights
Check key points related to various courses in Performing Arts in the table below which contains the highlights on course level, course duration, entrance exams, average salaries, course fees, top recruiters, and top job profiles.
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Candidates can refer to highlights for a quick reference:
| Highlights |
Details |
|---|---|
| Performing Arts Course Level |
Certificate, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Doctorate |
| Performing Arts Eligibility |
Certificate: Class 12 UG: Class 12 along with entrance examination PG: Graduation in any discipline or Theatre or Drama |
| Performing Arts Duration |
PH.D: Completion of Post graduation degree. Certificate: 6 months - 1 year UG: 3 - 4 years PG: 2 years Ph.D: 3 – 5 years |
| Performing Arts Examination Type |
Semester-wise |
| Performing Arts Fee Range |
INR 30000-INR 10 lakh |
| Performing Arts Top Colleges |
Aligarh Muslim University, Banaras Hindu University, Asian Academy of Film and Television, World University of Design, etc. |
| Performing Arts Average Starting Salary |
INR 2 LPA-INR 10 LPA |
| Performing Arts Job Scope |
Actor, Drama Artist, Choreographer, Musician, Therapist, Theatre Director, Cinematographer, Community Arts Worker, Theatre Teacher, etc |
| Performing Arts Entrance Exams |
CUET, UGAT, JMI Entrance Exam, CUET-PG |
| Performing Arts Top Recruiters |
Film and Television Institute of India, Balaji Telefilms, YRF Studios, Universal Arts, Iris Media |
Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.
Performing Arts Courses Admission 2025
Here is the general step-by-step guide for the Admission to Performing Arts Courses:
- Step-1 Review the program: First review the curriculum, specializations, faculty, and facilities after that check academic qualifications, entrance exam requirements, and any additional criteria.
- Step-2 Prepare Required Documents: Prepare all the documents beforehand so that no last-minute issues occur. The documents include academic mark sheets, certificates, Exam Scores, and letters of recommendation.
- Step-3 Fill out the Application Form and Pay the Fees: Complete the application form provided by the institution. This may be done online or on paper and pay any required application fees.
- Step-4 Entrance Exams (if applicable): If the program requires an entrance exam, such as a specific university's test, register and prepare for it. Take the exam then wait for the result.
- Step-5 Submit Application: Submit all required documents along with the completed application form. Always ensure that all documents have been received and verify the status of your application.
- Step-6 Await Admission Decision: Monitor the admission portal or your email for updates on the results. If accepted an official offer letter will be provided by the university.
- Step-7 Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your intention to enroll in the program and Pay the required enrollment or tuition Fees.
- Step-8 Prepare for the Start of Classes: Follow instructions for course registration and orientation. If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus housing and attend any orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with the campus and program.
- Step-9 Start Classes: Attend classes and start your academic journey.
Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program as they can vary. Some programs may also have additional steps or unique requirements.
Performing Arts Course Eligibility Criteria
To achieve success in the field of Performing Arts, candidates should possess imaginative, design, artistic, communication, creative, drawing, and interpersonal skills, among others. Consequently, individuals who have these talents can pursue various courses in Performing Arts. Candidates can pursue various courses such as a Bachelors in Performing Arts (BPA ), Masters in Performing Arts (MPA ), Music Courses, Acting Courses, Certificate Courses related to Performing Arts, Theatre Courses, Ph.D in Performing Arts, etc. to make their career in the field of Visual Art.
Q: Why pursue Master of Performing Arts (MPA) Course?
A postgraduate degree in the performing arts is called an MPA. It is a two-year specialisation course in dance, drama, music, or theater. The history, theory, and practice of the performing arts are frequently the main topics of the MPA degree. Additionally, they give students chances to perform, instruct, and conduct research. Students can benefit greatly from this experience as they get ready for a career in the performing arts.
The Master of Performing Arts (M.P.A.) is a graduate degree that can be pursued by anyone who has a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as dance, drama, music, or theater. However, some schools may also consider applicants with a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field, as long as they have the necessary talent and experience. Therefore, candidates must have a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as dance, drama, music, or theater. They must also have a portfolio or audition demonstrating their talent and experience.
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.
Candidates also get a chance to practice in environments that are suitable for the performing arts. Students in several MPA programme have the chance to obtain experience in venues for the performing arts that are professionally run. This may be accomplished through internships, apprenticeships, or other chances to collaborate with experienced artists.
Students were also interested in topics related to MPA:
Q: What is Performing Arts and Visual Arts?
The Performing Arts can be defined as the arts that are performed for an audience such as music, dance, and drama. Meanwhile, Visual Arts is the art form created by artists using canvas, paint etc. to create physical or static art objects.Some of the examples of Fine Arts are Architecture, Painting, Sculpture, Performing Arts, Music, Photography, Poetry etc. Furthermore, it includes the Seven forms of Fine Arts which are Sculpture, Architecture, Literature, Performing, Painting, Music and Film.
Q: How can I get admission in DU to pursue music course?
Music is a vast subject. You will have to be very clear with the field. Research on different styles. Like Hindustani, classical, etc. make sure what you want to learn. and Go as per that. Also keep in mind a degree in Music might give you job opportunities but frankly it wont help you to go on Stage. All the best.
Q: What is the eligibility criteria for a masters' course in Music?
The candidate needs to have completed an undergraduate course in music (either vocal or instrumental). Candidates have to also appear for the various state-level or national-level entrance examinations in order to be eligible for the admission to MA course in Music. Those candidates who have also undergone honours in Music in BA Arts can also apply for MA Music. Therefore, it is extremely important for candidates to have a background in the field of Music in order to pursue a postgraduate course in the same field.
Q: What is the difference between Film Making and Theatre?
Filmmaking and theatre are both art forms that tell stories through the use of visual images and dialogue. However, there are some key differences between the two mediums.
| Criteria | Film Making | Theatre |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Technical aspects of filmmaking | Performance aspects of theatre |
| Job Profiles | Director, screenwriter, cinematographer, editor, etc. | Actor, director, playwright, etc. |
Q: Will I be eligible for the MPA course?
The eligibility requirements for a Master of Performing Arts (MPA) course vary depending on the university or institution. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in performing arts or a related field. They must have scored more than 55% in graduation. They should also possess score card of relevant entrance examination. Candidates can also bring recommendations from professors or other professionals in the performing arts. Lastly, candidates must demonstrate their skills through portfolio or through interview.
Below are some of the common eligibility criteria to pursue a Performing Arts Course:
| Course |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| UG Level |
|
| PG Level |
|
| Certificate-Level/Diploma |
|
| Ph.D Level |
|
Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute and may vary.
Performing Arts Entrance Exams 2025
Many colleges offering courses in Performing Arts require admissions to be based on entrance exams. These exams may be conducted by the college itself or may involve scores from national or state-level entrance examinations. Below are some popular entrance exams that aspiring students should consider for admission:
| Entrance Exam Name |
Entrance Exam Dates |
Entrance Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| IPU CET |
Apr '25 (Tentative) |
|
| CUET |
May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative) |
|
| UGAT |
Jun '25 (Tentative) |
|
| JMI Entrance Exam |
Apr '25 - May '25 (Tentative) |
|
| SET |
May '25 (Tentative) |
|
| PUBDET |
Jul '25 (Tentative) |
|
| WUD DAT |
May '25 |
|
| WWI Entrance Exam 2025 | Jan '25 (Tentative) | WWI 2025 Entrance Exam Schedule |
| IIMC Entrance Exam | Mar '25 (Tentative) | IIMC Entrance Exam Schedule |
| CUET-PG (for PG courses) |
March '25 |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam and may vary.
Performing Arts Course topics you might be interested in:
CUET Performing Arts Syllabus: Get Important Topics, Exam Pattern
How is CUET syllabus different from CBSE syllabus?
Performing Arts Syllabus
The syllabus of Performing Arts Course depends on the type of course UG, PG, and Certification as well as the specialization (Dancing, Acting, Kathak, Music, Choreography, etc.) that a candidate is pursuing.
However, Candidates can check the table below for subjects that are typically taught in Performing Arts.
UG level Course syllabus:
Given below are the core subjects that are generally taught in the Bachelor of Performing Arts or BPA , Dance, Theatre.
| BPA Subjects |
||
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Indian Theatre | Dramatic Literature – Modern Indian | Western Music |
| Dance Health & Fitness | Technique of Dance | Theatre Techniques and Designing |
| Role of Kathak in Bollywood and contemporary dance forms | Basic knowledge of instruments like Tabla and Harmonium |
Basics of Vocal Practice |
| Understanding costumes and jewelry used in Kathak | Theatre In Education | Film Theories |
| Indian Culture | Folk Theater Forms of India | Elementary Study of Hindustani Music |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
PG level Course syllabus:
The course curriculum of Masters of Performing Arts or MPA , Music, Dance, Acting are mentioned in detail below:
| MPA Syllabus |
||
|---|---|---|
| Performance of a Choice Raga and Performance of Other Genres | Theories of Acting | Music & Literature |
| Appreciation of Music | Analytical Study of Ragas and Talas | Dance in Sanskrit Treaties |
| Indian Aesthetics | Contemporary Indian Dance Framework | Improvisation, Mime, and Choreography |
| Concert Singing | Acting Grammar: Melodramatic and Method Acting | History of Indian Music |
| Overview of Kathak gharanas | Physical Exercise and Theatre Games | Usage of Technology in Dance |
| Traditional Folk Dances and Folk Theatre of North and South India | Classical Indian Theatre | Performing Arts -V (Musical Nukkad Play) |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
Students also liked these topics on the Performing Arts Course Syllabus:
Arts (Fine/Visual/Performing) Syllabus
Best Performing Arts Colleges in India
India is home to many good Colleges that are offering quality learning opportunities in their Performing Arts programs. Course Fees and placement opportunities are two important criteria considered while choosing a college for pursuing Performing Arts. There are many top government and private colleges which offer Performing Arts courses.
Best Government Colleges for Performing Arts in India
There are various Performing Arts Government Colleges in India that provide streams in Performing Arts such as Painting, Editing, Sculpture, Interior design, Ceramic, Metal Work, etc with lower fees. Here is the List of Best Government Colleges that provide Performing Arts Courses:
| Performing Art Government Colleges |
Performing Art Government College Fees |
|---|---|
| Banaras Hindu University | INR 2,400 - INR 6,250 |
| INR 10,000 |
|
| Delhi University | INR 480 |
| INR 10,800 |
|
| INR 45,600 |
|
| INR 1.4 Lakh |
|
| MSU | INR 20,600 |
| INR 30,850 |
|
| INR 3,200 - 22,000 |
|
| INR 14,900 - 22,400 |
|
| INR 4,800 - 43,900 |
|
| INR 2,400 |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
Best Private Colleges for Performing Arts in India
There are many Best Performing Arts Private Colleges in India which are renowned for their industry-oriented programs, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Candidates can check the list below for Private Colleges that provide Performing Arts Courses in India:
| Performing Art Private Colleges |
Performing Art Private College Fees |
|---|---|
| INR 2.4 Lakh - 2.6 Lakh |
|
| INR 50,000 |
|
| INR 1 Lakh |
|
| INR 1 Lakh |
|
| INR 1.6 Lakh |
|
| INR 1.2 Lakh |
|
| INR 28,000 |
|
| INR 4,000 |
|
| INR 2.7 Lakh |
|
| INR 80,000 |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
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Performing Arts Career: Scope, Job Profiles, Salary, Top Recruiters
Depending on their Performing Arts specialization, candidates can find employment in various sectors including Film Industry, Film Schools, digital media, academic institutions, television, music companies, and a lot more. Some of the popular job profiles for Performing Arts pass-outs include:
| Job Profile |
Job Description |
Average Annual 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 - 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 - 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 2 - 6.1 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 - 10 LPA |
| Screenwriter | A screenwriter is the writer of the script of a movie. A screenwriter creates the dialogue, characters, and storyline of a film script. | INR 2 - 8.1 LPA |
| Singer |
A singer is an Artist who performs music to live audiences and records songs for albums or movies. |
INR 3 - 12 LPA |
| Band Leader |
The work of a Band leader is to gather musicians for a band or ensemble, select or create material for them, and lead the group in performance while playing alongside them. |
INR 8.6 - 20.8 LPA |
| Lyricist |
They write songs with the help of their creative writing skills. |
INR 4 - 6.9 LPA |
| Dance Therapist |
Use Kathak movements as a form of therapy to improve mental and physical well-being. |
INR 2 - 8 LPA |
| Television Actor/Actress | Performs in TV series, and daily soaps | INR 2 - 6 LPA |
Note- The above salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Performing Art Top Recruiters
There are many career options available after finishing a degree in Performing Arts. Top recruiters include film agencies, dance schools, theatre companies, direction houses, production houses as well as museums and arts organizations. They hire skilled and trained Performing Arts graduates who possess relevant experience in their respective fields.
| Performing Arts Top Recruiters |
||
|---|---|---|
| Saregama India | Universal Arts | Sony Music India |
| Eros International | UTV Motion Pictures | Zee Music |
| HT Media | Iris Mediaworks | 94.3 RadioOne |
| Balaji Telefilms | T-Series | Yash Raj Music |
| Ministry of Culture, Government of India | Disney+Hotstar | National Centre for the Performing Arts |
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A Journalism and Mass communication graduate who has a passion for crafting information and creative content. Pallavi likes to spend her free time with musical harmony.