Overview
The MA in Dance is a postgraduate program designed for individuals passionate about deepening their understanding and practice of various dance forms. This course delves into dance theory, choreography, performance, history, and criticism, preparing students for advanced careers in the performing arts.
Quick Highlights
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Level | Masters Degree |
| Eligibility | Bachelor's Degree in Dance or equivalent |
| Entrance Exam | University specific entrance tests, auditions |
| Avg Fees | INR 20,000 - 1,00,000 per year |
| Sarkari Jobs | Limited |
Why Study This Course?
Market Demand:
Moderate/10
- Develop advanced technical proficiency and artistic expression in dance.
- Gain in-depth knowledge of dance history, theory, and cultural contexts.
- Enhance choreographic and directorial skills for creating original works.
- Network with leading choreographers, dancers, and educators in the field.
Who should study?
This program is ideal for graduates who have completed a Bachelor's degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or a related discipline and wish to pursue a specialized, advanced study in dance. It suits individuals aspiring to become professional dancers, choreographers, dance educators, critics, researchers, or arts administrators.
Eligibility & Admission
Minimum Qualification:
A Bachelor's degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or an equivalent degree from a recognized university is typically required. Some institutions may consider candidates with a strong background in a specific dance form even without a formal degree, subject to an audition.
Entrance Exams
| Exam Name |
Conducting Body |
| University Entrance Test |
Individual Universities/Institutes |
Top Institutes
Selection Criteria:
Academic Merit (Bachelor's marks), Entrance Exam performance, Audition scores, Portfolio review, and Personal Interview are common criteria.
Government Hubs
| Government Institutes |
| Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Delhi |
| University Departments of Dance in Central Universities |
Notable Private Hubs
| Government Institutes |
| Kalakshetra Foundation, Chennai |
| Nrityagram Dance Village, Karnataka (various affiliations) |
| Prakriti School of Performing Arts, Mumbai |
| Various private dance academies offering MA level programs |
Top Cities Offering This Course
New Delhi
Chennai
Mumbai
Bengaluru
Kolkata
Chandigarh
Career Opportunities
Private Sector Scope
Top Industries: Performing Arts Companies,
Dance Studios and Academies,
Event Management Companies,
Film and Television Industry,
Theatre Productions,
NGOs focused on Arts and Culture
| Role | Industry | Starting Salary (INR/Month) |
|---|
| Choreographer | Film, Theatre, Dance Companies | 30,000 - 60,000 |
| Dancer | Dance Companies, Entertainment | 25,000 - 50,000 |
| Dance Instructor | Studios, Academies | 20,000 - 40,000 |
| Arts Administrator | Organizations, Companies | 35,000 - 65,000 |
Government Sector Jobs
Graduates are eligible for exams conducted by:
Cultural Ministries (e.g., Ministry of Culture),
University Departments of Dance,
Government-run Cultural Organizations (e.g., Sangeet Natak Akademi),
State Academies of Arts
| Role | Ministry/Department | Salary (INR/Month) |
|---|
| Dance Officer | Ministry of Culture | 50,000 - 80,000 |
| Lecturer/Professor (Dance) | University/College | 40,000 - 70,000 |
| Program Coordinator | Cultural Organizations | 45,000 - 75,000 |
IndCareer Editorial Take
Ideal Candidate:
A dedicated individual with a strong foundation in dance, excellent physical coordination, creative thinking, a passion for performance and teaching, and a desire for scholarly inquiry into the art form.
Critical Checks before Admission:
- Confirm the specific dance styles and theoretical approaches covered.
- Investigate faculty expertise and industry connections.
- Understand the structure and requirements of the final project or thesis.
- Inquire about performance opportunities and collaborations.
Common Misconceptions:
That MA Dance is solely for aspiring performers, overlooking its significant scope in choreography, academic research, cultural studies, and arts administration.
State-Specific Note:
While MA Dance programs are not as widespread as in other arts, states with strong cultural traditions and dedicated arts institutions often offer specialized courses. Major metropolitan cities tend to have the highest concentration of such programs.
Content Accuracy: This content is
curated by experts and verified against current educational standards. While we strive for
accuracy, fees and admission criteria may vary by institute. Please verify with official
sources.
