The Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University – Comprehensive Details

A distinguished state university in Chennai, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University is devoted exclusively to preserving India's cultural legacy via instruction in music, fine arts, dance, theater, and visual arts. The university, which was founded in 2013 by the Tamil Nadu government, is essential to the state's efforts to advance education in both classical and modern art.

The late Chief Minister Dr. J. Jayalalithaa, who made significant contributions to Tamil art and culture, is honored by the university's name. It functions under the Tamil Nadu Department of Art and Culture and is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

Courses Offered

ProgramSpecializationsDuration
M.A. (Music)Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mridangam, Nagaswaram2 Years
M.A. (Dance)Bharatanatyam2 Years
M.F.A. (Fine Arts)Painting, Visual Communication Design2–3 Years
Diploma CoursesMusic Therapy, Music Engineering, Folk Music1–2 Years
Certificate CoursesFolk Music, Music Therapy, Instrumental Music6 Months – 1 Year
Ph.D. ProgramsMusic, Dance, Fine ArtsMinimum 3 Years

Colleges on Campus and Affiliated

The historic Brodie's Castle campus in Adyar, Chennai, serves as the university's headquarters. Additionally, it is affiliated with a number of well-known government organizations around Tamil Nadu.

Affiliated CollegesLocation
Government College of MusicChennai
Government Fine Arts CollegeChennai
Government College of Architecture and SculptureMamallapuram
Government Music CollegeMadurai
Government Music CollegeCoimbatore
Government Music CollegeThanjavur

Admission Procedure for 2025

  • PG and M.F.A. Programs: Performance-based selection or an aptitude exam and interview are used.
  • Courses for diplomas and certificates are merit-based; depending on the course, an audition may be necessary.
  • Ph.D. Admission: Through university-conducted entrance exams and interviews.

Eligibility Criteria

ProgramEligibility
PG CoursesBachelor’s degree in Music/Fine Arts or equivalent
Diploma10th / 12th pass or equivalent
Ph.D.Postgraduate degree in relevant discipline

Why Pick This University?

The only state-level university in India exclusively focused on music and the arts.

  • Heritage campus with a rich cultural heritage setting.
  • curriculum that is in line with both contemporary and classic art styles.
  • affiliation with leading Tamil Nadu art and music universities.
  • provides unique and specialized programs in folk arts and music therapy.

Method of Instruction

  • Regular (full-time)
  • Weekend (for professionals who work part-time)
  • Distance/Online (choose diploma/certificate programs)

Opportunities for Careers

  • Classical Instrumentalist or Vocalist
  • Performer of Folk Dance or Bharatanatyam
  • Art Instructor or Scholar
  • Cultural Consultant or Music Therapist
  • Creative Director or Designer for Fine Arts
  • Investigating or studying ethnomusicology
     

Opportunities for Higher Education

  • Ph.D. in Fine Arts, Dance, or Music
  • Performing Arts Fellowships
  • Graduate degrees in art conservation or musicology
  • Programs at International Art Institutes or Conservatories