The Higher Education Review

The Visual and Performing Arts Department plays a vital role in offering a top-tier educational experience to students from various backgrounds. At Mangalayatan University, this department equips students with essential skills and knowledge, fosters creativity, and ensures they have access to important resources and opportunities. This approach paves the way for fulfilling career paths, allowing graduates to excel in their fields and make significant contributions to the arts and society. Mangalayatan University exemplifies this vision, offering quality education to all students and fostering rewarding career opportunities.

Founded in 2007, Mangalayatan University embarked on its mission to provide quality education with a professional edge. The initial courses included engineering, management, pharmacy, biotechnology, agriculture, journalism, and education, setting a robust foundation for the institution's growth. In 2019, the university expanded its horizon by introducing medical courses, further cementing its position as a comprehensive educational hub.

Enhancing Quality in Fine Arts Education
The Department of Visual and Performing Arts offers courses like Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and PhD programs. The BFA program, a four-year course included specializations in visual art disciplines like applied arts, painting, and sculpture as well as performing art disciplines like Hindustani vocal and Instrumental music (Classical Guitar, Sitar, Tabla).

By 2020, the institution revamped its curriculum to better align with industry demands. Mangalayatan University’s BFA program now provides a comprehensive and holistic approach that ensures students gain practical skills in commercial and computer design, equipping them for successful careers in various industries. While bridging the gap between education and industry, preparing students for the professional world is a challenge faced by educational institutions globally.

Speaking more on this, Dr. Poonam Rani, Head of the Visual and Performing Arts Department says, “At Mangalayatan University, we address professional world challenges by fostering an environment conducive to creativity and learning.

Our Visual and Performing Arts department is housed in a dedicated building, ensuring students have a peaceful space to create, innovate, and practice. Our labs and studios remain accessible to hostel students even after working hours, allowing them to work on projects with special permission.”

Mangalayatan University collaborates with renowned artists and professionals who bring real-world experience to the students. These experts offer practical insights and guidance, preparing students for careers in national modern art galleries, and performance spaces.

Unique Course Offerings for Professional Success
Mangalayatan University's fine arts programs stand out due to their unique structure and practical focus. The curriculum includes comprehensive training in commercial art, computer design, Photoshop, Corel Draw, and Illustrator. These skills are integrated into the coursework, eliminating the need for additional training and ensuring students are well-prepared for the job market.

The approach to education extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing the importance of outdoor study, gallery visits, and historical site tours, providing students with a well-rounded learning experience. This holistic education model helps students overcome any hesitation, encouraging their all-around development and fostering creativity.

The quality of education at Mangalayatan University is upheld by its qualified and experienced faculty members. The department boasts five faculty members, including three with doctorates and two with MPhil degrees. These faculty members are not only academicians but also active artists, bringing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience to the students. Furthermore, Mangalayatan University's infrastructure supports hands-on training, featuring two studios dedicated to music and sculpture, along with two theory classrooms and a large art gallery.

This gallery showcases students' work and provides exposure to external artists. The facilities include five computer labs; ensuring students have access to the necessary tools for their creative pursuits.

Scholarships & Industry-Academia Partnerships
Scholarships play a crucial role in making world-class education accessible. Mangalayatan University offers various scholarship opportunities to support deserving students, enabling them to pursue their academic and professional goals. Additionally, the university's strong industry-academia partnerships ensure that the curriculum remains relevant to industry needs. Collaborations with other universities and organizations provide students with valuable exposure through workshops, lectures, and practical training.

”Mangalayatan University collaborates with renowned artists & professionals who bring real-world experience to the students”

Looking ahead, Mangalayatan University's journey, which began in 2007, has been a rewarding experience. The fine arts department fosters a close-knit community where faculty and students share a strong emotional bond. The university's administration is highly supportive, ensuring a conducive environment for both academic and personal growth. Faculty members accompany students to events and competitions, providing guidance and support every step of the way.

The vision for the next five years includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art theatre studio and a dedicated dance studio. These facilities will further enhance the performing arts programs, allowing students to explore and excel in theatre arts and dance. The goal is to provide students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for successful careers in media, television, and beyond.

In conclusion, Mangalayatan University is committed to providing quality education in visual and performing arts. Its innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and robust infrastructure ensure students are well-equipped to meet industry demands and achieve professional success. As the university continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to nurturing creativity, fostering talent, and contributing to the advancement of fine arts education in India.