Maharashtra Overhauls Art Diploma Courses: New Duration And Eligibility Norms From 2025

In a major overhaul of its art education system, the state government has approved changes to the duration and admission eligibility criteria for Art Diploma Courses offered by the Maharashtra State Art Education Board. 

The reforms, announced via a Government Resolution (GR) issued on Friday, are set to take effect from the 2025-26 academic year and aim to align the curriculum with the National Education Policy 2020 while also boosting employment prospects for art students.

According to the revised norms, students who have passed their 10th Standard (S.S.C.) will be eligible for admission to eight key diploma programmes, each with a duration of three years (six semesters). These include Diplomas in Applied Art; Drawing and Painting; Sculpture and Modeling; Art and Craft–Interior Decoration; Art and Craft–Textile Design (Printing and Dyeing); Art and Craft–Textile Design (Weaving); Art and Craft–Ceramics and Pottery; and Art and Craft–Metal Craft.

The GR also introduces changes to other programmes. The Foundation Course has been renamed “Foundation Certificate in Art and Design” and will now be structured into two semesters over a one-year duration. Its eligibility remains at 10th Standard (S.S.C.) pass level. The Art Teacher Diploma course will continue to require 12th Standard (H.S.C.) qualification.

The government noted that “The courses conducted by the Maharashtra State Art Education Board have not been updated since 1977. Also, the duration and eligibility for admission to these courses are approximately 50 years old.” It added that the lack of curriculum updates has led to diminished career opportunities and a fall in student enrolment.

“If the Maharashtra State Art Education Board revises the duration and admission eligibility of the proposed courses, students will have better employment and entrepreneurship opportunities,” the resolution said.

There are no changes to the duration and eligibility criteria for the Diploma in Art Education and the Art Master’s Certificate (Part-Time/Vacation) courses.