AAFT University is inspired by creative talent and driven by artistic innovation, with a strong commitment to nurturing culturally aware, socially responsible practitioners and scholars who can respond to the evolving artistic landscape of the 21st century. Academic research forms the backbone of any leading university, and within the domain of Fine Arts, research becomes a powerful medium for inquiry, expression, and cultural documentation.

With this philosophy, AAFT pursues its Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programme in Fine Arts with rigor, depth, and creative seriousness. The university fosters a vibrant culture of artistic research that encourages students—right from the undergraduate level—to explore critical thinking, experimental practices, and interdisciplinary approaches, while understanding the historical, theoretical, and societal contexts of art.

The Ph.D. in Fine Arts is supported by well-equipped studios, research spaces, archives, and access to contemporary artistic practices. Research areas span visual arts, painting, sculpture, applied arts, art history, aesthetics, contemporary art practices, and interdisciplinary explorations rooted in culture and society.

The doctoral programme is broad-based and includes mandatory coursework, research methodology, and scholarly and/or practice-based research culminating in publications and a doctoral thesis or portfolio submission, as per university and UGC norms. Research facilities for the Ph.D. in Fine Arts are available under the School of Fine Arts and allied creative schools at AAFT.

The Ph.D. programme at AAFT is offered in both full-time and part-time modes, enabling scholars, educators, and practicing artists to pursue advanced research alongside their professional commitments.