Accademia Costume e Moda
Rome, Italy
Accademia Costume & Moda
Rome, Italy
Founded
1964
Institution Type
Private (Non-Profit)
Students
~500
Placement Rate
85%+
Discover Accademia Costume & Moda: Italy's Premier Fashion and Costume Academy
Discover Accademia Costume & Moda: Italy's Premier Fashion and Costume Academy
Accademia Costume & Moda (ACM) was founded in 1964 in Rome by Rosana Pistolese, a renowned costume and fashion historian, designer, and costume designer for theater, television, and cinema. Established under the auspices of the Italian Ministry of Labor and Social Security and with the patronage of the Municipality of Rome and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, ACM quickly became a cultural reference point for training in fashion and costume.
Today, ACM is run by the third generation of the founder's family and operates campuses in both Rome and Milan. The academy offers courses legally recognized by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) within the Higher Artistic Education system (AFAM), and all programs carry ECTS credits recognized internationally.
ACM is ranked among the top 3 fashion schools in the world by the Business of Fashion (BoF) 2019 report, receiving the maximum 4 Badges of Excellence for both its undergraduate and graduate Fashion Design categories. Its alumni include former Gucci Creative Directors Alessandro Michele and Frida Giannini, Oscar-winning makeup artist Manlio Rocchetti, and many other leading professionals in the global fashion and entertainment industries.
Key Milestones
- 1964: Founded in Rome by Rosana Pistolese under the patronage of the Municipality of Rome and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion.
- 1970: Formally recognized as a non-profit association by Presidential Decree (D.P.R. n.620/1970), becoming Accademia di Costume e di Moda Ente Morale.
- 2019: Ranked among the top 3 fashion schools in the world by Business of Fashion (BoF), receiving 4 Badges of Excellence for both BA and MA Fashion Design courses.
- 2020: Opened a second campus in Milan, expanding the academy's academic offerings and geographic reach across Italy.
Academic Structure and Programs at Accademia Costume & Moda
Academic Structure and Programs at Accademia Costume & Moda
Accademia Costume & Moda offers a comprehensive range of programs across fashion design, costume design, styling, communication, and management. All undergraduate and postgraduate programs are accredited by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) and carry ECTS credits, ensuring international recognition and transferability.
Fashion Design
The Fashion Design department is the academy's flagship area, combining Italian craftsmanship traditions with contemporary design innovation. Students develop a personal creative identity through hands-on atelier work and industry-led projects.
- BA in Costume & Fashion (3 years)
- Master in Alta Moda / Fashion Design (1 year)
- MA in Costume & Alta Moda – Couture Design (2 years)
Styling & Communication
This department trains future fashion editors, stylists, and communication professionals. Courses integrate visual storytelling, digital media, and curatorial approaches to fashion communication.
- BA in Fashion Editor: Styling & Communication (3 years)
- Master in Fashion Communication & Art Direction (1 year)
- Specialization Course in Fashion Marketing & Advertising
Accessories & Jewellery Design
Focused on leather goods, footwear, eyewear, and jewellery, this department provides intensive practical training in prototype construction and product development, often in collaboration with major luxury houses.
- Master in Accessories Design (1 year)
- MA in Accessories & Jewellery Design (2 years)
- Specialization Course in Jewellery & Bijou Design
Costume Design & Performing Arts
Drawing on Rome's rich theatrical and cinematic heritage, this department prepares costume designers for film, television, theater, opera, and ballet productions. Students study historical costume, materials, and scenic design.
- Master in The Art & Craft of the Costume Designer for Opera and Ballet (1 year)
- BA in Costume & Fashion – Costume Design Track (3 years)
- Specialization Course in Costume Design
Cinema & Filmmaking
Developed in partnership with Ars Academy Research, this department addresses the growing demand for professionals in filmmaking, TV production, multimedia communication, animation, and visual arts.
- BA in Cinema & Filmmaking: Media Design & Multimedia Arts (3 years)
- Specialization Course in Digital Communication
- Summer Course: Introduction to Fashion Communication & Styling
Textile & Knitwear Innovation
This department focuses on materials research, textile innovation, and creative knitwear design. Students explore the intersection of traditional Italian textile excellence and cutting-edge fabric technologies.
- Master in Fabrics Innovation Design (1 year)
- Master in Creative Knitwear Design (1 year)
- Specialization Course in 3D Draping
Admission Requirements for Accademia Costume & Moda
Admission Requirements for Accademia Costume & Moda
Undergraduate (BA – 3 Years)
- EducationHigh school diploma (12 years of schooling minimum)
- Language (Italian-taught)Italian B2 level proficiency
- PortfolioCreative portfolio demonstrating artistic aptitude
- Age RequirementMinimum 18 years old
- ApplicationOnline application via the official ACM website
Graduate (Master / MA)
- EducationBachelor's degree or equivalent
- LanguageEnglish or Italian B1–B2 level (IELTS accepted)
- PortfolioProfessional or academic portfolio required
- CV / ResumeUpdated curriculum vitae with relevant experience
- MotivationStatement of purpose or motivational letter
Applications are generally accepted on a rolling basis from January through July for the September intake.
The primary academic year begins in September for all undergraduate and most graduate programs.
Some Master of Arts programs, including the 2-year MA in Costume & Alta Moda, begin in February.
Short introductory summer courses of 1-2 weeks are available during the summer period for prospective students.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Accademia Costume & Moda
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Accademia Costume & Moda
Accademia Costume & Moda is a private non-profit institution. Tuition fees vary by program level and student citizenship. Students from EU/EEA countries and select nations (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, San Marino) pay EU rates, while all other international students pay non-EU rates.
| Fee Component | EU Students | Non-EU Students |
|---|---|---|
| BA Enrollment Fee (annual) | EUR 2,500 | EUR 2,500 |
| BA Tuition Fee (annual) | EUR 5,500 | Contact university for current data |
| Academic Master (1-year total) | EUR 11,000 – EUR 15,000 | EUR 24,000 |
| Master of Arts (2-year total) | Contact university for current data | Contact university for current data |
| Total | Approx. EUR 16,000 (BA 3-year total, EU) | Contact university for current data |
ACM Undergraduate Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships available for all Bachelor of Arts programs including Costume & Fashion, Fashion Editor, Styling & Communication, Pattern Cutting, and Fashion Management.
- Type: Merit-based tuition reduction
- Eligibility: All BA program applicants
- Application: Through ACM admissions office
ACM Graduate Scholarships
All 1-year Academic Master programs are eligible for graduate scholarship consideration. Additional external scholarships such as the Fulbright U.S. Student Program may also apply.
- Type: Merit-based tuition reduction
- Eligibility: All Master's program applicants
- External Options: Fulbright, Studyportals, and other third-party scholarships
Campus and Facilities at Accademia Costume & Moda
Campus and Facilities at Accademia Costume & Moda
Accademia Costume & Moda's historic Rome campus is housed in an early 20th century building designed by architect Vincenzo Fasolo, overlooking the Tiber River and located directly opposite Castel Sant'Angelo, just steps from Piazza Navona in the heart of Rome. A second Rome campus opened in 2024, and a Milan campus has been operational since 2020.
The main campus is a beautifully restored 1925 building featuring large design ateliers, panoramic terraces, and dedicated fashion and costume laboratories.
The academy features fashion and costume laboratories with industrial sewing machines, professional ironing systems, mannequins, leather-working equipment, and a fully equipped computer lab with MAC stations.
The historic BEA library and archive holds over 4,500 monographic volumes and 12,000 magazine issues, including rare items such as the first issue of Harper's Bazaar and vintage Vogue editions.
Housing & Student Services
Accommodation
ACM does not provide on-campus housing. However, the academy partners with several housing providers to help students find accommodation near the Rome and Milan city centers.
- DoveVivo – furnished rooms and apartments
- Collegiate and Spotahome housing services
- Inlife, STURENT, and Dotstay options
Campus Resources
Students have access to specialized creative and digital resources that support their design practice and academic research throughout their studies.
- Adobe Creative Cloud and WGSN trend platform
- Shooting labs with professional lighting and backdrops
- Fabric Archive with textile samples from top Italian manufacturers
Student Life at Accademia Costume & Moda
Student Life at Accademia Costume & Moda
Student life at ACM is shaped by Rome's vibrant cultural landscape and the academy's intimate, studio-based learning environment. With approximately 500 students across Rome and Milan campuses, ACM fosters close mentorship and a diverse international community that enriches the creative experience.
Rome: A Living Classroom for Fashion and Design
Rome: A Living Classroom for Fashion and Design
Rome – The Eternal City
Rome is one of the world's most historically and culturally rich cities, offering an unparalleled setting for studying fashion and costume design. The city's architecture, museums, galleries, and vibrant street life provide endless creative inspiration, while its position as a center of Italian haute couture and cinema adds direct professional relevance to students' education.
Cultural Heritage
Home to the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, Galleria Borghese, and countless churches and palazzos, Rome offers students an immersive experience in art, architecture, and cultural history spanning millennia.
Fashion Capital
Rome is home to legendary fashion houses including Valentino, Fendi, and Brioni, and hosts Altaroma fashion events, providing direct access to Italy's haute couture tradition.
Cinema & Performing Arts
With Cinecittà Studios and a thriving theater and opera scene, Rome is a global hub for the performing arts and film industry, offering unique opportunities for costume design students.
Quality of Life
Rome offers a Mediterranean climate, world-renowned cuisine, excellent public transportation, and a welcoming international community, making it an attractive destination for students from around the globe.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Industry Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
ACM's admissions office provides guidance on obtaining an Italian student visa and the Permit to Stay (Permesso di Soggiorno). Partner services like Eduservices can assist with Declaration of Presence, fiscal code, and bank account setup.
While undergraduate programs are primarily in Italian, many Master's programs are taught in English or with consecutive translation. Foundation and preparatory courses are available for students who need additional language preparation.
The dedicated Careers & Placement Office supports students from portfolio development through interview preparation and job placement, monitoring industry needs and matching graduates with leading fashion houses and entertainment companies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Accademia Costume & Moda: Rankings and Recognition
Accademia Costume & Moda: Rankings and Recognition
Accademia Costume & Moda is internationally recognized as one of the top fashion schools in the world. While it is a specialized fashion academy and does not appear in traditional comprehensive university rankings (QS World, THE, US News), it holds prestigious positions in fashion-specific global rankings and has received numerous industry accolades.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Fashion Design (Undergraduate) | Business of Fashion (BoF) | Top 3 Worldwide / No. 1 in Italy |
| Fashion Design (Graduate) | Business of Fashion (BoF) | Top 3 Worldwide / Only Italian school with 4 Badges |
| LVMH Graduate Prize | LVMH | 3-time winner (2016, 2018, 2019) – Only Italian school |
| Costume Design & Performing Arts | Industry Recognition | Alumni include Oscar and David di Donatello winners |
Features
Accademia Costume e Moda is a prestigious private fashion and costume design academy in Rome, Italy, founded in 1964. It offers specialized undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fashion design, costume design, accessories, styling, and fashion communication. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning, creative development, and industry connections, providing students with workshops, professional studios, and collaboration opportunities with Italian and international fashion houses. Its programs are designed to combine artistic vision with technical skills, preparing graduates for careers in fashion, film, theater, and luxury industries. The academy also supports career placement and networking through partnerships with major brands.
Work While Studying
Students can work during their studies, with flexible schedules accommodating part-time employment.
Co-op/Internship Participation
The Careers & Placement Office supports students in securing internships, collaborating with companies to match students with suitable opportunities.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - September
Location
Via della Rondinella, 2, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
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