Domus Academy
Italy
Domus Academy
Milano, Italy
Founded
1982
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
4,000+
International Students
90%+
Discover Domus Academy: Italy's Pioneering Design School
Discover Domus Academy: Italy's Pioneering Design School
Founded in 1982, Domus Academy is Italy's first postgraduate design school, established in Milan as an open project around the experience of Italian design and fashion. The founders, including Alessandro Mendini, Andrea Branzi, and Maria Grazia Mazzocchi of the Mazzocchi family (owners of Editoriale Domus), envisioned a school where students and faculty from around the world could meet and exchange ideas.
Domus Academy's pedagogical approach centres on its distinctive 'learning by designing' methodology, where students solve real-life design challenges through interdisciplinary workshops and collaborations with leading companies. The academy covers four main areas — Design, Fashion, Experience, and Business — and all programmes are recognised by MUR (Italian Ministry of University and Research).
Today, Domus Academy continues to involve top names in the design world as mentors and visiting professors, welcoming students from over 50 countries to its campus in Milan's vibrant Navigli district. The school has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Compasso d'Oro Award and the Special Badge of Excellence in Learning Experience from The Business of Fashion.
Key Milestones
- 1982: Founded as Italy's first postgraduate design school by the Mazzocchi family and leading Italian designers.
- 1994: Awarded the Compasso d'Oro for the quality of its teaching programmes and contributions to Italian design.
- 2009: Ranked by BusinessWeek as one of the top 30 design schools in the world for the third time.
- 2021: Launched Dual Award Master's programmes with British accreditation validated by Regent's University London.
Academic Programmes at Domus Academy
Academic Programmes at Domus Academy
Domus Academy offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across design, fashion, experience, and business. All programmes are recognised by MUR and combine academic rigour with real-world professional projects and company collaborations.
Design
The Design area focuses on product, interior, and interaction design, equipping students with innovative methodologies to create functional and aesthetically compelling solutions for contemporary challenges.
- Master in Product Design
- Master in Interior & Living Design
- Master in Interaction Design
Fashion
The Fashion area encompasses design, styling, and management programmes, preparing students for careers in one of the most dynamic global industries, with Milan as the ultimate backdrop.
- Master in Fashion Design
- Master in Fashion Styling & Visual Merchandising
- MA in Fashion: Design, Art & Technology
Business
The Business area bridges design thinking with management strategy, training future leaders to navigate the creative industries with both analytical and creative skills.
- Master in Business Design
- Master in Luxury Brand Management
- Master in Fashion Management
Experience
The Experience area explores service design, urban vision, and visual brand design, focusing on human-centred approaches to shaping environments, services, and brand identities.
- Master in Service Design
- Master in Urban Vision & Architectural Design
- Master in Visual Brand Design
2-Year Master of Arts Programmes
These internationally accredited 120 ECTS programmes offer an in-depth, research-driven education that combines advanced design expertise with creative leadership and strategic thinking.
- MA in Design Innovation
- MA in Fashion: Design, Art & Technology
- MA in Design: Leadership & Strategy
Bachelor of Arts Programmes
Domus Academy's 3-year undergraduate programmes (180 ECTS) provide a solid foundation in design and fashion, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on studio practice from the very first year.
- BA in Design
- BA in Fashion Design
- Semester Programmes in Design & Fashion
Admission Requirements for Domus Academy
Admission Requirements for Domus Academy
Undergraduate (BA Programmes)
- EducationValid Secondary School Diploma (12 years of previous education)
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.0 Academic or equivalent
- Application FeeEUR 100
- DocumentsDiploma, transcripts, personal statement (max 500 words)
- National ExamIf applicable, passing national test or final exam for higher education entry
Postgraduate (Master's Programmes)
- EducationBachelor's degree or Academic Diploma in a related field
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.0 (Academic Master's) / IELTS 5.5 (Dual Award Master's)
- PortfolioRequired for design programmes (not mandatory for Fashion Management, Luxury Brand Management, Business Design, Service Design)
- DocumentsDegree certificate, transcripts, CV, personal statement, portfolio (where applicable)
- Application FeeEUR 100
Applications accepted on a rolling basis for programmes starting in January/February. Apply early to secure your place.
Applications accepted on a rolling basis for programmes starting in September/October. Early application is recommended for visa processing.
Portfolio or project-based scholarship competitions are held throughout the year. Check the dedicated scholarship website for current deadlines.
Early Bird applicants to Master's programmes may receive a 10% reduction on tuition fees. Contact the university for the current deadline.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at Domus Academy
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at Domus Academy
Domus Academy offers a range of programme types, each with distinct fee structures for EU/Switzerland and Non-EU students. Fees listed below are for the 2026-27 academic year and include pre-enrollment and tuition costs.
| Programme Type | EU / Switzerland Students | Non-EU Students |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Year BA (per year) | EUR 12,800 | EUR 16,800 |
| 2-Year MA (per year) | EUR 17,200 | EUR 22,200 |
| Academic Master's (1 year, 60 ECTS) | EUR 23,900 | EUR 28,900 |
| Dual Award Master's (1 year, 90 ECTS) | EUR 27,900 | EUR 32,900 |
| Total | Varies by programme | Varies by programme |
Merit-Based Scholarship Competitions
Throughout the year, Domus Academy launches portfolio or project-based scholarship contests. Winners are selected through a merit-based ranking and can receive significant tuition reductions.
- Amount: EUR 5,500 – EUR 9,000 (varies by programme)
- Eligibility: All admitted students (BA and Master's programmes)
- Selection: Portfolio or project-based competition, merit-ranked
Early Bird Scholarship
Applicants who submit their applications before the Early Bird deadline can receive a 10% reduction on tuition fees for all Master's programmes.
- Discount: 10% tuition fee reduction
- Eligibility: All eligible Master's programme applicants
- Deadline: Contact the university for current Early Bird deadlines
Campus & Facilities at Domus Academy
Campus & Facilities at Domus Academy
Domus Academy's 13-building campus is located in Milan's historic Navigli canal district, shared with NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti). The campus is close to public transportation and within easy reach of Milan's city centre, historic monuments, and vibrant shopping streets.
The 13-building campus blends contemporary design with Milan's industrial heritage in the Navigli district.
State-of-the-art design laboratories equipped with the latest tools for prototyping, model-making, and creative experimentation.
A specialised library housing books and magazines on design, architecture, fashion, and business, plus access to online databases.
Housing & Student Services
Housing Service
Domus Academy offers a free Housing Service from the first day of enrollment to help students find accommodation in Milan through agreements with private landlords.
- Single or double rooms in shared apartments
- Full apartments and loft spaces available
- Estimated monthly living costs: EUR 1,350 – EUR 1,575
Campus Amenities
The campus features modern workstations, a dedicated Design Lab, a fine arts shop, a cafeteria, and an Italian Language Centre for international students.
- Workstations with latest design software
- IT help desk and wireless connectivity
- Health insurance assistance and medical centre agreements
Student Life at Domus Academy
Student Life at Domus Academy
With students from over 50 countries, Domus Academy offers a truly international and multicultural experience. The Student Life Office organises extracurricular activities, cultural events, and provides support for international students with bureaucratic matters.
Milan: The Global Capital of Design & Fashion
Milan: The Global Capital of Design & Fashion
Living & Studying in Milan
Milan is internationally recognised as the capital of fashion and design, home to major fashion houses, design studios, and cultural institutions. Studying at Domus Academy places you at the heart of this creative ecosystem, offering unparalleled access to industry events like Milan Design Week and Milan Fashion Week.
Design & Fashion Capital
Milan hosts the world-renowned Salone del Mobile, Milan Fashion Week, and Fuorisalone, providing students with direct exposure to global industry leaders and trends.
Navigli District
The campus is located in the charming Navigli canal district, known for its artistic atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, galleries, and a thriving community of creatives.
Cultural Heritage
From Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper to the Pinacoteca di Brera, Milan offers an extraordinary wealth of art, architecture, and cultural landmarks to inspire your studies.
Transport & Connectivity
Milan is well-connected by metro, tram, and bus networks. The campus is just a short tram ride from the city centre, and Milan's Malpensa and Linate airports connect you to all of Europe.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Where Domus Academy Alumni Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Upon enrollment confirmation, the Admissions Office assists students with the Italian student visa application process through the Universitaly platform managed by MUR. Students can extend their permit of stay to work in Italy for up to one year after graduation.
A free Housing Service is available from day one, helping students find accommodation through agreements with private landlords in Milan. Options include shared apartments, single rooms, and loft spaces.
Domus Academy has agreements with local medical centres and dentists, and the team can help students obtain health insurance in Italy. The Student Life Office also assists with bureaucratic matters.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Domus Academy Worldwide Rankings & Recognition
Domus Academy Worldwide Rankings & Recognition
Domus Academy has earned international recognition for the quality of its design and fashion programmes. The school is consistently featured among the top design institutions globally by leading ranking bodies and industry publications.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #62 (2026) |
| Fashion Design | CEOWORLD Magazine | Top 30 Worldwide (2025) |
| Interaction Design | Azure Magazine | Top programmes worldwide (2017) |
| Interior Design | Azure Magazine | Top 8 Interior Design Schools worldwide (2016) |
Features
The visionary school of design research and experience supporting the next-generation to be system game-changers and leaders of tomorrow, encouraging young talents to use imagination and creativity to shape the world and create the change.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - October
Location
Via Carlo Darwin, 20, 20143 Milano MI, Italy
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