Animation (Specialisation)
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti , Italy
Bachelor of Arts in Film and Animation – Animation Specialisation
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Animation
Program Overview: Animation Specialisation at NABA
The Bachelor of Arts in Film and Animation with an Animation Specialisation at NABA prepares artists and professionals in the field of audiovisual creations, with a particular focus on animation in all its traditional, contemporary, and future applications. This three-year program is offered at NABA's Milan and Rome campuses and is accredited by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), meaning your degree is recognized across the European Union.
The Animation Specialisation trains students in digital animation techniques including 2D animation, stop-motion, and foundational 3D animation. You will develop your storytelling abilities and personal artistic vision while gaining hands-on experience in character creation, world-building, and experimentation with animation language and styles for both artistic and professional applications.
NABA is Italy's largest private academy of fine arts and part of the GALILEO Global Education group. With over 6,000 students from approximately 100 countries, the academy provides a truly multicultural learning environment. The program benefits from prestigious industry partnerships, including Toon Boom Centre of Excellence status and Unreal Academic Partner Gold status, ensuring students work with industry-standard tools and technologies.
Key Program Highlights
- Toon Boom Centre of Excellence and Unreal Academic Partner Gold status, providing access to leading animation industry tools
- Hands-on training in 2D animation, stop-motion, and 3D animation with project-based learning from practicing professionals
- Degree accredited by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), recognized across the European Union
- Study in Milan or Rome with access to internship opportunities at major media and animation studios in Italy
Curriculum and Modules
The program develops over three years, beginning with a shared foundation in audiovisual languages and techniques before students choose the Animation Specialisation in the second year. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical, project-based learning, culminating in a diploma thesis project that showcases your unique artistic and professional identity.
History of Cinema and Digital Cultures
Core ModuleExplores the evolution of storytelling from oral traditions through cinema and television to the digital age, providing critical analysis of multimedia arts and their cultural influence in social and aesthetic terms.
Animation and Compositing Fundamentals
Core ModuleIntroduces the foundational tools for creating short animations in 2D, covering digital graphics, audiovisual editing, and compositing basics essential for all animation disciplines.
Storytelling and Screenwriting
Core ModuleDevelops skills in multimedia dramaturgy, narrative structure, and scriptwriting for animated content, enabling students to create and develop original scripts from concept to final draft.
2D and 3D Animation Techniques
Specialisation ModuleFocuses on advanced 2D animation, stop-motion techniques, and foundational 3D animation skills including modelling, rendering, and compositing of digital objects and visual effects.
Character Design and World-Building
Specialisation ModuleCovers the creation of original characters and immersive worlds, emphasizing art direction, visual development, and experimentation with diverse animation language styles.
Diploma Thesis Project
Final Year ModuleStudents develop a structured and sophisticated animation project over the entire third year, applying research methods to conceive original subjects that represent their unique stylistic and expressive identity.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Animation Specialisation at NABA depends on fulfilling minimum educational and language requirements, as well as passing an admissions test that evaluates your creativity, motivation, and artistic potential. NABA values attitude and passion alongside formal qualifications, so a strong creative profile can support your application even if you lack specific preparation in some areas. Contact Uni4Edu to guide you through the entire application process.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary School DiplomaItalian maturità or equivalent international secondary/high school diploma (minimum 12 years of education)
- Admissions TestArtistic statement and project assignment or portfolio evaluation assessing creativity, attitude, and project skills
- PortfolioDigital, paper, or web-based works evaluated on aesthetic awareness, composition, drawing, color perception, technique, and originality
- Motivation AssessmentDemonstrated enthusiasm and passion for animation, with strong consideration given to vocational aptitude
- Diploma ValidationNon-Italian diplomas must be legalized, translated, and notarized by the Italian embassy or consulate in the issuing country
Language Requirements
- English-taught ProgramB2 level (CEFR) demonstrated via IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent certificate
- Italian-taught ProgramB2 level (CEFR) in Italian, demonstrated via recognized language certificate
- ExemptionStudents who obtained their high school diploma in English-taught programs may be exempt (subject to verification)
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
NABA is committed to supporting talented international students through several scholarship opportunities. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit, portfolio evaluation, and in some cases financial need. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures for the latest funding opportunities.
NABA's Got Talent Undergraduate Scholarship
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionA merit-based scholarship for international students applying to Bachelor of Arts programs at the Milan and Rome campuses. Awards are based on portfolio evaluation and creative profile, and are renewable for the second and third year subject to academic criteria.
International Scholarships – Rome Campus
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionA scholarship competition specifically for international students applying to Bachelor of Arts programs at NABA's Rome campus. Scholarship values vary depending on residency status and income brackets for EU students.
Diritto allo Studio (DSU) Financial Aid
Variable, based on financial need and meritNeed-based financial assistance awarded through an annual competition in accordance with Lombardy regional law. Open to all international students who meet both financial and merit requirements, with ISEE equivalency calculated for foreign students.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Animation Specialisation are well-prepared for diverse careers in the rapidly evolving animation and media industries. According to a Doxa survey, NABA graduates achieve a 90% employment rate within one year of completing their studies. NABA's Career Services office connects students with internships, live client projects, and job opportunities through an extensive network of companies in media, entertainment, and the arts.
Potential Career Paths
Industry Partners and Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
NABA is consistently recognized as one of the leading art and design academies globally. In 2026, the academy entered the QS World University Rankings Top 50 for Art and Design for the first time, confirming its position as the highest-ranked Italian Academy of Fine Arts. NABA has also been recognized by Frame Magazine and Domus Magazine for the quality of its design education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art and Design | QS World University Rankings | #41 |
| Best Italian Academy of Fine Arts | QS World University Rankings | #1 in Italy |
| Business of Fashion – Undergraduate | BOF Global Fashion School Ranking | Top 50 |
| EMEA University Ranking | StuDocu | #445 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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