Design
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti , Italy
Bachelor of Arts in Design
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Design
Bachelor of Arts in Design at NABA – Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Design at NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti) is a three-year program based in Milan that immerses students in Italy's renowned design culture. Following a learning-by-doing approach, the program alternates theoretical studies with experiential workshops, enabling you to develop a strong creative and professional identity rooted in the Italian and international design tradition.
The program explores the world of objects as cultural artefacts that reflect and shape human life, while also examining space as an environment and its interactions with objects. Students progressively refine their technical skills and grow in cultural and aesthetic terms, preparing to enter the competitive context of 21st-century design through hands-on project work and collaborations with industry professionals.
NABA is the largest private academy of fine arts in Italy and was the first to be recognized by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) in 1981. All degree programs are accredited by MUR, meaning your qualification is legally recognized and equivalent to a first-level university degree, allowing you to continue studies at universities in Italy and abroad.
Key Program Highlights
- Two specializations available: Interior Design and Product Design, allowing you to tailor your studies to your creative interests
- Learning-by-doing methodology with real company briefs and collaborative creative workshops guided by practicing design professionals
- Located in Milan, one of the world's leading design capitals, with access to events like Milan Design Week and a vibrant creative community
- Opportunity to study abroad for a semester through NABA's extensive international partner university network
Curriculum and Modules
The BA in Design curriculum is structured across three years, progressing from foundational design concepts and techniques to advanced specialization and independent project work. The program integrates theoretical coursework with practical studio experiences, culminating in a thesis project that demonstrates your creative and critical competencies.
Design Fundamentals
Core ModuleIntroduces basic design concepts, tools, and techniques. Students learn to observe contemporary forms of design and apply foundational principles to their work across product and spatial contexts.
History of Design and Applied Arts
Core ModuleAnalyzes the evolution of design from the post-World War era to the present, examining key movements, influential designers, and the dialogue between Italian and international design traditions.
Interior Design Studio
Specialization ModuleDeals with the human space issue, developing full awareness and command of individual and group design projects through analysis, description, and communication of interior environments using professional drawing and modeling techniques.
Product Design Studio
Specialization ModuleApproaches the complex scenario of contemporary product design from the planning stage, supported by practical workshops. Students develop professional profiles consistent with the legacy of international and Italian design.
Social Design and Sustainability
Core ModuleExplores the social aspects of design projects, sustainability, and the responsible use of resources. Introduces awareness design, ergonomics, and human factors necessary to create objects and environments that enhance well-being.
Thesis Project
Final ModuleRepresents the culmination of the study path, where students independently manage the complete creative process. The thesis integrates research, creativity, technical application, and presentation of a final design work.
Elective Courses and Complementary Studies
Admission Requirements
Admission to the BA in Design at NABA is open to students from diverse educational backgrounds who demonstrate creative potential and a genuine interest in design culture. All applications and inquiries are handled exclusively through Uni4Edu, your dedicated partner for a smooth enrollment process.
Academic Requirements
- Educational QualificationValid upper secondary school diploma (high school diploma or equivalent) with at least 12 years of schooling
- PortfolioA creative portfolio demonstrating artistic aptitude and design interest is required as part of the application
- Motivation LetterA personal statement outlining your interest in design and your creative goals
- Age RequirementApplicants must be at least 18 years old by the start of the academic year
- Visa RequirementsNon-EU students must obtain a study visa; it is recommended to begin the process at least 90 days before the program start date
Language Requirements
- IELTS (for English track)Minimum overall score of 5.0 (B1.2 level) or equivalent
- Italian Language (for Italian track)B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
- Alternative TestsTOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, or other recognized English proficiency tests accepted; contact Uni4Edu for equivalencies
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
NABA is committed to supporting talented international students through a range of scholarship opportunities that partially cover tuition fees. These merit-based awards recognize outstanding creative profiles and are available for Bachelor of Arts programs at both the Milan and Rome campuses. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and the application process.
NABA's Got Talent Scholarship
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionDesigned for international students applying to Bachelor of Arts programs, this portfolio-based scholarship supports the most promising creative profiles. It covers a partial tuition fee reduction for the first academic year and is renewable for the 2nd and 3rd years subject to academic criteria.
NABA Boosts Your Future Scholarship
15% discount on tuition feesAn undergraduate scholarship competition offering a percentage-based tuition fee discount for students enrolling in BA programs. Open to all international applicants who demonstrate strong academic and creative potential.
DSU Financial Aid (Diritto allo Studio)
Variable, based on income bracketsFinancial assistance awarded through an annual competition based on both financial need and merit requirements, in accordance with Lombardy regional regulations. Open to all international students enrolled in NABA degree programs.
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 BA in Design at NABA are well-prepared to enter the professional design world. According to a Doxa survey, NABA graduates achieve a 90% employment rate within one year of completing their studies. NABA's Career Services and Industry Relations Office provides support during the transition from academy to professional life, including self-promotion tools and connections to leading companies.
Potential Career Paths
Industry Connections and Potential Employers
Rankings & Recognition
NABA has earned significant international recognition for its programs in art and design. The academy is consistently ranked among the top institutions globally for Art and Design, and has received accolades from leading ranking bodies and design publications, affirming its position as Italy's leading fine arts academy.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings | #41 |
| Art & Design (Italy) | QS World University Rankings | #1 Academy in Italy |
| Architecture and Design | Domus Magazine | Top 100 in Europe |
| Graduate Design Schools | Frame Publishers Masterclass Guide | Top 30 Worldwide |
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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