Product and Service Design
NABA Milan Campus, Italy
Master of Arts in Product and Service Design
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Product and Service Design
Program Overview: MA in Product and Service Design at NABA
The Master of Arts in Product and Service Design at NABA is a two-year postgraduate program that prepares students to become full-scale designers, capable of envisioning new products and services while managing all phases of a project's development — from conception to manufacturing and market release. Rooted in Italy's renowned design culture, the program explores the transition from a society of goods to a society of services, encouraging students to investigate the ethics and sustainability of design.
Throughout the program, you will learn an integrated approach to design that explores the values and needs of a new global humanity, as well as its sustainable relationship with the environment. Students develop projects through experience-based, physical engagement with objects, experimenting with rapid prototyping systems and digital fabrication technologies. Faculty members include practicing designers, architects, and industry professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom.
NABA is Italy's largest private academy of fine arts and is officially recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR). The academy's Milan campus is located in the historic Navigli district, providing direct access to one of Europe's most influential creative and design ecosystems. With over 4,000 students from 70 countries, NABA offers a truly multicultural learning environment.
Key Program Highlights
- Study in Milan, the global capital of Italian design, with direct access to leading design studios and industry events
- Hands-on approach with rapid prototyping, digital fabrication, and materials research laboratories
- Industry collaborations with brands such as IKEA, Samsung, Electrolux, Pininfarina Extra, and L'Oreal
- MUR-recognised degree with 120 ECTS credits valid for further studies across Europe and internationally
Curriculum and Modules
The MA in Product and Service Design curriculum balances theoretical depth with intensive project-based work, guiding you through all stages of the design process. Across four semesters, you will engage with core design studios, contextual studies, materials research, and a final thesis project that demonstrates your critical, creative, and professional competences.
Product Design Studio
12 ECTSA core studio module where students develop product concepts from initial ideation through prototyping and final presentation. Emphasis is placed on design strategy, user-centred methodology, and sustainable material selection.
Service Design and Systems Thinking
10 ECTSThis module explores the design of service ecosystems, examining how physical products integrate with digital platforms and virtual interaction systems. Students learn to map user journeys, define touchpoints, and create holistic service experiences.
Design Culture and History
8 ECTSAn in-depth study of design culture with particular focus on Italian design heritage and its evolution within the international context. Students analyse major movements, designers, and critical debates shaping contemporary practice.
Materials Research and Digital Fabrication
10 ECTSStudents experiment with innovative materials and advanced manufacturing techniques, including rapid prototyping and digital fabrication. The module fosters an experiential and physical relationship with objects and their production processes.
Design Management and Strategy
8 ECTSThis module covers the strategic and managerial aspects of design, including project management, brand positioning, and market analysis. Students learn to present and communicate design projects to professional stakeholders.
Master's Thesis Project
12 ECTSThe thesis is an in-depth individual research and design project that demonstrates the critical, creative, and technical competences acquired throughout the program. Each student is supported by a faculty mentor who guides the research and approves the final dissertation.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The MA in Product and Service Design welcomes graduates with a strong creative profile and genuine motivation for design innovation. Candidates are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by an admissions commission, which considers academic background, portfolio quality, and personal statement. Contact Uni4Edu to begin your application and receive personalised guidance throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationBachelor's degree or equivalent first-level academic diploma, preferably in design, architecture, or a related creative field
- PortfolioA digital portfolio demonstrating creative skills, design thinking, and relevant project work
- Personal StatementA written statement outlining your motivation, creative interests, and career goals in product and service design
- Curriculum VitaeAn up-to-date CV detailing your educational background, professional experience, and any relevant design activities
- Non-Design BackgroundsCandidates with degrees in other fields may be considered if they demonstrate significant interest and motivation in the program's topics
Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 5.0 or equivalent
- PTE AcademicAccepted as equivalent to IELTS — contact Uni4Edu for minimum score details
- Duolingo English TestAccepted as equivalent — contact Uni4Edu for minimum score details
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 a range of scholarship opportunities. Scholarships are awarded through competitive portfolio-based evaluations and financial need assessments. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures for the latest funding opportunities.
International Postgraduate Scholarship (Portfolio-Based)
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionA portfolio-based scholarship open to international students applying to NABA Master of Arts or Academic Master programmes. Applications are reviewed by the programme faculty and admissions jury, with the portfolio playing a key role in evaluation.
NABA Financial Aid Grant
Partial tuition fee reduction (varies by case)Need-based financial aid available to deserving students with financial constraints. Requests are evaluated based on a combination of academic merit and the student's documented financial situation.
Ausonio Zappa Scholarship
Full tuition fee exemptionA prestigious scholarship competition offering a total tuition fee exemption for NABA postgraduate programmes. This highly competitive award honours the academy's co-founder and is awarded to exceptional candidates. Contact Uni4Edu for current availability.
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 MA in Product and Service Design at NABA are prepared to enter a wide range of creative and strategic roles across the design industry. NABA's Career Services and Industry Relations Office supports the transition from academy to professional life, connecting students with internship agreements, employment opportunities, and interactive projects with leading companies.
Potential Career Roles
Notable Internship and Employer Partners
Rankings and Recognition
NABA — Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti is internationally recognised as one of the leading art and design academies, consistently ranked among the top institutions worldwide for Art and Design. It is the largest private academy of fine arts in Italy and the first to have been recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) in 1981.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 (2026) |
| Art & Design (Best Italian Academy of Fine Arts) | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #1 in Italy among Academies |
| Product Design (MA) | Frame Publishers Masterclass Guide | Top 30 Worldwide |
| Postgraduate Design and Fashion | Censis Rankings (Italy) | Top 3 Private Design Schools in Italy |
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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