Product design (Specialisation)
NABA Milan Campus, Italy
Bachelor of Arts in Design – Product Design (Specialisation)
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Product Design
Program Overview: BA in Design – Product Design Specialisation
The Bachelor of Arts in Design with a Product Design specialisation at NABA prepares you to become a versatile design professional rooted in Italy's legendary design heritage. The program guides students in creating a professional profile consistent with the historical lesson of international design, particularly the Italian and Milanese school legacy, while looking towards contemporary scenarios.
Through a progressive refinement of technical skills and growth in cultural and aesthetic competencies, you will explore design solutions that examine the interactions between individuals and space, investigating the intricate concepts, forms, functions, and communicative components of the product. The curriculum covers topics ranging from traditional industrial design to contemporary themes such as social and service design, self-production, and digital fabrication.
NABA is Italy's largest private academy of fine arts, officially recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) since 1981. With campuses in Milan and Rome and a newly opened London campus, the academy offers an immersive international creative education in the heart of Italy's design capital.
Key Program Highlights
- Ranked 41st globally in Art and Design in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, making NABA the top-ranked Italian Academy of Fine Arts
- Project-based learning methodology with real company briefs from leading Italian and international design brands
- Access to internships at prestigious companies including Pininfarina Extra, IKEA Italia, Luxottica, Giorgio Armani, and Zanotta
- Study in Milan's Navigli district or Rome's Ostiense district, two of Europe's most influential creative and cultural centres
Curriculum and Modules
The BA in Design follows a structured three-year path. After a common first year introducing foundational design knowledge, students choose the Product Design specialisation, which shapes the practical-design courses of the second and third years. Theoretical subjects remain common across specialisations, ensuring a well-rounded creative education.
Design Methodology and Project Culture
12 CFAIntroduces the basic tools to approach projects and their complexities, covering project methodology, design history, and the contemporary context of product and interior design.
Product Design Studio
12 CFACore studio module where students develop product concepts from initial idea through to prototyping, exploring form, function, and the communicative components of designed objects.
Technology of Materials
8 CFAProvides an understanding of materials and their processing, enabling students to make informed material choices for product innovation and sustainable design solutions.
History of Design and Art
6 CFASurveys the evolution of design and art from historical movements to contemporary practice, with particular focus on the Italian design tradition and its global influence.
Digital Modelling and Prototyping
8 CFATeaches digital tools and techniques for product representation, 3D modelling, and rapid prototyping, equipping students with industry-standard technical skills.
Thesis Project
12 CFAThe final project is the culmination of the three-year programme, requiring students to research, design, and present a comprehensive product design project under faculty supervision.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the BA in Design – Product Design specialisation at NABA is based on academic qualifications, language proficiency, and creative potential. All applications and inquiries are handled exclusively through Uni4Edu, which will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationValid upper secondary school diploma (or equivalent international qualification) with a minimum of 12 years of schooling
- PortfolioA creative portfolio demonstrating artistic aptitude and design interest is required as part of the application
- Motivational StatementA personal statement outlining your motivation, creative interests, and reasons for choosing the program
- InterviewAn admissions interview may be conducted to assess the candidate's creative profile and suitability for the program
- Age RequirementApplicants must be at least 18 years of age or turning 18 by the start of the academic year
Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum score of 5.0 overall (for English-taught programmes)
- CEFR LevelB1.2 or higher in English or Italian, depending on the language of instruction chosen
- Other Accepted TestsPTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, or equivalent certifications accepted. Contact Uni4Edu for details.
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
NABA offers several scholarship opportunities to support talented international students pursuing Bachelor of Arts programmes. Scholarships are awarded through competitive selection based on merit, portfolio evaluation, and in some cases financial need. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
NABA's Got Talent Scholarship
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionA merit-based scholarship for international students applying to BA programmes at the Milan or Rome campus. Selection is based on creative portfolio evaluation and academic profile. Renewable for the second and third year subject to academic criteria.
NABA International Scholarship (Rome Campus)
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionDesigned for international students enrolling at the Rome campus, this scholarship supports highly motivated candidates with strong creative potential. Awards vary depending on EU or non-EU residency status.
Diritto allo Studio (DSU) Financial Aid
Variable based on income bracketNeed-based financial assistance aligned with Lombardy regional regulations, providing tuition fee reductions based on the student's family income and financial situation. Open to all enrolled international students meeting the requirements.
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 – Product Design specialisation are prepared to enter the competitive and dynamic world of professional design. NABA's strong industry connections and Career Services office support your transition from the academy to the professional world, connecting you with internships, live client projects, and employment opportunities.
Potential Career Roles
Notable Internship and Employment Partners
Rankings and Recognition
NABA is consistently recognised as one of the leading art and design academies globally. The academy has earned prestigious accolades from major ranking bodies and design publications, confirming its position as the top-ranked Italian Academy of Fine Arts and a benchmark for creative education worldwide.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art and Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 |
| Architecture and Design | Domus Magazine | Top 100 in Europe |
| Product Design (MA Specialisation) | Frame Publishers Masterclass | Top 30 Worldwide |
| Fashion and Design (Undergraduate) | Business of Fashion | Top 50 |
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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