Sneaker Design
NABA Milan Campus, Italy
Academic Master in Sneaker Design
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Footwear Design / Fashion Design
Program Overview: Academic Master in Sneaker Design
The Academic Master in Sneaker Design at NABA trains professionals in the field of shoe design, with a particular focus on streetwear footwear. The program pairs sound theoretical foundations with laboratory experience and collaborations with companies within the targeted industry, preparing you for a dynamic career in one of fashion's fastest-growing segments.
Students acquire specific skills in designing and prototyping both artisanal and industrial products, with special attention to innovation, market trends, and sustainable production. The curriculum spans anthropology, semiology, pattern making, fashion history, and the phenomenology of contemporary styles, equipping you with a comprehensive understanding of the accessory language.
Delivered on NABA's Milan campus in the historic Navigli district, this one-year intensive program benefits from Milan's position as a global capital of fashion and design. NABA has partnered with Arsutoria School for specialized modules covering materials, pattern making, and prototyping, giving you direct access to industry-leading expertise.
Key Program Highlights
- Industry partnerships with leading footwear brands and collaboration with Arsutoria School for hands-on pattern making and prototyping modules
- Located in Milan, the global epicenter of fashion and design, offering unparalleled access to industry events and professional networks
- Recognized First Level Academic Master Degree accredited by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR)
- Focus on sustainable production methods and innovation, combining artisanal craftsmanship with industrial design techniques
Curriculum and Modules
The Academic Master in Sneaker Design is structured as an intensive one-year program totaling 60 CFA credits. The curriculum integrates theoretical study, themed seminars, practical workshops, and industry collaborations to develop your creative, technical, and professional capabilities in footwear design.
Sneaker Design Studio
12 CFACore design studio focused on developing footwear collections that respond to contemporary aesthetics and market trends. Students learn to create designs maintaining material consistency and quality standards while understanding product development and merchandising.
Materials and Pattern Making
10 CFADelivered in partnership with Arsutoria School, this module covers material science, pattern construction, and technical drawing for footwear. Students explore innovative and traditional materials used in sneaker manufacturing.
Prototyping Laboratory
10 CFAHands-on laboratory sessions where students experiment with emerging techniques and artisanal manipulations to create physical sneaker prototypes. The module bridges the gap between digital design concepts and tangible product realization.
Cultural Studies and Semiology of Fashion
8 CFAExplores anthropology, semiology, fashion history, and the phenomenology of contemporary styles. Students develop a critical understanding of streetwear culture and the cultural significance of sneakers as design objects.
Sustainable Production and Innovation
8 CFAExamines sustainable approaches to footwear manufacturing, including eco-friendly materials, circular design principles, and responsible supply chain management. Students learn to balance innovation with environmental responsibility.
Professional Internship and Final Project
12 CFACombines an industry internship with a final thesis project, allowing students to apply their skills in a professional context. Collaborations with footwear designers, experts, and leading companies prepare graduates for complex real-world challenges.
Elective Workshops and Seminars
Admission Requirements
The Academic Master in Sneaker Design welcomes candidates with a strong creative profile and a passion for footwear design. Admission is portfolio-based and evaluated by NABA's academic board. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance through the entire process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationUniversity degree (Bachelor's level or equivalent First Level Academic Diploma) in design, fashion, architecture, fine arts, or a related creative discipline
- PortfolioA digital portfolio demonstrating creative skills, design sensibility, and relevant project work in fashion, product design, or visual arts
- Motivation StatementA personal statement outlining your interest in sneaker design, career goals, and reasons for choosing NABA
- Curriculum VitaeAn up-to-date CV detailing your academic background, professional experience, and creative achievements
- InterviewCandidates may be invited for an admissions interview as part of the portfolio-based evaluation process
Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum score of 5.0 or equivalent (for non-native English speakers)
- Italian LanguageB2 level recommended for Italian-language components; bilingual instruction is provided in Italian and English
- ExemptionsNative English speakers or graduates from English-taught programs may be exempt from language testing; contact Uni4Edu for verification
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 postgraduate studies. Funding is awarded through competitive portfolio-based evaluations and need-based assessments. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
International Postgraduate Scholarship (Portfolio-Based)
Up to EUR 7,000 tuition fee reductionA merit-based scholarship for international students applying to NABA's Academic Master programs. Awards are determined through portfolio evaluation and vary by degree type and applicant background.
Ausonio Zappa Scholarship
Full tuition fee exemptionA prestigious scholarship named after NABA's founder, offering a complete tuition fee waiver for exceptional postgraduate candidates. Contact Uni4Edu for current availability and competition details.
DSU Financial Aid (Diritto allo Studio)
Variable based on income bracketNeed-based financial assistance awarded through an annual competition in accordance with Lombardy regional law. Eligibility is determined by the applicant's family income situation using the ISEE assessment.
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 Academic Master in Sneaker Design are prepared to enter one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding segments of the fashion industry. NABA's Career Services and Industry Relations Office provides support during your transition to the professional world, connecting you with internships, employment opportunities, and interactive projects with leading brands.
Potential Career Roles
Industries and Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
NABA, Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, is Italy's largest private academy of fine arts and has been consistently recognized among the top institutions worldwide for Art and Design. The academy's accreditation by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) ensures that its degrees hold full legal value equivalent to university qualifications.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 (2026) |
| Fashion Design | Business of Fashion (BOF) | Top 50 Global Fashion Schools |
| Design (Product Design) | Frame Publishers Masterclass Guide | Top 30 Worldwide |
| Arts (Visual & Performing) | QS World University Rankings | Best Italian Academy of Fine Arts |
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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