Social Design
NABA Milan Campus, Italy
Master of Arts in Social Design
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Social Design
Master of Arts in Social Design at NABA – Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Social Design at NABA equips students with the theoretical and practical tools to develop design projects aimed at sustainable social and environmental transformation. By investigating the relationship between people, environment, and technology, this program explores how design can valorise human and natural resources, drive sustainable innovation, and empower local communities.
Recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), this two-year program awards a Second Level Academic Degree in Design equivalent to a university master's degree under the Bologna Agreement. Students engage with real-world case studies and collaborate with industry professionals in Milan, one of Europe's most influential creative and design capitals.
Through a blend of workshops, theoretical lectures, and hands-on project work, graduates develop the ability to operate across social, cultural, and political contexts. The program prepares students to become social designers capable of activating communities, revitalising environments, and creating meaningful impact through design thinking and practice.
Key Program Highlights
- Accredited by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), with degrees recognised across the European Union
- Located in Milan's historic Navigli district, at the heart of Italy's design and creative industry hub
- Real-world project briefs and internship opportunities with leading Italian and international companies
- Access to over 70 Erasmus+ exchange partnerships with universities and academies across Europe and beyond
Curriculum and Modules
The MA in Social Design is structured over two academic years, combining theoretical foundations with intensive project-based learning. The first year introduces core themes of social responsibility, community design, and environmental design, while the second year focuses on managing complex real-world social design projects through applied labs and advanced coursework.
Community Design
12 CFsExplores design methodologies for activating and empowering local communities through participatory processes, investigating the social dynamics of collective design interventions.
Environmental Design
12 CFsExamines the relationship between human activity and natural environments, developing strategies for sustainable design solutions that address urban and ecological challenges.
Social Design Lab
14 CFsA hands-on laboratory course where students develop and manage the complexity of a social design project applied to a real case study, from analysis through to implementation.
Anthropology and Sociology
8 CFsProvides foundational understanding of social structures, cultural dynamics, and human behaviour to inform evidence-based and culturally sensitive design approaches.
Ecology and Economy
8 CFsInvestigates the intersection of ecological sustainability and economic systems, equipping students to design solutions that balance environmental responsibility with viable economic models.
Co-Design and Public Policies
8 CFsOffers in-depth analysis of research and design topics related to social policies, enabling students to create projects that engage public institutions and policy frameworks.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MA in Social Design at NABA is based on meeting educational and language requirements, as well as passing an admissions evaluation. A portfolio is not mandatory for this program, but candidates must demonstrate strong motivation and academic readiness. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationBachelor's degree or equivalent first-level academic diploma (minimum 3 years of higher education)
- Minimum EducationAt least 15 years of total education (primary through undergraduate)
- PortfolioNot mandatory for Social Design applicants, though recommended to strengthen your application
- Motivation LetterA personal statement outlining your academic interests, creative goals, and reasons for choosing Social Design
- Admissions EvaluationCandidates undergo an admissions test and interview as part of the selection process
Language Requirements
- IELTS AcademicMinimum 5.0 overall
- CEFR LevelB1 (Intermediate) in English
- Certificate ValidityLanguage certificate must be no older than 2 years and submitted within one month before the program start
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
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. These merit-based and portfolio-based awards provide partial tuition fee coverage, helping to make your studies in Milan more accessible. Contact Uni4Edu for full details on eligibility and how to apply.
International Postgraduate Scholarship (Portfolio-Based)
Up to EUR 7,000 partial tuition coverageA competitive scholarship for international students applying to MA and Academic Master programmes, awarded through portfolio evaluation. Renewable for the second year subject to meeting specified requirements.
Diritto allo Studio (DSU) Scholarship
Variable (based on financial need and merit)Need-based and merit-based scholarships awarded through an annual competition under the Lombardy regional law, providing tuition fee reductions and additional support for eligible students.
NABA Alumni Discount
20% tuition fee reductionStudents who earned their Bachelor's degree from NABA are eligible for a 20% reduction on the total postgraduate tuition fee, excluding regional taxes and graduation thesis fees.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Social Design Graduates
Graduates of the MA in Social Design are prepared to work across diverse sectors including education, health, environment, and economic development. NABA's strong industry connections and Career Service provide internship placements and professional networking opportunities with leading companies in Milan and internationally. According to a Doxa survey, NABA Master of Arts graduates achieve a 94% employment rate within one year of completing their studies.
Potential Career Roles
Industry Partners and Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
NABA – Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti is Italy's largest private academy of fine arts and has been recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) since 1981. The academy has earned significant international recognition, consistently ranking among the top institutions globally for Art and Design and entering the QS Top 50 for the first time in 2026.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 |
| Art & Design (Best Italian Academy) | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #1 in Italy (Academies) |
| Design (Postgraduate) | Censis Rankings | Top 3 Private Design Schools in Italy |
| Fashion (Undergraduate) | Business of Fashion (BoF) | Top 50 Globally |
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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