Visual Arts (Specialisation)
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti , Italy
Bachelor of Arts in Painting and Visual Arts (Specialisation: Visual Arts)
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Visual Arts
Program Overview: Visual Arts at NABA
The Bachelor of Arts in Painting and Visual Arts with a Visual Arts specialisation at NABA reinterprets and expands the traditional academic approach to painting and visual arts by encouraging experimentation with a full array of artistic techniques and media. This program acknowledges the contemporary transformations that are blurring the traditional borders between fine art disciplines today, preparing you for a dynamic and interdisciplinary creative career.
Through a project-based and experiential didactic approach, you will acquire foundational knowledge in the first year before choosing the Visual Arts specialisation in your second and third years. The curriculum covers drawing, painting, photography, video, sculpture, installation, and contemporary art theory, guiding you to develop an individual artistic voice and a personal way of expressing your creative ideas.
NABA is the largest private academy of fine arts in Italy, founded in 1980 and officially recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) since 1981. With campuses in Milan and Rome, and ranked 41st globally in Art and Design by the QS World University Rankings 2026, NABA offers an internationally acclaimed environment where artistic intelligence meets rigorous academic training.
Key Program Highlights
- Specialised Visual Arts track from the second year, allowing deep focus on contemporary artistic practices including video, installation, and multimedia
- Faculty of practicing artists, curators, and critics including professionals who have contributed to the Venice Biennale and Documenta
- Access to over 70 Erasmus+ partner universities for international exchange opportunities during your studies
- Degree recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), equivalent to a first-level university degree across the European Union
Curriculum and Modules
The program develops over three years, beginning with a foundational first year that introduces core artistic skills and critical thinking. After the first year, you choose the Visual Arts specialisation, which shapes your practical and theoretical coursework in the second and third years, culminating in a final specialised semester and diploma project.
Painting Techniques and Technologies
Core ModuleExplores traditional and contemporary painting methods, materials, and processes. You will develop technical proficiency while experimenting with innovative approaches to pictorial expression.
Visual Arts Techniques and Technologies
Specialisation ModuleFocuses on multimedia and interdisciplinary art-making practices including video, installation, and digital media. This module builds your capacity to work across artistic formats and contemporary visual languages.
History of Modern and Contemporary Art
Core ModuleProvides a comprehensive survey of art history from the modern era to the present day. You will analyse key movements, artists, and critical frameworks that shape contemporary artistic discourse.
Phenomenology of Contemporary Arts
Core ModuleExamines the philosophical and cultural dimensions of contemporary art practice. This module develops your critical vocabulary and ability to contextualise artistic production within broader social and aesthetic frameworks.
Photography and Visual Languages
Core ModuleIntroduces photographic techniques and visual communication principles as tools for artistic expression. You will explore both analogue and digital photography alongside broader visual storytelling methods.
Sculpture and Public Art
Specialisation ModuleDevelops skills in three-dimensional art forms and site-specific practice. You will engage with spatial concepts, material experimentation, and the relationship between art and public environments.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the BA in Painting and Visual Arts (Visual Arts specialisation) at NABA depends on fulfilling minimum educational and language requirements and passing an admissions evaluation. The admissions process assesses your attitude, creativity, and project skills through a portfolio or project assignment and a personal interview. Contact Uni4Edu to begin your application and receive personalised guidance throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school diploma (or equivalent) with at least 12 years of total schooling
- Admissions TestArtistic statement plus a project assignment or portfolio submission, followed by a personal interview
- Portfolio5 to 10 projects demonstrating aesthetic awareness, composition, drawing, colour perception, and originality
- Minimum AgeNo formal minimum age, but completion of upper secondary education is required
- National Entrance ExamsWhere applicable in the country of origin (e.g. Gaokao, YKS, Vestibular, Selectividad)
Language Requirements
- English (for English-taught track)B1 level (CEFR) or equivalent — IELTS, Cambridge ESOL (minimum score 160), or OTE (minimum score 97)
- Italian (for Italian-taught track)B1 level (CEFR) — CILS, CELI, CERT.IT, or PLIDA accepted
- Certificate ValidityLanguage certificate must not be older than 2 years and must be submitted within one month before the programme begins
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
NABA offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to help talented international students pursue their studies. Funding opportunities may be merit-based or need-based, and additional regional support may be available through Italian government programmes. Contact Uni4Edu for detailed guidance on scholarship eligibility and application procedures.
NABA Merit-Based Scholarship
Awarded to incoming students who demonstrate outstanding creative talent and academic achievement as assessed through the admissions portfolio and interview process.
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 Visual Arts specialisation at NABA enter a vibrant and expanding professional landscape where artistic skills are valued across creative industries, cultural institutions, and the contemporary art world. NABA's Career Service connects students with internships, live client projects, and job opportunities through an extensive network of companies in art, design, media, and cultural sectors. According to a 2024/25 survey by Doxa, NABA graduates achieve a 90% employment rate within one year of completing their studies.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings and Recognition
NABA has earned significant recognition as a leading institution for art and design education globally. It is the highest-ranked Italian Academy of Fine Arts in international subject rankings and has been acknowledged by prestigious publications and ranking bodies for its innovative approach to creative education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #41 |
| Art & Design | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 100 (5 consecutive years) |
| Best Italian Academy of Fine Arts | QS World University Rankings | #1 in Italy |
| Fashion (Undergraduate) | Business of Fashion (BoF) | 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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