Visual Design (Specialisation)
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti , Italy
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Art Direction – Visual Design Specialisation
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA)
Visual Design / Graphic Design and Art Direction
Program Overview: Visual Design Specialisation at NABA
The Visual Design specialisation within NABA's BA in Graphic Design and Art Direction immerses you in the contemporary expressive landscape of visual communication. You will explore experimental techniques across illustration, digital animation, photography, and immersive projects to develop a distinctive personal style and visual language applicable to both authorial and professional communication contexts.
This three-year interdisciplinary program blends graphic design fundamentals with cutting-edge digital tools, covering areas such as motion graphics, 3D modelling, web design, UX/UI, and generative applications of artificial intelligence. Students work on real briefs in collaboration with national and international industry partners through NABA's creative workshops, gaining hands-on experience from the outset.
NABA is Italy's largest private academy of fine arts, founded in 1980 and officially recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) since 1981. With campuses in Milan and Rome, the academy offers a truly multicultural environment with over 5,000 students from more than 90 countries, providing an ideal setting for creative growth and international networking.
Key Program Highlights
- Specialisation in visual storytelling through illustration, digital animation, photography, and experimental visual communication techniques
- Real-world project briefs developed in collaboration with renowned national and international companies and creative professionals
- Degree legally recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) and valid at the international level
- Study at an academy ranked #41 globally in Art and Design by QS World University Rankings 2026
Curriculum and Modules
The curriculum spans three years, beginning with foundational design skills and progressing into the Visual Design specialisation during the second and third years. The program combines theoretical studies, technical workshops, and project-based creative labs, culminating in a thesis project that showcases your individual creative vision and professional readiness.
Computer Graphics and Digital Tools
Core ModuleIntroduces industry-standard design software and digital production techniques, covering motion graphics, 3D design, and digital illustration essential for contemporary visual communication practice.
Graphic Design and Typography
Core ModuleDevelops foundational skills in typography, page layout, infographics, and packaging design, building the essential visual language toolkit for all graphic communication projects.
Visual Communication and Art Direction
Core ModuleFocuses on developing creative thinking applied to advertising and visual design projects, training students to conceptualise and direct integrated communication campaigns across multiple media.
Photography and Image Culture
Specialisation ModuleExplores photographic techniques and the phenomenology of the image, enabling students to create compelling visual narratives and develop a critical understanding of contemporary image culture.
Digital Animation and Multimedia Languages
Specialisation ModuleCovers digital animation, motion design, and multimedia storytelling techniques, equipping students with skills to produce dynamic visual content for diverse platforms and audiences.
Thesis Project and Research Methodology
Final Year ModuleGuides students through the complete creation of their final thesis project, integrating research, creativity, technical application, and professional presentation of an original body of work.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Visual Design specialisation at NABA is open to both European and non-European students who meet the educational and language requirements and pass an admissions evaluation. Uni4Edu can guide you through every step of the application process, ensuring your documents are complete and submitted on time.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationValid upper secondary school diploma obtained after a minimum of 12 years of schooling
- Admission EvaluationCandidates must pass NABA's admission test, which assesses creative aptitude and motivation
- PortfolioSubmission of an artistic statement and a portfolio of creative projects is required
- IB Diploma HoldersMinimum score of 24 with at least 12 points in Higher Level subjects (3 HL and 3 SL required)
- Age RequirementNo specific age requirement; candidates must hold a qualifying secondary school diploma
Language Requirements
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.0 or equivalent (for English-taught track)
- Italian ProficiencyB2 level CEFR or equivalent (for Italian-taught track)
- ExemptionsNative speakers and graduates of English/Italian-medium high schools may be exempt (subject to verification)
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 undergraduate programs. Scholarships are awarded through competitive evaluations based on merit, portfolio quality, and in some cases financial need. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on available funding options and application support.
NABA's Got Talent Scholarship
Tuition fee reduction of up to EUR 7,000 per yearA merit-based scholarship for international students applying to Bachelor of Arts programmes at NABA Milan or Rome campuses. Awards are based on portfolio evaluation and creative potential, and are renewable for the second and third years subject to academic performance.
Diritto allo Studio (DSU) Financial Aid
Variable, based on income bracket assessmentNeed-based financial assistance awarded through an annual competition in accordance with Lombardy regional regulations. Eligibility is determined by ISEE income assessment, and the aid is open to all international students meeting financial and merit criteria.
NABA International Scholarship – Rome Campus
Tuition fee reduction of up to EUR 7,000A scholarship competition specifically for international students enrolling in BA programmes at NABA's Rome campus. Candidates must demonstrate a strong creative profile and meet language requirements. Awards are renewable based on academic progress.
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 Design specialisation are well-prepared for diverse roles in the rapidly expanding communication and design industries. NABA's Career Services office connects students with internships, live client projects, and employment opportunities through an extensive network of companies in design, media, fashion, and the arts.
Potential Career Paths
Industries and Employers
Rankings and Recognition
NABA has earned consistent recognition as one of the leading art and design academies globally. As Italy's largest private academy of fine arts and the first to receive official recognition from the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) in 1981, NABA combines academic prestige with a strong industry-oriented approach that is reflected in its prominent international rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art and Design | QS World University Rankings | #41 |
| Fashion and Design (Undergraduate) | Business of Fashion (BOF) | Top 50 |
| Visual and Performing Arts | QS World University Rankings | Top 50 |
| Best Italian Academy of Fine Arts | QS World University Rankings | #1 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.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
BA (Hons) Graphic Design
Ravensbourne University London, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
March 2027
Gross Tuition
17000 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design
Sabancı University, Tuzla, Turkey
Earliest Intake
December 2026
Gross Tuition
36500 $
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Graphic Design\t
University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
October 2026
Gross Tuition
23500 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Graphic Design and Art Direction
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, Milan, Italy
Earliest Intake
May 2027
Gross Tuition
21600 €
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Comics and Visual Storytelling
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, Milan, Italy
Earliest Intake
May 2027
Gross Tuition
21600 €
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
