Top Art and Design Universities in Italy: Fees, Eligibility, Rankings

Italy has long been synonymous with creativity, culture, and art. From the masterpieces of the Renaissance to the cutting-edge design seen on the fashion runways, Italy offers an inspiring environment for aspiring artists and designers. 

The country’s top art and design universities provide a blend of traditional techniques and modern approaches, ensuring that students gain both artistic skills and industry knowledge. Whether you’re interested in fine arts, fashion design, graphic design, or industrial design, Italy offers world-class education in these fields. 

This article highlights the top art and design universities in Italy, detailing their fees, eligibility requirements, and rankings.

1. Politecnico di Milano (Polytechnic University of Milan)

Ranking: 1st in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €3,000 - €4,000 per year (depending on family income and the program).
Eligibility:

• A recognized high school diploma or equivalent.
• English proficiency (IELTS score of 6.5 or higher for English-taught programs).
• A portfolio submission (required for design-related programs).

Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s leading technical university and is well known for its excellence in architecture, design, and engineering. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in design and architecture, with a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and technological integration. Its design school is internationally recognized for its programs in product design, interior design, and communication design. Located in Milan, a global design and fashion capital, students have the unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and participate in prestigious design competitions.

2. Istituto Marangoni

Ranking: 2nd in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €20,000 - €25,000 per year (varies by program and campus).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (for design programs).
• IELTS score of 6.0 or higher for international students.

Istituto Marangoni is one of the most prestigious design and fashion schools in Italy, with campuses in Milan, Florence, and other cities. Known for its expertise in fashion design, styling, and business, Istituto Marangoni also offers outstanding programs in graphic design, interior design, and luxury brand management. The institution provides students with an internationally recognized education and unparalleled access to the fashion and design industries. With its emphasis on creativity and professional development, Istituto Marangoni is a top choice for those wishing to make their mark in the world of design and fashion.

3. Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze (Academy of Fine Arts of Florence)

Ranking: 3rd in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €1,000 - €2,500 per year (depending on the program and residency status).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (mandatory for most art programs).
• Proficiency in Italian (for most programs).

Located in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze is one of the oldest and most prestigious art academies in Italy. Known for its historical and classical approach to art education, the academy offers programs in painting, sculpture, graphic design, and other fine arts disciplines. The institution’s connection to the rich artistic heritage of Florence provides students with a unique and inspiring environment to study art. Its programs blend traditional techniques with modern art practices, making it ideal for students wishing to pursue careers as professional artists.

4. NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti)

Ranking: 4th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €8,000 - €15,000 per year (depending on the program).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (required for most design programs).
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 80).

NABA, based in Milan, is one of the leading design schools in Italy, offering innovative programs in graphic design, fashion design, interior design, and visual arts. The university is known for its creative approach to education, which combines practical training with theoretical knowledge. NABA’s strong connections to the fashion and design industries provide students with ample opportunities for internships and collaborations with top companies. Students at NABA have access to Milan’s vibrant fashion scene, one of the most influential design hubs in the world.

5. Polimoda

Ranking: 5th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €18,000 - €22,000 per year (varies by program).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (required for design programs).
• English proficiency (IELTS score of 6.5 or higher for non-native English speakers).

Polimoda is located in Florence and is recognized globally for its programs in fashion design, fashion marketing, and luxury goods management. The university has strong ties to the fashion industry and offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines both the creative and business aspects of fashion. Polimoda’s close partnerships with top fashion brands, as well as its emphasis on hands-on experience, make it an ideal choice for students aspiring to work in fashion design, styling, and brand management.

6. Academy of Fine Arts of Brera (Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera)

Ranking: 6th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €1,000 - €2,000 per year (depending on the program and residency status).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (required for art programs).
• Proficiency in Italian (for most programs).

The Academy of Fine Arts of Brera in Milan is one of the most renowned art schools in Italy, with a rich history dating back to 1776. Known for its comprehensive programs in fine arts, including painting, sculpture, and design, Brera is a leading institution for students interested in pursuing careers as professional artists. Its programs are focused on classical artistic techniques, but students also have the opportunity to explore contemporary art practices. The school’s location in Milan, a major center for art and design, offers students ample opportunities for exhibitions, internships, and cultural experiences.

7. Domus Academy

Ranking: 7th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €18,000 - €25,000 per year (depending on the program).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (required for most design programs).
• English proficiency (IELTS score of 6.0 or higher or TOEFL score of 80).

Domus Academy, located in Milan, is an internationally acclaimed design school known for its focus on innovation and creativity. Offering a variety of master’s and postgraduate programs in design, fashion, and interior design, Domus Academy provides students with an advanced education that merges art, design, and business. The academy’s collaborations with leading global design companies ensure that students have access to real-world experience and a network of industry professionals. Domus Academy has become a prestigious institution for students who wish to work in design, fashion, and creative industries.

8. ISIA Urbino (Istituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche)

Ranking: 8th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €1,000 - €2,500 per year (depending on residency status).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (mandatory for design programs).
• Proficiency in Italian (for most programs).

ISIA Urbino is a leading Italian institution specializing in industrial design and applied arts. With a focus on both creativity and technical expertise, ISIA offers programs in product design, communication design, and multimedia design. The institution’s emphasis on sustainable design and innovation makes it an ideal choice for students interested in shaping the future of industrial design. ISIA Urbino’s strong academic reputation and connections to industry leaders ensure that students are well-prepared to enter the competitive design job market.

9. University of Rome “La Sapienza” - Faculty of Architecture and Design

Ranking: 9th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €1,000 - €2,000 per year (depending on family income).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission (required for art and design programs).
• Proficiency in Italian (for most programs).

The University of Rome “La Sapienza” is Italy’s largest and one of its most prestigious universities, offering comprehensive programs in architecture, urban planning, and industrial design. The Faculty of Architecture and Design focuses on providing a deep understanding of design principles and their application in real-world scenarios. With its strong reputation and academic rigor, La Sapienza attracts students from around the world who are interested in pursuing careers in architecture and industrial design.

10. Luigi Bocconi University

Ranking: 10th in Italy for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings 2024)
Fees: €12,000 - €20,000 per year (depending on the program).
Eligibility:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.0).
• Portfolio submission for design programs.

Bocconi University, though primarily known for its business programs, also offers innovative degrees in design management and branding. Located in Milan, the heart of the Italian fashion and design industry, Bocconi provides students with unique access to the business side of the creative industries. The university’s interdisciplinary approach merges business with design, offering programs focused on the commercialization of creative ideas and brand management.

Italy offers some of the most prestigious art and design universities in the world, providing students with the opportunity to learn in a country renowned for its artistic heritage and contemporary design innovation. 

Whether you want to pursue fine arts, graphic design, fashion, or industrial design, Italy has a program that will help you develop your skills and gain access to the global art and design industry. 

With a combination of rich cultural history, cutting-edge design education, and strong industry connections, studying in Italy is a great choice for students aspiring to make a significant impact in the creative fields.