Italy is synonymous with art, design, and innovation, and at the heart of it all is Accademia Italiana.
At Accademia Italiana, students learn to create and innovate while exploring life in Italy, a country renowned for its rich culture and artistry.
With campuses in Florence and Rome, Accademia Italiana offers an ideal blend of tradition, innovation, and practical experience in a truly international environment.
If you're an undergraduate or postgraduate student, Accademia Italiana offers the perfect opportunity to unlock your creative potential and build a future in art and design.
Why Choose Accademia Italiana?
Choosing Accademia Italiana means joining a community that blends excellence in education with global perspectives on creativity. Here are some compelling reasons why students from across the world choose this prestigious institution every year.
1. Global Recognition and Accreditation
Founded in 1984, Accademia Italiana stands as one of the most important European institutes in design and applied arts. The degrees offered by the institution are recognized Ministry of Universities and Research (MUR), ensuring that every qualification is globally recognized. This foundation guarantees the credibility of your education and standing as a professional in the global marketplace.
2. An International Student Body
Accademia Italiana is home to a diverse student community. With 40% of its attendees coming from Italy, 20% from the United States, and the rest from various countries worldwide, it fosters a truly global learning environment.
Classes are offered in both Italian and English, so there's no need to worry about mastering Italian from day one, although picking up the rich language and culture of Italy is an added benefit of the experience.
3. Expert Faculty & Distinguished Guest Speakers
The faculty at Accademia Italiana comprises top professionals, including designers, artists, and scholars actively working in their fields. Students learn not just theory but also real-world practices.
Many alumni credit Accademia Italiana for connecting them with prestigious opportunities, aided by visits from industry icons like Vivienne Westwood and Ermanno Scervino, as well as global brands like IKEA and SWATCH Italy.
4. Hands-On Teaching Philosophy
The teaching approach at Accademia Italiana places an emphasis on practical, real-world experience. Professors frequently use the host cities of Florence and Rome as living classrooms, where weekly trips to museums, studios, and industry centers bring learning to life.
With small class sizes averaging 12 students, individual attention ensures your creative skills are nurtured effectively.
5. High Employability Rate
Here’s the statistic every student wants to hear: 90% of Accademia Italiana’s bachelor’s degree graduates are employed within a year of graduating! Alumni often work with elite brands such as Gucci, Prada, Calvin Klein, and Roberto Cavalli, or start their own successful ventures.
6. Immersive Artistic and Cultural Experiences
Studying in Italy means being immersed in its rich cultural heritage. However, what makes Accademia Italiana stand out is how it helps students incorporate Italian artistry into their work while staying on the pulse of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies.
Explore Two Creative Cities
Florence Campus
Located in the heart of Florence, the campus is housed at Piazza Pitti 15, a historically significant building adorned with frescoes and overlooking Piazza Pitti and the breathtaking Florentine rooftops.
The classrooms, computer labs, design workshops, and art studios are all fully equipped to meet the highest academic standards. With this setup, Florence becomes more than a city; it becomes your extended classroom.
Florence is a global capital for art, design, and history, making it the perfect destination for designing the future while honoring the past.
Rome Campus
The Rome campus opened its new headquarters in 2023, inside a beautifully restored architectural gem originally designed in 1925.
Covering 2,000 square meters, the campus features theoretical classrooms, workshops, a biblio bistrot combining a library and dining space, and even a public park.
Rome is a dynamic city that blends historical grandeur with modern innovation. Here, you get to experience Italian culture at its finest while stepping into one of the world's creative epicenters.
Featured Programs at Accademia Italiana
1. Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design
3-Year Undergraduate (Bachelor of Arts)
For aspiring fashion designers, this program combines creativity with technical expertise. You’ll learn essential skills like creating sketches, designing collections, and leveraging the latest software. With continuous feedback throughout your studies, you’ll develop the necessary tools to succeed in fashion.
Highlights:
- Gain both artistic and technical design knowledge.
- Develop your unique style while addressing market needs.
- Access a global alumni network working in top fashion houses.
2. Bachelor’s Degree in Interior and Product Design
3-Year Undergraduate (Bachelor of Arts)
This program equips students to design both functional interior spaces and innovative product designs. You’ll master the process from initial sketch to scale prototypes, preparing for professional projects in diverse industries.
Highlights:
- Learn under professors who are industry veterans.
- Gain hands-on experience in interior and product design.
- Participate in collaborations with leading global brands such as Kartell.
3. Bachelor’s Degree in Photography
3-Year Undergraduate (Bachelor of Arts)
This course is designed to shape the next generation of visual storytellers. You’ll build technical expertise while exploring various styles like fashion, still life, and photojournalism. By the end, you’ll have a professional portfolio tailored to international markets.
Highlights:
- Study various photography genres, from fashion to journalism.
- Build an eye-catching professional portfolio.
- Gain real-world experience through shoots in the studio and outdoors.
4. Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design
3-Year Undergraduate (Bachelor of Arts)
Designed for creative communicators, this program blends traditional graphic design with new multimedia systems. It provides a solid foundation in advertising, market dynamics, and digital tools.
Highlights:
- Explore photography, illustration, and color theory.
- Focus on advertising, market strategies, and creative layouts.
- Learn the latest in multimedia design systems.
5. Bachelor’s in Jewelry Design
Three-Year Undergraduate Degree (Bachelor of Arts)
This program merges traditional goldsmith artistry with advanced prototyping technologies, preparing students for contemporary jewelry design. From master goldsmith skills to marketing strategies, students develop as professionals capable of managing the entire design process, from concept to commercialization.
Highlights:
- Learn artisanal goldsmith techniques combined with modern technologies.
- Gain hands-on experience in design, prototyping, and marketing.
- Prepare for an international career in the jewelry industry.
You can also explore the foundation course and master's degree that you can study at Accademia Italiana.
Life as a Student at Accademia Italiana
Choosing Accademia Italiana means more than just earning a degree; it’s about immersing yourself in an enriching student life that nurtures creativity, community, and confidence.
- Creative Freedom: Choose from over 100 courses ranging from fashion design and photography to graphic design, textiles, and interior design. You’ll receive support to develop your unique voice as an artist while learning marketable skills.
- Small Class Sizes: With an average class size of 12 students, you’ll experience individualized coaching from industry-leading instructors.
- Networking Opportunities: Through guest lectures, internships, and collaborations with international networks, Accademia Italiana gives students unparalleled access to professionals and thought leaders shaping the art and design world today.
- Sustainability Focused: Many aspects of the campus, especially the Rome headquarters, are designed following BREEAM standards, making it one of the most environmentally efficient campuses globally.
Read More: Great Reasons to Study Abroad in Italy
Real Stories, Real Inspiration
Accademia Italiana believes in crafting stories of success through education and innovation. Meet two outstanding alumni who’ve turned their passion into reality.
Francesca Pannofino - From Dance to Jewelry Design
Francesca Pannofino’s creative journey is a perfect example of how diverse experiences can culminate into something truly remarkable.
After earning an International Diploma in Classical and Contemporary Dance, Francesca transitioned to the world of jewelry design by completing her Bachelor's Degree in Jewelry Designat Accademia Italiana.
By combining her artistic sensibilities with technical skills, she created Pan Gioielli, a brand inspired by her life’s experiences. Her Made-in-Italy pieces, crafted by leading artisans, are not just jewelry but expressions of individuality.
Chiara Mangani - Transforming Passion Into Art
Chiara Mangani’s love for fashion and architecture led her to create Rinascita, a project inspired by Florence’s iconic Brunelleschi Dome. Agraduate of Accademia Italiana's Fashion Design program, Chiara recently won the prestigiousGiuliacarla Cecchi Prize, cementing her place as a rising star in the fashion world.
Currently working with a major textile company in Prato, Chiara aspires to launch her own fashion brand, bringing authentic and innovative ideas to life. She credits Accademia Italiana for offering her the platform to express her creativity and for instilling the professional confidence to aim high.
Her advice? “Believe in your dreams and remain authentic. Hard work and determination will take you far.”
How to Apply
Applying to Accademia Italiana is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you need to do to begin your overseas study experience.
Required Application Materials
- Completed application form.
- Passport copy.
- Statement of purpose (500 words or fewer).
- Academic or professional reference (for degree students).
- Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
- Electronic portfolio (required for specific upper-level or transfer programs).
Key Dates
- Spring Term 2025: January 8 to May 9. Apply by October 1, 2024.
- Fall Term 2025: September 3 to December 19. Apply by April 1, 2025.
- Summer Term 2025: June 11 to July 24. Apply by March 1, 2025.
The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to plan your exciting adventure abroad!
You can apply on the Global Admissions platform for a hassle-free experience, and we’ll assist you with your application.
Visa Information
International students from non-EU countries may need a visa to study in Italy. We encourage you to check your country’s requirements and consult with us for guidance on the application process.
Tuition and Housing
Spring/Fall Term
- Program Fee: $8,900 (4-5 classes, 12-16 credits)
- Housing Cost (Approx.): $3,630 - $4,927.33
Summer Term
- Program Fee: $3,700 (2 classes, 6 credits)
- Housing Cost (Approx.): €2,010 - €2,210
Fees include tuition, on-site orientation, study trips, and access to facilities. Housing is arranged directly through the school’s network.
For additional details, visit the dates & fees page.
Is Accademia Italiana Right for You?
If you’re passionate about design, driven to create, and eager to push the boundaries of your creativity, Accademia Italiana offers the perfect platform to grow.
Explore the programs and book your appointment with a student advisor today!
