Italy has often been celebrated as the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic design movements, from automotive engineering to fashion, architecture, and more. At the heart of this creative revolution is the Istituto d'Arte Applicata e Design (IAAD), one of the country’s most prestigious design schools.
With campus in Turin, IAAD offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in Italy’s vibrant design culture while gaining the skills and experience necessary for success in global creative industries.
Whether you’re drawn to the automotive world, digital design, or interior spaces, IAAD provides a future-oriented education for everyone.
Why Choose IAAD?
With over 40 years of history, IAAD is much more than just a design school - it’s a place where creativity, innovation, and tradition meet. But what truly sets IAAD apart?
Accreditation and Legacy
IAAD is fully accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education, University, and Research (MIUR), ensuring that its programs meet high academic standards. The institute’s 40-year legacy speaks volumes about its dedication to providing top-tier design education. Over the years, IAAD has consistently produced graduates who are adaptable to the constantly evolving design landscape.
Industry Partnerships
IAAD also has strong ties with leading global industries. The school partners with renowned companies in various sectors, including automotive giants such as Stellantis and Ducati, luxury eyewear brand Luxottica, and fashion and digital media companies. These partnerships not only keep IAAD’s programs relevant but can also open doors for students to gain real-world experience through internships and live projects.
International Faculty & Student Body
IAAD brings together an international faculty of experts who bring global perspectives to the classroom. The diverse student body also helps to attract talent from all over the world. Having such a multicultural environment enables collaboration and creativity from all walks of life, ensuring that IAAD students are well-prepared for careers in international design markets.
Turin Campus: A Design & Mobility Hub
Located in Turin, the heart of Italy’s automotive industry, IAAD’s Turin campus offers a specialised environment for students interested in transportation design and mobility solutions. Being close to world-famous automotive companies like Fiat, Lancia, and Ferrari, the campus is an ideal base for those looking to shape the future of automotive and transport design.
Turin itself is a dynamic city filled with a strong industrial legacy whilst also having a rich cultural scene, making it the perfect location for design students. IAAD’s facilities in Turin are exceptional, with design studios and workshops equipped with the latest technology to ensure students can put their creative visions into practice.
Featured Programs at IAAD
Bachelor's in Transportation Design
For over 40 years, IAAD. has shaped visionary designers for the automotive, motorcycle, and yacht industries. The Bachelor's in Transportation Design in Turin prepares students to lead the future of mobility by combining strong artistic foundations with cutting-edge technical skills.
Students are trained to think critically and creatively, with a curriculum that emphasizes sustainability, user experience, digital innovation, and a deep understanding of form, function, and storytelling.
Close collaboration with major automotive brands like Stellantis and Ducati ensures that students are working with industry leaders and preparing for careers at the forefront of transportation design.
Master's in Transportation Design – Automotive & Interaction Design
The Transportation Design program at IAAD offers a forward-thinking education rooted in over four decades of industry leadership. As the transportation sector shifts toward sustainability, autonomous systems, and connected experiences, this program prepares designers to lead that transformation.
Through hands-on projects with major industry partners, students master advanced vehicle design, 3D modeling, and the integration of interaction design into future mobility solutions. The curriculum emphasizes research into new materials, emerging technologies, and user-centered approaches.
This program is ideal for students ready to push boundaries, blending form, function, and future-forward thinking.
Master's in Design for Mobility Solutions
The Master in Design for Mobility Solutions offers an interdisciplinary approach that blends Italian design culture with emerging mobility trends. Students explore how sustainability, digital innovation, and personalization are transforming transport—from electric vehicles to shared mobility services.
In partnership with Walter De Silva Partners, the program encourages students to think beyond the vehicle—focusing on user experience, branding, and design research. With han. ds-on projects, hybrid learning formats, and access to Turin’s thriving automotive ecosystem, students graduate ready to create impactful mobility solutions that align with tomorrow’s needs.
Student Life & Career Outcomes
Student Life at IAAD
IAAD emphasises a hands-on, project-based teaching approach, where students are encouraged to work on live projects with industry partners, gaining practical experience and preparing for real-world design challenges. This means you won’t just be sitting in lectures all day long, but will be actively designing, creating, and problem-solving.
Class sizes are also small, which helps to foster a tight-knit learning community where students can work closely together. This collaborative atmosphere helps students build lasting relationships with others in the creative field while developing essential teamwork and communication skills.
Internships and Alumni Success
IAAD’s strong industry partnerships mean that students often have access to internships with top brands like Stellantis, Ducati, and Luxottica. Many IAAD alumni have gone on to work with these companies, building successful careers in design and innovation. The school’s focus on practical, hands-on learning ensures that students graduate with both the technical skills and the industry experience needed to thrive.
In addition to academic support, IAAD provides comprehensive career services that include internships, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities. This helps ensure that students not only graduate with a solid portfolio but also with connections to industry leaders who can help them launch their design careers.
How to Apply to IAAD
Applying to IAAD is a straightforward process. You will need to submit a portfolio, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency (if applicable). IAAD offers intakes in both Spring and Fall, making it easy for international students to plan their studies. Click here to apply and learn more!
Tuition & Scholarships
Tuition fees at IAAD vary depending on the program and level of study. However, the school offers merit-based scholarships and early-bird discounts for students who apply early, making it more accessible to talented international students. For more detailed information on fees and scholarships, check out the pages below:
Learn More About IAAD
IAAD stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, offering a world-class design education that prepares students for success in an ever-evolving global industry. No matter which design discipline you’re interested in, IAAD provides the tools, mentorship, and industry connections necessary to excel.
Ready to take the next step in your design education? Explore IAAD’s programs here.
