Design

Learning Objectives

The course of study for the first-level academic diploma of the School of Artistic Design for Business – Design specialisation has the objective of training professionals capable of managing a project, designers capable of overseeing technological and production aspects and who know how to meaningfully interpret the cultural, social and economic aspects that define the project’s reference environment. The training programme therefore aims to ensure a high level of knowledge in the disciplines that characterise the cultural and scientific context of design; to promote the acquisition of the methodologies and content specific to the disciplines that characterise the design field; to guarantee a thorough mastery of the specific techniques and tools of design; to provide appropriate professional training in the field of design and adequate competence in the control and management of the product system; to develop an aptitude for innovation that allows the design of the product to be linked to technological development, social changes and market dynamics; to impart appropriate knowledge on the management of professional activity with a view to easing entry into the job market. Credits are acquired through lectures, practical workshop exercises, individual study and self-learning, projects and theses. The student’s preparation is assessed through ongoing tests and assessments at the end of each course, as well as individual interviews (exams) during the exam sessions. During the three years, students are expected to participate in workshops and training and orientation internships in a purely workshop environment, which will be useful for their entry into the world of work. Graduates of the course are able to continue their studies either in a vertical direction with a second-level specialist diploma (two years) or in a horizontal direction with a first-level master’s degree and entrance into the job market.

Career prospects

The first-level academic diploma in Design allows graduates to enter the job market as freelancers or to work as designers in professional studios, companies and technical offices in various production sectors. In particular, the professional profile of first-level graduates is suitable for the following areas of activity: professional practice, either independently, in association with others or as an employee, in the profession of designer, including the design of interior or public spaces; small and medium-sized industrial companies, for project management in coordination with production and marketing, including prototype development and appropriate feasibility studies; large manufacturing companies, for project management in corporate organisational areas specialising in subsystems within complex systems.

Entry requirements

To be admitted to the Design course, applicants must hold a secondary school diploma or other qualification obtained abroad and recognised as equivalent by the Academy in accordance with international agreements. During the transitional period, students who hold a diploma from a four-year art school or art institute may be admitted. Candidates will be selected through the evaluation of documentation and an interview aimed at assessing aptitude and motivation. Candidates are required to submit: – their educational curriculum vitae (studiorum type), including any professional experience deemed useful for the overall assessment of this diploma course; – paper and digital documentation (on CD, DVD, USB, Web) relating to previous photographic and audiovisual work.

Type of final assessment

The final assessment for obtaining the first-level Academic Diploma consists of the creation and implementation of a design project accompanied by a related theoretical thesis that defines and explores its cultural and formal implications.