Turin - Academic Foundation Year – Italian Design and Creativity

Throughout the course, the students will cover various theoretical topics related to fashion, design (product, interior, transportation), and the visual arts. These theoretical elements will then be explored in-depth from a practical standpoint, using graphic design software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

Individual coaching and guidance sessions will be organized with a personal tutor, who will serve as a reference figure for the Foundation Year students.

From the beginning of the course and throughout its duration, there will be a dedicated module focused on the study of the Italian language and culture.

In summary, the program combines theoretical learning on fashion, design, and the arts with hands-on practical work using industry-standard design tools. It also provides personalized mentorship in order to support the students' academic and personal development.

The course is aimed at students who possess an upper secondary school degree or another recognised qualification acquired after at least 11 years of education.

Furthermore, an A2 level of English is recommended, as verified by an academic certificate and/or via an online interview.

The Academic Foundation has four main strengths:

• The tutor's figure

The tutor is a constant point of reference for Foundation Year students. From enrolment until the end of the course, the tutor acts as an intermediary between the students, the school and the teaching staff. This is to establish a relationship and individual dialogue with each member of the class from the outset. Furthermore, the tutor assumes the role of coordinator with the host families for students who are still minors, ensuring smooth and constant communication between both parties.

• Trips and out-of-school experiences

Over the course of the year, students will have the opportunity to participate in major fashion, art, and design events organised in Como and elsewhere. The visits, always led by an accompanying lecturer or tutor, are designed to introduce students to the territory, its historical and artistic heritage, as well as general cultural richness.

• The city of Turin

Turin is one of Italy’s most important cities for design, innovation, and research. With a rich industrial heritage and a long-standing connection to the automotive industry, the city has played a key role in the history of Italian car design and is internationally recognized as a leading centre for transportation design. Beyond automotive design, Turin offers a vibrant cultural scene, from cinema and fashion to the visual arts, while its strong focus on research and environmental sustainability continues to shape its future. Studying at IED Torino campus means becoming part of a city where industrial heritage meets innovation, exploring the future of mobility and design within a dynamic environment shaped by creativity, technology, research, and new ideas.

• Homestay or Legal Guardian for Underage Students

Through our trusted partners, we provide care and support for international underage students coming to study in Turin. We assist them in finding either accommodation with a carefully selected Italian host family or the appointment of a legal guardian who will support them until they reach their eighteenth birthday.