Cover photo: ph. Andreas Rasmussen
The role of a lighting designer is a true profession—one that demands highly specific theoretical and practical skills. In Italy, several postgraduate master’s programs in lighting design offer this kind of training. These are limited-enrollment courses, and the most reputable are held at the Politecnico di Milano and La Sapienza University in Rome. Milan also hosts two other highly regarded lighting design programs: one offered by IED and another by the Accademia della Scala, which is more focused on theatre, television, and the entertainment industry.
In addition to these postgraduate degrees, several online training programs are available for professionals or enthusiasts seeking foundational knowledge in technical and design aspects of lighting. These distance learning courses usually end with a certificate of attendance. While not equivalent to the formal degrees awarded by the universities and accredited institutions listed below, they can offer a solid introduction—especially for those who need to supervise or assess the quality of a lighting project.
Master’s in lighting design & technology, Polimi, Milan
Now in its 24th edition, the Master’s in Lighting Design & Technology at the Politecnico di Milano is one of the top-rated postgraduate courses in Italy.
Directed by Maurizio Rossi (with Andrea Siniscalco as deputy director), it accepts 30 students per year.
This 12-month program aims to train professionals with advanced expertise in lighting design for interiors, retail, and hospitality, combining lectures and workshops on theoretical and methodological foundations with hands-on exercises and internships at lighting design firms and companies.
According to official data, over 90% of graduates from the Polimi Lighting Design program find employment after completing the course.
Admission requires a degree (equivalent to a bachelor’s or master’s) in architecture, engineering, or design, or an equivalent international qualification.
Master’s in lighting design: architecture, technology, and the metaverse, La Sapienza, Rome
Applicants to the Master’s in Lighting Design at La Sapienza University must pass an interview and an admission test.
The course is designed to create strong integration between the disciplines of architecture, design, and engineering, aiming to train professionals capable of designing both lighting systems and light fixtures.
The master’s program includes collaborations with other Italian and international universities, as well as with companies and institutions involved in research and innovation.
It lasts one year, with intensive full-time classes one week per month, excluding August.
The program is open to anyone holding a university degree in any field of study.
Lighting design experience, IED, Milan
A seven-month evening course starting in January, the Lighting Design Experience at IED Milan provides a comprehensive education in both theoretical and practical aspects of lighting design. Students learn to understand the expressive potential of light in architecture and interior decoration. The course is designed for design professionals and recent graduates seeking to specialize and enhance their resumes, as well as those looking for better opportunities in design studios and lighting companies.
Notable highlights include modules on sustainability, energy efficiency, and dynamic lighting control through electronic and automation systems.
Lighting designer course, Accademia Alla Scala, Milan
The Lighting Designer Course at Accademia Teatro alla Scala is focused entirely on entertainment lighting, covering design and management of lighting for theatre, TV, cinema, and live events.
It includes extensive practical training, including stage lighting simulations.
The curriculum features a Vectorworks module dedicated to drafting lighting plans, and culminates with an internship at Teatro alla Scala or other theatres, festivals, and live performance institutions.
Admission requires passing a written test on basic lighting knowledge, an individual interview, and an analysis of stage lighting through photographs.