Bocconi University

Bocconi University (Università Commerciale Luigi Bocconi) is one of Europe’s leading institutions in the fields of economics, management, finance, law, political science, and data science. Founded in 1902 in Milan, Italy, by entrepreneur Ferdinando Bocconi in memory of his son Luigi, it was the first Italian university to grant a degree in economics. Over the decades, Bocconi has developed into a prestigious, research-intensive university recognized internationally for its academic rigor, innovative programs, and strong ties with the business and financial sectors.

Bocconi is a private, non-profit university, but it has always been guided by a mission of social responsibility and accessibility. Since its foundation, it has promoted the values of meritocracy and openness, offering scholarships and financial aid to ensure talented students from different backgrounds can access high-quality education. Its location in Milan—Italy’s financial, industrial, and fashion capital—makes it a unique hub where academia, business, culture, and innovation intersect.

Academically, Bocconi follows the European Bologna Process and offers programs across all three higher-education cycles:

• Undergraduate (First Cycle): Bachelor’s programs (typically three years) in fields such as International Economics and Management, International Politics and Government, and Economic and Social Sciences. Many of these programs are taught in English, attracting a large international student body.
• Graduate (Second Cycle): Master of Science (MSc) degrees and specialized Master programs in Finance, Management, Data Science, Marketing, Economics and Social Sciences, and more. Bocconi is particularly renowned for its MSc in International Management and MSc in Finance, both consistently ranked among the best worldwide.
• Integrated Master Programs: Bocconi’s Law School offers a five-year integrated Master of Arts in Law, designed to combine a solid foundation in Italian and European legal systems with international perspectives.
• Doctoral (Third Cycle): PhD programs in Economics and Finance, Business Administration, Statistics, and other advanced fields prepare graduates for careers in academia and high-level research institutions.
• Post-Experience and Executive Education: Through SDA Bocconi School of Management, the university delivers MBA, Executive MBA, and specialized executive courses, ranked among the top globally by the Financial Times and The Economist.

Bocconi places a strong emphasis on research and innovation, hosting research centers and institutes that contribute to global debates in economics, finance, business, and law. Faculty members publish extensively in leading international journals and collaborate with policymakers and corporations. The university fosters a culture of academic excellence combined with practical impact, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

The student community at Bocconi is highly international, with over 100 nationalities represented. Courses offered in English and numerous exchange agreements with top universities worldwide—including partnerships with institutions like Harvard, Yale, LSE, and National University of Singapore—make Bocconi a cosmopolitan environment. Students also benefit from a vibrant campus life with clubs, cultural initiatives, sports facilities, and networking opportunities.

One of Bocconi’s hallmarks is its career placement and corporate connections. The Career Service maintains close links with leading multinational companies, financial institutions, consulting firms, and international organizations, ensuring high employment rates for graduates. Internship opportunities are integrated into many programs, providing students with valuable professional experience. Bocconi alumni occupy influential positions across the globe in business, finance, law, academia, and public policy.

The campus in Milan blends historic architecture with modern facilities, including advanced libraries, digital labs, and the recently expanded urban campus featuring green spaces, student housing, and state-of-the-art classrooms. The SDA Bocconi School of Management campus is also a model of sustainability and innovation in educational infrastructure.

Bocconi has consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide in business and economics. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, Bocconi was ranked third in Europe and sixth in the world for Business and Management. Its programs in Finance and Economics are equally well regarded, affirming Bocconi’s reputation as a global leader in higher education.