University of Milano-Bicocca
Milan, Italy
University of Milano-Bicocca
Milan, Italy
Founded
1998
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
38,000+
Departments
14
Discover the University of Milano-Bicocca
Discover the University of Milano-Bicocca
The University of Milano-Bicocca (UNIMIB) is a public research university established on 10 June 1998 by Ministerial Decree, created from the splitting of the overcrowded University of Milan which had reached approximately 90,000 students. Located in the Bicocca district of northern Milan, the campus was built on the site of the former Pirelli industrial complex as part of a major urban renewal project designed by architect Vittorio Gregotti.
Despite its relatively young age, Milano-Bicocca has rapidly grown into a central figure in Italian higher education and research. The university is a multidisciplinary institution offering programs across economics, law, medicine, science, psychology, sociology, education, and more. It currently serves over 38,000 students and offers 84 bachelor's and master's degree programs, 22 doctoral programs, and 39 specialisation schools.
The university was established with the aim of making research the strategic foundation of all its institutional activities. Milano-Bicocca has earned recognition in international rankings and was notably ranked among the top 100 universities under 50 years old by Times Higher Education. The campus features 32 university buildings, three libraries, 195 modern classrooms, and over 270 research and IT laboratories.
Key Milestones
- 1998: University officially established on 10 June by Ministerial Decree as the second University of Milan.
- 1999: Renamed to University of Milano-Bicocca by decree; first Academic Bodies and Rector elections held.
- 2011: Marine Research and Higher Education (MaRHE) Centre opened in the Maldives for environmental research.
- 2018: Celebrated 20th anniversary, recognized among Italy's top ten universities for research quality by ANVUR.
Academic Structure and Departments
Academic Structure and Departments
The University of Milano-Bicocca is organized into 14 departments and two schools, covering a wide range of disciplines from the sciences and medicine to law, economics, and the social sciences. Programs are offered at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, with several English-taught options available especially at the graduate level.
School of Medicine and Surgery
Located at the Monza campus near San Gerardo Hospital, the School of Medicine employs a Problem-Based Learning methodology and offers both Italian and English-taught medical programs.
- Medicine and Surgery (6-year degree)
- Nursing Sciences
- Biomedical Laboratory Techniques
School of Science
Encompasses departments of Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and Biotechnology, with strong research output in materials science and astrophysics.
- Physics
- Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry
- Marine Sciences
Department of Economics, Management and Statistics
Offers programs in economics, business, and statistics with a strong quantitative focus. The department fosters close links with Milan's financial and business sectors.
- International Economics and Management
- Data Science
- Business Administration and Economics
Department of Law
Provides comprehensive legal education covering Italian, European, and international law, preparing students for careers in legal practice, public administration, and international organizations.
- Law (5-year single-cycle degree)
- Legal Services Sciences
- International and European Law
Department of Psychology
Ranked among Italy's top psychology departments, offering programs in clinical, developmental, cognitive, and social psychology with strong research in neuroscience and cognitive science.
- Applied Experimental Psychological Sciences
- Clinical Psychology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Department of Informatics, Systems and Communication
Focuses on computer science, artificial intelligence, and information systems, housed in the redeveloped former Breda industrial complex on campus.
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Digital Communication
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- EducationHigh school diploma obtained after at least 12 years of education
- Admission TestTOLC or CenT-S test required for most programs
- Language (Italian programs)Italian language proficiency at B2 level or above
- Language (English programs)English proficiency at B2 level (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Application FeeNo direct fee for bachelor's (TOLC test fee applies)
Graduate Admission
- EducationBachelor's degree from a recognized institution (minimum 3 years of study)
- Application FeeEUR 30 (non-refundable)
- Language ProficiencyB2 level in the language of instruction (English or Italian)
- Application Portalapply.unimib.it for international students with foreign degrees
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, CV, motivation letter, and program-specific requirements
Early application rounds typically open in spring. Check apply.unimib.it for specific program deadlines.
Additional admission rounds may be available for programs with remaining places.
The first semester begins in October, with courses organized on a semester basis.
The second semester runs from February to May. Some programs may accept mid-year enrollment.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition fees at the University of Milano-Bicocca are relatively affordable compared to many European and American institutions. Fees are calculated annually and vary based on the student's chosen program, family income, and country of origin. International students with foreign residency pay fees based on a country group classification linked to national GDP.
| Fee Component | EU / Italian Residents | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Enrollment Deposit | EUR 156 | EUR 156 |
| Tuition Balance (Humanities/Social Sciences) | EUR 0 - EUR 3,500 (income-based) | EUR 500 - EUR 3,500 (country group-based) |
| Tuition Balance (Science/Medicine) | EUR 0 - EUR 3,500 (income-based) | EUR 600 - EUR 3,500 (country group-based) |
| Application Fee (Master's) | EUR 30 | EUR 30 |
| Total | EUR 156 - EUR 3,500 per year | EUR 156 - EUR 3,500 per year |
DSU Regional Scholarships (Diritto allo Studio Universitario)
Need-based scholarships provided by the Lombardy region covering tuition fee waivers, housing support, and meal allowances for eligible students based on income and merit criteria.
- Type: Need-based
- Eligibility: Based on ISEE certification or country income group
- Benefits: Tuition reduction, housing, and meal vouchers
Merit-Based Fee Reductions
The university offers merit-based tuition reductions for high-performing students, as well as specific funding opportunities for international students from developing countries.
- Type: Merit-based
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance and credit achievements
- Application: Contact the Fees and Funding office at tasse@unimib.it
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Milano-Bicocca campus is a modern urban complex located in the Bicocca district of northern Milan, built on the site of the former Pirelli industrial area. Designed by architect Vittorio Gregotti, the campus seamlessly integrates academic buildings, research laboratories, and student facilities into the surrounding urban fabric. The campus extends across 32 buildings in Milan and includes a biomedical campus in Monza.
The heart of the Bicocca campus, featuring contemporary art installations and surrounded by key academic buildings.
Three specialized libraries across the campus provide extensive study areas, digital resources, and research collections.
Over 226 research labs and 46 IT laboratories support cutting-edge research across all disciplines.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
The university offers accommodation through contracted student residences and assists students in finding private housing options in the Bicocca area and greater Milan.
- 5 contracted student dormitories near campus
- Special facilities for Erasmus exchange students
- Housing support through the DSU program
Dining and Services
Multiple canteens and cafeterias are available on campus, along with nearby restaurants and cafes in the Bicocca Village shopping and entertainment complex.
- University canteens with subsidized meal plans
- Bicocca Village shops, cinemas, and dining
- Campus sports center, medical center, and bank
Student Life at Milano-Bicocca
Student Life at Milano-Bicocca
Life at the University of Milano-Bicocca extends well beyond the classroom, with a vibrant campus culture enriched by student associations, cultural events, and sporting activities. The university actively supports student organizations by providing facilities and funding, fostering an inclusive community where everyone can get involved.
Milan: A Global City for Students
Milan: A Global City for Students
Living and Studying in Milan
Milan is Italy's financial and fashion capital, a key European hub for innovation, culture, and business. The city offers students an extraordinary blend of historical landmarks, contemporary art, world-renowned cuisine, and dynamic career opportunities. The Bicocca campus is well-connected to central Milan via the M5 metro line and multiple bus and tram routes.
Cultural Capital
Home to the Duomo, La Scala opera house, and Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, Milan is one of Europe's richest cultural destinations.
Career Opportunities
As Italy's economic engine, Milan hosts major companies in finance, fashion, technology, and pharmaceuticals, offering excellent internship and employment prospects.
Local Attractions near Campus
The Bicocca district features the Pirelli Hangar Bicocca contemporary art center, Teatro degli Arcimboldi, and the expansive Parco Nord Milano green area.
Transportation
Excellent public transport connections including M5 metro (Bicocca and Ponale stations), Greco Pirelli railway station, and proximity to Milan's international airports.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Sectors and Employers Hiring Bicocca Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university provides a dedicated Welcome Office offering orientation programs, counseling services, and administrative assistance to help international students settle into life in Milan.
The Buddy Program pairs incoming international students with current students who provide guidance on academic life, social integration, and navigating the city.
International students receive guidance on Italian student visa applications, residence permits, and ISEE certification for fee calculations. Non-EU students should apply well in advance.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Milano-Bicocca has achieved strong recognition in international university rankings, particularly impressive for an institution founded in 1998. The university participates in several major ranking systems and consistently places among the top universities globally and in Italy.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | ARWU / QS | Top 100 in Psychiatry & Psychology |
| Medicine | EduRank | #440 Worldwide |
| Computer Science | EduRank | #523 Worldwide |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #650 Worldwide |
Features
A young public university founded in 1998, Bicocca has ~38,000 students and ~1,200 faculty. It has a strong employment rate (≈ 80‑90% within a year or five years depending on the degree), and hosts ~2,200 international students annually.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Piazza dell’Ateneo Nuovo, 1\n20126 Milano\nItaly
Map not found.
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