Milan, Italy
Established in 1902, Bocconi was the first university in Italy to offer a degree in economics. The University strives to meet the demands of scientific research and training in the Italian economic system. As a result, much attention is given to both economic and civic life in order to support innovation and development in businesses nationwide. As part of its mission, Bocconi has established a center of international culture based on the cultivation of relations with the leading players in world economics. Bocconi has had a long-standing tradition of hospitality toward international guests since 1974. The program continues to grow and now welcomes more than 500 exchange students from over 100 partner institutions. The cultural enrichment and diversity among students enliven the courses and allow individuals to become acquainted with different aspects of academic and social traditions.
The School
Students enjoy the cultural learning experience not only in the classroom but in the city as well. In addition to enjoying museums, theatres, shops, and cinemas, students can go dancing, listen to live music, and take advantage of numerous travel options. As one would expect, most social activities take place on Friday and Saturday nights, whereas Sunday and Monday are very subdued and many places are closed. On Wednesday evenings, young people flock to the cinema for discount ticket night. Bocconi offers many services to its exchange students each term. An on-site orientation is provided during the weeks before classes begin, and there is a “Student Exchange Network” made up of former exchange students who offer tutoring and organize events each semester. Additionally, the International Relations office provides each student with a mailbox on campus, free e-mail and computer access, two academic advisors to assist with registration, internship opportunities, and many extra-curricular activities. Students may take advantage of special tickets for performances at La Scala, weekend trips to the mountains, conferences with world-class speakers, and much more.
The City
Rich in history and beauty, Milan is a modern city and is regarded as the economic and financial capital of Italy. Milan is home to a variety of historical monuments, museums and churches as well as fashion arenas, bookshops, theatres, and a world famous opera house (La Scala). The city center may prove most interesting from a tourist’s point of view, as there are many interesting sites and activities such as elegant residential quarters, shops, artist studios, and restaurants nearby. The nightlife in Milan is known to be first-rate as well. Milan is a major fashion capital of the world and is in northern Italy near the Alps. Milan is very industrial and not known as a tourist destination, but the surrounding country with mountains and lakes is quite beautiful. Venice is only 3 hours away by train.
Term Dates
Fall: September – December
Spring: January – June
Courses Available
There are a good number of courses in English to choose from in a variety of content areas such as HR Management, Marketing, Finance, and Economics. Students are required to take at least 4 courses in the semester.
Languages
School functions mainly in Italian, although the Bocconi students are required to have a functional knowledge of English. Staff generally speak English well. It is not common for people in city to speak English well except in the more “touristy” areas. A romance language base (Spanish, French, Portuguese) may be helpful.
Grade Conversion
| Bocconi Grade | UF Equivalent | Grad Business Grade* |
|---|---|---|
| 27-30 | A | S |
| 24-26 | B | S |
| 19-23 | C | S |
| 18 | D | U |
| 0-17 | E | U |
*All grades will transfer back to UF as satisfactory/unsatisfactory (S/U).
Credit Conversion
Refer to ECTS credit conversions.
Minimum Credit Requirements
Exchange students are expected to select min. 2 and up to max. 5 courses per semester.
Estimated Costs
$1200-$1300 per month (housing, food, etc.). Housing is the bulk cost.
Accommodation
University housing is available but difficult to get. The school assists exchange students in securing an apartment in the city which can be somewhat expensive. Students should not expect to live near the university if they want affordable housing. The bus system is cheap and reliable.
Travel Opportunities
Central State Railway Station connects Milan to all the main Italian and European cities, making travel opportunities unlimited. Milan is connected to the rest of the world through its three airports: Linate, Malpensa, and Orio al Serio. Also, the public transportation system runs trams, buses, and the underground metro between the hours of 6:00 am and 12:00 midnight.