Bocconi University

What Makes Us Special?

Bocconi University was established in Milan in 1902, with a generous endowment from Ferdinando Bocconi, a wealthy merchant. Named for his lost son, Università Commerciale Luigi Bocconi thus became the first Italian institution of higher education to grant a degree in economics.

Since its inception, Bocconi has stood for liberalism, pluralism, and social and economic progress. While a private institution, Bocconi has traditionally been more than an elite university. It has consistently promoted and practiced equality of opportunity among its many generations of students, by actively subsidizing the education of disadvantaged and deserving students. 

Today, Bocconi is a research university of international standing in business, economics, and law. Its research projects are funded by national and supranational institutions. By virtue of being a major node in the European and global network of business and economics universities, Bocconi exchanges faculty and cooperates on large projects with like-minded European and American universities and business schools. Bocconi has close relations with major corporations and international agencies, as well as their managers and officials, and constantly interacts with the business and economic environment to assess new issues, implement new techniques, and start new research endeavors.

What to Expect on Campus

A student on the Bocconi campus can expect a vibrant environment where architecture and urban planning reflect the University's cultural vision, blending innovation, avant-garde thinking, and an international focus. The campus is seamlessly integrated into Milan's urban fabric, just a 10-minute walk from downtown, with each building designed by renowned architects to foster urban and socio-economic evolution in the surrounding area. Furthermore, the Bocconi Sport Center, a recent expansion designed by SANAA, offers state-of-the-art, environmentally sustainable facilities, a diverse calendar of events and tournaments, and various sports teams, all designed to enhance the student experience.

Living in the City

Bocconi is located in Milan, Italy’s most cosmopolitan and dynamic city, a capital of commerce, design, fashion and music. From imposing gothic structures to challenging contemporary art, centuries of creativity live here. Milan is a blend of history and modernity, towering structures and picturesque parks, exclusive performances and free concerts and events – it’s the perfect city for a well-rounded university experience.

Milan is the perfect example of old-world romance meets urban grit. It is known as a cosmopolitan city for fashion, food, and art. It’s less touristy compared to the other destinations in Italy, such as Rome or Florence, but has just as much to offer. Not just in terms of architecture, art and history, but what you will come to love the most are aperitivos in the city of its origin – and we all know Milan does this best! Additionally, it is a great location to explore the beautiful lakes in northern Italy.

CEMS Club Milan

The CEMS Club Milan (CCM) is an official representative of all CEMS students studying at Bocconi, both home and incoming students from universities in the CEMS Global Alliance. It is a platform that unites CEMS students, Corporate Partners, and CEMS Alumni.

CEMS Club Milan aims to:

➔ Create a vibrant community among CEMS students at Bocconi to help them make the most out of their CEMS experience;

➔ Connect current CEMS students at Bocconi with all CEMS stakeholders including other CEMS students, Alumni, Corporate and Social Partners; and

➔ Take responsible actions towards the local and global community on a social and environmental level.

In short, CEMS Club Milan is the official representation of all CEMS students at Bocconi and aims to create an inclusive community and an unforgettable CEMS experience, guided by the CEMS global values

Read more about CEMS Student Life.