Italy has always captured the world’s imagination. In Milan lies arguably the region’s most dynamic intersection of culture, leisure, people and places, fashion, food, creativity and design. Smack bang in the middle of European and Italian business, finance and industry, it is also a great city to launch careers. Right in the heart of this bustling city, the SDA Bocconi School of Management stands as the ideal place to change your career and life.
The #1 business school in Europe (according to Bloomberg’s European B-Schools ranking 2023) offers two programmes that empower you to drive positive change that goes beyond the bottom line: Full-Time MBA and Global Executive MBA.
Full-Time MBA
“Change Together, Lead with Impact.” That’s the Full-Time MBA’s motto. It’s a call for students to embrace transformative experiences, connect with a collaborative community, and cultivate purpose-driven leadership for a sustainable future.
And that’s just what you’ll do in this experiential programme. For example, if you choose the Luxury Business Management or Innovation & Entrepreneurship concentrations, you can go on unique and immersive study tours. The first takes you to the headquarters, factories, and stores of Italy’s renowned luxury brands and connects you with senior executives for invaluable insights into the luxury business realm. The second is an inspiring expedition through cutting-edge ecosystems, exploring tech hubs, incubators, and start-ups – where you can connect with visionary entrepreneurs and investors at the forefront of innovation.
As the cohort is diverse, you’ll have the opportunity to work with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. As a graduate, you’ll not only have a prestigious degree in hand but also leave SDA Bocconi with a global perspective invaluable in today’s interconnected business world. The MBA is ranked sixth in the world and third in Europe (according to the Financial Times 2023 ranking).
“The experience at SDA Bocconi has been transformative, both professionally and personally,” says Megan Horntvedt. “The close-knit cohort has provided strong global connections, and I’ve transitioned into the tech industry in Mexico City. The MBA journey is intense but ultimately rewarding.”
Gerard Chafer chose SDA Bocconi’s MBA for its fast-track structure, return on investment, and Milan location. “This MBA journey has been transformative, offering academic enrichment, a tight-knit network, and diverse opportunities,” he says. “It’s been a refreshing break from intense finance years, shifting my perspective and career from finance in South America to tech in Spain.”
Global Executive MBA
The Global Executive MBA, ranked eighth in the world (QS Executive MBA Rankings 2023: Joint Programmes), provides the ideal platform for seasoned professionals in the industry to take their careers to new heights. What sets this programme apart is the double credentials you’ll receive. The first is a Global Executive MBA from SDA Bocconi and the second is an MBA from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.
“The programme is not only about the advantage of having titles from North-American and European business schools, but it is also about the combinations of teaching and learning techniques,” says graduate Salome Pirtakhiya. “The two business schools balance each other and are complementary to each other. This is a great opportunity to get access to the job markets of both regions and gain networks from two continents.”
The Global Executive MBA spans seven cities: Toronto, Milano, Mumbai, San Francisco, Copenhagen, Shanghai and São Paulo. Taking place over 18 months, it combines 10 face-to-face modules with distance learning. This flexible format, timing and location combine professional, personal and learning opportunities.
“The key takeaways from the programme for me go beyond the classroom. Outside of the inspiring academic environment, I have learned key lessons about time management, working in diverse teams and adapting your approach to business to the local environment you’re in,” says student Lyuboslava Kirilova.
The programme includes first-hand insights into global business challenges with corporate leaders on campus and on-site tours. “Attending international modules across the globe has provided me with a profound comprehension and deep appreciation for the role of cultural diversity in the business realm,” says student Mohsin Iqbal. “Immersing in the distinct business landscapes of various countries, each shaped by its unique culture, history, and economic context, I have gained valuable insights from diverse perspectives. Experiencing such situations has expanded my views and allowed me to excel in varied business settings.”
Through the Personalised Leadership Development Program, you will get to grow your potential as a leader. You’ll enter a global network of exceptional managers, executives, and thought leaders. “SDA Bocconi graduates hold leadership positions in the most successful companies worldwide,” says Pirtakhiya. “As we usually say: ‘SDA Bocconi is everywhere.’”