Studying Business and Economics in Italy

Business and economics is one of Italy’s richest fields for English-taught programmes and one of the most accessible for international students. In this post we look at business-economics education in Italy.

Why business-economics in Italy?

With strong economics faculties, internationally accredited business schools and a lively business world, Italy is an appealing destination for business-economics education. The abundance of English-taught programmes opens the door to students who do not speak Italian. Italy’s position in the European business world also offers graduates a wide career horizon. For Turkish students, business-economics in Italy combines a quality education with an international setting and a reasonable cost. This combination makes the field especially appealing at master’s level. The right programme choice strengthens the start of your career.

Variety of programmes

In business and economics in Italy there is a wide range, from bachelor’s to master’s, from specialised master’s to MBA programmes. There are programmes in sub-fields such as finance, marketing, international business, economics, management and entrepreneurship. Both storied state universities and internationally reputed business schools offer options. Determine which programme fits your goals by looking at the curriculum and specialisation areas. The variety offers options suited to different career goals. The right match raises the return on your education.

English-taught programmes

Business and economics is one of Italy’s richest fields for English-taught programmes; at master’s and MBA level in particular there are many English options. This eases access for international students and makes the classes international. Even so, basic Italian is a great advantage for finding an internship and a job in Italy. An English-taught programme removes the language barrier while offering an international network. IELTS/TOEFL is usually wanted for the language condition. This abundance makes Italy a competitive destination for business education.

Application and entry conditions

Applying to business-economics programmes may want the transcript, degree recognition (CIMEA/DoV), a language certificate and, in some programmes, the GMAT/GRE or an entry assessment. For a master’s, a relevant bachelor’s background is important. You must check each programme’s entry condition separately. The academic documents must be apostilled and sworn-translated. For the translation of your application documents, see our university application translation page. A correct, complete application reflects your academic and professional background at its best.

Scholarships and cost

Business-economics students benefit from Italy’s scholarship system too: income-based DSU grants, fee exemptions, MAECI and Invest Your Talent (which covers economics/business fields in particular). As IYT offers a grant and an internship in an English-taught master’s in these fields, it is valuable for career-focused students. These provisions make a business education strong both economically and career-wise. For scholarship options, see our Invest Your Talent page. Grant support makes an international business education accessible.

Internships and networking

In business and economics education, internships and a professional network are as important as the academic content. Italy’s programmes, especially in business hubs (such as Milan), offer strong company ties and internship opportunities. These experiences are decisive in finding a job after graduation. An international classroom also lets you build a global network. Choosing a programme with internships that support your career goals raises the return on your education. A network is one of the most valuable assets of a business career. Weigh this dimension in your choice of programme.

Career opportunities

Business-economics graduates in Italy have wide career opportunities across Italy and Europe. In fields such as finance, consulting, marketing and management there are jobs at both local and international companies. An EU degree eases mobility across Europe. Learning Italian is an important advantage for a lasting career in Italy. You must plan the post-graduation residence and job-search processes in advance. Keeping your long-term goals aligned with your choice of education is the most efficient approach. Career planning sets the return on your education investment.

How to start

Start towards a business or economics goal by clarifying the sub-field you want to specialise in and listing strong programmes in that area. Note each programme’s entry condition (including whether a GMAT/GRE is needed), language condition, application calendar and scholarship options. Start document preparation (apostille, translation, recognition) early. For your document translations you can take a free quote, and for the whole of the processes see our guide library. A planned start makes your business application smooth.

Frequently asked questions