PhD in Economics and Finance

Call for Applications

Bocconi University offers a 4-year full-time PhD program in Economics and Finance designed for highly qualified and motivated students wishing to acquire world-class research skills.

The program is multidisciplinary, featuring three curricula (i.e. tracks) – Economics, Finance, and Accounting – linked by a common core. Students are able to choose from a wide range of electives.

First year core courses develop a broad set of theoretical and empirical skills relevant to advanced research in the chosen curriculum. The second year offers advanced core courses in the field of specialization within the chosen curriculum, and a wide range of electives. In the second year students also start working on their first research paper. The third and fourth years are largely dedicated to thesis research work, but students are expected to attend the regular research workshop series presented by internationally renowned speakers.

Students have opportunities to enhance their development and network through short visits to other leading overseas universities. International exchanges are promoted within the framework of the European Doctoral Group in Economics (http://www.edge- page.net).

Bocconi faculty publish regularly in leading international journals and are active members of the international academic community. Our PhD program lays the foundations for successful international academic careers. We place great emphasis on preparing students for the international academic job market. However, the research skills and competences developed during the program also open up career opportunities in central banks, governments, international organizations, investment banks and asset management companies. The tutors and career service of the PhD School are always available to assist candidates.

Recent academic job market placements include Harvard University (Kennedy School of Government), London School of Economics and Political Science, London Business School, University College London, Queen Mary University London, Toulouse School of Economics, ESSEC International Business School, University of Alicante, Bolzano University, Stockholm University (Institute for International Economic Studies (IIES)), and Imperial College Business School Placements in international institutions include IMF, World Bank, OECD, Bank of England, Bank of France, Bank of Portugal, Bank of Italy, and National Bank of New Zealand.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Applications are welcomed from candidates with educational backgrounds in economics, finance, and accounting, but also other quantitative disciplines, e.g., engineering, statistics, and data analytics. 

Applications can be submitted by candidates of any citizenship who:

• have completed or are completing their graduate studies and
• have at least a “proven” B2 (CEFR) level of competence in English 

The PhD School offers a maximum of 17 places with a fellowship for the PhD in Economics and Finance. Fellowships amount to € 27,000 gross per year for four years. Students with fellowship are exempt from the payment of tuition fees for the duration of the four-year program.  

The PhD School also offers 3 places with payment of tuition fees which amount to € 15,000 for years 1 and 2 and € 5,000 for years 3 and 4.  

Students may also work part-time as research assistants and teaching assistants on a remunerated basis, within limits set by national and internal regulations. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: 

To apply for our PhD program, only our online application procedure may be used.

Applications are due by 18 January 2027. 

The assessment of the applicant is based on:

• Personal curriculum: full CV (mandatory)
• Academic records: transcript of exams and certification of undergraduate and graduate degrees awarded and final grade (if any); if the graduate program has not been completed, an enrollment document with the full study plan, the exams taken and the grades achieved (mandatory)
• International Graduate Admission Tests scores: Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) – (optional but highly recommended)
• Statement of purpose: short description (max 1200 words) of the candidate’s motivation for enrollment in a Bocconi PhD program, his/her research interests and professional goals (mandatory)
• Reference letters: up to three reference letters uploaded by referees appointed in the online application procedure (optional but strongly encouraged) 

A minimum of 60 total points out of 100 is required to be eligible for admission to the program. 

Please consult our website for complete details of our application procedure. Click the Apply button above to access. 

For more information on the program, its courses and admission procedures, please feel free to contact phdadmission@unibocconi.it or visit here.