Fifty years of excellence: celebrating the legacy and future of the SDA Bocconi MBA

On the opening day of the 50th edition of the SDA Bocconi MBA, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of this program, which has shaped thousands of leaders and left a clear mark on the global business landscape. This half-century milestone is not just a celebration of longevity, but also an indication of the program’s sustained relevance in the ever-evolving field of management education.

The origins of the MBA trace back to the United States, where it was conceived as a response to the need for professionals with technical skills to acquire managerial and administrative expertise in the post-World War II era. In Italy, this need became apparent in the 1970s, following the economic boom of the previous decade. SDA Bocconi was the first to recognize and respond to this demand, launching in 1974 its MBA program, an advanced course in general management designed to develop versatile business leaders.

As we celebrate the 50th edition, it’s important to recognize the enduring elements that have defined the SDA Bocconi MBA over the past five decades. The program has always prioritized the human and relational aspects of education, fostering an environment where every student feels valued. This commitment to a strong human dimension is reflected in the school’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity, diversity, and the integration of different cultures and perspectives. The mutual enrichment that comes from this diversity has been a constant feature of the program, enhancing the learning experience for all.

This dedication to the individual is complemented by the program’s deep connection with the economic and industrial landscape. From the very beginning, the MBA has ensured that the curriculum of studies remains closely aligned with the realities of the business communities. As a result, students are deeply engaged with the real-world challenges and opportunities, gaining insights that are both practical and forward-looking.

Sustainability and responsible leadership, too, have been a cornerstone of SDA Bocconi and, consequently, its MBA, long before it became a global imperative. The efforts to achieve carbon neutrality of direct emissions by 2025, a project initiated over two decades ago, stands as evidence of this commitment. Today, these principles permeate every aspect of the program, from the curriculum to the student experience, reflecting the school’s dedication to teaching the principles of sustainable development.

“With its unique focus on sustainability and responsibility, the latest incarnation of our MBA perfectly embodies the values that must guide a business, or a School like ours, in creating value. Responsible and sustainable leadership translates into improvements for individuals, businesses, and communities,” says SDA Bocconi’s Dean Stefano Caselli.

While the fundamental values of the MBA have remained constant, the program itself has evolved significantly over time. Originally focused on the managerial culture typical of Italy—emphasizing sectors like manufacturing, fashion and technology—the MBA gradually expanded its scope to include broader global challenges. This evolution introduced a stronger emphasis on innovation, change management, and understanding macroeconomic and geopolitical factors.

"The curriculum of such a program is dynamically evolving, to enable our students' expectations in terms of skills and competencies transformation. Three years ago, our Full-Time MBA placed a much more decisive focus on the responsibilities of business leaders in terms of social, environmental, and economic sustainability. The appointment of Stefano Pogutz as Academic Director marked a pivotal moment in this evolution, driving the course towards an even greater emphasis on these critical issues. The new cohort will experience the impact of AI on teaching methodologies and learn about the potential impact on business and jobs of this new technological revolution", says Prof. Enzo Baglieri, Associate Dean for the Master Programs at SDA Bocconi.

In parallel with these advancements, the MBA program has undergone substantial internationalization. Over the past two decades, both the student body and the faculty have become increasingly global, reflecting a wide array of perspectives and cultures. The most recent edition of the MBA features students from nearly 40 different nationalities, underscoring the program’s commitment to maintaining a truly global outlook.

The program’s high level of scientific prominence, innovative teaching methods, and notable impact in academic research have recently culminated in an unprecedented achievement: the MBA now ranks #3 globally and #2 in Europe according to the Financial Times. This recognition underlines the program’s continued excellence and its influential role in shaping the future of business education.

As we embark on this 50th edition, the SDA Bocconi MBA continues to blend tradition with innovation, preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. This milestone is not only a celebration of past successes, but also a commitment to the future, ensuring that the program remains at the cutting edge of global leadership development for many years to come.

SDA Bocconi School of Management