According to recent figures from the British Council, the social sciences have a profound influence on global leadership and policy-making, with around 55 per cent of global leaders holding a degree in the social sciences or humanities. In a world grappling with complex challenges such as climate change, economic inequality and global security, expertise in the social sciences has never been more important.
For students who want to lead in these fields, the Bocconi University in Milan and the Sciences Po in Paris are two of the leading institutions in Europe. With Bocconi’s interdisciplinary approach to political science and diplomacy and Science Poe’s legacy, this comparison makes each an excellent choice for future change-makers.
location
Located in the heart of Milan, Bocconi University offers students the chance to immerse themselves in one of Europe’s top business, financial and cultural centers. The university’s newly expanded campus showcases sustainable architecture, green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities open to the public. Milan is home to many multinational corporations, providing excellent opportunities for students to gain real-world experience. Apart from academics, Milan offers an abundance of recreational activities. Students can explore world-class art at the Pinacoteca di Brera, experience opera at the prestigious Teatro alla Scala, or indulge in the city’s renowned culinary delights.
In contrast, Sciences Po has campuses in seven French cities, with its main campus located in the heart of Paris, in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, near the Louvre Museum and the Luxembourg Gardens. The Paris campus offers students proximity to major political institutions and international organizations, making it ideal for those studying social science, political science, and international relations. Beyond academics, Paris offers access to cultural experiences at iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame and the Opéra Garnier, which enrich student life.
Curriculum structure
Bocconi University offers a wide range of social science programs focusing on economics, finance, management, legal studies, political science, and data and computer science. A distinctive feature of Bocconi’s Department of Social Sciences is its interdisciplinary approach. For example, the BSc in Economics and Management for Arts, Culture, and Communication blends business concepts with deep insights into the arts, culture, and communication fields. Programs integrate economic, quantitative, and social science tools that ensure students develop a well-rounded perspective on global economic issues. Through engaging group projects, simulations, and case studies, students are equipped to tackle complex international challenges by bridging theory with real-world applications.
In contrast, Science Poe offers a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences that focuses on six core disciplines: Economics, Law, History, Political Science, Sociology, and Humanities. In the first year, students explore the unique content and methods of each subject. In the second and third years, they engage in more multidisciplinary studies while developing critical thinking and research skills. Students also gain international exposure through exchanges and can choose specific areas of study to prepare for global challenges.
admissions
The admission process at Bocconi University is highly competitive; Selection is based on two main criteria: the score on the selection test (55 percent) and the GPA of the third-last and second-last years of high school (45 percent). Applicants must complete the Bocconi online test or submit scores from other standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Additionally, Bocconi values intellectual curiosity and motivation for the subject while considering these elements in the overall review of each application.
Likewise, Science Po applicants are evaluated based on academic excellence as well as their motivation to study at the institution and their intellectual vision. The application process includes an interview that allows candidates to demonstrate their writing and thinking skills along with their potential. This holistic approach enables candidates to demonstrate both their academic achievements and personal aspirations.
scholarship
Bocconi University offers a range of scholarships to support domestic and international students. These include merit-based awards such as the Bocconi Merit Awards – which can cover up to 100 percent of tuition fees for exceptional students – and the Bocconi International Awards available to international students, which provide partial tuition fee coverage. For those who need financial assistance, need-based scholarships can cover full or partial tuition fees.
Likewise, Science Po offers several scholarships for domestic and international students, including the Emile-Baumi Scholarship that covers full tuition and need-based financial support for high-achieving international students, an undergraduate scholarship program.
Additional courses
Bocconi University has over 100 student associations covering a wide range of interests. These include initiatives such as Bocconi Students Against Organized Crime – which raises awareness of crime-related issues – and Bocconi Students for ESG – focusing on environmental social governance issues. These societies provide opportunities for students to engage in meaningful activities outside of academics while promoting personal development, social responsibility, and leadership skills.
Likewise, Sciences Po offers a dynamic campus life with more than 300 student clubs covering topics as varied as culture, environment and cohesion. Students can participate in cultural activities such as concerts, exhibitions, theater performances, and creative workshops. Notable student-run organizations include Science Poe Refugee Help and The Equal Society. These activities provide opportunities for personal development as well as artistic expression and community engagement beyond academics.
For students aiming for a globally recognized social science education focused on international relations with the critical thinking skills needed for careers in political science or diplomacy or policymaking – Science Po is different. In contrast, Bocconi University in Milan offers an interdisciplinary approach emphasizing economics and business within its dynamic environment – ideal for those interested in integrating social sciences with real-world business applications.
(The author is Senior Manager, Growth – Athena Education)