Artificial Intelligence for Banking and Finance

/ Overview

The Graduate Degree Programme in Artificial Intelligence for Banking and Finance is a two-year Master of Science (MSc) programme at Università Cattolica in Brescia, combining quantitative skills with knowledge in economics and finance through an inter-faculty structure that represents a distinctive feature in the academic landscape.

The programme aims to develop hybrid profiles able to work across data analysis, mathematical models and financial market dynamics.

The programme is based on a strong inter-faculty offering combining the economics and finance area with the mathematics and statistics area, creating a synergy that is also rare internationally.

It is an interdisciplinary programme open to students from different backgrounds, including economics, management and STEM.

The first year is dedicated to consolidating the foundations of mathematics, statistics, computer science, banking and financial economics, to align students’ starting levels and build a common language.

Students can choose between two profiles:

Financial Data Analysis
Data Science

The programme is also flexible and can be adapted to students’ initial skills.

The programme integrates data science, artificial intelligence and finance, with a strong focus on practical applications and professional contexts.

Collaboration between lecturers from different disciplinary areas supports a broad, practical and cross-disciplinary approach to teaching.

Why choose Artificial Intelligence for Banking and Finance at Università Cattolica?

This programme is designed for students who want to develop a solid and innovative profile, able to work at the intersection of finance, data and artificial intelligence in the most advanced areas of the labour market.

Hybrid profile combining data science and finance

Development of integrated skills that are increasingly in demand in the labour market

Comprehensive theoretical and practical training

Integration of theoretical foundations, technical tools and applications to real-world cases

Cross-disciplinary and flexible skills

Ability to work across different sectors and business functions

Alignment with labour market needs

Programme designed around the needs of companies and financial institutions

Focus on AI and fintech

Focus on artificial intelligence, innovation and data analysis

Modular structure

Suitable for students from different backgrounds, thanks to the flexibility of the programme

This Graduate Degree Programme is designed for students aiming to enter key areas of financial and digital innovation, with a versatile profile that is competitive in the labour market.

100

%

Overall satisfaction with the degree programme

100

%

Positive evaluation of experiences abroad

Source: Satisfaction of those who completed the course of study detected in the latest Undergraduates survey, calendar year 2025

/ Study Plan

Programme structure

Study tracks

The programme is structured progressively and interdisciplinarily, with an initial common phase dedicated to consolidating core skills and a subsequent phase of specialisation based on students’ interests.

First year

The first year is designed to align students’ initial skills and provides a foundation in mathematics, statistics, computer science, economics, banking and finance, building a common language among students from different backgrounds.

Second year

In the second year, the programme branches into different curricula and focuses on more advanced and applied activities, with extensive use of laboratories, projects and case studies. Students can choose mainly between two areas:

Financial Data Analysis: focused on financial markets, portfolio construction, risk management and quantitative finance from a dynamic perspective.
Data Science: focused on data analysis, machine learning and artificial intelligence applications.

The study plan combines theoretical foundations, quantitative tools and practical applications, with the aim of preparing graduates able to work both in the financial sector and in data-driven innovation.

View the study plan

Teaching approach

The programme combines theoretical learning with applied activities, with a strong professional focus and an emphasis on developing skills that can be applied immediately in professional contexts.

Curricular internships, supported by a broad and well-established network of companies, are a central part of the learning experience. They are designed as a structured step towards entering the labour market and give students the opportunity to put the skills they have acquired into practice.

Teaching is further enriched by professionally oriented short courses delivered by industry experts, focusing on data analysis, advanced tools and applications of artificial intelligence in finance.

The programme also offers significant opportunities for internationalisation:

Double Degree with Ghent University
Agreement with the University of North Carolina
Data Science pathways

The programme is further complemented by direct engagement with professionals and companies, giving students the opportunity to experience high-quality professional settings and gain first-hand insight into the real-world dynamics of the financial and technology sectors.

/ Admission

The admission process

You can find here the information on admission, which varies according to your qualification (Italian or foreign) *

To apply for the Graduate Degree Programme in Artificial Intelligence for Banking and Finance, you must meet the academic entry requirements and follow the admission procedures and deadlines.

Here are the main steps to follow:

01

Check admission dates and procedures

Academic year 2026/27

You can still apply for this programme for the 2026/27 academic year.

ADMISSION PROCEDURES 2026-27 (ITA)

A.Y. 2027-28

Admission procedures and deadlines for the 2027/28 academic year are now available.

ADMISSION PROCEDURES 2027-28 (ITA)

02

Prepare the required documents

Make sure you have all the documents you need to submit your application.

More information: Required documents

Passport-style photograph – Accepted formats: JPG, JPEG. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Identity document – Identity card, passport or driving licence. Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Italian fiscal code (codice fiscale) – Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Residence permit (if required) – Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
English language certificate – B2 level or above.
Baptism certificate – If you do not have one, you will receive further information about the alternative documentation you can submit.

03

Register or log in to the Enrolment Portal

If you don't have an account yet, register on the Enrolment Portal. If you already have one, log in using your credentials.

PORTAL GUIDELINES

04

Check whether you meet the academic entry requirements

For the verification of curricular requirements, enter the details of the undergraduate degree you have completed or are currently completing in the Enrolment Portal.

Include the courses/modules in your study plan, specifying the scientific-disciplinary sector (SSD) and credits (CFU) for each one. For exams you have passed, also provide your grades and exam dates.

The outcome will indicate whether you meet the academic requirements for admission to the programme and provide information on the next steps.

05

Reserve your place

If the check confirms that you meet the academic entry requirements, you can reserve your place by paying the first instalment of tuition fees through the Enrolment Portal. You can do this even before you have completed your undergraduate degree.

06

Complete pre-enrolment or enrolment

If you have not yet completed your undergraduate degree, you must first pre-enrol. Once you have graduated, you can complete the enrolment process.

At this stage, you will need to provide a self-certification of your degree and examinations taken, along with a certificate of baptism. If you do not have a certificate of baptism, you can submit alternative documentation as specified in the Enrolment Portal.

It is necessary to enter one's income data by the end of November through the "Compila redditi" application, accessible from the personal iCatt page.

* The information provided is subject to the approval of the competent bodies and may be subject to change

Useful information

Some useful information to enrol and take your first steps at the University with peace of mind.

English Test

Admission to certain degree programmes, or the inclusion of modules taught in English in your study plan, requires an adequate level of English language proficiency.

You can demonstrate your proficiency by submitting one of the recognised language certificates listed in the relevant admission procedures or by taking the English Test organised by Università Cattolica's Language Centre.

Candidates with disabilities or SLD

Students with disabilities or SLD can benefit from compensatory tools. All information can be found in the Services for Inclusion section of the university.

Discover the services for inclusion

Transfers, transfers, second degrees and career resumption

Candidates wishing to transfer to a programme within Università Cattolica, transfer from another university, enrol in a second degree or resume their university career must meet the Admission Requirements.

Go to the dedicated section

English Test

More information: English Test

/ Fees and funding

Tuition fees and financial support

Tuition fees and scholarships

Starting university often involves questions about fees, deadlines and the support available. Clear information about financial support and accommodation options helps students plan their studies with confidence, allowing them to focus on their academic progress and personal development.

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, through EDUCatt, offers income- and merit-based scholarships and graduation awards, providing financial support to help students continue their studies.

Visit the dedicated section for information on tuition fees and other costs, use the online fee simulator, and find out about available financial support.

Find out more

Student accommodation

Università Cattolica offers a range of housing options to support students throughout their studies.

On campus residences

Nine residences are located on or near Università Cattolica campuses. They offer an educational experience that goes beyond accommodation, with cultural activities, meetings and workshops that complement university study. Residence life also provides opportunities to be part of an active community, exchange ideas and share experiences.

Explore on-campus residences

Residences in the city

Residences located across the city are well connected to Università Cattolica campuses. They offer students greater independence in their day-to-day life, while providing comfortable accommodation and the flexibility to balance study, social life and personal time.

Explore city residences

/ International experiences

Study, internships and volunteering abroad

During your studies at Università Cattolica, you can gain international experience as part of your academic journey. Studying, doing an internship or volunteering abroad gives you the chance to experience new academic, professional and cultural environments, improve your language skills and develop an international perspective that can enrich your studies and support your future career.

Discover the opportunities to study, undertake an internship or volunteer abroad:

Semester abroad

Double degrees

Language courses and certifications

Summer programmes

Internships abroad

International volunteering

Thesis abroad

Short programmes

Virtual programmes

You can include an experience abroad as part of your studies. For programmes involving exams abroad, you can check in advance whether they can be recognised, following the guidance provided by your Faculty and discussing this with the relevant academic staff.

Find out more

/ Internships and careers

Internships and career opportunities

The Faculty offers a range of internship opportunities, allowing students to apply the skills developed during their studies in real-world professional settings.

Internships and professional training

The curricular internship is a training experience that enables students to apply the knowledge and methods acquired during the programme in real-world situations, while developing practical skills and a greater awareness of their learning journey.

For the Artificial Intelligence for Banking and Finance programme, the internship is compulsory and may also be undertaken abroad. To be awarded the 6 ECTS, students must meet the attendance requirements, receive a positive evaluation from the host organisation and submit a final report.

Relevant work experience undertaken during the programme may also be recognised as an internship, provided it has not already been used for other credit recognition purposes, was not carried out in a family business and is supported by appropriate documentation.

The Career Service supports students and graduates as they prepare to enter the job market, providing career guidance and resources to help them navigate different professional and organisational contexts. It supports the development of transversal skills, creates opportunities to meet employers and helps students develop an informed and coherent career path.

Every year, more than 20,000 students take part in events organised with over 100 partner companies, and more than 9,500 undertake an internship with support from the Career Service and internship tutors.

Find out more

Learning outcomes

The programme develops advanced, integrated skills in quantitative, technological and financial fields, preparing graduates to work in complex, data-driven contexts.

Programming for data science and AI

Use of Python and R for machine learning and artificial intelligence applications

Interpretation of models and algorithms

Ability to analyse model results, limitations and potential biases

Statistical data analysis

Advanced training in statistics and data analysis compared with traditional economics programmes

Economics and finance

Knowledge of financial markets, credit and key financial instruments

Risk management and fintech

Skills in investment and risk management in regulated and innovative environments

Data-driven decision making

Application of quantitative models to real-world problems in business and finance

The programme enables students to develop a highly specialised profile that integrates data analysis and financial skills into decision-making processes.

Career prospects

The programme prepares graduates with a combination of quantitative, IT and financial skills that are in high demand in the labour market.

Consulting and advisory

Analysis, modelling and support for strategic decision-making

Finance and accounting

Roles in finance, controlling and financial management functions

Fintech and innovation

Opportunities in data-driven companies and innovative technology businesses

Data intelligence and analytics

Roles in data analysis teams across a range of sectors

The programme provides graduates with a strong ability to adapt to different professional contexts, both in Italy and internationally, and supports rapid entry into the labour market.

Graduate employment rates

After 1 year

After 3 years

Source: The percentages relating to employment opportunities refer to graduates in 2024 (if 1 year after graduation), 2022 (if 3 years after graduation) and 2020 (if 5 years old)

Our Alumni

Our alumni work in banks, insurance companies, consulting firms and fintech companies, where data analysis plays a central role in decision-making processes.

Career paths are often dynamic and international, with rapid progression in quantitative and strategic roles across:

Consulting and advisory firms
Banking and financial institutions
Fintech and technology companies
Large companies with data-driven business functions

View our Alumni on LinkedIn

Continuing your studies

The programme enables students to continue their studies in advanced fields, both in Italy and abroad, with a range of opportunities for specialisation.

Specialising Master Programmes: opportunities to pursue programmes in data science, quantitative finance and related disciplines.
International pathways: opportunities to take part in Double Degree programmes already integrated into the programme.
Advanced specialisation: further study in areas such as artificial intelligence, fintech and quantitative finance.

The programme therefore provides a natural progression for students who wish to consolidate and further develop their skills in highly specialised, international contexts.

/ Advising and support

Choosing your programme

Advising events

Take part in events to explore specific degree programmes and learn more about what different Faculties have to offer.

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Open Days

Find out about Università Cattolica Open Days for prospective students who want to learn more about the University and its programmes.

View Open Days

UnicattX

Explore the Milan, Rome, Brescia, Cremona and Piacenza campuses in 3D and access virtual events on the UnicattX platform.

Go to Unicattx

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