Two students are working together with a robotic arm in a classroom setting.

Breakthrough Tech & AI

Learn the basics of emerging technologies
duration2 weeks
languageEnglish
locationMadrid
Intake29th of June - 10th of July, 2026
For WhoUndergraduate students & recent graduates

A HANDS-ON GUIDE TO EMERGING TECH

Get a front-row seat to the future of technology with our Breakthrough Tech & AI program. Through immersive, project-based learning, you’ll explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, data science, and quantum computing, gaining hands-on experience in IE’s state-of-the-art Tech & AI Lab.

Ideal for students curious about technology’s impact and innovation, this dynamic program goes beyond traditional lectures, inviting you to apply concepts to real-world challenges and see how innovation is reshaping industries—and your role in them. Across two intensive weeks, you’ll work on collaborative projects that grow with your skills, guided by mentorship sessions and group reflections.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

days to start your best summer

240days
:
15hours
:
08minutes

Course Overview – Typical Day in the Breakthrough Tech & AI program

What will your schedule in the Breakthrough Tech & AI program look like? Each day offers a new opportunity to foster critical thinking and problem-solving, preparing you to navigate and shape tomorrow’s tech with insight and responsibility.

  • Three women are focused on a technical project involving electronics and wires.

    Week 1:

    • Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • A group of young people collaborating around a computer in a modern office space.

    Week 2:

    • Monday to Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
    • Thursday: This workday is dedicated to wrapping up your final project.
    • Friday: The last day involves final presentations and a fun graduation ceremony.

Your First Look at the Program

Play

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?

  • This program is right for you if…

    …you’re excited about the future of technology and want to explore the practical applications of breakthrough AI, robotics and quantum computing innovations in today’s world.

  • Participant profile

    The Breakthrough Tech & AI program is tailored for undergraduate students and recent graduates, between 18 and 24 years old, who are driven to gain the skills needed to succeed as future tech leaders, aspiring innovators and ethical, collaborative problem-solvers.

Focus Areas

Understand the basics of emerging technologies and gain vital skills for a tech-driven future. By learning to evaluate and leverage the latest tools, you’ll be empowered with the skills to contribute to the evolving tech landscape.

  • 01.

    Understand Emerging Technologies

    Gain foundational knowledge in AI, robotics, quantum computing, and other evolving technologies.

  • 02.

     Hands-On Experience

    Apply theoretical knowledge in practical labs, building basic AI models and interacting with robots.

  • 03.

    Evaluate Technology’s Impact

    Discuss the ethical, societal, and policy implications of advanced technologies.

  • 04.

    Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving

    Develop the skills to assess new technologies and propose solutions for real-world problems.

  • 05.

    Collaboration & Innovation

    Work in teams to develop innovative ideas using emerging tech, fostering creative and collaborative learning.

Unique Value

This program uniquely combines cutting-edge technology exposure with hands-on project-based learning in a state-of-the-art lab, offering participants direct access to the latest tools and technologies. With expert mentorship and a focus on tech ethics, it provides a comprehensive, accessible pathway to mastering emerging technologies while considering their broader societal implications.

Learning Outcome

Upon completing the Breakthrough Tech & AI program, you will have developed practical expertise in AI, robotics, and quantum computing through hands-on projects and immersive lab experiences. You will also gain a deep understanding of the societal and ethical impacts of technology, equipping you to critically assess and apply innovation responsibly.

Program Structure

What You're going to do
2 Weeks
Week 1
    Week 2
      Final Project
        What You're going to do
        2 Weeks

        Discover the program's agenda

        Dive into a curriculum that immerses you in hands-on learning. Through a mix of interactive classes, collaborative group work, presentations and our innovative media lab, you’ll develop essential skills for success.

        A professional portrait of a middle-aged man with light hair wearing a red shirt, standing in front of a window with blinds.

        OUR PROGRAM LEAD FACULTY

        Robert Polding - Assistant Vice Dean of Computing and Data Science at IE University.

        • Academic Director of the HealthCare Impact Xcelerator.
        • Training and Teaching of IT and Information Systems related subjects
        • Network Engineer
        • Journalist
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        DISCOVER THE RIGHT PROGRAM FOR YOU

        With flexible programs, you can mix and match the topics that interest you the most, giving you a taste of your future degree or career. Each program lasts two weeks and you can combine up to three programs to create a very personal learning journey.​

          DISCOVER THE SUMMER CALENDAR

          Take a look to see how you can structure your summer with our various combinations.​

          Abstract for Tuition | IE

          TUITION

          Single Program: 3,500€

          • 2 weeks

          BUNDLE: 5,900€

          • 2 weeks + 2 weeks

          CREDIT RECOGNITION

          If you join IE University’s Summer Program for a two week module and opt in to the additional academic deliverable, you will receive a Certificate of Achievement indicating an academic workload equivalence of 3 ECTS credits. 

          Completing two modules with the deliverable corresponds to 6 ECTS, and three modules to 9 ECTS. 

          To qualify for credit recognition, you must fulfill all course requirements and submit the additional deliverable within two weeks of finishing your last module. Recognition of credits is always determined by your home institution.

          THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS

          A graphic illustration of a woman interacting with a large, symbolic interface, handling documents and folders.

          1. Online Application

          You will need to complete the online application with the following documents: 

          1. Academic transcripts.  
          2. CV (cv template).
          3. Video Assessment: in this section you will complete two live video questions on general knowledge topics.

          *You must complete all sections of the application in order to submit it.

          A person working on a laptop at a standing desk.

          2. Submit your Application

          Once you complete all sections you may submit your online application to be evaluated by our team.


          A stylized illustration of a woman walking confidently with a large checklist and a check mark, symbolizing task completion or approval.

          3. Admissions Final Decision

          Within 2 weeks of submitting, the Summer School Team will contact you with the final resolution of your Admissions process. Should it be positive, you will be guided through the next steps for your enrollment.

          A man in a yellow cap is checking a large checklist on a blue document.

          From Summer to Your Future at IE. Step Into Your Master’s Journey  

          Continue your IE journey after the Breakthrough Tech & AI program with a Master in Digital Business & Innovation, Computer Science & Business Technology, or Business Analytics & Data Science.

          START YOUR APPLICATION

          Spaces are limited, so enroll now to guarantee your place!