NextGen Public Changemakers
Empowering tomorrow’s rising leaders for global impactShape the future, drive meaningful change
Shape the future, drive meaningful change
The world is at a turning point—global governance, social justice, and sustainability are facing unprecedented challenges. But within this disruption lies an opportunity: the chance to rethink, reshape, and lead in a new era of change.
The NextGen Public Changemakers program equips you with the tools to analyze power structures, challenge dominant narratives, and navigate uncertainty, helping you clarify your path in public and social impact. Through this immersive preparatory course, you will develop core skills essential for driving meaningful change, no matter your background or experience.
Guided by renowned faculty and experts in international affairs, policy-making, and social innovation, you’ll engage in critical discussions, hands-on learning, and self-reflection, all while connecting with a diverse, like-minded community of future changemakers from different career paths. If you're ready to not just react to global shifts but actively shape them, this is where your journey begins.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
days to start your best summer
WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?
WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?
This program is right for you if…
…you are eager to challenge the status quo, navigate global uncertainty, and lead change in a world where traditional governance and collaboration are being redefined. If you aspire to be a changemaker who doesn’t just react to global shifts but actively shapes them, this is where your journey begins.
Participant profile
The NextGen Public Changemakers module is for undergraduate students and recent graduates (18-26) ready to drive impact. No matter your background, you’ll join a community of peers who share your passion for change.
Focus Areas
Focus Areas
Gain the essential skills to navigate global challenges, influence policy, and lead with impact. This program focuses on six key areas that will empower you to think strategically, communicate effectively, and drive meaningful change in diverse international settings.
- 01.
Systemic Thinking & Strategic Foresight
Analyze complex systems, anticipate global trends, and make high-impact, informed decisions.
- 02.
Geopolitical Acumen & Cross-Cultural Competence
Understand global power dynamics and cultural nuances to lead effectively across diverse international settings.
- 03.
Policy Innovation & Public Problem-Solving
Apply analytical and data-driven approaches to evaluate, design, and advocate for policies addressing critical global challenges.
- 04.
Communication & Advocacy
Strengthen public speaking, storytelling, and persuasion skills to mobilize audiences and drive impactful change.
- 05.
Ethical & Responsible Decision-Making
Navigate complex, multi-stakeholder environments with integrity, transparency, and principled leadership.
- 06.
Negotiation & Conflict Mediation
Develop skills in negotiation and dispute resolution to foster collaboration and implement sustainable solutions.
- Paula HerasExecutive Director - Global Recruitment
Any doubts?
Please contact our program specialist for personalized advice on your specific case.
Study Plan
Study Plan
Program Structure
Program Structure
This agenda is subject to change.
- Week 1
- Week 2
- Final Project
- Week 1
- Week 2
- Final Project
CREDIT RECOGNITION
CREDIT RECOGNITION
Earning academic credit at your home institution for joining IE University’s Summer Program is designed to be as straightforward as possible. Many institutions routinely award credit for summer courses, but we highly recommend that you check with your University’s International or Study Abroad Office regarding any specific requirements you might need to fulfill.
If you join IE University’s Summer Program for at least four weeks (= two two-week modules or with the four-week Entrepreneurship Summer School), you’ll complete an academic workload equivalence of 6 ECTS credits (or 3 US credits). If you spend more time with us, you can earn even more credit equivalence, also spread over consecutive summers. To qualify for credit recognition, you need to fulfill all the course requirements and submit one final essay within two weeks of finishing your last course.
To make the credit transfer process easier, IE University provides all the necessary documentation and evidence required by your home university’s Study Abroad Office or academic department. Additionally, we actively work to pre-agree credit recognition with key partner universities to ensure a faster and smoother process for you.
Your First Look at the Program
Your First Look at the Program
Unique Value
Unique Value
This hands-on experience equips you with the skills, mindset, and confidence to become a purpose-driven global leader ready to make an impact. Learn from top faculty and industry experts, tackle real-world challenges, and engage in field trips and a leadership trail.
Learning Outcome
Learning Outcome
By the end of this program, you will analyze global trends, navigate complex systems, and influence policy through strategic foresight and data-driven decision-making. Strengthening your advocacy, communication, and leadership abilities, you will be prepared to drive meaningful and sustainable change in public service and beyond.
Course Overview
Course Overview
Typical Day in the NextGen Public Changemakers program
We’ve structured each day to build your leadership toolkit, fostering collaboration, critical thinking and adaptability in the face of real-world challenges. Here’s a glimpse into your day-to-day as a future global leader.
Week 1:
Monday to Friday:
- 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Classes.
- Afternoon: Optional cultural activities
Week 2
Monday to Thursday:
- 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Classes.
- Afternoon: Optional cultural activities
Friday:
- The last day is dedicated to final presentations and later, a fun graduation ceremony.
Collaboration with Impact Hub
Collaboration with Impact Hub
As part of the NextGen Public Changemakers Summer Program at IE University, students will have the opportunity to learn from the success stories of Impact Hub, a global network driving social and environmental change. With locations in over 100 cities, Impact Hub brings together changemakers, startups, and organizations dedicated to creating innovative solutions for the world’s most pressing challenges.
Through inspiring case studies and discussions with impact-driven entrepreneurs and leaders, students will gain valuable insights into what it takes to drive meaningful change. This experience will provide a firsthand look at real-world social innovation, equipping students with the knowledge and inspiration to shape their own path as future changemakers.
Meet UN Tourism
Meet UN Tourism
As part of the collaboration with the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) – the UN agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism – students will visit its headquarters in Madrid and attend an exclusive masterclass with Executive Director Natalia Bayona.
This unique experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at how global governance shapes the future of tourism and development, connecting classroom learning with real-world impact.
Our Faculty
Our Faculty
OUR PROGRAM LEAD FACULTY
OUR PROGRAM LEAD FACULTY
Alberto Cremonesi - Academic Director and professor, IE University.
- Alberto has over 20 years of global experience in sustainability strategy design and implementation, social impact, impact measurement, ESG and innovation management.
- A highly creative individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a bias towards action, Alberto is an entrepreneur at heart.
MEET OUR FACULTY
MEET OUR FACULTY
Student Experience
Student Experience
Admissions
Admissions
Our admissions process is simple and designed to understand your motivation and goals. Apply online and receive a decision within approximately two weeks.
We recommend applying early, as places are limited.
TUITION
TUITION
2 week program
2 week program
- 3,500€
- 5,900€ Bundle Price (2 weeks + 2 weeks)
THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS
THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS
Online Application
Online Application
You will need to complete the online application with the following documents:
- Academic transcripts.
- CV (cv template).
- 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.
FIND YOUR IDEAL PROGRAM
FIND YOUR IDEAL PROGRAM
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.
From Summer to Your Future at IE.
From Summer to Your Future at IE.
Step Into Your Master’s Journey
FAQ's
FAQ's
Do I need prior knowledge of geopolitics or public policy?
No prior experience is required. The program is designed to introduce key concepts in an accessible way, making it suitable for students from any academic background.
Is this program a good fit if I’m interested in global issues or international relations?
Yes, this program is ideal if you’re curious about geopolitics, global challenges, and how decisions shape societies. It helps you explore these topics while understanding their real-world impact.
What makes this program different from a traditional politics course?
It focuses on real-world impact, combining geopolitics with leadership, innovation, and problem-solving to prepare you for today’s global challenges.
Is this program relevant if I want to make a social or global impact?
Absolutely. The program is designed for students who want to understand global challenges and become agents of change in areas like policy, sustainability, and international development.
Can this program help me stand out in university applications?
Yes, engaging with global issues and demonstrating interest in geopolitics and impact-driven careers can strengthen your academic profile.