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Summer School
Two students are collaborating on a robotics project using a robotic arm.

Breakthrough Robotics

Think as a robotics innovator and develop world-class solutions
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duration2 weeks
languageEnglish
locationMadrid
intake13th of July - 24th of July, 2026
formatIn-person
For whoUndergraduate students & young professionals

Think. Build. Innovate.

Step into the future of technology and innovation with this hands-on summer experience in robotics. Designed for curious and ambitious students, the program blends engineering, programming, and creative problem-solving to explore how intelligent machines are built and brought to life.

Across two immersive weeks, you’ll learn to design, build, and program robots that respond to their environment — mastering real-world tools used in engineering and automation. Working in state-of-the-art robotics labs, you’ll collaborate in teams, tackle challenges, and develop robots capable of completing complex tasks. This is your opportunity to turn ideas into intelligent systems and gain practical experience at the intersection of technology, creativity, and design thinking.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Days to start your best summer

51days
:
23hours
:
52minutes

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?

  • This program is right for you if…

    … you’re passionate about technology and want to understand how robots think, move, and solve problems in the real world.

  • Participant profile

    Designed for tech-driven and curious students eager to explore robotics, programming, and innovation through hands-on learning.

Focus Areas

Develop practical skills and creative insight to thrive in the world of robotics and intelligent systems. From mechanical design to AI-driven interaction, each area equips you to build, program, and innovate with confidence and impact.

  • 01.

    1. Robotics Engineering 

    Design and build functional robots integrating sensors, motors, and microcontrollers.

  • 02.

    1. Programming & Automation

    Learn to program autonomous behavior using Python and Arduino platforms.

  • 03.

    1. Design & Prototyping

    Use CAD tools and rapid fabrication techniques like 3D printing and laser cutting.

  • 04.

    1. Innovation & Collaboration

    Work in teams to solve real-world challenges and present your robotic creations.

Study Plan

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

This agenda is subject to change.

What You're going to do
2 Weeks | 40 Hours | 3 ECTS
Week 1
    Week 2
      What You're going to do
      2 Weeks | 40 Hours | 3 ECTS
      A blue symbol featuring a circular outline and a star-like design in the center.

      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.

      Your first look at the program

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      Unique Value

      A hands-on, project-driven experience where you’ll turn ideas into working robots and gain the technical and teamwork skills that define tomorrow’s innovators.

      Learning Outcome

      By the end of the program, you’ll know how to design, build, and program intelligent robotic systems — combining engineering, coding, and creativity to solve real-world challenges.

      Course Overview  

      Typical Day in the Breakthrough Robotics Program

      We’ve structured your day-to-day to sharpen your skills and bring out your best ideas. Designed for an engaging and hands-on experience, here’s what a typical day in the Robotics program looks like:

      Week 1:

      Monday to Friday: 

      •  9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Classes.
      • Afternoon: Optional cultural activities. 
      A group of young people collaborating on a project with technology in a modern office environment.

      Week 2

      Monday to Thursday:

      • 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Classes.
      • Afternoon: Optional cultural activities. 
      • Friday: Dedicated to Group Project presentations and later, a fun graduation ceremony.
      A young man is focused, looking off into the distance while a robotic prototype with wires is placed on a table in front of him.
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      Discover the summer calendar

      Explore the full Univeristy Summer Programs calendar to discover all available courses and dates.

      See the calendar

      Our faculty

      Faculty Spotlight: Robert Polding | IE School of Science and Technology

      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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      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.

      Abstract for Tuition | IE

      TUITION

      2 WEEK PROGRAM

      • 3,500€
      • 5,900€ Bundle Price (2 weeks + 2 weeks)

      THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS

      1
      Online Application
      2
      Submit your Application
      3
      Admissions Final Decision

      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.

      1/3
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      Combine Programs to Build Your Ideal Summer 

      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. Step Into Your Master’s Journey  

          FAQ's

          • No prior experience is required. The program is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of robotics and programming, making it accessible whether you’re a beginner or have some basic knowledge.

          • Yes, you will be introduced to programming as a key component of robotics, learning how software and hardware interact to create intelligent systems.

          • This program combines robotics, innovation, and real-world application, allowing you to not only understand how technology works but also how it is used to solve complex global challenges.

          • Absolutely. It’s a great way to explore fields like robotics, engineering, and AI before committing to a specific academic path.

          • Yes, it’s designed to spark curiosity and give you a strong introduction to robotics and innovation, even if you’re still exploring your interests.