PRE-PROGRAM. The pre-program is a mandatory introductory period. During this module, you will explore key themes on the dynamics of global affairs, including economics, quantitative and digital skills and the broad foundations of international studies. The courses in the Pre-program include:. ECONOMICS PRE-COURSE. This pre-course has been designed to provide you with an understanding of the economic principles that shape technological innovation and global markets. By taking this course, you will explore key concepts such as market dynamics, public policy and digital economies, building a strong foundation for your master’s degree.. INTERNATIONAL STUDIES PRE-COURSE. This pre-course has been designed to provide you with the fundamental concepts of global affairs in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. By taking this course, you will examine international institutions, geopolitics and global governance, gaining the context needed to understand the relationship between technology and world affairs.. QUANTITATIVE & DIGITAL SKILLS PRE-COURSE. This pre-course has been designed to introduce you to the quantitative and digital skills required throughout the program. By taking this course, you will develop a foundation in statistics, data analysis and computational thinking, equipping you with the analytical tools needed to address complex global challenges.
Terms. 10 MONTHS. TERM 1. THE ETHICS OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS. We’ll start building your foundations in the program with a humanistic look at the challenges that tech such as AI and machine learning pose in their interactions with our societies. You’ll address tech’s effect on justice, freedom, autonomy and human well-being, and how emerging technologies are even challenging the traditional ideas of ourselves and the human experience that underpin our ethics and our political philosophies. Examining social networks, big data, AI and virtual/meta realities, you’ll explore the philosophical questions posed by these technologies as they influence not just our public interactions but our social consciousness.. FOREIGN POLICY IN THE DIGITAL ERA. The Geopolitics and Security theme continues with a look at tech’s influence on global governance and multilateralism. You’ll explore how both state and non-state actors work in the digital era, and the implications and realities of global internet governance.. PROGRAMMING IN PYTHON AND SQL. A course designed to familiarize you with the two most important programming languages for modern tech professionals, Python and SQL. It’s not a programming course—rather it’s a look at the concepts, risks and potential for cybersecurity attacks inherent in the widespread use of these tools. You’ll address concepts such as digital and data security, and effective data use, management and protection.. ADAPTIVE LEADERSHIP. This course examines the modern realities of a tech-first ecosystem that have forced public, private, third-sector and even state organizations to move on from traditional models of leadership, and into more adaptive methods. You’ll address emotional intelligence, self-awareness, empathy, transparency and stakeholder engagement and empowerment—key qualities for effective modern leadership and the well-being of an organization’s employees.. NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND THE GLOBAL ECONOMY. This course examines the impact technology is having on global governance and international cooperation, with a particular look at how international organizations like the UN and the EU operate. You’ll also explore emerging tech in the space, such as cryptocurrencies, that are increasingly becoming subject to multilateral standards and governance. You’ll study the disruptive power of tech on the structures and practices of organizations, producing an academic and research-based project that will leverage your data analysis or theoretical development skills.. TERM 2. START-UPS, DIGITAL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN FINANCE. This pillar moves on to Digital Business and Entrepreneurship, with a primary focus on incorporating a product or service idea into a formal business plan. You’ll gain the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in a constantly changing environment, using case studies to look at innovation in business, market research, strategizing and organizational planning.. DATA ANALYTICS & DECISION MAKING. Study continues on what are, in modern global affairs and business alike, becoming fundamental competencies: data-driven decision-making, AI and machine learning. On the data side, the focus is on the statistical methods that inform policy-making and management in the sector, with particular emphasis on practical sources and uses of big data and its visualization.. MANAGEMENT AND EVALUATION OF TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS. This course provides the knowledge and tools to effectively manage and evaluate technology projects throughout their lifecycle. You’ll explore project planning, resource allocation, risk management, performance measurement and decision-making, while learning how to assess technical, financial and strategic outcomes. By the end of the course, you’ll be prepared to lead technology initiatives that deliver value and support organizational objectives.. THE GOVERNANCE AND REGULATION OF TECHNOLOGY. This course examines the governance frameworks and regulatory challenges that shape the development and use of emerging technologies. You’ll explore topics such as digital policy, data governance, privacy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and ethical standards, while analyzing the role of governments, businesses and international institutions in promoting responsible innovation and protecting public interests.. TECHNOLOGICAL FORESIGHT. This course explores the methods and strategies used to anticipate technological change and its impact on organizations, industries and society. You’ll examine emerging trends, scenario planning, innovation forecasting and strategic decision-making, while developing the ability to identify future opportunities and challenges. By adopting a forward-looking perspective, you’ll learn how to support long-term planning in an increasingly dynamic technological environment.. MASTER’S THESIS OR CAPSTONE PROJECT. This term also sees the commencement of your work on either your thesis or your capstone project, as you begin to pull everything you’ve learned together.. TERM 3. TERM 3 - CORE. DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AND DATA FOR PUBLIC GOVERNANCE. This course explores how digital technologies and data are transforming public governance and the delivery of public services. You’ll examine the use of data-driven decision-making, digital platforms, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to improve policy design, public administration and citizen engagement. By understanding the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation, you’ll develop the skills to support more effective, transparent and responsive governance.. IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY ON FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS. The core content continues, building an understanding of how tech forces us to rethink our approaches on fundamental humanitarian issues such as privacy, child protection, digital law enforcement, surveillance and constitutional issues. A dual focus covers both the opportunities and the challenges tech provides in this field.. TECHNOLOGY, SECURITY, CONFLICT & PEACE BUILDING. In this course, case studies will be used to explore how groups on all sides of conflicts, from insurgent groups to governments to mediators, leverage digital technologies. Analysis of the broad state of tech’s role in conflict and its use in peacemaking will complement real research into stakeholders that are directly or directly involved in the peacemaking process, including tech firms.. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & MACHINE LEARNING. In the AI and machine learning courses, you’ll receive practical training in the use of machine learning, deep learning and natural language processing. You’ll examine case studies of the use of AI in public, private and nonprofit organizations to propose an AI solution to a public policy problem, management challenge or organizational challenge.. Term 3 - Tracks. TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS TRACK . SOCIAL MEDIA, MISINFORMATION AND POLITICAL INSTABILITY. Students will explore how digital platforms amplify misinformation, influence public opinion, and impact political dynamics. Through case studies and analysis, the course equips students with both analytical and intervention strategies and tools to address information manipulation.. CYBERSECURITY PROGRAM DESIGN. This course offers a practical overview of designing effective cybersecurity programs, covering key vulnerabilities, critical threats, and the technologies essential for robust defense. Students will analyze cybersecurity challenges in government and private sectors, learning to assess risks, identify potential adversaries, and establish protective measures.. TECHNOLOGY AND PUBLIC POLICY TRACK . ENERGY SYSTEMS, TECHNOLOGY AND POLICY DESIGN. This course examines the technologies essential to driving the ecological transition. They will explore renewable energy, energy storage, and carbon capture solutions alongside key technologies in sustainable agriculture, circular economy practices, water management, sustainable transportation, and green infrastructure. Students will learn how to evaluate benefits and trade-offs in terms of cost, performance, availability, and environmental footprint.. NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR SOCIAL SERVICES. This course equips students with the skills to design and implement technology-driven projects to enhance social services. Through practical, hands-on experience, students will tackle real-world challenges and apply technological solutions to improve service delivery. The course covers sectors including education, public health and mental health, social welfare and assistance programs, financial inclusion, disaster response and relief efforts, and services for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Students will gain an understanding of sector-specific challenges and develop innovative approaches to address them effectively.. * Students are required to select two elective courses. They may choose both courses from the same track or one course from each track. These tracks are intended to personalize the learning experience and do not constitute official specializations or appear on the degree diploma upon graduation.. * Students are required to select two elective courses. They may choose both courses from the same track or one course from each track. These tracks are intended to personalize the learning experience and do not constitute official specializations or appear on the degree diploma upon graduation.. MASTER’S THESIS OR CAPSTONE PROJECT. In the final term, you'll bring together everything you've learned by working on your Capstone Project. Through practical, real-world cases developed in collaboration with organizations and strategic partners where you'll apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program in professional scenarios that reflect the challenges you'll face after graduation. Just like the rest of the master's, the Capstone is designed to bridge theory and practice, providing a hands-on learning experience that prepares you to confidently launch your career in technology and global affairs.
ADD-ONS. STUDY TRIPS & INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES. Students have the opportunity to visit leading international organizations and institutions, offering a unique chance to see how the concepts explored in the classroom are applied to real-world global challenges.. THE IMMERSION EXPERIENCE. As part of the program, you'll take part in our signature study trip, the Immersion Week, designed to bring the realities of technology, geopolitics and global governance to life beyond the classroom. This hands-on experience gives you exclusive access to leading organizations, institutions and industry experts shaping the future of innovation and digital policy. Throughout the week, you'll gain first-hand insights into how emerging technologies influence international decision-making while expanding your professional network through direct engagement with policymakers, business leaders and technology experts. * Please note that destinations and organizations visited during the Immersion Week may vary from year to year.. IMMERSION WEEK HIGHLIGHTS. Previous editions have taken students to destinations such as Brussels and London, where they visited world-leading organizations including the European Commission, the European Parliament, Political Intelligence, Google and Meta. These visits offer a unique opportunity to experience first-hand how governments, international organizations and global technology companies collaborate to address today's most pressing challenges at the intersection of technology, policy and innovation. * Please note that destinations and organizations visited during the Immersion Week may vary from year to year.. GLOBAL EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES. Take your learning beyond borders with an optional exchange semester at one of IE University's partner universities. After completing your studies in Madrid, you'll gain valuable international experience, broaden your understanding of technology and global affairs in a new regional context, and build lasting connections with students, faculty and professionals from around the world.. CERTIFICATE ON FOUNDATIONS OF SUSTAINABILITY. IE University’s Certificate on Foundations of Sustainability is an optional program designed to complement your Master in Technology and Global Affairs. Through a multidisciplinary approach, you will develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to integrate sustainability into technology, policy, and decision-making. The certificate will equip you to address complex global challenges while creating responsible, innovative, and lasting impact across organizations, governments, and society.. YOUR CAREER DEVELOPMENT WITH IE TALENT & CAREERS. At IE University, your career development starts from day one. Through IE Talent & Careers, you'll receive personalized support to define your professional goals, strengthen your profile, and connect with leading employers around the world. From one-to-one coaching and career workshops to networking events and recruitment opportunities, you'll gain the tools and guidance needed to successfully launch or accelerate your career in technology, policy, and global affairs. Personalized career advising. Personal branding and LinkedIn strategy. CV and interview preparation. Career workshops and employer sessions. Networking with leading organizations. Access to IE's global alumni and employer network.
DUAL DEGREES WITH PARTNER UNIVERSITIES. MAKE IT A DUAL DEGREE WITH OUR TOP PARTNER UNIVERSITIES. The Dual Degree Master in Technology and Global Affairs with Sciences Po combines IE University's forward-looking approach to technology, policy, and global affairs with Sciences Po's renowned expertise in international relations and public affairs. Over two years, you'll study in Madrid and Paris, gaining a multidisciplinary perspective and the skills to lead at the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and global governance.
