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OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
IE University takes an applied, student-centered approach to education—you and your career are our priority. We identify your unique strengths and give you the chance to build your career path, providing support and academic guidance every step of the way.
Throughout your studies, you can make several decisions to define your own journey. At the beginning of the program, you can join seminars to explore other academic areas and work in labs to gain internship-like experience in different sectors. You will also be able to go on exchange, opening doors to a wealth of international experiences. Some of our top partner universities to do an exchange are the following: Sciences Po, Bocconi, Bologna, Tilburg, St Gallen, Warwick, Sheffield, Tec Monterrey, Cornell, Northeastern, U. Georgia, U. Miami and U. Texas Austin.
Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to select a language to learn from Spanish, French, Portuguese, German, Arabic, or Chinese, enriching your cultural and linguistic repertoire along the way.
In your fourth year, you can choose from a range of electives that make up one of the four optional concentrations offered, entitling you to an additional diploma.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Global Exchange Opportunities
IE University partners with over 200 prestigious universities in 50 countries worldwide. Our exchange program allows you to spend a semester abroad—broadening your academic experience, discovering new cultures, and gaining global perspectives that will stay with you long after graduation.
DISCOVER THE IE SCHOOL OF POLITICS, ECONOMICS & GLOBAL AFFAIRS
DISCOVER THE IE SCHOOL OF POLITICS, ECONOMICS & GLOBAL AFFAIRS
At IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, we promote diverse points of view and perspectives. Our students benefit from valuable connections within our extensive global network. We have garnered global recognition, holding international accreditations, fostering partnerships with over 200 universities through exchange programs, collaborating with esteemed international institutions and establishing numerous agreements with various organizations and companies, providing extensive professional opportunities.
Enrico Letta, Dean of IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs and former Prime Minister of Italy explains our mission and what makes us exceptional.
WORKSHOPS AND SIMULATIONS
Beyond attending the traditional courses led by professionals at the UN, students will also be able to put their academic knowledge and skills into practice.
Humanitarian Crisis Management Simulation
The Bachelor in International Relations applies hands-on, practical methodologies which will make you face real-life scenarios from day one. The refugee-camp simulation offers students insights into the human and professional aspects it takes to aid people whose countries are going through times of crisis.
Trade Simulation USA & Europe
Bachelor in International Relations students participated in a simulation debate, where they discussed and negotiated on different issues and topics related to international trade between the European Union and the United States of America.
Gamifying Education: Discover the Impact of Sustainability
International Relations and Economics students participate in the "Unplugged" project, where they work in groups over 21 days to reduce CO2 emissions. First-year students can earn special awards for top performance. Aligned with the 2030 Agenda, our program blends theory and practice, using cutting-edge technology to promote responsible consumption and reduce environmental impact. Become a leader in sustainability with us!
THE IE COMPETITIVENESS HUB BRUSSELS
THE IE COMPETITIVENESS HUB BRUSSELS
The IE Competitiveness Hub is committed to strengthening Europe’s global competitiveness through interdisciplinary research, academic excellence, and collaboration across sectors including finance, innovation, energy, digital transformation, and economic resilience. Based in Brussels, the Hub connects students, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to translate research into actionable insights and meaningful impact across Europe.
Unlocking Global Opportunities: International Relations Students Thrive in Brussels
Unlocking Global Opportunities: International Relations Students Thrive in Brussels
At IE University, students from our diverse international relations programs benefit from enriching experiences in Brussels. These opportunities allow them to network with high-level professionals and connect with IE Alumni in the field. Additionally, they provide valuable insights into their professional paths, offering an in-depth overview of the inner workings of some of Europe’s most important institutions.
La España Azul Project
La España Azul Project
La España Azul is a groundbreaking Spanish environmental organization aiming to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda through scientific research into the state of our seas. IE University students have the chance to collaborate with the project, applying the skills and knowledge they have acquired in the field of international relations while gaining hands-on experience and making a real impact.
IE UNIVERSITY TRANSFORMATIONAL JOURNEY TO NEPAL
During their second year, students in the International Relations program have the option to participate in the Transformational Leadership Journey. This trip offers a unique opportunity for students to enrich their learning through travel experiences in various locations, including Nepal.
Participants engage in a series of challenges, both physical and mental, set amidst stunning natural landscapes. Guided by inspiring mentors, students work collaboratively, fostering teamwork skills and personal growth.
The journey is meticulously crafted to push boundaries, broaden perspectives, and stimulate critical thinking. Over the course of two weeks, participants step out of their comfort zones, embarking on a transformative journey that leaves them with new insights into themselves, their peers, and the global community.
LANGUAGE CENTER AT IE UNIVERSITY
Languages are essential to a career in international relations. As a Bachelor in International Relations student, you will participate in a mandatory language course that lasts for six full semesters, consisting of 18 ECTS credits.
In addition, the Language Center at IEU is proud to offer students the possibility to study a wide range of languages, including French, German, Portuguese, Chinese, Arabic, Spanish, and English. With such a large variety of options, our students are able to personalize their academic path to meet their future career plans and objectives.
The Language Center at IEU
The Language Center at IEU
The Language Center helps students develop their multilingual communicative skills to help them flourish in the international labor market.
EXPERIENCE IE SUMMER PROGRAMS Â
EXPERIENCE IE SUMMER PROGRAMS Â
Discover the IE University experience with our summer programs in Spain — a chance to learn, create, and connect with students from around the world.
SUMMER RESEARCH PROGRAM
Work in teams to gain practical, hands-on experience and contribute towards positive change.
ANALYZE GLOBAL CLIMATE LEADERSHIP WITH RAIA
Examine how influential figures shape climate policy through IE University's summer program with Research and Advisory on International Affairs (RAIA), a youth-led think tank. In pairs, students use RAIA's methodology to evaluate climate leadership and transform their findings into an executive summary, policy brief, podcast and final presentation. This hands-on experience connects international relations research with real-world climate action.
TURN GLOBAL RESEARCH INTO IMPACT WITH THE UNSSC
Work with the United Nations System Staff College on research connected to global United Nations priorities. Guided by IE University faculty, teams plan research, collect and analyze data, identify patterns and produce a final report collaboratively. This immersive experience develops practical, professional research capabilities, teamwork and analytical skills while offering firsthand insight into international policy and the UN system.
RESEARCH GLOBAL CHALLENGES AND VISIT THE OECD IN PARIS
Take economic research beyond the classroom through IE University's joint summer program with the OECD. Students choose between projects focused on geopolitical risk of ESG reporting, analyze OECD data, and develop evidence-based recommendations using quantitative and qualitative methods. The experience includes in-person activities with economic and financial institutions and a visit to the OECD headquarters in Paris.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO STUDY INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS?
IE University in Madrid and Segovia offers a hands-on, multidisciplinary approach with 160 exchange partner universities, IEU Labs and summer research programs with the UNSSC and OECD.
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HOW CAN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS STUDENTS STUDY ABROAD?
Students are required to complete an exchange program during their third year, choosing from 160 partner universities around the world.
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HOW CAN I GET PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS DURING THE DEGREE?
Students can gain practical experience through IE University Labs, selective internship opportunities, simulations, capstone projects and Summer Research Programs with organizations including the UNSSC, RAIA and the OECD.
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WHAT METHODOLOGY IS USED IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS STUDIES?
A hands-on approach combining qualitative and quantitative research methods, case studies, simulations (like the Humanitarian Crisis Management Simulation) and real-world projects.
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