Bachelor in Political Science

Lead Global Change Through Policy Innovation 

duration4 years
languageEnglish
locationSegovia and Madrid
intakeSeptember
Mode of StudyFull-time
FormatIn-person

YOUR CAREER, OUR PRIORITY

At IE University, we believe that what you learn outside the classroom is just as important as what you learn in the classroom. That’s why we make sure every student has endless opportunities to expand their cultural, personal, and professional horizons.

With our exchange programs, for example, you can study at any of our partner universities across the globe and open yourself up to a whole new culture or language—something that’s becoming more and more important in our increasingly interconnected and globalized world. We also have our special IEU Labs, a hands-on and internship-like experience on campus that helps you learn extra skills and better prepares you for your future career.

There are also more than 150 clubs to help you find like-minded people who share your hobbies and interests. Ranging from theater to sports, academia, and more, there’s something for everyone.

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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.

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A PERSONALIZED STUDY PATH

The IE University experience involves much more than academic studies. Our practice-based methodology takes you beyond the classroom walls and straight to the frontlines of the industry you’re passionate about. We offer an exceptional range of opportunities that allow you to tailor your studies to your specific career goals and enhance your employability by obtaining extra qualifications.

  • PERSONALIZED SUPPORT AND MENTORSHIP

    Students receive academic guidance from tutors and advisors who provide direction, encouraging the integration of the different degree elements. Build a personalized academic program that matches your professional aspirations.

  • IEU LABS

    IEU Labs are IE University’s alternative to traditional internships. Designed for first- and second-year students seeking high-level internship placements, the IE Labs provide a hands-on, internship-like, on-campus experience, where you work on projects for leading companies and institutions in a variety of sectors.

  • HUMANITIES

    Holding them as one of its values, IE University understands the Humanities are key to understanding the reality of our world, and applying critical thinking skills to complex, global challenges. Students can select which Humanities course to complete, based on their interests.

  • ADVANCED SEMINARS

    Advanced Seminars complement the core degree by giving students deeper knowledge of subjects in a very diverse area of studies.

  • INTERNSHIPS

    Additionally, students can take part in several internships, gaining professional skills and enhancing that highly valued international profile.

  • LANGUAGES

    Aside from mastering Spanish, our students can decide to study other relevant languages of today’s globalized world, including French, Portuguese, German, Arabic, or Chinese.

From Classroom to Political Reality: The Immersion Experience

The Immersion Experience Trip is a defining pillar of the Bachelor in Political Science at IE University, designed to bring politics, international relations, and global governance out of the classroom and into the real world through first-hand experiential learning and study abroad experiences. It offers a progressive journey that connects political theory, comparative politics, and public policy with the historical, institutional, and contemporary realities of global politics, allowing students to observe how political systems, government institutions, and decision-making processes evolve, interact, and operate across different contexts.

A hands-on journey that builds critical thinking, policy analysis, and political understanding through direct exposure to key actors, diplomacy, and institutions shaping real-world political decision-making.

*Agenda subject to change.

  • The journey begins in Athens, where the foundations of democracy, political philosophy and civic participation comes to life in the very place where they were first conceived. Engaging with the legacy of thinkers like Plato and Aristotle, students explore how early political systems and ideas about citizenship, justice, and governance emerged—setting the stage for understanding how democratic institutions evolve over time.

    Alongside this historical grounding, participants engage with contemporary Greek politics through visits to modern institutions and meetings with policymakers and experts, connecting classical democratic principles to today’s political challenges and debates. 

  • From there, the experience moves to Rome, where its legacy o reveals the enduring foundations of law, governance, and political organization. Students examine the development of institutions and the evolution of the concept of citizenship. The influence of Stoicism, debates on virtue and duty, and the transition from Republic to Empire provide a deeper understanding of how power, law, and political thought interact across time. 

    This is complemented by direct exposure to contemporary governance in Italy, including visits to key institutions and exchanges with current policymakers, offering insight into how historical legacies continue to shape modern political systems and public administration.

  • As the journey progresses to London, students engage with one of the world’s most influential political and intellectual centers. From the historic role of Palace of Westminster and the development of parliamentary democracy to the evolution of political thought shaped by thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, participants explore how modern governance emerged. The experience also highlights the profound impact of the Industrial Revolution in reshaping political systems, social structures, and global power dynamics.  

    Students also engage directly with contemporary political life through visits to key institutions and meetings with policymakers, diplomats, and experts, gaining first-hand insight into current debates in public policy, international relations, and governance.


  • The experience culminates in Brussels, at the heart of the European Union, where EU institutions, supranational governance, and European public policy become tangible through direct exposure to decision-making processes that impact millions of citizens. 

    Students also engage directly with contemporary European political life through visits to institutions and meetings with policymakers, diplomats, and experts, gaining first-hand insight into current debates in public policy, international relations, and governance. Particular attention is given to the European Union’s role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, migration, security, and economic stability, as well as its influence on global governance and international cooperation.

    By connecting theory with practice, the Brussels experience provides students with a deeper, more nuanced understanding of how governance operates beyond the nation-state. It equips them with the analytical tools to critically assess public policy, appreciate the complexities of diplomacy and negotiation, and understand the evolving role of the European Union in shaping the future of an interconnected world.

Real Student Insights: The Immersion Week in Athens

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.

  • IE University Humanitarian Crisis Simulation (Madrid Campus)
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    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.

  • INTERNATIONAL TRADE SIMULATION I Economics and International Relations Students I IE University
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    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.

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    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!

In their shoes

GOING TO IEU PODCAST

If you’re curious about what it’s like to study at IE University, tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or other podcast platforms and start listening today.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Students pursuing a bachelor's in political science often possess strong analytical abilities, an interest in current affairs, and a desire to contribute to public service or academia.

  • The best way to study for politics involves staying updated on current events, engaging in critical reading and analysis of political theories and policies, and participating in discussions and debates to enhance understanding and perspective.