Bachelor in Political Science

Lead Global Change Through Policy Innovation 

duration
language
location
intake
Mode of Study
Format
4 years
English
Segovia and Madrid
September
Full-time
In-person

WHERE POLITICAL THEORY MEETS PRACTICE AND EXPERIENCE

At IE University, learning goes far beyond lectures and coursework. The Bachelor in Political Science offers a dynamic environment where students engage directly with policy, governance and leadership challenges while expanding their perspectives through international and experiential learning opportunities.

Through international exchange programs, students can study at leading partner universities across the globe, gaining firsthand exposure to different political systems, cultures and approaches to governance. These experiences foster a global mindset and a deeper understanding of the challenges shaping today's world.

Students can also participate in IEU Labs, experiential learning opportunities that complement their academic studies through hands-on projects, collaboration and practical problem-solving. Through hands-on policy projects developed in partnership with leading global organizations like GESDA, Google, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), these experiences help students apply their knowledge beyond the classroom.

With more than 150 student clubs and organizations, students can connect with peers who share their interests in politics, debate, public affairs, entrepreneurship, technology, sports, culture and much more. These communities enrich the student experience while fostering leadership, collaboration and lifelong connections.

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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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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.

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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.

  • An ancient temple with iconic columns and a stone structure set against a clear blue sky.

    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. 

  • A panoramic view of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City under a bright blue sky.

    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.

  • A panoramic view of London showcasing the skyline with notable landmarks under a cloudy sky.

    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.


  • A view of the European Parliament building in Brussels with various flags displayed.

    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

THE IE COMPETITIVENESS HUB BRUSSELS

Dedicated to supporting Europe’s competitiveness and economic resilience, the IE Competitiveness Hub combines research excellence with real-world policy engagement across areas such as finance, innovation, sustainability, energy, and digital transformation. As a Brussels-based platform, it connects scholars, students, professionals, and policymakers to generate dialogue, insights, and measurable results across Europe.

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POLICY WORKSHOPS, GOVTECH SIMULATIONS AND GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS

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!

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ENGAGE WITH THE POLITICAL SCIENTISTS SHAPING TOMORROW

What inspires someone to pursue political science? Which questions shape their research? And how do they interpret today’s most pressing political challenges?

PoliSci Conversations is a monthly event series that brings Bachelor in Political Science students together with renowned IE University professors in Segovia. In a relaxed setting, students connect with faculty beyond the classroom to explore their guests’ research, career paths and perspectives on current global issues.

From the moment they arrive at IE University, students become part of a wider community of political scientists. Through initiatives like PoliSci Conversations, they can ask questions, explore career and research paths, exchange ideas and connect with faculty and classmates who share their passion for political science in a rapidly evolving and interconnected world. More than a speaker series, it is a space where curiosity sparks debate, learning becomes personal and conversations continue long after each session ends.

LANGUAGE CENTER AT IE UNIVERSITY

IE University considers multiple language acquisition to be a key element of its educational model, leading to success in both work and study.

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.

Language Center at IEU | IE University

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

Discover the IE University experience with our summer programs in Spain — a chance to learn, create, and connect with students from around the world.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Proactive students passionate about driving change, interested in how political systems and public policy shape society.

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  • Through IE University's hands-on methodology, combining policy labs, case studies and real-world simulations with theoretical coursework.

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  • Policy labs allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real policy and governance challenges. Through evidence-based analysis, simulations, data management, consulting-style projects and impact assessment, students develop practical decision-making and problem-solving skills.

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  • Yes. Students can spend a semester abroad at one of IE University´s more than 200 partner universities in over 50 countries. Separately, the program's Immersion Experience provides direct exposure to political institutions and decision-making in Athens, Rome, London and Brussels.

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  • IE University has more than 150 student clubs and organizations. Students can connect with communities focused on areas such as politics, debate, public affairs, entrepreneurship, technology, sport and culture.

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