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Dual Degree in Economics + Urban Studies

Push forward urban change with economic transformation

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Dual Degree in Economics + Urban Studies

duration5 years

languageEnglish

locationSegovia and Madrid

intakeSeptember

Mode of studyFull-time

FormatIn-person

duration5 years

languageEnglish

locationSegovia and Madrid

intakeSeptember

Mode of studyFull-time

FormatIn-person

THE DUAL DEGREE IN ECONOMICS & URBAN STUDIES

The Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies is aimed at individuals with an interdisciplinary mindset: passionate about analytical thinking, data and economics, but also determined to tackle the challenges associated with cities and urban development. This unique combination of programs provides a solid grounding in the complex principles underpinning economics in the digital and tech era, as well as the conceptual and analytical frameworks needed for professions that deal with urban change.

This program equips students with a solid economic foundation combined with an understanding of the situations which underpin cities and societies from multiple perspectives. Using advanced tools and techniques, problem-based learning and a hands-on approach to real-world issues, the program prepares students for careers in a variety of areas including urban change, public policy and sustainability—whether in the public, private or non-profit sectors.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR

IS FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE…

interested in analytical thinking and data, understanding the complexity of the principles that underpin economics in the digital and tech era, as well as seeing connections between people, places and processes—even when they’re not obvious. You’re curious to discover more about cities and their impacts on the social, natural and built environments and want to practice sustainability in cities to improve people’s lives.

LOOKING FOR…

ways to blend impact economics, business performance and your immediate surroundings, the Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies can help you discover ways to improve people’s lives in both the public and private sectors through a deep understanding of cities, human behavior, economic environments and markets.

TO BECOME...

Policy developer
Financial market analyst
Government research consultant
Sustainability economy advisor
Country analyst
Urban strategy consultant
Public administration technician
Urban designer

location

You will study the Dual Degree in Economics & Urban Studies in Segovia and Madrid. You will spend the first year at the campus in Segovia, before moving to Madrid for year two, three, four and five.

Study in Madrid

Study in Segovia

Reasons to study this dual degree

Five reasons to take the Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies at IE University.

01.

INTERDISCIPLINARY MINDSET

Designed for students who are curious and ready to question the world around them from multiple perspectives and who want to study a truly interdisciplinary program that integrates different areas of knowledge to promote creativity, innovation and opportunity. With this unique combination of programs, students will be able to broaden their skills and boost their employment potential in a variety of sectors and industries.

02.

AN INTEGRATED VIEW OF SOCIETY, HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND THE ECONOMY

Students of the Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies will see the reality of the city from various perspectives, allowing them to discover integrated solutions which make a difference in people’s lives. As well as gaining a global understanding of the economy, they will discover how economics relates to human behavior and society by studying topics such as behavioral economics, experimental economics and behavioral nudging—all of increasing relevance in today’s world.

03.

BE ONE STEP AHEAD: A MULTIDISCIPLINARY DEGREE FOR ULTIMATE CAREER CHOICE

The world of work is changing rapidly as technology advances. Many of today’s job roles will not exist in ten years’ time. Stay ahead of the curve and ensure a future-proofed career path with this combination of two innovative, multidisciplinary programs.

Using advanced technologies including data processing techniques, data storage and protection, and computerized process simulation, students will gather information about aspects of the city. And with cutting-edge technologies such as data visualization, digital twins and AI, students can learn to simulate and model the behavior of the city as a complex system.

04.

MAKE A REAL IMPACT ON THE WORLD

Urban settlements and technology around the world are rapidly co-evolving as flows of population, finance and politics are reshaping the very identity of cities and nations globally. At the same time, cities’ exposure to climate and disaster risk is on the increase, as is their use of resources and generation of waste. Sustainability is fundamental to our future—and students of the Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies will gain a multidisciplinary understanding of the issues and how to address them.

05.

TECHNOLOGY FOR PEOPLE

This dual degree program uniquely combines economics and the social sciences with sustainability and new technologies in an innovative and creative way. After building a solid foundation in economics, students will then dive deeper into the social sciences, exploring sustainability and new technologies. Our world-class labs will enable students to put theory into practice, and our collaborative agreements with top companies facilitate real-world experience in problem-solving.

Dual degree in Economics + Urban Studies pillars

UNDERSTAND SOCIETY AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR FROM AN ECONOMIC POINT OF VIEW

In this interdisciplinary program, students will study the urban development of cities from governmental, political and managerial perspectives. They will be able to understand the implications of automation, e-platforms and the circular and sharing economy, which are often excluded from traditional economics programs.

DEVELOP CROSS-DISCIPLINARY EXPERTISE

Students will have the tools to gain expert knowledge of a variety of topics, including environmental sustainability, transportation, land use, community change and social and economic justice. And they will be able to combine their knowledge of economic analysis with public policy and technology, to learn how to shape the economy, foresee responses to changes in policy and markets, and have a positive impact on society.

MAKE AN IMPACT ON URBAN SOCIETIES

Students of the Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies will study the economy from a global perspective to comprehend its impact on societies and the complex issues that cities are facing today. Using a hands-on approach, students will work with data and new technologies to address real urban problems. Through real-world projects and case studies, students will be able to apply their learning immediately.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND REAL-WORLD SKILLS

In our innovative City Lab, students will undertake hands-on projects using practical examples to address the real problems of cities. Integrating the three fundamental components of the natural environment, the built environment and the social environment, students will learn about the functioning of ecosystems, the resources our cities use, urban demography and city governance, as well as urban design and planning.

Student Stories

At IE University, more than 75% of our student body comes from outside Spain, representing an average of 130 nationalities on campus each year. We take great pride in these numbers—and in the individuals behind them.

Our students are natural go-getters with a global outlook and a dream of a better future. Regardless of their degrees or passions, they strive every day to unleash their innovative potential and reach their goals. Driving this shared vision are people from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. They are both united and entirely unique. These are our students. Discover their stories.

"My overall experience at IE University summed up in one word would be life-changing."

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"I chose to do the Bachelor in Economics because I knew the degree would be rigorous, comprehensive, and would carry weight outside of Spain."

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"I decided to study at IE University because its Bachelor in Economics is perfect for the new technological era. Plus, the university offers tons of opportunities that help you during your degree as well as after graduation."

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"The emphasis IE University puts on entrepreneurship and teamwork intensified my drive to apply since I consider both to be crucial tools for my future."

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"The bigger the positive impact I can create throughout my career, the more likely I will be successful."

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GET TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS DUAL DEGREE

Manuel Pérez, Academic Director of the Bachelor in Urban Studies, and Patricia Gabaldón, Academic Director of the Bachelor in Economics explain in-depth the Dual Degree in Economics and Urban Studies.

Faculty Stories

Our 500-strong faculty guides students to unleash their potential day in, day out. Their influence across all five Schools can’t be overstated, inspiring young, energetic minds as they define their personal and professional trajectories.

But what kind of person does it take to create such impact? The individuals that make up the IE University faculty are special. Coming from diverse, global backgrounds, they each bring distinct perspectives and innovative ideas that embody what makes IE University stand out. Their stories are personal and unique—but don’t take our word for it. Read their stories to see for yourself.

“The group’s learning experience is only ever enhanced by varying points of view.”

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"As much as theory is key, it becomes dust in the wind when it is not applied or implemented into a tangible end product."

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"I try to shed the mysteries of the city for the future architect and open up the city for the future urbanist who wants to grapple with the complexities of the city today."

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"Learning can start anytime by asking simple questions about why and being curious about our everyday surroundings."

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"The most relevant lessons for achieving success come from failing—preparation, tenacity and a bit of patience is the formula for a sustaining success."

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