Applications for the University Summer Program 2025 Are Now Open!

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Breakthrough Tech & AI

Learn the basics of emerging technologies
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duration2 weeks
languageEnglish
locationMadrid
1st Edition9th – 20th of June, 2025
2nd edition7th – 18th of July, 2025

A HANDS-ON GUIDE TO EMERGING TECH

Get a front-row seat to the future of technology with our Breakthrough Tech & AI program. Through immersive, project-based learning, you’ll explore the powerful potential of artificial intelligence, robotics and quantum computing, gaining hands-on experience in the state-of-the-art IE Robotics & AI Lab.

This dynamic program goes beyond traditional lectures, encouraging you to engage in real-world applications that highlight how innovation is reshaping industries—and how you can leverage it for your future. Over two intensive weeks, you’ll take on collaborative projects that evolve alongside your skills, with mentorship sessions and group reflections guiding your journey.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
days to start your best summer
96days
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11hours
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04minutes

Course Overview – Typical Day in the Breakthrough Tech & AI program

What will your schedule in the Breakthrough Tech & AI program look like? Each day offers a new opportunity to foster critical thinking and problem-solving, preparing you to navigate and shape tomorrow’s tech with insight and responsibility.

  • Two young adults studying and discussing notes together at an outdoor table.

    Week 1:

    • Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • Four young adults enjoying a conversation at an outdoor table with coffee and water bottles.

    Week 2:

    • Monday to Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
    • Thursday: This workday is dedicated to wrapping up your final project.
    • Friday: The last day involves final presentations and a fun graduation ceremony.

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?

  • This program is right for you if…

    …you’re excited about the future of technology and want to explore the practical applications of breakthrough AI, robotics and quantum computing innovations in today’s world.

  • Participant profile

    The Breakthrough Tech & AI program is tailored for university students and recent graduates, between 18 and 24 years old, who are driven to gain the skills needed to succeed as future tech leaders, aspiring innovators and ethical, collaborative problem-solvers.

Focus Areas

Understand the basics of emerging technologies and gain vital skills for a tech-driven future. By learning to evaluate and leverage the latest tools, you’ll be empowered with the skills to contribute to the evolving tech landscape.

  • 01.

    Quantum Computing

    Explore the fundamentals of quantum computing and its real-world applications. Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, developing critical problem-solving skills to address complex challenges in emerging tech fields.

  • 02.

    AI Model Development

    Learn to design, train, and optimize AI models through collaborative projects. Leverage the latest tools in IE Labs to build solutions for real-world problems, such as applying AI in healthcare innovations.

  • 03.

    Robotics Programming

    Dive into robotics programming and understand how to bring machines to life. Develop critical skills in automation and gain hands-on experience creating intelligent systems that solve practical challenges.

  • 04.

    AI & Robotics Integration

    Combine the power of AI with robotics to build collaborative, innovative solutions. Work in teams to tackle challenges like the Tech for Healthcare initiative, applying cutting-edge AI-robotics collaboration to revolutionize the future of tech.

Unique Value

This program uniquely combines cutting-edge technology exposure with hands-on project-based learning in a state-of-the-art lab, offering participants direct access to the latest tools and technologies. With expert mentorship and a focus on tech ethics, it provides a comprehensive, accessible pathway to mastering emerging technologies while considering their broader societal implications.

Learning Outcome

Upon completing the Breakthrough Tech & AI program, you will have developed practical expertise in AI, robotics, and quantum computing through hands-on projects and immersive lab experiences. You will also gain a deep understanding of the societal and ethical impacts of technology, equipping you to critically assess and apply innovation responsibly.

Program Structure

What Your're going to do
2 Weeks
Week 1
    Week 2
      Final Project

        Exploring the Frontiers of AI, Robotics, and Quantum Computing

        • Day 1: Welcome & Introduction to Emerging Technologies

          Kick off the program with an overview of the latest emerging technologies, setting the stage for deeper exploration.

        • Day 2: Artificial Intelligence Deep Dive

          Dive into the fundamentals of AI, exploring its key concepts, applications, and potential across various industries.

        • Day 3: Robotics & Automation

          Learn about robotics and automation systems, understanding their role in transforming industries and society.

        • Day 4: Quantum Computing Introduction

          Get introduced to quantum computing, its principles, and its potential to revolutionize computing power and problem-solving.

        • Day 5: AI in Action

          Examine real-world examples of AI applications, showcasing its capabilities and the practical impact it has today.

        Integrating Emerging Technologies: Collaboration, Ethics, and Impact

        • Day 6: Robotics & AI Collaboration

          Explore how robotics and AI work together to create innovative solutions in various sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare.

        • Day 7: Emerging Technologies for Healthcare

          Focus on the role of emerging technologies, particularly AI and robotics, in advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes.

        • Day 8: Advanced Topics in AI & Ethics

          Delve into complex ethical considerations surrounding AI, including issues of bias, privacy, and accountability in technological advancements.

        • Day 9: Final Project Workday

          Spend the day collaborating and working on final projects, applying the knowledge gained throughout the program to create innovative solutions.

        • Day 10: Final Presentations & Closing Ceremony

          Present your final projects, showcasing your understanding and insights gained, followed by a ceremony to celebrate your achievements.

        Final Project

        The final project of the Breakthrough Tech & AI Summer School allows students to apply their knowledge and creativity to solve real-world challenges using AI, robotics, and emerging technologies.

        Working in teams, they will tackle problem statements in areas such as AI for Social Good, Robotics for Automation, AI & Robotics Integration, and Quantum Computing Exploration. Each project will include a technology application, a prototype or simulation, and a final presentation to industry experts and peers.

        Over several days, students will brainstorm, prototype, refine their solutions, and receive feedback before presenting on Day 10. Projects will be evaluated on innovation, technical execution, teamwork, impact, and presentation, with top projects recognized in categories like Best Innovation and Most Impactful Solution. The final showcase highlights students’ ability to develop meaningful and forward-thinking solutions.  

        Discover the program's agenda

        Dive into a curriculum that immerses you in hands-on learning. Through a mix of interactive classes, collaborative group work, presentations and our innovative media lab, you’ll develop essential skills for success.

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        OUR PROGRAM LEAD FACULTY

        Robert Polding - Assistant Vice Dean of Computing and Data Science at IE University.

        • Academic Director of the HealthCare Impact Xcelerator.
        • Training and Teaching of IT and Information Systems related subjects
        • Network Engineer
        • Journalist

        DISCOVER THE RIGHT PROGRAM FOR YOU

        With flexible programs, you can mix and match the topics that interest you the most, giving you a taste of your future degree or career. Each program lasts two weeks, except the Entrepreneurship program, which lasts four, and you can combine up to three programs to create a very personal learning journey.​

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        • A group of young adults studying and discussing together outdoors on a grassy area.
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        Upskilling for Professional Development

        Turn your strengths and ambitions into real-world growth by exploring self-discovery techniques, learning practical strategies and gaining insights to help you take control of your career.

        • (1st Edition): Monday, May 26 – Friday, June 6.
        • (2nd Edition): Monday, June 23 – Friday, July 4.
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        Customer Experience Innovation

        Learn how the pros design seamless, unforgettable customer experiences that help businesses stand out through deep dives into design thinking and customer-first strategies.

        • Monday, June 9 – Friday, June 20.
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        University summer program

        What if this summer, you could cut through the noise, discover what truly drives you, and learn how to channel it into something extraordinary?

        At IE University Summer Program, we’re here for the curious, for those ready to build a life that matters but aren’t sure where to start.

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        Rethinking Sustainability

        Gain new perspectives, practical strategies and a personal action plan for creating sustainable change through hands-on VR simulations and group projects.

        • Monday, July 7 – Friday, July 18.
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        Humanities in Action

        Experience an immersive journey in arts, culture, and contemporary issues in Madrid, broadening your perspectives on politics, diversity, and sustainability while enhancing both personal and professional growth.

        • Monday, June 9 – Friday, June 20.
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        • Two young adults, a male and a female, are looking at a red folder together at an outdoor table surrounded by others.
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        Fashion Styling & Media

        Master the latest fashion trends and cover must-know basics of styling, photography and visual communication, all while gaining firsthand studio experience to build your professional portfolio and craft a stand-out personal brand.

        • Monday, June 23 – Friday, July 4.
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        Law & Innovation

        Explore the intersection of law, technology and policy through real-world case studies, interactive workshops and a two-day competition, sharpening your skills in negotiation, public speaking and legal analysis.

        • Monday, June 9 – Friday, June 20.
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        NextGen Public Changemakers

        Dive hands-on into topics like global governance, leadership and geopolitics to understand complex policy and global issues and gain a leadership mindset fit for the future.

        • Monday, June 23 – Friday, July 4.
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        IE Entrepreneurship Summer School

        Develop your startup idea and refine your entrepreneurial skills alongside like-minded peers, with insights from IE Alumni and IE Startup Mentors to support you as you prepare for a final pitch competition.

        • Monday, June 9 – Friday, July 4.

        DISCOVER THE SUMMER 2025 CALENDAR

        Take a look to see how you can structure your summer with our various combinations.​

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        TUITION

        *Early bird

         Before March 30th

        2 WEEK PROGRAM

        • 3,500€* (Early Bird Price 3,150€)
        • *5,900€ Bundle Price (2 weeks + 2 weeks)

        CREDIT RECOGNITION

        Earning academic credit at your home institution for joining IE University’s Summer Program is designed to be as straightforward as possible. Many institutions routinely award credit for summer courses, but we highly recommend that you check with your University’s International or Study Abroad Office regarding any specific requirements you might need to fulfill.

        If you join IE University’s Summer Program for at least four weeks (= two two-week modules or with the four-week Entrepreneurship Summer School), you’ll complete an academic workload equivalence of 6 ECTS credits (or 3 US credits). If you spend more time with us, you can earn even more credit equivalence, also spread over consecutive summers. To qualify for credit recognition, you need to fulfill all the course requirements and submit one final essay within two weeks of finishing your last course.

        To make the credit transfer process easier, IE University provides all the necessary documentation and evidence required by your home university’s Study Abroad Office or academic department. Additionally, we actively work to pre-agree credit recognition with key partner universities to ensure a faster and smoother process for you.

        THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS

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        1. Online Application

        You will need to complete the online application with the following documents: 

        1. Academic transcripts.  
        2. CV (cv template).
        3. Video Assessment: in this section you will complete two live video questions on general knowledge topics.

        *You must complete all sections of the application in order to submit it.

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        2. Submit your Application

        Once you complete all sections you may submit your online application to be evaluated by our team.


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        3. Admissions Final Decision

        Within 2 weeks of submitting, the Summer School Team will contact you with the final resolution of your Admissions process. Should it be positive, you will be guided through the next steps for your enrollment.

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        START YOUR APPLICATION

        Spaces are limited, so enroll now to guarantee your place!