“AI, a once in a century opportunity to transform education, innovation and research” - according to IE University Manifesto

IE University, an institution widely recognized as being among the most innovative in the world, today presents its AI Manifesto on the opportunities and challenges posed by generative Artificial Intelligence. "We sit on the cusp of a revolution on the scale of the development of the steam engine or the launch of the internet,” according to the Manifesto’s authors. “At IE University, we have always worked to anticipate the environment our graduates will live in, and to promote positive change through education, innovation, and research.”

The document, which will continue to evolve as the technology develops, highlights the main programs, initiatives, and research projects developed by IE University to enrich the learning experience of students, foster critical thinking, and encourage a human-centered approach to innovation. This will build on the more than 20 years of experience IE University has in the design of online Masters programs.

“Leveraging technology is in our DNA,” states the Manifesto. 

“We see the arrival of generative AI as an immense opportunity to enhance our pedagogy, mold responsible leaders capable of facing today’s world challenges, and enable them to be more creative, agile, and productive.”

IE University promotes the ethical use of artificial intelligence and works to prevent its misuse. In an effort to contribute to the debate on the ethical and governance challenges of AI, the institution has developed an academic policy to explain how to use these tools in the classroom and enrich the student experience.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the corporate world. Today 40% of our graduates on the Master in Computer Science and Business Technologies, Master in Business Analytics and Big Data and Master in Digital Business and Innovation programs are now employed in AI-related work. Consequently, the IE University Talent & Careers team works with companies and recruiters around the world to determine the skills and knowledge necessary for the future of work.

The Manifesto includes a selection of the AI projects currently being undertaken by IE University. These initiatives analyze the potential of AI, promote research, disseminate knowledge, and enrich the overall learning experience. They include programs such as the Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Management Program on Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, Master in Business Analytics and Big Data, and the Master in Computer Science & Business Technology. 

In addition, students of the Master in Management are trained in specialized content on Big Data and Machine Learning, Machine Learning in Business, Chatbots, Robotics and Intelligent Interfaces. The Master in Finance incorporates content on AI and Deep Learning in Python. Legal students on the Bachelor of Laws and Master of Laws receive training in AI regulation and governance; and the Master in Applied Economics includes sessions on Machine Learning and Data Management.

The Manifesto’s authors highlight the enduring role of the humanities in managing AI’s risks and opportunities. The humanities provide a unique perspective to analyze the impact of technology on society, and enable students to develop their research and critical thinking skills and thus “equip them with the right tools to be effective leaders.”

IE University professors are involved in a variety of pioneering AI research initiatives, including the application of AI in the cultural and creative industries, the ethical implications of creating images using generative tools, the impact on neuromarketing, and implications for the environment.

The faculty works on projects with students such as the vaulted pavilion at IE’s Segovia campus, learning construction using AI tools. Furthermore, the IE Robotics and AI Lab works with STEM researchers from other academic and business institutions to enhance classroom learning; the impact Xcelerator lab, a multidisciplinary hub for cutting-edge research and hands-on learning experiences across health, environmental, energy and the financial services sectors; and the Tech4Democracy project within IE’s Center for the Governance of Change (CGC) studies the political, economic, and societal implications of AI and their impact on our democracies.