The Graduate Summer School in International Relations is an intensive summer programme designed for university students who want to explore the key political, economic and security challenges shaping today’s global landscape.

Combining high-level academic instruction with practical activities and simulations, the programme offers an in-depth understanding of contemporary international affairs while developing analytical and strategic skills essential for postgraduate studies or an international career.

A Programme for Future International Relations Professionals

Designed for students interested in global politics, diplomacy and international security, this summer programme combines interactive lectures, academic debates and simulation-based learning.

Participants engage with major international issues, critically assess recent geopolitical developments and gain the analytical tools needed to interpret complex global scenarios with clarity and rigor.

Find out more about the requirements and application process.

Key Topics in International Relations

Throughout the programme, participants explore some of the most relevant themes in contemporary international relations:

• Democracy and authoritarianism in the 21st century, analysing major theoretical frameworks, their evolution and key global case studies.
  
• China in the international system, examining its geopolitical role, economic influence and future global positioning.
  
• Demography, security and conflict, understanding how demographic shifts affect political stability and global security dynamics.
  
• Scenario techniques in international relations, learning structured methods to anticipate future developments and support strategic decision-making.

Programme Structure

Skills and Innovation Booster

Three days dedicated to developing transversal and professional skills. Through Life Skills workshops, STEM Readiness sessions and Career Lab activities, students strengthen communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

• Life Skills: Practical workshops focused on leadership, collaboration and decision-making.
  
• STEM Readiness: Introduction to artificial intelligence and digital tools in academic and professional contexts.
  
• Career Lab: Sessions dedicated to career orientation, skills assessment and CV development.
  
  

Academic Deep Dive & Admission Focus

The second week offers an intensive academic immersion in international relations. Activities focus on political and security models, global actors and scenario-building techniques.

This phase strengthens analytical reasoning, forecasting capabilities and strategic thinking — key competencies for pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations or entering international organisations, public institutions or policy-making environments.

Why Choose the Graduate Summer Schools in International Relations

The Graduate Summer School in International Relations is ideal for those wishing to pursue further studies in the international field. Thanks to the balance between academic depth, practical application, and orientation, the course allows participants to develop a solid theoretical foundation and operational skills useful for approaching the challenges of the global world and the path toward a Master’s Degree in International Relations or related disciplines with greater awareness.