“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at IBEI. This was mainly because of the deep bonds and long-lasting friendships I made throughout my Master’s. IBEI’s unique selling point is the opportunity for personal growth. I currently work in the Research and Development Divison of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence, where I manage over 60 R&D projects funded through the European Defence Fund (EDF)."

“During my time at IBEI I focussed on policy analysis and quantitative methods for evaluation. This has equipped me with the theoretical understanding of development policies, relevant stakeholders and challenges in design and implementation. Additionally, I learned relevant tools to assess the viability and impacts of programmes and projects. Most importantly, IBEI taught me to dive into new concepts and topics quickly and get accustomed to new methods and processes rapidly. All these are crucial skills that I have used in my past and current positions.”

“I envisioned applying the knowledge and skills acquired during my studies to make a positive impact in the field of social education and peace activism. My experiences and contributions thus far have confirmed that my post-graduate path is consistent with my initial aspirations, and I'm eager to continue along this fulfilling journey.”

“The Master's in International Relations complemented my background in business with a deeper understanding of political and macro-economic topics, thereby preparing me to work at the intersection between Business and IR. Furthermore, the collaboration with students from all over the world helped to further strengthen my intercultural understanding.”

"I remember my experience at IBEI to be incredibly enriching, intense and fun. We had this mix of engaging discussions at class where everyone shared their insights and expertise, but at the same time I remember working a lot in papers, presentations and group assignments that required a lot of preparation and group meetings. But the most rewarding aspect was undoubtedly the friendships you make along the way."

“My experience at IBEI was all that you could want from a postgraduate program. Studying in the bustling and dynamic city of Barcelona in a small group of very driven and experienced people was fantastic. Furthermore, IBEI gave me the chance to start an interview platform together with some other students and we were able to interview high-level speakers on topics relevant to our course, including Branko Milanović. In addition, I got to spend an exchange semester in Cairo.”

“I greatly appreciate the time I spent studying at IBEI, especially the high level of flexibility to design the MIR program exactly according to your individual interest and thus optimally prepare for your future career path. Additionally, I was very happy to study alongside open-minded and intelligent fellow students, some of which have become very dear friends of mine.”

“The Master programme gave me the opportunity to learn how to think and express ideas in a structured and scientific manner; a skill much useful when designing, implementing, and reporting on humanitarian projects. Moreover, the support and freedom provided to me while conducting the final dissertation helped me further dig into human rights frameworks, specifically how LGBTQI+ rights and colonialism intersect. These frameworks have shaped the way I understand humanitarian work, institutions, and development.”

“Be patient and keep an open mind. Building a career in the field of international development or diplomacy is not easy. Take the opportunity to learn about different topics from the wide range of courses at IBEI and from fellow students from different backgrounds and world views. Doors may open in the most unexpected places and ways.”

“My experience at IBEI was very positive. Professors are very knowledgeable, and the majority has good instruction skills and a way of keeping the lectures and discussions interesting. I enjoyed IBEI’s guest lectures and discussions on their respective papers. I miss the interesting daily conversations and debates in classes. The world has changed since 2014, and often I wish to be a fly on the wall in IBEI classrooms and hear the contemporary exchanges. The admission office and student coordinators were always extremely nice and helpful.”