University of Provence: Originally established as the University of Aix in 1409.
University of the Mediterranean: Formed in 1969, including faculties of science and technology and health sciences.
Paul Cézanne University: Also created in 1969, focused on law, economics, and political science.
The combination of these three universities into Aix-Marseille University was intended to create a more streamlined and powerful institution capable of enhancing its international competitiveness and research capabilities.
Aix-Marseille University is divided into five main sectors:
Arts, Letters, Languages, and Human Sciences
Law and Political Science
Economy and Management
Health
Science and Technology
AMU is known for its strong research output and has numerous research facilities and laboratories. It participates in international research projects and has several partnerships with academic institutions and industries around the world. Notably, the university excels in fields such as:
Neuroscience
Molecular and Environmental Sciences
Public Health
Humanities and Social Sciences
Material Sciences
Arts, Literature, and Languages: Programs include classics, modern languages, French literature, and philosophy.
Law: Offers general law studies, business law, public law, and international law.
Economics and Management: Includes economics, management, and business administration.
Health: Programs in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and public health.
Science and Technology: Courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Advanced studies in history, archaeology, psychology, sociology, and education.
Law and Political Science: Specialized programs in international law, European law, public affairs, and political science.
Economics and Management: Master’s degrees in finance, marketing, and international business.
Health Sciences: Advanced medical sciences, pharmacology, and health biology.
Science and Technology: Specialized areas include environmental science, biotechnology, data science, and materials science.
Wide Range of PhD Programs: AMU offers PhDs across all its faculties, with strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and international collaboration.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Arts in French Literature |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Science in Biology |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Science in Physics |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Arts in History |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry |
3 years |
$200 (EU); $4,000 (non-EU) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Master of Science in Data Science |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Arts in French Literature |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Science in Environmental Science |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Science in Biotechnology |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Science in Public Health |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Laws (LLM) |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Arts in History |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Science in Physics |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Science in Chemistry |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
Master of Arts in Philosophy |
2 years |
$300 (EU); $4,300 (non-EU) |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
PhD in Neuroscience |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Environmental Science |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Public Health |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Physics |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Mathematics |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Molecular Biology |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in History |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Economics |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Sociology |
3-4 years |
$400 |
PhD in Philosophy |
3-4 years |
$400 |
Wide Range of Programs: AMU offers courses across fields including arts, sciences, law, health, and technology. This diversity allows students from all disciplines to find suitable programs.
Language of Instruction: While many programs are taught in French, there are increasing numbers of courses and programs offered in English, particularly at the master’s and doctoral levels, which are designed to attract an international student body.
Choosing a Program: Review AMU’s wide range of programs to find one that aligns with your academic and career goals.
Language Requirements: For programs taught in French, proficiency in the language is usually required. Students may need to pass a test such as the TCF, DELF, or DALF. For English-taught programs, proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS might be required.
Application Submission: The application process often involves submitting academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of language proficiency. Non-EU students may need to apply through Campus France, a government agency that facilitates the admission of international students to French universities.
Affordable Tuition: Compared to other international destinations, tuition fees at AMU are relatively low, even for non-EU students, due to subsidies from the French government.
Additional Costs: Students should also budget for living expenses, which can vary significantly depending on lifestyle and choice of accommodation.
Financial Support: Scholarships are available to international students, including those offered by the French government, such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, and specific scholarships offered by AMU for international students.
Campus Life: AMU’s campuses are lively, with numerous student clubs and organizations that cater to a wide array of interests, including cultural, sports, and academic clubs.
Cultural Integration: AMU offers several initiatives to help international students adjust to life in France, including welcome events, French language courses, and integration programs.
Choosing a Program: First, prospective students should review the available bachelor’s programs to find one that matches their interests and career aspirations.
Language Requirements: Most undergraduate courses are taught in French. Non-native speakers typically need to demonstrate proficiency through tests like the TCF, DELF, or DALF.
Application Process:
EU/EEA Students: Apply through the Parcoursup platform, which is used for pre-university students in France.
Non-EU Students: Most often need to apply through the “Studying in France” procedure managed by Campus France. This includes submitting an application through the online system, which facilitates the admission process for international students.
Choosing a Program: Prospective students should carefully review the master’s programs, which may be offered in both French and English.
Language Requirements: For French-taught programs, proof of French proficiency is required. For English-taught programs, English proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
Application Process: Applications are typically submitted directly to the university via the specific faculty or department’s website. This process often involves submitting academic transcripts, a CV, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any required test scores.
Finding a Supervisor: PhD candidates must identify and secure a faculty member who agrees to supervise their research. This often involves contacting faculty directly to discuss research interests.
Proposal Submission: Candidates need to submit a detailed research proposal along with their academic and professional credentials.
Application Process: After securing a supervisor and possibly a funding source (like a research grant or fellowship), candidates formally apply through the doctoral school associated with their research area.
Bachelor’s Programs: The main intake for undergraduate programs is in the fall (September). Most bachelor's programs have this single intake per year.
Master’s Programs: While the primary intake is also in the fall, some programs may offer a spring intake (January). It's important to check specific program details for exact intake times.
Doctoral Programs: Admissions for PhD programs can be more flexible, with some departments allowing students to start at points in the academic year, depending on the nature of the research project and funding arrangements.
Educational Background: Applicants must have a high school diploma equivalent to the French baccalauréat. International qualifications must be recognized as equivalent by French authorities.
Language Proficiency: Most programs require proficiency in French. Non-French speakers need to pass a French language test such as the TCF, DELF, or DALF. Some programs offered in English may require proof of English proficiency instead.
Application Process: EU/EEA students typically apply through the French national platform Parcoursup. Non-EU students often use the Campus France procedure, depending on their country of residence.
Educational Background: Applicants need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field. The specific requirements depend on the master's program.
Language Proficiency: For French-taught programs, proof of French proficiency is required. For English-taught programs, English proficiency must be demonstrated through standardized tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
Application Submission: Direct applications to the respective faculty are required, along with documents such as transcripts, a statement of purpose, CV/resume, and letters of recommendation.
Educational Background: A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field is necessary.
Finding a PhD Supervisor: Candidates must find a faculty member who agrees to supervise their PhD project before applying.
Funding: Many PhD positions are funded, and candidates often need to secure funding either through university grants, external scholarships, or research projects.
Application Requirements: A detailed research proposal, CV, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters are typically required.
Ranking Organization |
Aix-Marseille University Ranking |
---|---|
QS World University Rankings |
Within Top 250 |
U.S. News & World Report |
Within Top 150 |
Scholarship Name |
Target Group |
Coverage |
Eligibility and Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship |
International students |
Tuition, monthly allowance, travel, insurance |
For master’s and PhD students in specific fields; highly competitive, intended to attract top international candidates. |
AMU Scholarships |
International students |
Partial tuition, living expenses |
Offered to students based on academic merit and financial need. |
Erasmus+ |
EU and partner countries |
Mobility grant for study and internships |
Available for short-term study or internship periods abroad. |
AMIDEX Scholarships |
International students |
Tuition fees, monthly stipend |
Aimed at attracting excellent students to AMU’s master’s programs, especially in priority research areas. |
CROUS Scholarships |
Domestic and EU students |
Living expenses, partial tuition |
Based on social criteria and financial need; available to EU students who meet certain conditions. |
Regional Scholarships |
International students |
Living expenses, travel |
Offered by the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region to promote international cooperation and excellence in education. |
Campus Location |
Facilities |
Accommodation Options |
Cost of Accommodation (per month) |
---|---|---|---|
Saint-Charles Campus (Marseille) |
Mainly focused on science and technology. |
University residences, private rentals |
$400 - $800 |
Timone Campus (Marseille) |
Houses the medical school. |
University residences, private rentals |
$400 - $800 |
Luminy Campus (Marseille) |
Specialized in science and sports sciences. |
University residences, private rentals |
$400 - $800 |
Schuman Campus (Aix-en-Provence) |
Focuses on humanities and law. |
University residences, private rentals |
$400 - $900 |
Aix-Marseille Campus (Marseille) |
Varied faculties including economics and management. |
University residences, private rentals |
$400 - $800 |
Diverse Disciplines: Students at AMU can choose from a wide range of disciplines across arts, sciences, health, law, and business. The university fosters an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration across different fields.
Research Opportunities: As a research-intensive university, AMU provides students with numerous opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects, often in collaboration with international or industry partners.
Student Organizations: There are numerous student clubs and organizations at AMU that cater to a variety of interests, including sports, arts, cultural activities, and academic societies. These groups provide great opportunities for networking and developing new skills.
Events and Workshops: AMU regularly hosts seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and cultural events that enrich the student experience and foster a vibrant campus community.
Facilities: AMU offers excellent sports facilities, including gyms, playing fields, and courts. The university organizes sports events and tournaments throughout the year.
Outdoor Activities: The unique location of AMU in the Provence region allows for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, given its proximity to the coast and mountains.
Student Support Services: AMU provides comprehensive support services that include academic advising, career services, counseling, and assistance with accommodation and visa procedures, especially for international students.
Health Services: Health and well-being are prioritized with accessible health care services, counseling, and wellness programs designed to support students throughout their university journey.
Language Support: For non-French speakers, AMU offers French language courses to help international students integrate more smoothly into the academic and social environment.
Integration Programs: The university runs orientation programs and integration sessions to help international students acclimate to life in France and at AMU.
Cultural Richness: Living in two of France's most vibrant cities, students can enjoy a range of cultural activities, including museums, theaters, and historic sites, alongside a lively nightlife and culinary scene.
Practical Matters: Both cities are well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the region. The cost of living in Marseille and Aix-en-Provence is generally lower than in Paris, making it economically feasible for many students.
Industry Partnerships: AMU collaborates with industries and companies locally and internationally. These partnerships often lead to internship opportunities, which can sometimes result in job offers post-graduation.
Internship and Job Opportunities: The university typically offers support through its career services, which helps students find internships and job placements. Services offered include career counseling, resume workshops, job fairs, and networking events.
Alumni Network: The university has a large and active alumni network. This network can provide valuable contacts within industries and can be a critical resource for new graduates seeking employment.
Location: Being located in a major city like Marseille provides students access to a large job market. Marseille is a significant hub in the south of France, particularly for sectors like shipping, finance, and technology.
Graduate Success Rates: Specific data on job placements or graduate success rates might not be publicly available in detail for all fields. However, general trends show that graduates of AMU do find relevant job opportunities, though the success can vary by the field of study.
International Opportunities: For students interested in working internationally, the university’s exchange programs and international collaborations can open up opportunities outside France as well.
French Students: Admission for French students is generally based on the results of the French baccalauréat exam. Students apply through the national Parcoursup system, which matches student preferences with available spots in universities. The process is more about placement than competitive admission, especially for non-selective courses.
International Students: For international students, the admission process can involve additional criteria such as French language proficiency (typically B2 level) and the evaluation of their secondary school credentials relative to the French baccalauréat.
These programs can be more selective, often requiring a relevant Bachelor’s or Master's degree, letters of recommendation, statements of purpose, and sometimes entrance exams or interviews. Specific requirements will vary by department and program.
Some areas of study, such as Medicine, Law, or highly specialized masters, can be quite competitive and have lower acceptance rates. These programs often have specific admissions tests and criteria.
These programs may have different criteria, often focusing on professional experience and personal motivation rather than academic records alone.
Schuman Campus: This campus is primarily focused on Arts, Letters, Languages, and Human Sciences. It is located in the center of Aix-en-Provence, which is a historic city known for its cultural heritage.
Gaston Berger Campus: Situated near the Schuman Campus, it houses Law and Political Science faculties.
Saint-Charles Campus: Located near the central train station in Marseille, this campus hosts the Faculty of Sciences and the Faculty of Arts, Literature, Languages and Human Sciences.
Luminy Campus: Nestled in the Calanques National Park, this campus focuses on Sciences, Sports Sciences, and some components of the Faculty of Arts. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings.
Timone Campus: A key hub for health studies, this campus in central Marseille includes the Faculty of Medical and Paramedical Sciences and the Faculty of Dentistry.
La Joliette Campus: Situated in the business district of Marseille, this campus focuses on Economics and Management.
The university also has smaller sites and facilities in other parts of Marseille and nearby towns, hosting specialized institutes and research centers.