Paris Institute of Political Studies

About University

About Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

The Paris Institute of Political Studies, commonly known as Sciences Po, is a prestigious institution of higher education in France that specializes in the social sciences. Founded in 1872, Sciences Po has become one of the leading universities in the humanities and social sciences worldwide, with a strong focus on political science, international relations, sociology, law, and economics.

Key Features and Academic Structure

1. Global Influence and Network: Sciences Po is internationally recognized for its rigorous academic programs that combine theoretical and practical approaches. It maintains a vast network of partner universities around the world and offers numerous dual degree programs, facilitating a robust exchange of students and ideas internationally.

2. Curriculum: The curriculum at Sciences Po is interdisciplinary, designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills that are applicable across various sectors, including public administration, international organizations, and the private sector.

3. Graduate and Undergraduate Programs: It offers a three-year undergraduate program with a broad first year followed by more specialized instruction in the second and third years. Its graduate programs are typically two years long, offering master’s degrees in various fields such as public affairs, international relations, and journalism.

4. Research: Sciences Po is also a research-intensive institution. It hosts numerous research centers and special programs aimed at fostering in-depth studies in law, economics, history, political science, and more.

5. Campuses: The main campus is located in the heart of Paris, with six other regional campuses across France that focus on specific geographic areas for international studies, including Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America.

Universities in France

Course Programs at Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

Undergraduate Programs

Sciences Po’s undergraduate program is a three-year course of study that combines the humanities and social sciences with an emphasis on developing professional skills. The curriculum includes:

• First Year: A foundational year with a broad curriculum covering history, law, economics, political science, sociology, and international relations.

• Second and Third Years: Students specialize in a particular area and choose a regional focus (Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America, Middle East, or North America). Specializations can include:

  • Law

  • Economics

  • Political Humanities

  • History

  • Sociology

Students also have the opportunity to spend their third year abroad at one of Sciences Po's 470 partner universities.

Master’s Programs

Sciences Po offers a diverse range of master's programs across seven graduate schools, each targeting different aspects of the social sciences and public affairs:

1. School of Public Affairs: Prepares students for public service in both the public and private sectors with tracks like public policy and international governance.

2. Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA): Offers a wide array of specializations in international relations, diplomacy, and global studies.

3. Law School: Focuses on transnational law and includes study of dispute resolution, economic law, and legal theory.

4. Journalism School: Trains students in media and communications, with practical experiences in real journalistic environments.

5. School of Management and Innovation: Offers courses aimed at bridging the gap between liberal arts and business/entrepreneurship.

6. Urban School: Dedicated to urban studies and the governance of cities, covering policy management for sustainable development.

7. School of Research: Provides training in social science research, offering both Master's and PhD programs.

Doctoral Programs

Sciences Po’s doctoral programs are research-driven and primarily located within its School of Research. These programs are designed for students aiming for careers in academia, research, or high-level consulting and policy-making roles in various sectors. Areas of focus include:

• Political Science

• Sociology

• Law

• Economics

• History

One-Year Master’s Programs

Designed for young professionals looking to enhance their expertise, these programs are condensed into one year and focus on specific skills and areas, such as arts and culture management, environmental policy, and digital project management.
 

Study in France

Bachelor Course Programs at Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

BA (Bachelor of Arts) in France

Masters Course Programs at Paris Institute of Political Studies, France 
 

Bachelor in Fashion Design in France

PhD/Doctorate Course Programs at Paris Institute of Political Studies, France
 

Paris Institute of Political Studies, France for International Students

Programs and Degrees

Sciences Po offers a three-year Bachelor of Arts program, which is taught primarily on its Paris campus and at six regional campuses that focus on different geographical areas. The undergraduate curriculum integrates the social sciences with languages and a professional internship.

For graduate students, Sciences Po provides two-year Master’s programs and one-year Master’s programs, available in various disciplines such as International Security, Human Rights, Environmental Policy, and Journalism. Additionally, the institution offers dual degrees with other prestigious universities worldwide.

Admissions for International Students

Admission to Sciences Po is highly competitive, especially for international students. Here are the key components of the application process:

1. Undergraduate Admissions:

   • Candidates can apply through the international admissions procedure, which does not require the French baccalauréat.

   • Applicants need to submit a personal statement, and details of their academic history, and typically go through an interview process.

2. Graduate Admissions:

   • Requirements include a completed bachelor's degree, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a CV, and proof of proficiency in English and possibly French, depending on the program.

   • Some programs may require specific tests like the GRE or GMAT.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Sciences Po offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help international students fund their studies:

• The Emile Boutmy Scholarship: Named after the founder of Sciences Po, this scholarship is available to top international students from outside of the European Union and can cover partial or full tuition fees.

• The Eiffel Scholarship: Offered by the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs to attract top foreign students to master’s and PhD programs.

• Needs-based Scholarships: These are offered based on the financial situation of the student’s family.

Campus Life and Student Services

Sciences Po has a rich campus life with numerous student clubs, associations, and events. It fosters an environment that is culturally enriching and intellectually stimulating. The university also provides various services for international students, including:

• Language courses: While French is still a significant part of the education, many programs are offered in English, and language courses are available to help international students improve their French.

• Housing assistance: Sciences Po helps students find housing through partnerships with housing platforms and residences.

• Career services: The institution has a dedicated career service that helps students prepare for their future careers through internships, job postings, and networking events.

Admission Process of Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

Undergraduate Admission Process

Sciences Po's undergraduate program has a unique admissions procedure that varies depending on the applicant's educational background:

1. International Procedure:

   • Eligibility: This is for candidates who have completed their high school education outside of France.

   • Application Components: Includes personal information, academic records, essays, and motivation letters. The application also requires candidates to detail their extracurricular activities and leadership experiences.

   • Interview: Shortlisted candidates are usually invited to an interview, which can be a significant determinant in the admissions decision. The interview is designed to assess the qualities and motivations of the applicant in relation to the ethos and demands of Sciences Po.

2. French Baccalauréat Procedure:

   • Primarily for students in the French educational system but it has aspects similar to the international procedure, adjusted for the French educational context.

Graduate Admission Process

For Master's and PhD programs, the admission criteria and process are more specialized:

1. Master’s Programs:

   • Eligibility: Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

   • Application Components: Typically includes a CV, personal statement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of proficiency in English (and sometimes French, depending on the program). Some programs may also require specific qualifications or standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, GMAT).

   • Selection Process: Involves a review of the applicant’s academic background, professional experience (if applicable), and overall fit with the program’s objectives.

2. PhD Programs:

   • Eligibility: Applicants need a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.

   • Application Components: Includes a detailed research proposal, CV, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and often a sample of written work.

   • Selection Process: Focuses heavily on the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, as well as the academic excellence and potential research contributions of the candidate.

Dual Degree Programs

Sciences Po also offers several dual degree programs with other international universities. These programs have specific admission requirements that may vary depending on the partner institution but generally mirror the rigorous standards of single-degree applications at Sciences Po.

Intake And Eligibility of Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

Undergraduate Programs

Intake: Sciences Po primarily has one major intake for undergraduate programs, which is in the fall (September). All campuses adhere to this schedule.

Eligibility:

• Academic Requirements: Applicants must have completed high school (secondary education) and be prepared to enroll in a university-level program. Sciences Po looks for students with strong academic records and a clear motivation for studying in the fields of social sciences.

• Language Requirements: Programs are offered in both English and French. Non-native speakers must demonstrate language proficiency. The level of proficiency required can vary by program, but typically a B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is expected for the language of instruction.

• Additional Requirements: Depending on the chosen track and campus, applicants may need to show particular interest or expertise in specific global regions or topics.

Graduate Programs

Intake: Most graduate programs at Sciences Po also begin in the fall, with some programs offering additional intakes in the spring (January).

Eligibility:

• Academic Requirements: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent before the commencement of the program. Sciences Po seeks candidates with excellent academic backgrounds and a strong fit for their chosen area of study.

• Language Requirements: Proficiency in English is required for most programs, and some programs may require French proficiency or offer courses in both languages. Generally, a C1 level in the relevant language is expected.

• Professional Experience: For some professional master’s programs, relevant work experience can be an additional requirement.

PhD Programs

Intake: PhD program intakes may vary depending on the department and specific research opportunities available.

Eligibility:

• Academic Requirements: Applicants need to have a relevant Master’s degree or be in the process of completing one. They must demonstrate the capacity to conduct research at a doctoral level.

• Research Proposal: A strong, clear, and feasible research proposal that aligns with the interests and capabilities of potential supervisors at Sciences Po.

• Language Requirements: Proficiency in English and/or French is necessary, with specific requirements depending on the focus of the PhD project.

Dual Degree Programs

Intake: Similar to single-degree programs, most dual degree programs start in the fall, with specific details depending on the partner institution.

Eligibility:

• Academic Requirements: Applicants must meet the admissions criteria of both Sciences Po and the partner institution. This often includes having an excellent academic record and relevant preparatory studies.

• Language Requirements: Language proficiency requirements depend on the languages of instruction at the partner institution and Sciences Po.

Ranking & Rating of Paris Institute of Political Studies, France
 

Scholarship Available at Paris Institute of Political Studies, France 
 

Paris Institute of Political Studies, France Campus & Accommodation Facilities

Students Life at Paris Institute of Political Studies, France
 

Academic Environment

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Sciences Po’s curriculum blends law, economics, history, political science, and sociology, encouraging students to engage critically with the complexities of the social sciences.

• International Focus: With a student body comprising nearly half of international students from over 150 countries, the academic environment is inherently global and diverse.

• Renowned Faculty: Students learn from some of the leading scholars and practitioners in their fields, benefiting from guest lectures and seminars with global experts and leaders.

Student Activities and Organizations

• Student Associations: Over 100 student clubs and associations are active, ranging from political debate clubs and the Model United Nations to sports teams and cultural groups. These organizations provide a platform for students to engage in interests outside the classroom and hone various skills.

• Civic Engagement: A strong emphasis is placed on civic responsibility. Students participate in collective projects and internships that apply their learning in real-world contexts, often serving public and social purposes.

Cultural Life

• Cultural Events: The campuses host a myriad of events throughout the year, including symposiums, conferences, art exhibitions, and film festivals. These events encourage cultural exchange and stimulate discussion on a wide array of global issues.

• City Life: Particularly for students at the Paris campus, the city's rich cultural tapestry—from museums and theaters to cafes and bookshops—offers endless opportunities to explore and learn.

Support Services

• Career Services: Sciences Po’s Career Services office provides guidance and resources for internships and job placements. This includes CV workshops, mock interviews, networking events, and access to exclusive job listings.

• Language Support: Given the bilingual nature of the institution, language support services are available to help non-French speaking students improve their French, while other language courses are also offered.

• Health and Wellness: The university provides health services, psychological support, and wellness resources to ensure the physical and mental well-being of its students.

Housing and Living

• Housing Assistance: Sciences Po assists students in finding housing through partnerships with residence halls and private landlords. This is particularly important in Paris, where finding affordable housing can be challenging.

• Cost of Living: Students need to manage living costs, which can be high, especially in Paris. Budgeting for rent, food, transportation, and leisure is crucial.

Mobility and Exchange Opportunities

• Study Abroad: A significant number of students spend part of their studies abroad through exchange programs with partner universities worldwide. This enhances their global perspectives and academic experience.

Placements in Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

Career Services

Sciences Po's Career Services is robust and provides comprehensive support to prepare students for their professional lives. This includes:

• Career Workshops and Coaching: Students have access to regular workshops that cover resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies. Personalized career coaching sessions are also available to help students define their career objectives and plan their professional paths.

• Networking Opportunities: The university organizes networking events that allow students to meet alumni and professionals from various industries. These include job fairs, alumni panels, and company presentations, providing valuable opportunities for students to build connections.

• Internship and Job Offers: The Career Services office maintains a dynamic job board where students can find internships and job offers that are often exclusive to Sciences Po students. These positions cover a wide range of fields, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the institution.

Employment Statistics

Sciences Po has an excellent placement record, with the vast majority of graduates finding employment within six months of graduation. Employment statistics highlighted by the institution often include:

• High Employment Rate: Over 80% of graduates are employed within six months of completing their studies, with many securing positions even before graduation.

• Diverse Sectors: Graduates find work in a broad spectrum of fields including public administration, international organizations, NGOs, consulting, finance, media, and academia.

• Global Reach: While many graduates choose to stay in France, a significant number also find opportunities internationally, benefitting from the global network of alumni and the international reputation of Sciences Po.

Popular Fields and Employers

• Public Sector and International Affairs: Due to its strong focus on political and international studies, Sciences Po is a leading feeder school for the French civil service and international bodies such as the United Nations, European Union, and various NGOs.

• Private Sector: Consulting firms and financial institutions also recruit heavily from Sciences Po, attracted by the analytical and comprehensive training students receive. Companies like McKinsey & Company, BCG, Goldman Sachs, and J.P. Morgan are popular employers among graduates.

• Research and Academia: For those inclined towards research, many proceed to pursue PhDs and academic positions, or work in think tanks, contributing to policy research and analysis.

Acceptance Rate of Paris Institute of Political Studies, France
 

Undergraduate Programs

• Acceptance Rate: Sciences Po is known for its selective admissions process, with acceptance rates for undergraduate programs often ranging from 18% to 24%. This rate can vary slightly from year to year and also differs across the various regional campuses.

Graduate Programs

• Acceptance Rate: The acceptance rate for master’s programs tends to be somewhat lower, reflecting the increased specificity and professional nature of these courses. Acceptance rates for graduate programs are typically around 22% to 30%. Again, this can vary based on the particular program and competitiveness of the applicant pool.
  
   

Campus Location of Paris Institute of Political Studies, France

Main Campus: Paris

• Location: The main campus is in the heart of Paris, in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, a historic district known for its rich intellectual and artistic heritage.

• Focus: This campus houses the institution's central administration and offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a general focus on political and social sciences.

Regional Campuses

Sciences Po has six regional campuses, each specializing in a specific geographical area which influences both the academic focus and the languages taught:

1. Dijon Campus

   • Focus: Central and Eastern European studies.

   • Languages: In addition to French and English, students may study languages pertinent to Central and Eastern Europe.

2. Le Havre Campus

   • Focus: European and Asian relations.

   • Languages: Emphasis on Asian languages to complement the campus’s Euro-Asian program.

3. Menton Campus

   • Focus: Middle Eastern and Mediterranean studies.

   • Languages: Includes Arabic and Mediterranean languages.

4. Nancy Campus

   • Focus: European, and particularly Franco-German, relations within a broader European context.

   • Languages: German and English are prominent, reflecting the campus’s Franco-German orientation.

5. Poitiers Campus

   • Focus: Latin American, Spanish, and Portuguese studies.

   • Languages: Spanish and Portuguese are key components of the curriculum.

6. Reims Campus

   • Focus: North American and transatlantic relations, as well as African studies.

   • Languages: Courses are offered in both French and English, with additional languages relevant to African studies.

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