Sciences Po

   

L'Institut d'études politiques de Paris, also known by its nickname of Sciences Po, is France's premier institute for the study of politics, international relations, and other related subjects. One of France's grandes écoles, it is reputed as continental Europe's most prestigious institute of its kind and is internationally recognized as a premier site of higher learning in its discipline. Its alumni are influential in politics and business primarily in France and Europe but also around the world.

As of 2004, approximately one-third of its student body was foreign. This abundance of diversity is largely a result of the academic and administrative reforms instituted by Sciences Po's current Director-General, Richard Descoings. These reforms resulted in a program that encourages foreign study, interdisciplinary approaches, and hands-on collaboration with fellow students.

Instructors at the Institute are only rarely full professors, with that title reserved for a select few. Instead, most instruction is given by professionals from various, relevant fields, who agree to teach at the Institute part-time. For instance, former government ministers, defense industry leaders, current diplomats, business leaders, and other career professionals teach during any given semester. This real-world approach is often cited as a great strength, especially in France's higher education system, which is sometimes criticized as too philosophical and removed from the reality of the post-academic career.

The Institute is located in the VIIe arrondissement, in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood of the French capital. The nearest metro stops are Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Rue du Bac, and Sèvres-Babylone.

History

Sciences Po was established by a group of intellectuals and businessmen led by Emile Boutmy in 1872 as the École Libre des Sciences Politiques, and was nationalized by General de Gaulle in 1945. Designed to be the official training ground for the leaders of the French Republic, the Institute has played a very large role in France's political history.

Notable Alumni

The Institute boasts an influential group of alumni, many of whom are distinguished in their careers. Alumni are active chiefly in governmental, diplomatic, and international and European business circles.

External Links

fr:Institut d'études politiques

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