University Programme: Scenes of Summer 2021

This summer, 300 students from around the world participated in the University Programme, which included both online and on campus sessions! While the June session was entirely online, the July session included an on campus session and an online session. Representing over 45 nationalities and 37 countries, these students took courses in the social sciences and French language, while also experiencing a Parisian summer!

See a selection of photos from the 2021 University Programme.

Here are some highlights from their summer:

Social sciences, French language or both

Making the most out of this unpredictible year, the students in the social sciences track had the opportunity to take a course online or on campus. These keen students explored Sciences Po’s fundamental disciplines with a core class that addressed current international issues. Many students enrolled in social sciences courses to expand their understanding of issues they are passionate about such as Sustainable Development and Climate Action, Human Rights and Global Development and the European Union. Other students discovered new topics and gained an increased awareness of Global Diplomacy, Human Security and Media & Politics. The Sciences Po professors and researchers engaged these students in a variety of interactive ways, meeting with students on campus in Paris, as well as staying closely connected to students participating in the online classroom, across continents and time zones.

As immersion in French language and culture is an integral part of the academic experience at the Summer School, the French language track was offered exclusively on campus during the July session. Students in the French language track came to Paris to spend the summer improving their French language skills through intensive classes and workshops adapted to their level. Some students took the classes to gain a new skill, while other students took them to prepare for further advanced studies in French.

International Exchange on Campus and Online

The Summer School always unites students from many nationalities and countries, but this year the multicultural connections were created on campus and virtually. While some students developed friendships in the classroom and with their professors in Paris, other students around the world virtually welcomed their classmates and professors into the comfort of their own homes. Together they navigated working through group meetings and presentations, while balancing independent study and social time.

Exploring Paris and staying social online

The 2021 Summer School featured an activities programme on campus and online. Students in the on campus session were able to get to know each other outside the classroom, while also discovering Paris and its surroundings. These students participated in tours of Claude Monet’s enchanting gardens at Giverny and the châteaux of the Loire Valley, as well as a Montmartre tour, street art tour and bike tour of Paris.

Students in the online session were also able to get a taste of French culture through virtual tours by expert guides of the Château de Versailles and the Opera Garnier. These students were able to connect with their new friends through ice breakers, escape games and online socials. Students in both sessions were able to participate in career workshops to help them prepare their professional skills for the workplace, as well as attend the Speaker Series conferences with Sciences Po researchers and public figures to discuss current sociopolitical issues in France and Europe. See a full list of the activities offered in 2021.