Winter School Academics

Concepts, Theories and Contemporary Challenges

Tailored for students with a strong interest in global affairs, this programme provides a comprehensive package consisting of 24 hours of courses introducing the unique way Sciences Po approaches International Relations. 

The course covers the major theories and paradigms and the key debates that have shaped the field since the early 20th century.

Through 12 hours of lectures with Sciences Po faculty members, students will critically engage with theoretical frameworks and apply them to case studies on pressing international issues, including war, conflict, global governance, the environment, security, and human rights.

Before each lecture, students will participate in small-group tutorials (12 hours in total), providing in-depth discussion of key academic works and focusing on the methodological aspects related to the lectures.

To go further, students in this track can add an optional negotiation workshop (12 hours). 

Download the provisional schedule for Rethinking International Relations (PDF, 191 KB).

Explore International Institutions and Multilateral Diplomacy Careers

This course will guide students to explore diverse aspects of global governance. The courses are designed to examine the notion’s historical evolution, key actors and institutions, and prospects and challenges in addressing global issues.

Students will attend lectures led by some of the foremost specialists in global governance and international organisations at Sciences Po, totalling 12 contact hours. These lectures will provide unique insights into the institutional dynamics involved in addressing global issues.

The 2027 Masterclasses will focus on four key areas:

Global Climate Governance

The main objective of this course is to deepen students' knowledge of the main features and drivers of the global governance of climate change. It also aims to strengthen their critical thinking about the performance of this governance system,
and looking forward, to map out key policy directions for tackling unresolved climate challenges.

International Conflict Resolution

This course provides students with the knowledge and practical tools to understand contemporary conflicts and explore approaches to conflict mitigation, peacebuilding, international negotiation, and strategic mediation through key case studies.  

Migration and Global Governance

This course explores the historical and political foundations of migration and asylum governance in Europe, situating contemporary migration within broader global histories of colonialism, capitalism, empires, and war. It examines the evolution of the European asylum system and migration governance, while addressing the key political debates and challenges shaping migration policy in Europe today.  

Governance of AI and Emerging Technologies

This masterclass explores the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence, algorithms, and big data, with a focus on their impact on fundamental rights and the European regulatory framework.  

Each lecture is complemented by small-group methodology sessions (12 hours in total), where students review readings and explore key concepts and methods.

Please note that prior knowledge in international affairs / work experience in the field is required to take this track.

To go further, students in this track can add an optional negotiation workshop (12 hours). 

Download the provisional schedule for Governing Global Challenges (PDF, 246 KB).

This course explores key global environmental challenges, with a particular focus on climate change, environmental governance, and international diplomacy. It combines theoretical discussions with practical negotiation exercises to help students understand both the complexity of environmental issues, and the challenges of international cooperation.

Students will examine major environmental challenges and the evolution of multilateral responses before applying this knowledge through negotiation simulations. 

Students who complete the elective will earn an additional 2 ECTS credits. Classes are scheduled throughout the two-week programme, and students from both tracks are welcome to attend. 

This elective is particularly well suited to students who are passionate about addressing today's environmental challenges and who wish to deepen their understanding of international relations and diplomacy.