Winter School Academics

Admissions for the 2027 Winter School are now open!

The Winter School is a two-week intensive programme in International Relations and Global Governance, held each January and designed for university students from around the world.

Participants may choose between two tracks: one on International Affairs and one on Global Governance. An optional workshop is also available to go further during the programme.

Two information webinars are scheduled for the fall, where you can meet the team and learn more about the Winter School. Register below for the session that best suits your time zone!

Dates

2027 session: January 18th, 2027 - January 29th, 2027

Discover our tracks

Please note that the course descriptions for the Winter programme will be published in September.

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.

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

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

Please note that prior knowledge in international affairs is required to take this track.

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

The elective course includes 12 additional hours dedicated to exploring climate diplomacy through a combination of theoretical perspectives, group discussions, and simulation exercises. 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.

More information on the course content & structure will follow in September.