What is Sciences Po?

Sciences Po was created because its founder, Emile Boutmy, wanted to build from scratch an institution of higher education that the elites of the time lacked. One hundred and fifty years later, Sciences Po has become an international research university with 14,000 students. But the foundation of our education remains driven by the same vocation: to better understand the world in order to change it for the better.

Sciences Po stands out for combining approaches and confronting different worldviews. This tradition of diversity and multidisciplinary approach makes Sciences Po an active participant in public debate, a forum where thought meets action.

An education that promotes responsibility

Sciences Po's overarching mission is to educate future leaders in the public and private sectors. Curious and open-minded, Sciences Po graduates, regardless of their focus and trajectory, all share the ability to “learn how to learn”, which is one of the priorities of our education. However, our ambition extends even further: to educate open-minded and enlightened citizens capable of changing the world and transforming society.

A university with an international outlook

Sciences Po's international dimension was established in its founding documents. Driven by this vocation for nearly 150 years, today Sciences Po stands out as a world-class university, with internationally-recognised degrees and research, a multicultural community and a worldwide network of partners.

Fundamental education and professional focus

At Sciences Po, the finest researchers in the social sciences engage in continual dialogue with the greatest practitioners. With an academic community of more than 4,000 academics including 2,400 practitioners, the knowledge we transmit to students is nurtured by innovative research and rooted in reality.

A selective and diverse university

Sciences Po recruits its students on the basis of academic excellence. Nevertheless, it was one of the first institutions of higher learning in France to have fully assumed its social responsibilities by promoting intellectual, geographic and social diversity in its student body. Open to all talents, Sciences Po recruits students in nearly 150 countries and provides financial support to four out of every ten students.

Research to understand the world

Sciences Po is a research university in the social sciences, internationally recognised for the quality of its scientific output. Developed with a strong focus on society, research conducted at Sciences Po enriches public debate.

An institution in motion and a driver of innovation

Since it was founded nearly 150 years ago, Sciences Po has never stopped reinventing itself. More than anything, Sciences Po today is a place where new ideas can be put forward and implemented. Educational methods, academic openness, inventive tools: this flair for innovation is one of our trademarks.