Study Computer Science in France
Find your program
Use this search box and filters to browse Erudera's study program database.
Eruedera's Complete Guide to Studying Computer Science in France
By now, it is common knowledge that computer science belongs to the group of subjects that are studied the most all over the world. Considering that our surroundings are becoming more and more digitized with each passing year, no wonder this field is receiving such great attention. The field of computer science is quite a famous field in France as well, considering that you can find some of the best universities for studying computer science in the country. Studying the field in France will allow you to stand out when it comes to finding a career after graduation. The fact that you will also study in a country that strives for innovation means that you will be exposed to new methodologies and approaches, and that could help you broaden your understanding of the field of computer science.
Reasons to Study Computer Science in France
Supporting Academic Staff
Lecturers are vital components of each university. In almost all cases they are the ones that set the reputation of their institution. France has managed to create a great capacity of lecturers in its universities. These people are skilled researchers, and some of the best in their respective fields. With the help of these academic professionals, France manages to offer its students a world-class education.
Learn by Doing
One of the most important reasons why France is a perfect destination to study computer science is that you will have the opportunity to gain practical experience. In French universities, students are always practicing what they learn in their classrooms. So, once you are out on the job market you will not be caught off guard by the tasks your employers give you, because your lecturers will have already prepared you for your career goal.
Build an International Mindset
Studying abroad, and especially in France will help you build an international mindset, something that will come in handy when you finish your studies. Considering that France is a hub not only for international students, but tourists in general you will have the chance to interact with people of different cultures and backgrounds.
Great Career Prospects
Obtaining a degree in computer science from one of the French universities will increase your chances of finding a job that will allow you to create the financial stability that is desired by most. Universities in France are also ranked among the top universities in the world, so after graduation, you will be equipped with qualifications that countries all over the world recognize. The fact that you have studied abroad will also let your future employers know that you can adapt to new environments.
Requirements
There are many universities that offer courses in computer science and requirements may vary between universities. Thereby, you are advised to contact the university of your choice for the necessary documents you are required to send as the admission requirements may vary for different countries. Nevertheless, in France, there are some requirements that prospective students, in general, must meet and they are as follows:
- Submit a filled out online application form
- Students must have a high school diploma (for undergraduate studies)
- Students must submit school transcripts and their official translation
- Students must have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field (for postgraduate studies)
- Work experience (for postgraduate studies)
- Health and life insurance
- Student visa
- Proof of enough financial funds
- Proof of English/French language proficiency
- Passport
- Letters of recommendation
- Letters of motivation
- Pass the entrance exam
- CV
Application Process
Although French universities put their students through rigorous academic training, they have not made the application process much complicated. Usually, all students follow the same structure:
- Find a university that best suits your needs
- Contact the university for the requirements
- Make sure you meet all the requirements
- Prepare all the supporting documents
- Fill out the application form on ParcoursUp
- Send your application before the deadline
Note: If you live in a different country other than those that are part of the EU/EEA you will need to submit a request for admission in order to be able to enrol in one of the French universities. This request is usually sent a year before the start of the academic year in which the student wishes to be admitted (November to January). The destination in which you must send this request is the French embassy in your country or the consulate that has jurisdiction over your home country.
After admission:
- Apply for a student visa
- Find accommodation in France
Degree Duration: How Long Does It Take to Study Computer Science in France?
The length of your degree mostly depends on the level of study and the type of courses you choose to pursue. In France, a Bachelor’s degree in computer science takes three to four years of full-time study to complete. Master’s degrees take one to two years of full-time study to complete. Ph.D.'s in computer science take from three to five years to complete. During your studies you will learn about algorithms, artificial intelligence, operating systems, theory of computation, machine learning, software engineering, programming languages, computing fundamentals, computer architecture, etc.
Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Study Computer Science in France?
One of the facts that has made France so appealing to international students is the low cost of tuition in French universities. Considering that the French government subsidizes tuition fees for both national and international students that study in public universities, you will not have to worry about high tuition fees while studying computer science in France. For international students, tuition fees in public universities do not exceed the sum of EUR 450 ($544). Private universities on the other hand charge higher tuition fees, but these fees are still quite affordable compared to countries such as the United Kingdom or the United States. Usually, most private universities in France do not charge more than EUR 16,000 ($19,372) per year for tuition fees.
Computer Science Career Prospects in France
The increasing use of technology throughout the world has placed graduates of computer science among the top of the most employable students. Due to the broad scope of the field, computer science graduates have many options when it comes to chosing which path to pursue after graduation. In France, some of the positions you can take once you finish your degree include but are not limited to:
- Games Developer
- Web Developer
- IT Consultant
- Data Analyst
- System Analyst
- Web Designer
- Game Designer
- Database Administrator
- IT Trainer
- Network Engineer
In France, your salary as a computer science graduate depends on the path you decide to take. An entry-level computer scientist earns around EUR 63,400 ($76,939) per year. The average salary of a computer scientist with more than 8 years of experience is around EUR 112,350 ($136,342) per year.
