Understanding the French higher education system
France offers a well-structured and internationally recognized higher education system, deeply aligned with the European academic framework. Whether you're planning to study in France or simply want to understand how it works, here's a complete overview of degrees, study cycles, and specialized programs.
Higher education equivalents
France offers a well-structured and internationally recognized higher education system, deeply aligned with the European academic framework. Whether you're planning to study in France or simply want to understand how it works, here's a complete overview of degrees, study cycles, and specialized programs.
ECTS stands for European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. It ensures comparability between academic programs across the EU. One academic year equals 60 ECTS credits.
French delivered title
1. Licence
2. Master
3. Doctorat
European degree equivalent
1. Undergraduate
2. Graduate
3. Doctorate
Duration in higher education
1. Three years of university
2. Five years of university
3. Eight years of university
European credits transfer system
1. 180 ECTS
2. 300 ECTS
3. 420 ECTS
Other notable degrees in France
Not all degrees follow the LMD path. France also offers professional and technical diplomas that lead to successful careers or allow further academic progression.
BTS (Higher Technician's Certificate), 2 years duration. This is a post-secondary technical diploma preparing students for immediate employment or further study.
➤ Equivalent: Associate Degree
➤ ECTS: 120
- BUT (University Bachelor of Technology), 3 years duration.
➤ Introduced in 2021 to replace the former DUT, the BUT blends theoretical and practical learning.
➤ ECTS: 180
Main business degrees
France is home to prestigious business schools offering internationally valued qualifications.
- BBA: Bachelor of Business Administration, 3 to 4 years duration.
➤ A globally recognized undergraduate degree in business and management.
- MBA: Master of Business Administration, 1 to 2 years duration.
➤ Designed for professionals seeking advanced business expertise and leadership roles.
- DBA: Doctorat of Business Administration, 3 years duration.
➤ A professional doctorate for experienced executives aiming to contribute to research-based business practices.
Main degrees in the arts
France has a rich cultural heritage and offers a range of degrees in visual arts, design, and applied arts through specialized institutions.
- DNA: National Art Degree, 3 years duration
➤ Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts
- DMA: Diploma of Art professions, 2 years duration
➤ Specialized diploma focused on craftsmanship and applied arts
- DSAA: Advanced Diploma of Applied Arts, 5 years duration
➤ Advanced degree in applied arts, typically following a DMA
- DNSEP: Higher National Diploma in Visual Expression, 5 years duration
➤ Equivalent to a Master's degree in Fine Arts, allowing access to doctoral-level studies in art