Introduction

University of Perpignan Via Domitia, referred to as UPVD, is a public university located in Perpignan, the capital of the Pyrenees-Orientales department at the southernmost tip of mainland France. Its history can be traced back to 1349, making it one of the oldest universities in France.

Overview

Student size: About 9,500 students study here every year, and students come from all over the world.

Number of faculty and staff: 450 academic staff.

History

Founded in 1349 by King Peter IV of Aragon, it was for the teaching of civil and canon law, other arts and sciences. In 1381, John I, son of Peter IV, allowed the establishment of a university near the Royal Castle. The institution spread the atmosphere of learning in Perpignan, especially focusing on legal studies. Theology began to be taught in the first decade of the 14th century. On July 21, 1447, the theology department was officially established by Pope Nicholas V.

Foundation time

1349.

School strength

Teaching quality: It offers courses covering many fields such as literature, language, humanities and social sciences, law, economics, management, exact sciences, sports and tourism. Its tourism management major enjoys a high reputation throughout Europe. The school focuses on practical teaching. Strict teaching and internship training ensure that students can immediately be competent for related work after graduation.

Scientific research level: Actively participate in many local and international scientific research projects, and its influence extends to southern Catalonia and other parts of the world. It has made remarkable achievements in the field of renewable energy research, and can award a master's degree in solar energy. It also has a higher engineering school SUP'ENR under its jurisdiction. Its Perpignan-Font Romeu factory in Catalonia has obtained the Labex and Equipex projects, becoming one of the main international centers in the field of solar energy research in Europe.

Institutional nature

Public university.

Educational philosophy

Adopt a pragmatic educational approach, focus on students' competitiveness in the job market, and let students work together with company leaders and professionals on campus to improve their practical ability. Committed to the digital revolution, providing students with the best technical support, while paying attention to ecological and energy transformation, and incorporating the principles of sustainable development into teaching and campus construction.

Key laboratories and disciplines

Key laboratories: There are Labex and Equipex project laboratories in the Perpignan-Font Romeu factory in Catalonia, focusing on the research of renewable energy such as solar energy.

Key disciplines:

Tourism management: Enjoying a high reputation in Europe, it provides students with comprehensive tourism management knowledge and practical skills training, covering multiple directions such as hotel management and international tourism.

Language and literature: Including majors such as French, English, and Spanish, focusing on the practical application of language and the cultivation of cross-cultural communication skills.

Law: It has majors such as Law D/L, Public Administration L, Private Law M, and Public Law M. Its legal education has a high influence in the local area.

Faculty

The school consists of the School of Economics and Law, the International School of Business Law of Francophone Countries, the School of Humanities and Letters, the School of International Tourism, Hospitality and Sports, the School of Science, the School of Business Management, the School of Technology, etc.

Ranking

Ranked 1201+ in the 2024 QS Sustainable Development Ranking.

Expenses

Tuition fees: 6770 euros/year (registration fee + tuition fee) for the first and second years of university, 8520 euros/year (registration fee + tuition fee) for the third year of university and master's degree.

Living expenses: In Perpignan, basic living expenses are relatively low, about 30,000 to 40,000 RMB per year.

Campus

Campus distribution: The main campus is located in Perpignan, and there are satellite campuses in Narbonne, Carcassonne, Font-Romeu, Mende and Taverter.

Campus environment: The University of Perpignan is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees Mountains. It has a typical Mediterranean climate and beautiful natural environment. It is a famous resort in Europe and provides students with a high-quality living environment. The campus is equipped with digital teaching facilities, such as the Pl@tinium+ technology-covered campus, providing students with a good learning experience.