Introduction

The University of Poitiers, founded in 1431, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in France and even in Europe. It is also the second university in French education history after the University of Paris and a member of the Coimbra University Group.

Overview

Student size: about 27,000 students, including about 4,000 foreign students.

Number of faculty and staff: nearly 3,000 teachers and staff.

History

Founded by Pope Eugene IV in 1431 and approved by a decree issued by King Charles VII. Initially, there were only five colleges: the School of Theology, the School of Canon Law, the School of Civil Law, the School of Medicine and the School of Arts. At that time, the number of students reached 4,000. Its reputation and scale were second only to the University of Paris in France. The school was abolished after the French Revolution, but was re-established in the 19th century with the addition of new colleges. In 1970, it became a modern university in accordance with the 1968 Higher Education Reform Act.

Foundation

1431.

School Strength

Teaching Quality: It offers a variety of degree courses from undergraduate to doctoral level, covering many disciplines such as applied science, medicine and pharmacy, mechanical and aerospace engineering, language and literature, humanities, law, economics, business administration, etc. It focuses on combining theory with practice, cultivating students' comprehensive qualities and professional abilities, and graduates are competitive in France and internationally.

Scientific Research Level: It has 54 recognized laboratories and research institutions, and has carried out high-level scientific research in many professional fields, especially in engineering and digital science, environmental science, chemistry, earth science, bioeconomy, life and health science, humanities and social sciences, etc. It has achieved remarkable results.

Institutional Nature

Public University.

Educational Philosophy

Committed to creating a strong advantage for students' chosen careers and ultimately surpassing their peers. Emphasizing international education, its lecturers come from all over the world, giving students rich scientific and technological knowledge and practical experience, creating a space full of creative thinking and an international learning environment. Focusing on practical teaching, the learning content and environment are characterized by adapting to market needs, connecting with the industry, and working with professionals. Students are encouraged to cultivate individual judgment and self-awareness through creative and analytical research exploration.

Key laboratories and disciplines

Key laboratories: The school's multiple laboratories have high research levels and influence in their respective fields, but no clear authoritative information has been found for the specific key laboratories.

Key disciplines:

Medicine and Pharmacy: The medical school and the school of pharmacy have a long history, strong teaching and research strength, and have trained many professionals in the medical and health fields.

Language and Literature: There are teaching and research units related to language and literature, providing French, English, Spanish and other language majors, as well as literature, linguistics, translation and other related majors, focusing on the practical application of language and the cultivation of cross-cultural communication skills.

Engineering and Digital Science: With the development of the times, the school has continuously invested and developed in the field of engineering and digital science, covering professional directions such as mechanical and aerospace engineering, providing students with cutting-edge engineering technology education and research opportunities.

Department

The school has 7 teaching and research units, 6 colleges and 1 engineering college, covering many disciplines such as law and social sciences, exact and natural sciences, medicine and pharmacy, language and literature.

Ranking

2025 QS ranking: 1001-1200.

2024 QS ranking: 1001-1200.

2023 US news ranking: 920th.

2024 THE Ranking: 401st.

Expenses

Tuition fees: Tuition fees for public universities in France are relatively low, generally a few hundred euros per year, and the specific tuition fees vary depending on the major and degree stage.

Living expenses: The cost of living in Poitiers is relatively moderate, and the monthly living expenses, including rent, food, transportation, etc., are about 800-1200 euros.

Campus

Campus distribution: There are multiple campuses, including the main campus, the city center campus, the Futuroscope campus, the Nieuw Campus, the Chateletero Campus, and the Ancoulaymer Campus.

Campus environment: The main campus is located in Poitiers, the capital of Vienne, with picturesque natural scenery and colorful ethnic customs. It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Paris by high-speed train, which is an ideal place for quiet study. The campus is equipped with modern teaching facilities and complete learning and living service facilities, providing students with a comfortable learning and living environment.