The French university system
There are eight levels of diploma in France. In the world of work, these levels indicate the qualifications needed for different careers.
The University of Strasbourg offers qualifactions ranging from level 4 to level 8. Level 4 corresponds to qualifications such as the French baccalauréat (bac), the Diploma of Access to University Studies (Diplôme d’accès aux études universitaires – DAEU), and the Law Foundation Diploma (Capacité en droit), while level 8 corresponds to a PhD.
The courses on offer at the University of Strasbourg are open to everyone – with or without the bac, continuing or returning to study, or in initial or continuing education. All of our courses are linked to scientific research.
Discover the qualification level framework
The University of Strasbourg awards nationally recognised qualifications that are valid throughout France. The university is accredited by the Ministry for Higher Education and Research, which guarantees the quality and official recognition of its programmes. All national qualifications awarded by the university are listed in the National Register of Professional Certifications (Répertoire national des certifications professionnelles – RNCP), ensuring their recognition in both academic and professional contexts.
The University of Strasbourg also offers institutional degrees, such as the University Diploma (Diplôme d'université – DU) or the Inter-university Diploma (Diplôme interuniversitaire – DIU). These qualifications are designed by universities and are often highly specialised or professionally oriented. They are not national degrees, but they may be officially recognised at national level if they are listed in the Specific Register (Répertoire spécifique – RS), which validates their professional relevance.
Academic programmes at the University of Strasbourg
The academic year at university
Semesters
The academic year is generally divided into two semesters. The first runs from September to December, and the second from January to May. Each semester is made up of teaching units (unités d’enseignement – UE).
Some programmes and teaching units are not organised by semester. Instead, they run over the full academic year. These are referred to as annual courses (annualisées).
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods and assessment differ between programmes and from year to year.
Learn more about examinations and assessments
Understanding ECTS
The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is a tool of the European Higher Education Area. This system helps students move between universities in France and across Europe. It also ensures that your university qualifications and study abroad periods are officially recognised.
When a student successfully completes a teaching unit, they receive a certain number of ECTS credits. A semester is worth 30 ECTS credits, a Bachelor's degree is worth 180 ECTS credits (6 semesters) and a Master's degree is worth 300 ECTS credits (6 semesters of a Bachelor's degree and 4 semesters of a Master's degree).
Useful resources
Help and support
- Academic and Student Administration Office
- Espace Avenir
- Explore your study options online at Mon orientation en ligne
- Student contact form