The program includes directed studies, practical exercises, professional instruction, and internships. A Licence continues studies commenced in the DEUG and is a transitional degree. Approved studies or work experience can be credited toward a Licence, which recognizes basic education or professional training. In the Humanities, the Masters Degree year is principally devoted to a thesis written under the guidance of a director of studies. In other fields such as law or economics, the Masters Degree year continues the course studies of the License year.
Admission depends on a competition and interview.
The DEA occupies one year after the Masters Degree and provides an introduction to research work in a specific discipline. This DEA is mandatory if the student is planning to conduct research. The DEA is awarded after a dissertation has been presented to a jury. This dissertation is usually the first stage in a proposed Doctoral thesis. Doctorate Equivalent to the American Ph. D., this diploma is granted after 2-5 years of research and a successful thesis defence.