Sciences Po

The Institut d'études politiques de Paris ( ; English: Paris Institute of Political Studies), simply referred to as Sciences Po, is a public research and higher education institution in Paris, France, which specializes in social sciences. It has the status of grand établissement, which allows its admissions process to be highly selective. Established in 1872, Sciences Po has traditionally educated France's political and diplomatic elite, and it is generally thought of to be one of the world's most reputable and prestigious schools of the social sciences.

Sciences Po covers political science as well as economics, history, sociology, law, finance, business, communication, social and urban policy, management and journalism. It offers several dual master’s degrees, in partnership with such institutions as the London School of Economics, the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, the Free University of Berlin, Bocconi University in Milan, ESADE in Barcelona, the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore and the University of Pennsylvania Law School. At the undergraduate level, Sciences Po also offers a dual degree program with the School of General Studies at Columbia University, University College London, Keio University, the Free University of Berlin, and the University of British Columbia.

The campus is located near the Seine River, between Boulevard Saint Germain and Boulevard Raspail; within walking distance of most major sights, such as Notre Dame de Paris, the Grand Palais, the Panthéon, and the Assemblée Nationale. It is housed primarily in 17th and 18th century mansions located on the left bank, on and around Rue Saint-Guillaume, Rue des Saints Pères and Rue de l'Université (in the 7th arondissement).