The 5 Most Popular Subjects to Study in France

#1 Biological Sciences

France has been a leader in Biological Sciences research since microbiologist Louis Pasteur discovered the principles of vaccination, fermentation, and pasteurisation in the nineteenth century.

Today, France is home to many world-renowned research institutes such as the Pasteur Institute and French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), which are at the forefront of progress in areas such as genetics, neuroscience, immunology and many more.

#2 Business and Management

France boasts the third largest economy in Europe and is a highly attractive location for foreign investment. It has produced some of the world’s most successful multinational companies, including Dior, L’Oreal and Michelin.

PhD students will benefit from networking opportunities with industry experts, and a booming business environment when they graduate!

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#3 Computer Science

France is racing ahead in the technology sphere, with over 25,000 new tech start-ups established there since 2012. There’s no shortage of prestigious universities to choose from, with seven ranking in the top 200 worldwide for Computer Science according to the 2023 Times Higher Education World Rankings.

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#4 Psychology

As a Psychology PhD student in France, you’ll benefit from an academic tradition that has produced eminent thinkers from Jacques Lacan to Émile Coué.

You’ll be able to choose from prestigious universities that are at the forefront of Psychology research and offer access to cutting-edge laboratory technology.

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#5 Chemistry

French academics have made many important contributions to the field of Chemistry. They include Antoine Laurent Lavoisier, who is credited with discovering the role of oxygen in combustion and predicting the existence of silicon.

Today, French universities continue to conduct important research in a range of areas including pharmaceuticals, nanotechnology, and sustainable chemistry. PhD students will have access to cutting-edge facilities and learn from some of the field’s leading researchers.

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