Historically, "Écoles Normales" (Normal Schools) in France were established primarily to train teachers. These schools provided the pedagogical training necessary to educate teachers, following a standardized curriculum that would be taught across public schools. Over time, many of these institutions have evolved or merged into larger universities or specialized colleges.
ENS de Lyon (École Normale Supérieure de Lyon): This institution is part of the prestigious group of French higher education establishments known as the grandes écoles. ENS de Lyon is renowned for its rigorous academic and research programs in sciences and humanities. It continues to train educators, particularly for higher education and research positions.
Location: Situated in the Gerland district of Lyon.
Fields of Study: Includes a wide range from humanities and social sciences to hard sciences.
Programs: Offers undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, with a strong focus on research.
Facilities: Modern facilities including research laboratories, a large library, and student accommodations.
Today, the term "normal school" is rarely used in France or Europe, with the educational landscape having shifted towards university and college systems that incorporate teacher training within broader educational faculties or specific departments of education.
Biology: Courses may include genetics, cell biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
Chemistry: Studies in organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
Physics: Courses cover theoretical physics, astrophysics, soft matter physics, and more.
Mathematics: Includes pure and applied mathematics, statistics, and computer science.
Earth Sciences: Studies might involve geology, environmental science, and climatology.
Computer Science: Offering a deep dive into algorithms, data science, artificial intelligence, and theoretical computer science.
Literature and Linguistics: Courses might cover French literature, comparative literature, and general linguistics.
History and Geography: Studies could include European history, world history, human geography, and urban studies.
Philosophy and Sociology: Programs may focus on ethics, political philosophy, sociology of culture, and social theories.
Languages: Includes French as well as other European and non-European languages.
Economics and Management: Courses in economic theory, econometrics, and business management.
Teacher Training: While less emphasized compared to historical norms, there could still be courses geared towards pedagogy, education policy, and educational psychology, particularly aimed at those intending to enter academia or research.
Art and Science: ENS de Lyon encourages interdisciplinary studies, including intersections between arts, humanities, and scientific disciplines, fostering a holistic educational approach.
English-taught Programs: Some courses or programs may be offered in English to accommodate international students.
Exchange Programs: Strong ties with institutions worldwide support a dynamic exchange environment.
Course Program Name |
Duration of the Course |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Physics |
3 years |
Typically around $200 to $400 for EU/EEA students; up to $3,000 to $4,000 for non-EU students |
|
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics |
3 years |
Typically around $200 to $400 for EU/EEA students; up to $3,000 to $4,000 for non-EU students |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy |
3 years |
Typically around $200 to $400 for EU/EEA students; up to $3,000 to $4,000 for non-EU students |
|
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science |
3 years |
Typically around $200 to $400 for EU/EEA students; up to $3,000 to $4,000 for non-EU students |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics |
3 years |
Typically around $200 to $400 for EU/EEA students; up to $3,000 to $4,000 for non-EU students |
Course Program Name |
Duration of the Course |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
Master in Fundamental Physics |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Advanced Mathematics |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Computer Science |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Biology and Biochemistry |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Earth and Planetary Sciences |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Economics and Management |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Philosophy |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
|
Master in Social Science |
2 years |
$277 to $3,970 |
PhD Course Name |
Duration of the Course |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Physics |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Chemistry |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Biology |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Earth Sciences |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Computer Science |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Mathematics |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Humanities (Philosophy, History, etc.) |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
|
PhD in Social Sciences |
3-4 years |
$410 to $560 |
Master's Programs: Many of which are taught in English, covering areas like biology, physics, chemistry, computer science, economics, and social sciences.
Doctoral Programs: PhD opportunities with extensive research under the guidance of renowned professors. These programs are often funded and may be conducted in English, depending on the research group.
Masters and PhD: Admission to these programs is highly competitive and usually requires a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree respectively. Proficiency in English is often necessary, and for some programs, knowledge of French might also be required.
Application Process: Involves submitting academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and possibly scores from language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS for non-French speakers.
Eiffel Scholarship: Offered by the French Ministry for Foreign Affairs to attract top foreign students to enroll in master’s and PhD courses.
ENS de Lyon Scholarships: Specific scholarships that might cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend.
Other Grants: Other sources of funding, such as government or institutional grants, are available.
Application Requirements:
A relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Proof of academic excellence.
Language proficiency (French and/or English, depending on the program).
Letters of recommendation.
A statement of purpose.
Depending on the program, a portfolio or a research proposal might also be required.
Application Process:
Submit an online application through the ENS de Lyon website during the specified application window.
The application must include all required documents, translated into French or English as necessary.
Some programs may require interviews or additional assessments.
Finding a Supervisor:
Candidates need to find a faculty member who agrees to supervise their PhD thesis. This often involves contacting potential supervisors with a research proposal.
Application Requirements:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field.
A detailed research proposal.
Evidence of research ability (publications, thesis, etc.).
Letters of recommendation.
Language proficiency, especially if the research group conducts its work in English.
Enrollment:
Once a supervisor is secured, candidates typically need to apply formally through the school's doctoral college.
Additional requirements might include securing funding (through scholarships, grants, or teaching assistantships).
ENS de Lyon typically follows the standard academic calendar with major intakes:
Master's Programs: The main intake is in September at the start of the academic year. Some programs might also offer a smaller intake in January.
Doctoral Programs: PhD admissions are generally more flexible and can occur at times throughout the year, depending on the department and the specific research project.
The eligibility requirements differ based on the level and type of program:
Academic Requirements: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
Language Proficiency: Many programs require proficiency in English or French. Specific requirements, such as TOEFL, IELTS for English, or TCF, DELF, DALF for French, are often mandatory.
Documentation: A transcript of records, letters of recommendation, a motivation letter, and sometimes a research proposal or project outline.
Academic Requirements: Applicants need a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
Finding a Supervisor: Candidates must find a faculty member who agrees to supervise their PhD project before applying.
Proposal: Submission of a detailed research proposal is required.
Language Proficiency: Depending on the research group, proof of proficiency in English or French is required.
Ranking System |
ENS de Lyon Ranking |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Within the top 200 universities globally |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Within the top 300 universities globally |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Coverage/Benefit |
|---|---|---|
|
ENS de Lyon International Scholarships |
International master’s students |
Tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend for 1-2 years |
|
Ampère Scholarships of Excellence |
International master’s students |
Covers tuition and includes a generous monthly stipend |
|
Eiffel Scholarship |
Master's and PhD students from abroad |
Monthly allowance, travel, health insurance, and cultural activities |
|
Labex MILYON Scholarship |
Master’s students in advanced mathematics and fundamental computer science |
Monthly stipend and tuition fees for 1-2 years |
|
IDEXLYON Fellowship |
PhD students participating in the university's projects |
Tuition and a living stipend for up to three years |
Facility |
Description |
Cost of Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Situated in the Gerland area of Lyon's 7th arrondissement. |
N/A |
|
Accommodation Types |
Offers both on-campus dormitories and assistance with off-campus housing. |
Approximately €250 to €600 per month |
|
Facilities in Rooms |
Typically includes a bed, desk, chair, and storage space. Some rooms might have en-suite facilities while others have shared bathrooms and kitchens. |
Included in monthly rent |
|
Common Areas |
Libraries, study rooms, common rooms, cafeterias, and recreational areas. |
Access included in accommodation fees |
|
Sports Facilities |
Access to sports complexes including gymnasiums, sports courts, and possibly a swimming pool. |
Free or discounted access for residents |
|
Library and Labs |
Extensive library facilities and state-of-the-art research labs available for student use. |
Access included in academic fees |
|
Cafeterias and Dining |
Multiple dining options on campus offering affordable meals catered to diverse dietary needs. |
Meals at student prices |
|
Health and Well-being |
On-site medical facilities, psychological support services, and dedicated wellness areas. |
Free or covered by health insurance |
|
Security |
24-hour campus security and controlled access to dormitory buildings. |
Included in accommodation fees |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Common laundry rooms available in residence halls. |
Pay-per-use basis |
Interdisciplinary Approach: Students benefit from an environment that fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration, with opportunities to engage in fields of study ranging from hard sciences to humanities.
Research Opportunities: There are ample opportunities for students to engage in research projects under the guidance of renowned professors and researchers.
Clubs and Societies: ENS de Lyon supports a variety of student clubs and societies ranging from arts to sports and technology, providing a platform for students to pursue their interests outside of academic commitments.
Cultural Activities: The institution frequently organizes concerts, lectures, art exhibitions, and theater productions, contributing to a culturally rich campus life.
Sports Facilities: The campus offers facilities for a range of sports, including but not limited to, football, basketball, swimming, and fitness classes.
Competitive and Recreational Sports: Students can participate in inter-university competitions or engage in recreational sports activities.
Events and Festivities: The academic year is punctuated with numerous events such as the Welcome Week for new students, annual festivals, and end-of-year celebrations.
International Environment: With a significant number of international students, the campus life is inherently global, offering a multicultural experience.
Dedicated Career Center: ENS de Lyon operates a career center that provides students with career counseling, resume workshops, mock interviews, and job search assistance. They also facilitate networking events where students can connect with alumni and industry leaders.
Internship and Job Opportunities: The institution has established strong connections with industries and organizations in sectors, which regularly recruit from the school. Students often have access to internships and job opportunities both locally and internationally.
Strong Corporate Ties: ENS de Lyon collaborates with leading companies in technology, sciences, finance, and consulting, among others, which frequently leads to job placements for students.
Research Collaborations: For students inclined towards research, there are numerous opportunities to engage in projects that are often conducted in partnership with private and public research institutions.
High Employment Rate: Graduates of ENS de Lyon are highly sought after and typically find employment within a few months of graduation. Many secure positions even before completing their studies.
Competitive Salaries: The salaries commanded by graduates reflect the high quality of education and training at ENS de Lyon.
General Selectivity: The acceptance rates at ENS de Lyon can be quite low, reflecting its stringent selection criteria and the high caliber of students it admits. The exact acceptance rates are not publicly available as is common with many European educational institutions, especially those in the "grandes écoles" system. However, it is understood that the acceptance rates could be in the low percentages.
Program-Specific Selectivity: Acceptance rates can vary significantly across different departments and programs. For instance, more applicants may compete for limited spots in popular subjects like Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science compared to other specialties.
International Students: The selection process for international students might be slightly different due to international programs and partnerships, such as those available through the Eiffel Scholarship Program. The competition remains high, although the application pool and criteria may differ from the domestic (French) process.
Main Campus Address: École Normale Supérieure de Lyon is located at 15 Parvis René Descartes, 69007 Lyon, France.
Urban Setting: The campus is situated in the Gerland area of the 7th arrondissement of Lyon, which is part of the larger Lyon metropolis.
Accessibility: The campus is well connected by public transportation, with easy access via bus and tram lines. This facilitates convenient travel to and from the city center and other parts of Lyon.
Facilities: The campus offers modern facilities, including advanced research laboratories, a large library, student housing, lecture halls, and administrative services.
Nearby Amenities: The Gerland district is a developing area with amenities including parks, shops, cafes, and sports facilities. It is also close to the Rhône river, providing pleasant scenery and additional recreational opportunities.
