Expand your Horizons at the Sorbonne’s Winter University

The Faculty of Arts & Humanities at the Sorbonne University, that famous jewel in the crown of French education, has long been a beacon for arts, languages, humanities and social sciences. With roots dating back to 1257, when the college was founded by Robert de Sorbon, this prestigious faculty now stretches across 13 campuses in central Paris, including the emblematic Sorbonne itself, renowned worldwide for its academic legacy. 

In a tradition that brings knowledge-seekers to Paris each year, the Sorbonne opens its doors each summer to a global audience for two weeks of immersive learning and cultural exchange. This year, however, the Sorbonne is inviting guests for a special winter session for the first time, in an exceptional opportunity to experience the best of French culture during the quieter, magical winter season in Paris. 

From January 13 to 24, 2025, the Winter University at the Sorbonne will present a range of multidisciplinary, non-degree courses in both French and English, designed to enrich understanding of France’s fascinating cultural and historical landscape. Participants can choose from subjects such as The French Revolutions, Paris and its Monuments, and French Literary Classics. Courses are taught by the Sorbonne’s esteemed teacher-researchers and held in the historic lecture halls of the Latin Quarter, immersing participants in an academic experience at the heart of the university. 

While the Winter University program caters to students, it welcomes anyone eager to explore the French capital from an insider’s perspective while studying at one of Europe’s most revered institutions. For those interested in delving into French history, literature, general culture or philosophy, the Winter University offers multidisciplinary courses running Monday through to Friday, with sessions limited to three hours to leave ample time to explore the delights of Paris. Meanwhile, for those keen to enhance their French language skills, immersive classes provide four to six hours of daily instruction over two weeks, allowing participants to build language confidence in real-world settings. 

Upon completion, each participant receives a certificate of attendance at the Sorbonne’s Winter University, marking their achievement in a closing ceremony complete with a cocktail reception, bringing together students, teachers and professors to celebrate. 

The Sorbonne’s mission is as timeless as its surroundings: to enrich understanding of French history and culture, to bridge cultures and ideas across backgrounds, and to share the knowledge of its world-renowned scholars. The Winter University promises to offer participants not only a window into French culture but also a chance to be part of a greater academic legacy. 

For more information on how to enroll in this remarkable opportunity, visit the Winter University at Sorbonne website.