Long-term studies
Premier Cycle: The Premier Cycle is two years of undergraduate level university studies leading to the DEUG (diplome d'etudes universitaires generales) or the DEUST (diploma of scientific and technical university studies ).

 DEUG :This is a multidisciplinary general diploma granting no professional qualification. There are nine categories of DEUGs that require six to twelve elective and compulsory courses, depending on the university.

DEUST: This is a professional diploma, with courses tailored to individual needs by instructors. The program includes directed studies, practical exercises, professional instruction, and internships.

Second Cycle: The Second Cycle consists of the first two years of graduate studies at university, called the License and the Masters Degree (Maitrise) :

Masters Degree (Maitrise): Completing the second and final year of the Second Cycle (also known as the Baccalaureate + 4 years) leads to a Masters Degree. 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.

Troisieme Cycle: The Troisieme Cycle leads either to a DESS (Diploma of Specialized Higher Studies) or a DEA (Diploma of Extended Studies).
The DESS is a one-year study programme or course in a university department, including a minimum compulsory three-month work experience, and specified hours of seminars, practical assignments, and directed studies. Admission depends on competition and interview. Places depend on internship opportunities.

Doctorate
It is granted after 2-5 years of research and a successful defence of the thesis. The doctorate 'may be followed by a post- doctorate. It is given to scholars possessing ability to carry out research at a high level.