Bachelor of Computer Science in France
Licence 3 years IT and Computing
The Bachelor of Computer Science, known in France as a Licence in informatique, is a three-year undergraduate degree that forms the first stage of the LMD (Licence, Master, Doctorat) system used across French higher education. It is delivered by public universities rather than the selective grandes écoles, giving students a comparatively open path into programming, mathematics, and computing fundamentals before choosing a specialised master’s. France’s strong public research culture in mathematics and computing, along with affordable tuition, makes it a popular route into the field.
What’s covered
- Programming fundamentals and software development practices
- Discrete mathematics, algorithms, and data structures
- Computer architecture, operating systems, and networks
- Databases and introductory web or systems development
- Project-based coursework, often in small groups
- A foundation for progressing into specialised master’s programmes
Entry requirements
- Secondary school qualification (or international equivalent) with a solid grounding in mathematics
- French-taught Licence programmes generally require DELF/DALF or TCF; IELTS/TOEFL apply where English-taught options exist
- Most public universities admit on academic record via the Parcoursup or Campus France application routes, without a separate entrance exam
- Non-EU applicants typically apply through the Campus France “Études en France” procedure
Where you can study this in France
Université Paris-Saclay
Exceptional strength in mathematics and the natural sciences, with close links to the surrounding Paris-Saclay science and technology cluster.
Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1
Lyon
Broad science and technology faculties in one of France's largest student cities outside Paris.
Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier
Toulouse
Sciences and technology teaching alongside close proximity to Toulouse's major aerospace and technology industry base.
Université Paris Cité
Paris
Sciences taught across central Paris sites, with a growing number of English-taught options at postgraduate level.
University of Lille
Lille
Open-admission technology and science programmes within a large, internationally connected public university near the Belgian border.
Explore more: all courses in France, universities, student visas, and study costs.