Université de la Réunion
Program Snapshot
The island of La Réunion in the middle of the Indian Ocean offers more than just clear blue waters and pristine beaches. Students can also explore both active and inactive volcanoes, cirques, and picturesque waterfalls. This site is perfect for a student looking for a non-traditional location with a French/Creole twist. Students take courses at the university taught in French paired with French language and culture courses.
Location
The university is located within walking distance of the commercial center and about three miles from the old town center in St. Denis.
PROGRAM TYPE
Academic year and semester exchanges
ISEP-Exchange for US students.
Program Dates
Academic year: end of August to late June
Semester 1: end of August to mid-December
Semester 2: end of January/ early February to late June/early July
Programs
Full year or semester enrollment in regular university courses
Arts
Languages and Humanities
Law
Economics and Political Science
Sciences and Technologies
Health
Institute of Administration and Management
Human Science and Environment
Engineering school (ESIROI): Innovation and integrated agri-food development; telecommunication; computer and multimedia services; sustainable construction and environment
Teachers Training College
Academic Notes
Unique offerings include Creole studies, ethnology and anthropology in a multiracial society, tropical environment studies, literature and anthropology of the Indian Ocean, African post-colonial literature and culture, postcolonial and francophone literatures.
Students also may have the opportunity to obtain a paid tutoring position. More information is available to students who are accepted by the Université de la Réunion at the time of receiving their acceptance materials.
Language Notes
- A minimum of 4-5 semesters of university-level French or the equivalent must be completed prior to program.
- A French language course and French translation course is offered in addition to regular classes during the academic year for intermediate to advanced levels. Language course = 12 ECTS and Translation course = 1 ECTS. A 2-credit creole class is also offered throughout the academic year. Language courses are not designed to be a student's full course load.
- A 2-week pre-session French language program is available before semester 1 only for an additional fee for intermediate to advanced levels.
For more information on courses and language options, see the:
ISEP French Language Advising Guide for US Students
ISEP French Language Advising Guide for I-to-I Students
Special ISEP Application Instructions
All students studying in France must purchase French health insurance (la Sécu) upon arrival for approximately 230 euros in addition to purchasing ISEP Health Insurance prior to departure.
Hints for Researching Courses
Course Descriptions Modern Letters/French Literature
Course Descriptions History
Course Descriptions Creole
Course Descriptions Geography
Course Descriptions Economic and Social Administration
Course Descriptions Economics
Housing and Meals
Students are housed in student residence halls and given a meal stipend.
Orientation
Students studying at the Université de la Réunion will participate in an orientation upon arrival. Orientation includes a visit of the campus, library, and sports facilities. Students will receive a description of the courses available and will visit the city of Saint-Denis.
Profile
Founded in 1970, La Réunion achieved university status in 1982. New facilities, including an international residence hall, cafeteria and library have recently been built. There are exceptional outdoor sports facilities.
What Past Students have to Say
"The amazing thing about la Réunion was the opportunity to experience volcanos (active and inactive), climb to the highest peak in the Indian Ocean, go to museums, the beach, snorkel, scuba dive and descend into cirques and waterfalls. Even for those who don’t enjoy nature it's a spectacular place - a world in itself." - Jessica Kim
