Glossary of Postgraduate Degrees

Specialized Higher Education Diploma (DESS) or Professional Master's

The goal of this type of program is specialization in a specific field to facilitate entry into the workforce after graduation. It generally includes a 3- to 6-month internship called a "final internship." The professional Master's degree (LMD Reform) will gradually replace the DESS. It will last two years after obtaining a Bachelor's degree, with the first year corresponding to a Master's degree with an initial level of specialization and the second year corresponding to a DESS within the framework of a professional Master's degree or a DEA within the framework of a research Master's degree.

DEA or Research Master's

The DEA is a way to deepen one's knowledge in a specific field. It is intended to guide students towards research, with a view to completing a Doctorate.
The DEA also offers the possibility of completing an internship and allows students, by choosing a dissertation topic, to orient their professional career towards the field that interests them.

University Diplomas (D.U.)

This is not a diploma but a label awarded by the Conference of Grandes Ecoles. They are generally accessible to students with a Bachelor's+5 degree from Universities, engineering schools, or business schools. They are accessible to professionals with a Bachelor's+4 degree and 3 years of professional experience. 30% of places are generally reserved for students with a Bachelor's+4 degree who have a specific, coherent, and relevant professional project.

Specialized Master's

This is not a diploma but a label awarded by the Conference of Grandes Ecoles. They are generally accessible to students with a Bachelor's+5 degree from Universities, engineering schools, or business schools. They are accessible to professionals with a Bachelor's+4 degree and 3 years of professional experience. 30% of places are generally reserved for students with a Bachelor's+4 degree who have a specific, coherent, and relevant professional project.

Master of Science

These are also programs accredited by the Conference of Grandes Ecoles. They are aimed at holders of a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree.

MBA or Master in Business Administration

High-level management and international recognition are the strengths of an MBA. Generally, they are only accessible to people who have already had management experience. However, some MBAs seem to accept students without professional experience.

Source : Profil Culture