Purpose of the MPRI is to train future researchers via research; it is notably the successor to the DEA in Algorithmics and to the DEA in Programming (research-oriented post-graduate degrees). To apply, students must have level L (third year) qualifications (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) from a French or foreign college or university.
The natural follow-up to the MPRI is a doctorate (though of course some students choose not to continue with their studies once they have obtained the MPRI), which in turn leads to academic teaching-research or full-time research positions (in universities, research bodies etc.) or to industrial Research and Development.
The MPRI course
The aim of the MPRI course is to offer students both core training in the fundamentals of a general knowledge in computer science and more specialised training constitutive of a true introduction to research. One or two research internships complete this classical training course.
In view of the great variety of cultural and educational backgrounds which the students taking the MPRI present, we let the students select their own customised two-year course, i.e. not only the modules they wish to take, but also the number and type of internships. Customised courses are subject to approval by the MPRI's Studies Committee, whereby the students' personal plans and prior degree course are taken into account.
In addition to the modules they wish to take, students in Year M1 can choose either to attend the modules of the MPRI teaching staff the whole academic year round (classical course structure) or to spend one of the semesters abroad.
Year M2 begins with a first semester dedicated to specialisation by way of level 2 advanced modules. The second semester is devoted to an introductory research internship with a French or foreign laboratory.
In addition to the above-mentioned internships abroad, students may request, subject to approval by the MPRI's Studies Committee, to take all or part of the first or second year modules at a foreign partner university.
The specialisations available include: