Institut d'Etudes Commerciales Superieures de Strasbourg (IECS), France


The Institut d'Etudes Commerciales Superieures de Starsbourg (IECS) was founded in 1919 by the Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Strasbourg. In 1956 it became affiliated with the University of Strasbourg, now called Université Robert Schuman (Strasbourg III). IECS is outstanding among French business schools due to the dual strength of its close ties with the Chamber of Commerce and its status with the University.

In 1987, a group of new economic partners set up the Foundation IECS. The Foundation consists of 60 large and medium-sized companies based in Alsace, which both subsidize the school financially and participate in the teaching of the curriculum.

Location
IECS is located within 10 minutes walking distance from downtown Strasbourg. As the intellectual, cultural and economic capital of Alsace, Strasbourg has the scale, the atmosphere, and attraction of a big city without overwhelming its citizens. It is the seat of the Council of Europe and of the European Parliament. Strasbourg is a culturally rich city, offering a wealth of gracious architecture. It is also famous for its gastronomy: Foie Gras, wines of Alsace, chocolates, Eaux de vie are appreciated by gourmands of all nationalities. Don't miss the International Music Festival in Strasbourg (first three weeks of June), and the Fete de Noel (last week of November).

Approximate Term Dates
Fall (Fall Semester): September to December
Winter (Winter Semester): January to May

Academic Information
Most of the courses and coursework at IECS are designed to aid students to acquire expertise in management or in the operation of a specific business. Schulich students can choose from courses in banking, finance, entrepreneurship, organizational studies, consulting, accounting, control global logistics management, law and information systems marketing and sales. The preferred teaching methods are lectures, group work and exams.

Credit Equivalency
24 ECTS = 15 SSB credits
Courses are normally 3 ECTS each with 24 hours of instruction per course.

Language
French is the predominant language of instruction at IECS. Six courses will be offered in English per semester. Although no language test is necessary, an intermediate level of French is highly recommended. IECS also offers French as a Second Language courses (FLE).

Facilities
Schulich exchange students have access to IECS’ many computer labs. Over 150 computers are available for student use. Laptop labs are also available for those students who wish to bring their own. In addition, there are many Internet Cafes around the city of Strasbourg.

Accommodation
In general, rooms in Halls of Residence must be rented for a full academic year. Students may also find accommodation in flats or rooms owned by private individuals, in which case students are advised to come to Strasbourg well in advance of the beginning of their courses to read advertisements in the local press. Off-campus housing assistance is available by the IECS International Office.

Medical Insurance
Health Insurance is mandatory for all exchange students. It should be purchased before arriving in France.

Visa
For visa information, please contact

Consulate General of France in Toronto
130 Bloor Street West, Suite 400
Toronto, Ontario M5S 1N5
Tel : (416) 925 8041
Fax : (416) 925-3076
Web site: www.consulfrance-toronto.org

Estimated Cost of Living
(Exchange Rate Link http://www.bank-banque-canada.ca/english/exchform.htm)


Further Research:
The official Web site for IECS is:

http://www.iecs.edu/an_index.htm

*For more information about IECS, please visit the Resource Library located in Room W263.