Overview
Since 1954, CALS has offered their students unique opportunities to study abroad via the CALS Exchange program. CALS students are able to internationalize their academic experience by integrating themselves into a partner university abroad, taking classes and living alongside degree-seeking students. The CALS Exchange programs are rooted in, and in many cases designed by, CALS faculty affiliated to an international academic institution or university department that complements your academic program. Students who have previously gone on exchange have found it to be a rewarding experience as it has added an international dimension to their degree, challenged them academically and facilitated the development of new skills, and enhanced their personal growth and self-confidence.
In 2011, CALS partnered with France Agro3: French Network for Education and Research in Life Sciences, a group formed by three French higher education institutions that specialize in Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences to offer unique pathways that include a semester of coursework in addition to experiential learning and research opportunities.
This exchange program is recommended for undergraduate students majoring in Animal Science, Agricultural Business, Agricultural Sciences, Food Sciences (with a demonstrated interest in animal production system, ag policy, and/or supply chain management) and Development Sociology. Students in majors outside of those recommended may also be able to participate, depending on your interests and academic needs.
What is unique about this program?
L'Ecole d'Ingenieurs de PURPAN in Toulouse, France. PURPAN, a Jesuit private college founded in 1919, has maintained a spirit of direct collaboration with the agricultural environment. It is administered by a non-profit making council and depends on the Ministry of Agriculture. It awards the degree of “Ingénieur en Agriculture” which is equivalent to a MSc in Agriculture.
Review the other opportunities in France via this unique partnership:
What is unique about Toulouse, France?
PURPAN is located in Toulouse, in Southwester France, one hour by plan from Paris. Toulouse is the 4th largest city in France and is famous for its unique red-brick ancient buildings. Toulouse is also the 2nd largest university town, 3rd largest scientific region and a high-tech centre. Located in France's most important agricultural region, Toulouse also remains attached to its traditions. There is plenty to do downtown. With more than 120,000 students, Toulouse is one of the liveliest cities in France. At the crossroads of Europe, Toulouse is only 6 hours from Madrid, 4 hours from Barcelona, and 2 hours from many European countries.
Past Participants
You can view photos from past participants. Would you like to ask a past participant questions about their experience? The CALS exchange coordinator is happy to connect you to a Cornell student who has studied at PURPAN. Email cals-exchange@cornell.edu to request an introduction.
How do I apply?
- Attend a CALS Exchange and Study Abroad Information Session
- CALS will be holding information sessions for students to answer questions regarding types of programs, the process, financial aid/costs concerns, returning credits, and any additional questions you may have. You can find the schedule and login information here.
- Meet with the CALS Exchange Advisor
- The CALS exchange advisor is happy to meet with each student to go over specific programs, answer individuals academic questions that could not be discussed in an information sessions, assist with program selection based on interest, etc. It's also an opportunity to discus the application process, the course approval process, etc. Schedule an appointment.
- Click the green apply button (there is an application preview button for those interested in what is on the application-by clicking apply, you will start an application to the program)
- Already met with the CALS Exchange Advisor or is it close to the application deadline and you can't get in to see the advisor? That's okay. Click the green apply button and start the Cornell application process so you don't miss any deadlines.
- Click Submit
- Once you've completed all of the application requirements, click submit. The CALS Exchange Advisor will review your application within a week of your submission. If accepted, you will receive further instructions regarding next steps and the application process to your host university.
