in France or overseas or alternatively studying at a foreign university. Although these institutes are more expensive than public universities in France, Grandes Écoles typically have much smaller class sizes and student bodies, and many of their programs are taught in English. International internships, study abroad opportunities, and close ties with government and the corporate world are a hallmark of the Grandes Écoles. Many of the top ranked schools in Europe are members of the Conférence des Grandes Écoles (CGE), as are the Sciences Po institutions. Degrees from Sciences Po are accredited by the Conférence des Grandes Écoles and awarded by the Ministry of National Education (France) (). Teaching Like the other institutes of political studies, it provides students with general training in political sciences, law, sociology, economics, general knowledge, and history. Since 2004, Courses have been 5 years long. it main diploma is equivalent to a master's degree. Its specialty is national security. Notable faculty Jacques Cantier, historian Jean-François Soulet, historian Patrick Champagne, sociologist Jean-Michel Ducomte, lawyer Jean-Louis Loubet del Bayle, sociologist Laure Ortiz, director of the Institut d'études politiques de Toulouse between 2000 and 2010 Robert Marconis, geographer Notable alumni Gérard Mestrallet, Chairman of the Board and CEO of GDF Suez Sylvain Augier, journalist Audrey Crespo-Mara, journalist Olivia Ferrandi, journalist Christian Authier, writer Philippe Bélaval, civil servant Jacques Cantier, historian Henri Cuq, politician Philippe Folliot, politician François Fontan, politician Jacques Godfrain, politician Masri Feki, writer References University of Toulouse Toulouse Universities and colleges in Toulouse Educational institutions established in 1948 1948 establishments in France