Algorithms and Foundations of Programming (AFP)

AFP (Algorithmique et Fondements de la Programmation) is a second-year master programme in fundamentals of computer science, jointly organised by several instututions inside the University Paris-Saclay. The AFP will start in 2015/16 is the successor programme of the Parisian Master of Research in Computer Science (MPRI).

The institutions involved in the master programme are: University Paris-Sud, École Polytechnique, ENS Cachan, Télécom Paris-Tech. The programme is also co-accredited by the ENS Paris and University Paris-Diderot. Moreover, the programme is associated with the National Institute for Research in Computer Science and Automatics (Inria), with the CNRS, the CEA and the University Pierre et Marie Curie.

The objective of the programme is to prepare students for a research career in the areas of fundamental computer science. Nearly all students finishing the master continue their academic career as PhD students.

Courses

The courses taught in the AFP cover the following areas.

Algorithms
Automata and Formal Languages
Automated Deduction
Combinatorics and Computer algebra
Computability and Complexity
Cryptography, Coding, and Security
Logics and Semantics of Programs
System Programming, Analysis, and Verification

Detailed information about the courses can be found here. Note that this page lists the courses for the old MPRI programme, however most of that information will still be valid to the AFP starting in 2015/16.

How to apply

Applicants should register on the Pedagogical web server.

Among other things, the following informations are required:

A curriculum vitae.
A letter of application specifying the reasons for which you wish to take the MPRI.
A letter of recommandation from a teacher willing to attest that you possess the abilities and skills necessary to take the MPRI programme and in which said teacher justifies his or her standpoint. The letter of recommendation should be sent directly by E-mail to direction-mpri@dptinfo.ens-cachan.fr. It is the students' responsibility to make sure that the letter of recommendation reaches the Direction in time.
A detailed description of your last two years of studies including syllabus, length (in hours) and mark obtained for each module. You may also describe any other higher education.

Applications must be filed at the lastest until JUNE 15. Late applications are processed at the discretion of the recruiting committee. Candidates can include a reasoned request for a scholarship in their application.

Research

Several labs and research units are associated with the master programme of University Paris-Saclay, offering an ideal environment for students wishing to continue with a PhD thesis. These teams work to realise the promises of the digital revolutions and develop tools for tomorrow's technologies: