Overview: University of Pau and the Adour Region (UPPA)
Founded in 1970, the University of Pau and the Adour Region (Université de Pau et des Pays de l’Adour, UPPA) is a prominent public, multidisciplinary institution located in Pau, southwestern France. Today, UPPA operates across five campuses distributed among Pau, Bayonne, Anglet, Tarbes, and Mont-de-Marsan. With a diverse student population of approximately 14,000 and over 1,000 academic and research staff, UPPA is recognized as a comprehensive university, balancing teaching excellence with intensive research engagement. This positioning offers a dynamic environment well-suited for both French and international students and collaborators.
UPPA offers a wide array of academic programs, with particular strengths in environmental sciences, energy, social sciences, law, and engineering. The university’s signature expertise in environmental and energy transitions is demonstrated by its "Energy and Environment Solutions" label and several dedicated research institutes. UPPA encourages interdisciplinary study and problem-based learning, underpinned by strong collaboration with regional industry and global academic partners. The institution is a member of the prestigious E2S UPPA project—labeled as an “Initiative of Excellence”—and participates actively in European research networks. UPPA’s research output is robust, with a high concentration of CNRS-affiliated laboratories and a growing international publication record, positioning it with impact in both academic and applied research arenas.
Student life at UPPA is vibrant and inclusive, featuring a wide range of clubs, associations, and cultural events such as music festivals and theater productions. The university emphasizes internationalization, hosting over 12% international students and nurturing a culture of diversity and openness. Comprehensive student support services foster academic success and personal well-being, while quality on-campus housing, sports facilities, and arts programs enrich campus life. UPPA’s setting in the scenic Pyrenees-Atlantiques region also offers students unique access to outdoor activities, fostering a strong sense of community and connection with the local environment.
UPPA’s mission centers on promoting sustainable development, fostering innovation, and preparing globally engaged citizens. The university’s core values—integrity, academic rigor, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility—drive its ambition to be a leading international center for research and education addressing the challenges of the 21st century.
