- Spend 24 hours immersed at CEFAM
Founded in Lyon in 1986, CEFAM is a Franco-American business school that prepares students to thrive in an international environment. Its educational approach, inspired by the North American university model, combines instruction in English, hands-on learning, professional experience, and a global perspective.
CEFAM offers two programs— Business and International Relations—designed in collaboration with partner universities in the United States, Canada, and Italy. From the moment they arrive in Lyon, students are immersed in a multicultural environment and develop the skills needed to understand international issues, take initiative, and build their professional futures.
Throughout their program, they put what they’ve learned into practice through internships and, depending on the track they choose, can spend a year studying abroad and earn a dual degree.
CEFAM is a private, nonprofit institution, established asan association underthe French Law of 1901 and recognized as an Independent Institution of Higher Education (EESL).
Establishment of CEFAM
Roger Serre and Jean-Michel Perrenot founded CEFAM in Lyon, based on a model that was then relatively uncommon in France: courses inspired by the American university system, taught in English, and centered on participation, debate, and the practical application of knowledge. Northeastern University and Temple University were among the school’s first American partners.
First Recognition of a CEFAM Degree by the Government
The French-American Certificate in Higher Education in Management is subject to official recognition by a decree published in the Official Journal. This step is documented in the regulatory history, which is now maintained by France Compétences. France Compétences
CEFAM is moving to the René Cassin Campus in Lyon’s 9th arrondissement.
Degree in “International Organizational Management”
The certification is registered under the title “Manager of International Organizations”, which remains the title of the professional certification offered by CEFAM today.
New Level 7 RNCP Certification
France Compétences has registered the professional certification “Manager of International Organizations” — RNCP39382, Level 7, by decision dated July 19, 2024. The current registration is valid through July 19, 2029.
Launch of the International Relations Track
CEFAM is expanding its offerings with the launch of the International Relations program, which is also based on American and international teaching methods. The program spans three years, with two years spent in Lyon and one year at Siena University.
CEFAM's 40th Anniversary
CEFAM Celebrates 40 years of education and international partnerships.
The American Way of Learning
At CEFAM, the educational model is inspired by North American university practices: students participate, debate, present, experiment, and regularly engage with their professors. This distinctive approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills, preparing students to succeed in a world shaped by AI.
1. Participate rather than listen passively
The courses place a strong emphasis on questions, discussions, oral presentations, case studies, and classroom discussions.
Example: analyzing a business situation, presenting a recommendation to the group, or comparing several solutions, rather than simply delivering a lecture.
2. Learning in small groups
Class sizes are intentionally limited, with a stated maximum of 20 students per professor. This encourages students to speak up and facilitates classroom interaction.
3. Take Advantage of "Office Hours"
Teachers offer one-on-one sessions to review a concept, delve deeper into a lesson, or discuss an academic or professional project.
Example: meeting with a professor after a finance class to go over an exercise or prepare a presentation. These office hours are a central part of the individualized support offered by CEFAM.
4. Learning by Doing
Business games, case studies, role-playing exercises, group projects, and internships place students in situations where they must make decisions, collaborate, and present their results.
The Business track includes, in particular, 2 to 4 internships, totaling up to 18 months of professional experience depending on the track chosen.
5. Be evaluated throughout the process
The model is based on continuous assessment that combines various formats: assignments, presentations, projects, exams, and simulations.
6. Working in English on a daily basis
Classes are taught 100% in English from day one and in person. English is thus the language of instruction: speaking up, collaborating, presenting a project, or making a case are all part of the daily academic experience.
English is not an additional major in the curriculum: it is the language of instruction and work at CEFAM.
Students begin their program in Lyon and then, depending on the track they choose, continue their studies at a partner university in the United States, Canada, or Italy, with the option of spending a semester in Greece or Mexico. For the Business track, students who wish to spend their fourth year at a partner institution abroad are guaranteed a spot, with no quota. For the International Relations track, all students are guaranteed a spot to spend their third year at Siena University (New York State).
Depending on the chosen destination, the Business track allows students to combine CEFAM’s French certification with an American or Canadian BBA, or a Canadian MBA, through a partner university. As a result, all of our students have the opportunity to graduate from CEFAM with two degrees—one French and one North American—both of which are recognized, highly valued, and a guarantee of true excellence.
The International Relations track allows students to earn a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Siena University in just 3 years instead of 4. Students spend two years in Lyon and one year in the United States. This program combines academic excellence, international experience, and significant savings in both time and tuition.
With a maximum student-to-faculty ratio of 1 to 20 and dedicated office hours, students receive personalized, hands-on support.
Internships, projects, presentations by professionals, and career workshops connect classroom learning to real-world business situations. The program may include 2 to 4 internships and up to 18 months of professional experience.
CEFAMily refers to the community made up of CEFAM students, faculty, staff, and alumni. In practice, this translates into small class sizes, close relationships with faculty, mutual support among students, an international community life, and a network that continues long after graduation.
President
Dean
Director of International Development
International Programs Coordinator
Director of Faculty
Director of Studies
Teaching Assistant
Director of Corporate Relations and Marketing
Corporate Relations and Marketing Coordinator
Admissions Manager
