Paris American Academy
PAA
Study in the world's fashion capital.
The Paris American Academy (PAA) was founded in 1965 and is known for its excellence in boutique and couture fashion design instruction. With a strongly vocational approach, PAA prepares students for careers in creative fields, with summer program instruction from masters in fashion, fine arts, interior design, and creative writing. Located a short distance from Notre-Dame Cathedral, PAA draws upon Paris’ cultural and artistic heritage in making the city its campus.
U.S. School of Record
St. Norbert College (WI)
— starting Fall 2023: St. Martin’s University (WA)
Language of Instruction
English, with some courses in French.
Classmates
Up to 75 study abroad students from around the world.
Highlights
- Intensive block-style coursework
- Curriculum emphasizes vocational skills
- Opportunities for short placements at fashion shows & design events
PAA structures its programs and course content to be practical and applicable in today’s world. Students benefit from a personalized learning environment created by a student-instructor ratio of one to five and small classes. Courses are rigorous and intensive, and students develop a strong community around an environment of creativity and peer learning. PAA students come from many different countries and backgrounds and bring a wide range of viewpoints, special interests and talents to enrich the learning community.
Areas of Study
Fashion Design & Merchandising
Digital & Studio Arts
Interior & Product Design
Literature & Creative Writing
Student Life at PAA
PAA is located in the heart of Paris, in the famous “Latin Quarter.” This district offers a variety of activities, both cosmopolitan and traditionally French in nature. Inviting students to immerse themselves in Parisian life, the Academy draws upon the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. PAA extends learning beyond the classroom by taking advantage of the remarkable museums, exhibit spaces, cultural venues, and fashion houses which enrich the Parisian landscape. PAA students are encouraged to attend and take part in the many industry-related events that take place in Paris throughout the year, including Meuble Paris, Maison et Objet, Premier Vision, couture shows, and much more.
About SAI
SAI is dedicated to providing academic and cultural learning experiences abroad that enhance global awareness, professional development and social responsibility. We concentrate our programs in Europe, with a focus on in-depth learning of individual European countries and their unique global role in the geopolitical economy, humanities, and in the arts.