The programmes were launched in 1964 with the support of the Municipality of Nice and the European Commission, formerly held by the "Institut européen des hautes études internationales".

Its aim is to give students an all-embracing, encompassing vision of the political, social, economic, and cultural problems of today’s modern world.

The Master level programmes all award the professional title of "Policy officer in European and international organisations", recognised by the French state.

The trilingual branch of the MAEIS comprises terms in Nice and Berlin and Canterbury –at the University of Kent– which cooperates with the ' CIFE IE·EI', and a study trip to European and international organisations in Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg.

In collaboration with the teaching staff of the IE-EI and local partner universities, the training courses enable researchers or young professionals to deepen their knowledge in the fields of European integration, international relations and the latest topical issues.