All courses offered at NYU in Paris—including literature, cinema, history, political science, anthropology, sociology, philosophy, and art history classes—concentrate on France and its place in the wider world. Courses make ample use of the city's resources, exposing students to the rich and complex history that has rendered Paris a world-class city, as well as to contemporary trends in politics and the arts.

The program provides students just starting to learn French the tools to develop their proficiency in the language at a rapid pace, and to establish a firm understanding of French history and society. Students who arrive at NYU in Paris with past French instruction will take the next steps towards fluency by perfecting their skills through daily use of their French both within and outside of the classroom. All students are able to take full advantage of their time in Paris by supplementing their work at the NYU center with additional courses at the University of Paris, allowing for rigorous academic study and a reqarding immersion experience.