The University of Paris, also known as La Sorbonne, was founded in the 13th century by Robert de Sorbon and served as one of the earliest institutions of higher education. Students studied for six years to earn a bachelor's degree focusing on subjects like logic, rhetoric, and astronomy. The university was under direct control of the church, with teachers paid by churches and students subject to church courts. Around 1215, age and study requirements were established for professors with theology considered the most prestigious subject area.

1. The University of Paris is noted for being one of the first institutions for higher education across the globe. Commonly known as La Sorbonne, the university was founded by Robert de Sorbon during the 13th century (Kim, 2008). Although the university was officially recognized in the 1200s, the institution of higher education was functioning before this time, as is evident by a reference made in 1170 to what is known as the University of Paris. Furthermore, Pope Innocent III finished his higher education career in 1182 at this college. It was this institution, in conjunction with others like the University of Bologna, which served as a model for the foundation of other colleges throughout France and Europe. Paris Curriculum and Enrollment In order to complete a bachelor’s degree, a student studied for six years in the faculty of arts. Specifics subjects included logic, rhetoric, music, astronomy, geometry, etc. After completing this degree, advanced education could be obtained in theology, law, or medicine, with theology being the most prestigious of the three. Courses also centered on specific books, for example a book by a famous philosopher, instead of by subject. Furthermore, all courses were required—they did not have electives When the university first opened, only 20 students attended; however, it quickly expanded and reached over 20,000 during the 13th century. Students entered college around the age of 13 years old, making the student body very young compared to today. Church Governance The church was directly in control of the universities. Not only were teachers paid by churches, but students were also to be tried by church courts and frequently escaped city laws. These students were identified by shaving their heads and wearing robes .Plus, it was to Paris that teachers flocked due to the large amount of control they exerted at the university. Professors Around 1215, Robert de Courcon ordered that professors must be 21 years old and have studied the specific area for at least six years. In order to be a chair (specifically of theology), the requirements included being at least 30 years old with eight years of studies. It was during this time that the term “Dean” was deemed to denote the head of the faculty. Each faculty member was also categorized into one of the following faculties: medicine, theology, art, and canon law; however, theology, law, and medicine were considered superior to art. As a result, those in the former typically held doctorate degrees, while the latter obtained baccalaureate degrees. Intermediate degrees did not exist during this time.