Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Toulouse (INSA) is a public institution of a scientific, cultural and professional nature, under the authority of the ministry in charge of higher education, accredited by the Commission des Titres to award the diplôme d'ingénieur. Founded in 1963, INSA Toulouse is part of a network made up of 6 INSAs based in Lyon, Rennes, Rouen, Centre Val de Loire and Strasbourg. The school has 2 main missions: train engineers formally and in continuing education and develop research. INSA has a Director appointed by the National Ministry of Education, for 5 years. Three councils, 5 commissions and a management committee help him accomplish his mission. The school has 7 departments and 2 centers for 8 specializations and participates in 8 research labs. The institute provides academic services, research and is involved internationally.