An industrial engineering program coming soon to Béziers
It has been official since December 3, 2024: the Polytech School at the University of Montpellier wishes to expand its academic offerings by proposing to the Commission for Engineering Degrees (CTI) a new specialization in industrial engineering. The result of close collaboration with the Béziers University Institute of Technology (IUT) and Jean Moulin High School, this ambitious initiative aims to meet the needs of businesses and address the challenges of the ecological transition.
Polytech Montpellier’s stated goal is to promote the development of higher education and research in dynamic regions where access to high-level programs has remained limited. Starting in 2025, the school will offer a new industrial engineering program in Béziers through the CTI. Thanks to this program, students in the region will now be able to earn a five-year engineering degree without leaving their local area.
By establishing a presence in Béziers, Polytech Montpellier aims to build bridges between secondary and higher education, guiding high school students all the way to an engineering degree (BAC+5). This initiative also aims to promote social inclusion by making high-quality educational programs accessible to regions with limited higher education infrastructure. Finally, this program aims to meet the needs of local businesses, particularly in fields related to the green industry and the ecological transition.
A cross-functional program at the heart of industrial challenges
The new specialization in industrial engineering stands out for its versatility. The major topics covered include industrial processes and their optimization; quality and maintenance, which are the cornerstones of industrial performance; managing environmental impact, a key challenge of the ecological transition; and, of course, management, to train leaders capable of steering complex projects.
This program will be offered under the FISA framework (engineering education through apprenticeship), promoting a rewarding balance between theory and practice. Students holding a BUT degree (in mechanical and manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering and maintenance, energy transition professions, etc.), certain professional bachelor’s degrees such as the one in AI and Robotics at the IUT in Béziers, BTS programs, or preparatory programs (ATS: Adaptation for Advanced Technicians or PeiP: Pathway to Polytech Engineering Schools), will thus have a unique opportunity to pursue careers of the future.
A solution tailored to the needs of the region and the industry
Until now, the lack of specialized engineering programs in Béziers had been a gap in the regional network of the Occitanie region. By filling this gap, Polytech Montpellier is strengthening its strategic position, while taking care not to compete with other schools in the region, such asENSCM or Institut Agro.
This specialization, developed in collaboration with local stakeholders, is intended to complement existing programs. It aligns with the University’s strategic priorities, which aim to support the ecological transition and promote the growth of local educational programs in key cities such as Béziers.
A Bold Vision for the Future
Through this initiative, Polytech Montpellier demonstrates a clear ambition: to train engineers who are ready to tackle the industrial challenges of tomorrow, while revitalizing the local educational and economic landscape. This project illustrates the ability of academic institutions to adapt to societal changes by building bridges between education, research, and industry.
The first students in this program are expected to enroll at the start of the 2026 school year in September (subject to accreditation by the CTI), marking a decisive step in the development of higher education in Béziers. This is a wonderful opportunity for the region and its up-and-coming talent.
