An industrial engineering program coming soon to Béziers
It has been official since December 3, 2024: the Polytech School at the University of Montpellier intends to expand its academic offerings by submitting a proposal to the Commission des Titres d’Ingénieur (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 historically been 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 industrial engineering program stands out for its versatility. Key areas of focus include industrial processes and their optimization; quality and maintenance, which are cornerstones of industrial performance; managing environmental impact, a key aspect of the green transition; and management, with the aim of training 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 from BUT programs (mechanical and manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering and maintenance, energy transition professions, etc.), from certain professional bachelor’s degrees such as the one in AI and Robotics at the IUT de Béziers, from BTS programs, or from preparatory programs (ATS: Adaptation for Advanced Technicians or PeiP: Pathway to Polytech Engineering Schools), will thus have a unique opportunity to advance toward 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 program, developed in collaboration with local stakeholders, is designed to complement existing programs. It aligns with the University’s strategic priorities, which aim to support the ecological transition and promote the growth of community-based 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 starting in September 2026 (subject to accreditation by the CTI), marking a decisive milestone in the development of higher education in Béziers. This represents a great opportunity for the region and its up-and-coming talent.
