SGM Degree / Materials Science and Engineering

• Level 6: Bachelor’s degree level, 180 ECTS credits
• Competency-based approach
• 3-year integrated program
• Easier international mobility
• A training program heavily structured around real-world work scenarios

The Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering aims to produce high-performing graduates who possess analytical and synthesis skills, as well as a genuine understanding of the industry.

The SGM department offers two tracks starting in the second year:

• Careers in Recycling and Material Recovery, with a Focus on Characterization
• Careers in Materials and Product Engineering

Skills common to both tracks:

• Develop materials
• Eco-design: From Material to Product
• Format the materials
• Characterize materials and products

Specific skills:

Career Paths in Recycling and Materials Recovery:

• Repurpose a material derived from a product

Career Paths in Materials and Product Engineering:

• Develop a product from concept to completion

Start date: September.
Duration: 3 years.
Total course hours: 2,000 hours
Total hours for supervised projects: 600 hours
Internship: 26 weeks over the course of 3 years
Assessment method: Continuous assessment.
Work-study program: available starting in the 2nd year

SEMESTER 1

Learning and Assessment Situations (LAS):

• SAé 1-1: Protocol for the development of a material
• SAé 1-2: Analysis of Materials in an Industrial Product
• SAé 1-3: Understanding formatting protocols and security rules
• SAé 1-4: Measurement and Comparison of Common Material Properties
• Portfolio

Resources (materials)

• Exploring Materials
• Metallic materials
• Polymer Materials 1
• Ceramic and glass materials
• Polymer Materials 2
• Technical drawing
• Characterization
• Chemistry Basics
• Physics Basics
• Mathematics Basics
• Structure of Matter
• Chemistry
• Mechanics
• Applied Physics
• Mathematics
• Expression and Communication
• Languages
• PPP

SEMESTER 2

Learning and Assessment Situations (LAS):

• SAé 2-1: Study of the influence of processing parameters on material properties
• Module 2-2: Design, Development, and Validation of a Simple Product
• SAé 2-3: Impact of a forming process on the final product
• SAé 2-4: Measuring Material Properties
• Portfolio

Resources (materials)

• Composite Materials 1
• Metallic materials
• Ceramic materials and glass
• Bio-based materials and agro-materials 1
• Bio-based materials and agro-materials 2
• Composite Materials 2
• Technical drawing
• Characterization
• Strength of Materials
• Heat transfer
• Structure of Matter
• Mathematics
• Expression and Communication
• Languages
• PPP

The SGM program, which is very broad in scope, offers students a wide range of career paths. Many choose the field of materials (general materials, composites, polymers, ceramics, wood, etc.), but there are also opportunities in industrial design, packaging, manufacturing, mechanical design, and aerospace design and maintenance.
Others prefer to pursue a dual career path: technical and sales; finally, some choose to apply their knowledge of materials and science to other fields such as civil engineering (architecture, construction).

Here are your options:

• A short-term program leading to a professional bachelor’s degree, designed to help you explore a new career path or specialize in a particular field.
• A long course of study at an engineering school.

The long-term degree programs that students enrolled in during previous years:

• General engineering programs : INSA Lyon, ENI (Tarbes and Saint-Étienne); ISTP, POLYTECH, ISITV (Toulon), ESIREM (Dijon), UTBM (Belfort), UTT (Troyes), ENSCPB (Bordeaux), ECAM (Lyon), ICAM (Lille),
• Nuclear and Chemical Engineering: PHELMA (Grenoble), ISTP (Saint-Étienne), ENSIACET (Toulouse)
• Ceramics: ENSCI (Limoges), ENSIL (Limoges)
•  Polymers and composites: ESPA (Alençon), COMPOSITEC (Lac du Bourget)
• Textiles: ENSAIT (Roubaix), ISTIL (Lyon)
• Packaging: ESIREIMS,
• Industrial Design: ISDValencienne, UTC…
• Technical Sales Representative: IAE
• Architecture: Master's in General Construction (La Rochelle)

All industries that use this material: aerospace, marine, leisure, building, automotive, energy (particularly nuclear and wind power)…

The highly interdisciplinary nature of the program and the emphasis placed on analyzing phenomena mean that SGM technicians are highly versatile and can find opportunities in all sectors of the economy. It is up to each student to chart their own career path in order to find the profession that will allow them to thrive.

Here are a few examples of careers pursued by SGM Nîmes alumni:

• Technical Packaging Sales Representative for the industrial sector. He works with clients to assess the feasibility of highly technical packaging designs.
• Quality Control Manager at Mäder Composite.
• Polymer materials development technician. At an SME, she tests and helps develop new resins.
• Automotive designer (concept cars). He uses CAD (Computer-Aided Design) to design the cars of the future. His training in materials and processes enables him to innovate in his design choices.
• Civil Engineering Soil Investigation Technician.

General Baccalaureate: Recommended Specializations

Mathematics + Physics and Chemistry or Engineering Sciences – any other major upon review of the application

General Baccalaureate earned before 2021: Science Baccalaureate

Technology Track: STI – STL

Apply in January via Parcoursup

Admission criteria:

• Evaluations from the teaching staff, recommendations from the homeroom committee, and motivation for the program
• French and Language Grades
• Grades from 10th and 11th grade in science courses

All courses are available as(for employees, individuals, or job seekers), subject to validation of the required prerequisites.Access is also available through the Recognition of Prior Learning and Experience (VAE, VAP, or VES). Contact the continuing education department at the University of Montpellier – Nîmes Offices

Employment placement

Video testimonial from Marine, a student in the Class of 2020

Alexis – 2002: Production Planning Technician, ATOS RACKS

2000–2002: Associate Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Nîmes

2002–2008: Development of manufacturing procedures for satellite panels, product assembly, and tracking of non-conformities. THALES

Since 2008: Establishment of the Methods Division in the rack assembly sector.

“The SGM program I completed at the IUT provided me with a broad foundation in physical chemistry, but more importantly, it gave me practical experience in all aspects of the technician’s role. To broaden my experience and as a recent graduate, I sought out various positions over five years in very different fields: lab assistant at a university in an optics lab, technician at Beton de France, micro-graphic designer at SNECMA (Safran Group), and methods technician in aerospace at Thales Alenia Space—all on both fixed-term and permanent contracts. There is such a wide variety of sectors and career paths, and I’ve never really had any trouble finding a job. The opportunities to advance to a management position are surprisingly straightforward and quick. This career has also allowed me to achieve a comfortable financial situation. As a result, I took two years off to travel and settle in New York and then Berlin. My goal after this break is to take an R&D position in industry that allows me to travel. When you have a well-rounded SGM profile, you can be selective!”

Rémi – 2009: Advanced Technician in Geotechnical Engineering, ESG Méditerranée

2007–2009: DUT in Hotel and Restaurant Management – IUT Nîmes

“Following my end-of-year internship for my DUT in Materials Science and Engineering at GINGER CEBTP in Montpellier, I was offered a permanent position with the same company. I apply my knowledge of materials and use logical reasoning and critical thinking to tackle any type of problem. At this company, I have been able to expand my skill set through on-site testing and by learning new laboratory tests.”

"After two years, I was offered a position as a senior geotechnical engineer at ESCG Méditerranée, where I have been working for the past year."

Alexandre – 2015: R&D Technician, Mechanical Testing and Applications, SICOMIN

2013–2015: DUT in Hotel and Restaurant Management

“The DUT in Materials Science and Engineering provided me with both theoretical knowledge and technical skills, particularly in the area of composite materials, which allowed me to hit the ground running as soon as I joined the company. In fact, a significant part of my job involves conducting mechanical tests (tensile, flexural, compression, etc.) similar to those I performed during the DUT. Today, I feel completely at ease in my role, where I’m constantly improving technically and where my knowledge of materials is put to use every day.”

Quality Control – Process

Yoann – 2007: Multi-Material and Composite Structures Engineer, AET Sogeti High Tech, Airbus Helicopters

2005–2007: Education: DUT in General Management (SGM), Nîmes (
) 2007–2009: Bachelor’s degree (work-study program) in Composite Materials Project Management (Compositec, Chambéry), employed by AEDS Astrium (
) 2009–2011:Master’s degree (work-study program) in Multimaterials and Composite Structures(University of Bordeaux 1), employed by AEDS Astrium

“My work involves several different aspects: tracking nonconformities in composite parts at Eurocopter, implementing corrective actions, monitoring progress, and developing metrics to track the department’s performance.”

Nicolas – 2001: R&D Manager, Sumica Polymer Compounds

1999–2001: Associate Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Nîmes

2001–2003: University of Marseille – IUP in Materials Science, specializing in polymer materials

2003–2004: Process Manager – Asahi Thermofil
Since 2004: R&D Manager at Sumica Polymer Compounds

“After completing my studies at the IUT, I spent two years at the IUP Materials in Marseille, specializing in organic materials.
I am currently the technical manager, head of the quality control laboratory, and head of development at SUMIKA Polymer Compounds.
My job involves formulating products, providing technical support to our sales department, and promoting our product range from a technical perspective to automakers and Tier 1 suppliers. I also advise our management on technical machine selection and problem-solving.
My education at the IUT first allowed me to learn most of the analytical techniques used today in our field. I also gained a multidisciplinary education, which enables me to engage with some of our clients during material transitions (e.g., from metal to plastics); the courses in composites and RDM were also very beneficial to me.”

Business Manager – Management

Cyril – 1999: Site Manager at Sagem Toulouse, Sagem SAFRAN Group

1997–1999: DUT in General Management – IUT of Nîmes
2001–2002: Master’s in Quality Management (work-study program) – Montpellier/EPFL Lausanne
2015: Green Belt Certification – Lean 6 Sigma
Positions held:
1999–2001: Aerospace Composites Technician at JCB Aéro in Aubais (30) – Manufacturing/repair of composite parts for the aerospace industry
2001–2002: Assistant to the Quality Manager at SABENA TECHNICS in Nîmes-Garons (30) – Aviation maintenance
2002–2004: Customer Quality Manager at GESPAC and later at LATELEC
2005–present: Site Director at Sagem in Toulouse (31) – Manufacturing of navigation aid equipment for the aviation sector

“The SGM program at the IUT in Nîmes was, above all, a wonderful human experience for me. All these years later, I’m still in touch with my former classmates. The program itself allowed me to discover and gain a broad understanding of materials and other subjects covered, such as quality control and metrology.
Even though I moved away from the materials field fairly quickly, the rigorous nature of the program helped me a great deal when I had to adapt to other fields such as aircraft maintenance, electronics, and aircraft wiring.
Even today, whenever I can contribute my experience, I draw on the knowledge I gained at the IUT SGM (e.g., maintenance procedures for an avionics computer housing, surface treatment…)”

Oliver – 2008: Bid Manager, Thales (Brazil)

2006–2008: DUT in Hotel and Restaurant Management – IUT Nîmes
2008–2011:MSc in Business Engineering

“After earning my science-track high school diploma, I enrolled in a Maths Plus preparatory class (PCSI) because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, and it at least gave me some study skills. But it wasn’t the right fit for me because I felt the need to study in an environment where hands-on science had just as much of a place as theoretical scientific concepts. The DUT in General Management (SGM) provided that without closing any doors for me, as it allows you to work in all sectors of industry: aerospace, civil engineering, energy, transportation…
After completing the DUT SGM, I continued my studies with an MSc in Business Engineering to complement my technical training with management and sales training. Thanks to this dual expertise, I joined major corporations such as Thales (aerospace & defense) and Schneider Electric (electrical industry), successively holding the positions of Business Engineer and then Business Development Manager (a one-year V.I.E. assignment in Brazil).
Today, I have returned to the Thales group in São Paulo, Brazil, as a Bid Manager. This role is akin to that of an orchestra conductor, as I must coordinate everyone to work as a team. I identify upcoming technical projects, then assess the project’s feasibility from a technical standpoint with engineers, operations, and quality departments. Finally, I work with the finance team to determine our commercial positioning so we’re best positioned to win the bid.
In each of my roles, the DUT SGM has provided me with added value through: the breadth of subjects taught, the general scientific knowledge I gained, and the work methods I learned. I feel a deep connection to the highly competent faculty, whom I hold in the highest regard.”

Sylvain – 2008: Project Manager at Bombardier Aerospace

2006–2008: Associate Degree in Materials Science and Engineering at the IUT de Nîmes
2008–2010:Compositec
2008–2010: Process Engineer at Airbus
2011–present: Change Management Specialist, then Project Manager at Bombardier Aerospace

“Initially, I enrolled in the SGM program at the IUT in Nîmes somewhat by default, but I have absolutely no regrets.
Studying the major families of materials, their characterization, manufacturing processes, and applications allowed me to acquire solid multidisciplinary knowledge and develop a particular interest in composite materials. So it was only natural that I continued my studies at Compositec  
in Chambéry. It was a work-study program where I had the opportunity to join Airbus (through its subsidiary Aérolia) to work on the carbon-fiber nose fuselage of the A350-XWB.
This was followed by a six-month break in Australia to improve my English (and my surfing!). Upon my return, I applied for a position in Canada at Bombardier Aerospace in Montreal, where I still live today.
I worked for a year and a half in Configuration Management/Change Management on the structure of the CSeries, a commercial aircraft. And for the past six months, I’ve been a project manager on a team of methods experts developing the interior layout for the new Global 7000 and 8000 business jets.”

Jérémy – 2009: Project Engineer, CEA Marcoule

2007–2009: Associate’s Degree in Materials Science and Engineering (IUT Nîmes)
2009–2011: Bachelor’s Degree in Physics (University of Montpellier II)
2011–2013:Master’s Degree in Traceability and Sustainable Development Engineering

Positions held:
January–August 2013:CEA Marcoule: intern, later promoted to project manager.

“The DUT in Materials Science and Engineering provided me with a rich and varied education in the fields of materials, materials characterization, and mechanics. It was during those two years that I developed an interest in the nuclear sector through courses on glasses and ceramics, materials characterization, and, finally, my internship at the Marcoule site. After earning my bachelor’s degree in physics, I enrolled in the Master’s program in Traceability and Sustainable Development Engineering, which focuses primarily on the nuclear sector. As I decided to focus on the decommissioning of nuclear facilities, the courses in mechanics, industrial drafting, and the use of 3D modeling software were particularly beneficial, whether in class, during my internship, or as part of my work-study program (decommissioning scenario analysis).”

Research and Development – Design

Yann – 2001: Head of Research and Development, OSIC

1999–2001: DUT in General Management (SGM) from the University of Nîmes-
2001–2002: Technician and later project manager at“Espace Composite,” a company specializing in the manufacture of high-performance carbon fiber masts.

2003–2013: Head of R&D and Co-Manager ofBontoux Orthopedics

• Establishment of a production unit for manufacturing composite orthoses and prostheses; design and development of joints for orthoses (first patent)
• development of several designs for carbon-fiber foot-and-ankle orthoses (foot lifters)
• Development of a silicone processing method for the manufacture of cosmetic prostheses
• Development and integration of a machining robot (2nd patent)
• Development of a rehabilitation device (3rd patent)

“Self-study has played a significant role in my career (robotics and software), but the SGM program in Nîmes provided me with knowledge that I still use in my professional life:
– a broad scientific education (mathematics, physics, mechanics, optics, fluid mechanics, chemistry),
– general knowledge and properties of various materials,
– knowledge of various manufacturing processes.”

Sébastien – 2002: Testing and Measurement Manager, Solios Carbone

2000–2002: Associate Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Nîmes

2002–2003: R&D Technician – Carbone Savoie – R&D research on the manufacture of carbon anodes for the aluminum industry.

2003–2005: Testing Technician – Mondi Packaging – Physical and chemical testing of raw materials and finished products; quality control.

2006–2008: Tyco Waterworks – Test Facility Technician – Testing and development of new products in the field of drinking water distribution network control.

Since 2008 – Testing and Measurement Manager – Solios Carbone – R&D, process expertise, and technical solutions for new projects in the field of carbon anode manufacturing for the primary aluminum industry.

“The training I received at the IUT SGM allowed me to acquire a broad range of skills and knowledge regarding all types of materials. This versatility has been evident throughout my career, which I have deliberately focused on R&D while still allowing myself the opportunity to explore various fields and work with different types of materials (paper/cardboard, cast iron, coke, pitch, aluminum). Today, I design new equipment and improve the manufacturing process for carbon anodes for the primary aluminum industry, and I provide technical support to project teams in the design of new production plants.”

Nicolas – 2009: Business owner in the recycling industry

2007–2009: DUT in Hotel and Restaurant Management – IUT Nîmes
2009–2010: Polytech Annecy-Chambéry
2010–2011: Professional Bachelor’s Degreein Product Design(work-study program at the Nantes School of Design)

“I’ve now graduated, and I had several options before me: continuing on to a Master’s in Design in Bordeaux for the fall semester of 2013, or accepting the contract offered to me at the end of my work-study year. But my desire to start my own business is now stronger, and I am involved in a project to launch a company in the waste management sector (manufacturing products for consumers). The SGM program now allows me to establish my credibility within the company through solid technical knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes.”

Felix – 2009: Designer, Howl Studio (Sweden)

2007–2009: DUT in General Management – IUT Nîmes
2009–2010: DUETI
2011–2013: Master’s in Design, ISD Valenciennes.
2014–present: Designer at HOWL in Stockholm

“After earning my STI diploma in Mechanical Engineering, I completed a DUT in SGM. During my senior-year internship at Numero Design, I discovered design, particularly digital design.
After graduating from the IUT, I went abroad on an Erasmus exchange (2010–2011) to Denmark to pursue a DUETI. During that year, I was able to learn English and deepen my knowledge of design. This experience was culturally enriching.
I then went on to pursue a Master’s degree in Digital Design at the ISD in Valenciennes.
Over the course of those three years, I developed my skills in using 3D software. I discovered rendering software that allows you to create realistic images from 3D models.
My passion for international work hasn’t waned; I’m currently doing an internship in Sweden at Howl Studio. I’m in charge of 3D modeling for various objects created at the studio.
My DUT in SGM allows me to discuss with designers the processes that will be used for future production. I serve as the liaison between the engineers and the marketing manager.”

Lucile – 2010: Composite Design Engineer, SAFRAN ENGINEERING SERVICES

2008–2010: DUT in Textile Management – IUT Nîmes
2010–2013:National School of Textile Arts and Industries in Roubaix

“After earning my BAC S in Engineering Sciences, I chose to pursue a DUT in SGM (which was my first choice) instead of attending a preparatory class, so that I could develop technical skills rather than theoretical ones.
After the DUT, I enrolled atthe Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Industries Textiles (ENSAIT)in Roubaix, where I was able to acquire additional skills and deepen my knowledge of composites.
Both in engineering school and during my DUT, I had the opportunity to complete internships in various roles (production, quality, or R&D), which helped me better understand what interested me.
I was hired following my final-year projectat Safran Engineering Services, in the Composite Innovations department. I now work as a design engineer in the aerospace sector with dual expertise in calculations and textiles. I continue to draw on the knowledge I gained during my DUT.
One of the strengths of the SGM DUT program in Nîmes is that it provides a broad range of knowledge over the course of two years, allowing each student to find their specialty. Furthermore, it’s a program that offers opportunities to meet professionals and prepares students for the working world.The SGM program offered by the IUT in Nîmes provided me with a diverse education and prepared me for a career as a materials engineer—a field in which the SGM program at the IUT had already introduced me to a wide range of fundamental concepts.Skills in metallurgy and sample preparation and analysis (though I admit I should have paid closer attention to this subject, which is certainly quite challenging but remains the foundational branch of materials science—especially in my current field of work).
I also really enjoyed the module on failure analysis (even more so since starting my apprenticeship, as I’ve retained some of the basic concepts), the one on magnetic properties, and all the modules on composites (lab and tutorial sessions) with the instructors from Matériaux Ingénierie.”

Justine – 2009: Assistant Project Manager,RCP Design Global

2007–2009: DUT in Hotel and Restaurant Management – IUT Nîmes
2009–2010: Bachelor’s degree in Denmark
2010–2012:Master’s in Global Design(Nancy)

“After earning my DUT in materials engineering, I went to study in Denmark for a year. It was such an enriching experience—on a human, cultural, and personal level—that I recommend it to all students! When I returned to France, I enrolled in a master’s program in Global Design atthe École des Mines de Nancy. At the end of that year, I completed an internship at a young startup specializing in the production of designer and artisanal furniture. I then continued my second yearof the master’s program at ENSGSI in Nancy, choosing the specialization in Innovation and Industrial Design Management. To complete my master’s degree, I did my internship at a design agency specializing in public transportation design and sensory design:RCP Design Global, in Tours. At the end of my internship, I was hired as an assistant project manager.
One of the key factors in my hiring was my cross-disciplinary background and the fact that I had studied materials, which allowed me to take an “expert” approach to software design.
I had always wanted to work in industrial design, and now I’m doing just that—and I’m thrilled! “ 

Dual expertise

Pascal – 2005: Sales Area Manager – Southern France, TESA SAS

2005–2007: DUT in General Management – IUT Nîmes
2007–2009:Bachelor’s degreein International Industrial Sales

2009–2014: Exclusive sales representative for WÜRTH France

2015–present: Sales Manager for the Industrial Sector, Southern France Region – TESA France

“The DUT in General Management is much more than just a tool in my day-to-day work; it’s more like a way of thinking that allows me to navigate the various types of roles and departments I encounter every day in my sales career. From the design office to quality control, through methods and industrialization departments, all issues can then be broken down and analyzed, making it much easier to convey information to non-technical counterparts that might initially seem difficult for them to grasp.”

"The program is comprehensive and covers a very broad range of industrial activities and processes, with a very (perhaps overly) strong focus on polymers. This is a real point of distinction for those who want a well-stocked toolkit and a wide range of career paths."

Christophe – 2000: Purchasing Manager, ARDAH

1998–2000: DUT in General Management – IUT Nîmes
2000–2003: Packaging School:ESIEC
2003–2012: Technical Sales Representative at CELLUTEC
2012–present: Sales Manager atARDAH
Sales Manager for aluminum and tin aerosol cans. Key account management.

“For several years now, I have been in direct contact with major players in the cosmetics, fragrance, luxury goods, automotive, and nuclear industries… to address the needs expressed by these clients. Understanding and anticipating their expectations, and justifying the proposed technical choices are skills I’ve acquired throughout my professional career. But the IUT is certainly the first technical step that lays the foundation for these skills, which then need only be developed and built upon through professional experience. When I entered the IUT, my sole goal was to graduate with a two-year degree. Today, after 10 years in technical sales roles, my career has evolved over time, and looking back, I realize I was fortunate to have made the right choices at the right time—including the decision to enroll at the IUT SGM in Nîmes. Thank you to the faculty at the IUT SGM and ESIEC.”

Packaging

Norbert – 2008: Project Manager, Parfums Christian Dior

2006–2008: DUT in General Management – IUT Nîmes
2008–2011:ESI Reims (formerly ESIEC) in Packaging and Packaging Design

“As a member of the Class of 2011, I completed two internships totaling nine months at Hermès Parfums during my studies before joining Interparfums upon graduation.”

Working with major luxury brands, my company develops and markets the fragrance lines for these leading houses. In my role as a packaging engineer, my responsibilities range from the marketing brief all the way through to delivering products that are ready to be shipped and sold worldwide.
The multidisciplinary nature of the SGM DUT is one of the things I appreciated most. It allows everyone to find their niche but, above all, to prepare for the professional world where versatility is key.
The SGM program gave me a solid foundation in the materials I use every day when designing new products. The courses in technical drawing, part stacking calculations, and material strength now let me choose the best materials, approve technical drawings, and launch the production of industrial molds for glass, plastic, or zamac parts that will hold tomorrow’s perfumes.”

Projects carried out with industrial clients (a unique initiative in France), which fosters students' independence and sense of responsibility

Alternative teaching methods: escape games, serious games, hackathons