SGM GOAL / Materials Science and Engineering

• Level 6: bachelor's degree level, 180 ECTS credits
• Competency-based approach
• Three-year integrated program
• Facilitated international mobility
• Training strongly structured around professional situations

The B.U.T. in Materials Science and Engineering aims to train high-performing graduates with analytical and synthesis skills and a genuine industrial vision.

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

• Recycling and material recovery professions, characterization option
• Careers in materials and product engineering

Skills common to both tracks:

• Develop materials
• Eco-design: from material to product
• Shaping materials
• Characterize materials and products

Specific skills:

Career Paths in Recycling and Material Recovery:

• Upcycling a material from a product

Careers in materials and product engineering:

• Developing a product from design to completion

Start date: September.
Duration: 3 years.
Number of hours: 2,000
Number of hours for supervised projects: 600
Internship: 26 weeks over the 3 years
Assessment method: Continuous assessment.
Work-study program: possible from the 2nd year onwards

SEMESTER 1

Learning and Assessment Situations (LAS):

• SAé 1-1: Protocol monitoring for the development of a material
• SAé 1-2: Study of materials used in industrial products
• SAé 1-3: Understanding formatting protocols and security rules
• SAé 1-4: Measurement and comparison of common material properties
• Portfolio

Resources (materials)

• Discovering materials
• Metallic materials
• Polymer materials 1
• Ceramic materials and glass
• Polymer materials 2
• Technical drawing
• Characterization
• Chemistry basics
• Physics basics
• Mathematics foundation
• 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 manufacturing parameters on the properties of a material
• SAé 2-2: Design, production, and validation of a simple product
• SAé 2-3: Impact of a forming process on the final product
• SAé 2-4: Measuring the properties of a material
• 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 is very generalist in nature, offering students a wide range of options for further study. Many choose to specialize in materials (generalist, composites, polymers, ceramics, wood, etc.), but there are also options in industrial design, packaging, production, mechanical design, and aeronautical design and maintenance.
Others prefer to pursue dual skills in technical and commercial fields, while some choose to apply their knowledge of materials and science in other areas such as civil engineering (architecture, construction).

The options available to you are as follows:

• A short course of study, leading to a professional bachelor's degree, to discover another profession or to specialize.
• A long course of study at an engineering school.

Long-term studies that students have enrolled in in previous years:

• Generalist training programs : INSA Lyon, ENI (Tarbes and Saint Etienne); ISTP, POLYTECH, ISITV (Toulon), ESIREM (Dijon), UTBM (Belfort), UTT (Troyes), ENSCPB (Bordeaux), ECAM (Lyon), ICAM (Lille),
• Nuclear and chemical engineering: PHELMA (Grenoble), ISTP (Saint Etienne), 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, etc.
• Technical sales representative: IAE
• Building: Master GC (La Rochelle)

All sectors that use the material: aeronautics, boating, leisure, building, automotive manufacturing, energy industries (nuclear and wind power in particular), etc.

The highly interdisciplinary nature of the training program and the emphasis placed on analyzing phenomena mean that SGM technicians are highly versatile and can find employment in all sectors of activity. It is up to each student to build their own career path in order to find the job that will allow them to flourish.

Some examples of careers pursued by former SGM Nîmes students:

• Sales Technical packaging for industry. He works with customers to assess the feasibility of designing highly technical packaging.
• Quality control manager at Mäder Composite.
• Polymer materials development technician. In a small business, she tests and participates in the formulation of new resins.
• Automotive designer (concept cars). He works with CAD (computer-aided design) to design the cars of tomorrow. His training in materials and processes enables him to be innovative in his choices.
• Civil engineering soil technician.

General high school diploma: recommended specializations

Mathematics + Physics-Chemistry or Engineering Sciences – any other specialty after review of the application

General high school diploma obtained before 2021: Science high school diploma

Technical Baccalaureate: STI – STL

Application in January on Parcoursup

Admission evaluation criteria:

• Assessments by the teaching team, opinions of the class council, and motivation for the program
• French and language notes
• High school grades in science subjects

All courses are available as ongoing training(for employees, individuals, or job seekers), subject to validation of the required prerequisites.Access is also possible through the Validation of Acquired Knowledge and Experience (VAE, VAP, or VES) program. Contact the continuing education department at the University of Montpellier – Nîmes offices.

Professional integration

Video testimonial from Marine, student in the class of 2020

Alexis – 2002: Methods Office Technician, ATOS RACKS

2000–2002: Technical University Diploma in General Management, Nîmes

2002–2008: Drafting of satellite panel manufacturing ranges, product assembly, progress on non-conformities. THALES

Since 2008: Creation of the methods division in the rack assembly sector.

"The training I received at the IUT in SGM provided me with general knowledge in the field of physical chemistry, but also and above all a practical approach to all the applications of the technician's profession. In order to diversify my experience as a young graduate, I wanted to try out different positions over a period of five years in very different fields: laboratory assistant at a university optics lab, technician at Beton de France, micrographic designer at SNECMA (Safran group), and aerospace methods technician at Thales Alenia Space, all on fixed-term and permanent contracts. There is such a wide variety of sectors and opportunities that I have never really had any difficulty finding a job. Opportunities to access management positions are surprisingly simple and quick. This profession 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 up an R&D position in industry that allows me to travel. When you have an accomplished SGM profile, you can be demanding!

Rémi – 2009: Senior Geotechnical Technician, ESG Méditerranée

2007–2009: Technical University Diploma in Management and Administration – University Institute of Technology, Nîmes

"Following my end-of-year internship for my DUT (University Technical Diploma) in Materials Science and Engineering at GINGER CEBTP in Montpellier, I was offered a permanent contract at the same company. I use my knowledge of materials and apply logic and critical thinking to tackle all kinds of problems. At this company, I have been able to broaden 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 now been working for a year.

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

2013-2015: Technical University Diploma in General Management

"The DUT SGM gave me both theoretical knowledge and technical skills, particularly in composite materials, which enabled me to be operational as soon as I joined the company. In fact, a significant part of my job involves conducting mechanical tests (tensile, flexural, compressive, etc.) similar to those I performed during the DUT. Today, I feel completely at ease in my job, where I am constantly progressing from a technical standpoint and where my knowledge of materials is useful on a daily basis."

Quality control – Process

Yoann – 2007: Multimaterial and Composite Structure Engineer, AET Sogeti High Tech, AIRBUS HELICOPTERS

2005-2007: Education: DUT SGM Nîmes
2007-2009: Work-study bachelor's degree in composite materials project management (Compositec Chambery) at AEDS Astrium
2009–2011:Work-study master's degree in Multimaterials and Composite Structures(University of Bordeaux 1) at AEDS Astrium

"My job involves various aspects: monitoring non-compliance issues with composite parts at Eurocopter, implementing corrective measures, following up on actions, and creating indicators that reflect the department's activity."

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

1999–2001: Technical University Diploma in General Management, Nîmes

2001–2003: University of Marseille – IUP Materials, 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 University Institute of Technology, I spent two years at the University Institute of Applied Sciences in Marseille, specializing in organic materials.
I am currently technical manager, quality control laboratory manager, and development manager at SUMIKA polymer compounds.
My job consists of formulating, providing technical support to our sales department, and promoting our product range from a technical standpoint to automotive manufacturers and leading equipment suppliers. I also advise our management on technical choices for machinery and problem solving.
My studies at the IUT first allowed me to learn about most of the analysis techniques used today in our field of activity. I also acquired a multidisciplinary education, which allows me to communicate with some of our customers when changing materials (e.g., from metal to plastics). The courses in composites and RDM also taught me a lot.

Business Manager – Management

Cyril – 1999: Site Director, Sagem Toulouse, Sagem SAFRAN Group

1997-1999: DUT SGM (Technical University Diploma) – IUT (University Institute of Technology) of Nîmes
2001-2002: Master's degree in Quality Management (work-study program) – Montpellier/EPFL Lausanne
2015: Green Belt Certification – Lean 6 Sigma
Positions held:
1999-2001: Aeronautical Composites Technician at JCB Aéro in Aubais (30) – Manufacture/repair of composite parts for the aeronautical industry
2001-2002: Assistant Quality Manager at SABENA TECHNICS in Nîmes-Garons (30) – Aeronautical maintenance
2002-2004: Customer Quality Manager at GESPAC then at LATELEC
2005 to present: Site Director at Sagem in Toulouse (31) – Manufacture of navigation aid equipment for the aeronautical sector

"The SGM program at the IUT in Nîmes was first and foremost a wonderful human adventure for me. All these years later, I am still in touch with my former classmates. The program itself allowed me to discover and acquire broad knowledge about materials and other subjects such as quality and metrology.
Even though I moved away from the materials field fairly quickly, the demanding nature of the program helped me a lot when I had to adapt to other areas such as aircraft maintenance, electronics, and aircraft wiring.
Even today, when I can contribute my experience, I draw on the knowledge I acquired at the IUT SGM (e.g., Mx to be used on an avionics computer casing, surface treatment, etc.).

Oliver – 2008: Bid Manager, Thales (Brazil)

2006-2008: DUT SGM (Technical University Diploma) – IUT Nîmes
2008-2011:MSc in Business Engineering

"After obtaining a scientific high school diploma, I enrolled in a preparatory class for engineering school (PCSI) because I didn't know what I wanted to do and it would at least teach me how to study. But it wasn't right for me because I felt the need to study in an environment where practical science was just as important as theoretical concepts. The DUT SGM gave me that without closing any doors, as it allows you to work in all sectors of industry: aeronautics, civil engineering, energy, transportation, etc.
After the DUT SGM, I continued my studies with an MSc in Business Engineering to complement my technical training with managerial and commercial training. Thanks to this dual skill set, I joined major groups such as Thales (aeronautics & defense) and Schneider Electric (electrical industry), successively holding the positions of Business Engineer and then Business Development Manager (one-year V.I.E. assignment in Brazil).
Today, I have returned to the Thales group in São Paulo, Brazil, as Bid Manager. It's a job that's similar to being a conductor, because I have to get everyone to work as a team. I prospect for technical projects that are about to be launched, then I study the viability of the project from a technical point of view with the engineers, operations and quality departments, and finally I look at our commercial positioning with the finance department to ensure we are in the best position to win the tender.
In each of my jobs, the DUT SGM has given me added value through the variety of subjects taught, the general scientific knowledge I have acquired, and the working methods I have learned. I feel very attached to the highly competent faculty, whom I hold in high esteem."

Sylvain – 2008: Project Manager at BOMBARDIER AEROSPACE

2006-2008: DUT (University Technical Diploma) in Materials Science and Engineering at the IUT (University Institute of Technology) in Nîmes
2008-2010:Compositec
2008-2010: Methods Agent at Airbus
2011-present: Change Management then Project Manager at Bombardier Aerospace

"Initially, it was somewhat by default and, above all, without regret that I took the SGM course at the University Institute of Technology in Nîmes.
Studying the major families of materials, their characterization, implementation processes, and use 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. This was a work-study program where I had the opportunity to join Airbus (subsidiary Aérolia) to work on the carbon nose fuselage of the A350-XWB.
This was followed by a six-month break in Australia to improve my English (and my surfing!). When I returned, I applied for a job 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 have been a project manager in a team of methods experts for the development of the interior layout of the new Global 7000 and 8000 business jets.

Jérémy – 2009: Project Engineer, CEA Marcoule

2007-2009: Technical University Diploma in Materials Science and Engineering (IUT Nimes)
2009-2011: Bachelor's Degree in Physics (Montpellier II University)
2011-2013:Master's Degree in Traceability Engineering and Sustainable Development

Positions held:
January–August 2013:CEA Marcoule: intern, then project manager.

"The DUT SGM gave me a rich and varied education in the field of materials, their characterization, and mechanics. It was during these two years that I developed an interest in the nuclear sector through courses on glass and ceramics, materials characterization, and finally my internship at the Marcoule site. After obtaining 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 industry. As I was interested in the dismantling of nuclear facilities, the courses in mechanics, industrial design, and the use of 3D modeling software were particularly beneficial, whether in class, during my internship, or in my work-study program (study of dismantling scenarios).

Research and Development – Design

Yann – 2001: Head of Research and Development, OSIC

1999–2001: DUT (University Technical Diploma) in SGM (Structural Mechanics) Nîmes
2001–2002: Technician then project manager atEspace Composite, a company specializing in the manufacture of high-performance carbon masts.

2003–2013: Head of R&D and co-manager of theorthopedic company Bontoux

• Creation of a production unit for manufacturing composite orthoses and prostheses Design and manufacture of joints for orthoses (first patent)
• development of several concepts for carbon foot orthotics (foot lifters)
• development of a silicone application process for the manufacture of cosmetic prostheses
• development and integration of a machining robot (2nd patent)
• development of a rehabilitation device (third patent)

Self-study has played an important role in my career (robotics and software), but the SGM training program in Nîmes provided me with knowledge that I still use in my professional life:
– a general scientific education (mathematics, physics, mechanics, optics, fluid mechanics, chemistry),
– general knowledge and properties of different materials,
– knowledge of different implementation processes."

Sébastien – 2002: Head of Testing and Measurement, Solios Carbone

2000–2002: Technical University Diploma in General Management, Nîmes

2002–2003: R&D Technician – Carbone Savoie – R&D study for the manufacture of carbon cathodes 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 Station Technician – Testing and development of new products in the field of drinking water distribution network regulation.

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

"The training provided by IUT SGM enabled me to acquire broad skills and knowledge concerning all types of materials. This versatility has been evident in my professional career, which I have deliberately focused on R&D, while allowing myself the opportunity to discover several fields and work on 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 SGM (University Technical Diploma in Software Engineering) – IUT Nîmes (University Institute of Technology)
2009–2010: Polytech Annecy-Chambery
2010–2011: Professional Bachelor's Degree inProduct Design, work-study program at the Nantes School of Design

"I am now a graduate and had several options open to me: continuing with a Master's degree in Design in Bordeaux starting in September 2013, or accepting the contract offered to me at the end of my work-study year. But my desire to be an entrepreneur is now stronger, and I am involved in a business creation project in the waste management sector (manufacturing products for individuals). The SGM training program has enabled me to strengthen my position in the company through my proven technical knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes."

Felix – 2009: Designer, Howl Studio (Sweden)

2007–2009: DUT SGM (Technical University Diploma in Mechanical Engineering) – IUT Nîmes (University Institute of Technology)
2009–2010: DUETI (University Diploma in Engineering and Technology)
2011–2013: Master's Degree in Design ISD Valenciennes.
2014–present: Designer at HOWL in Stockholm

After completing my STI Mechanical Engineering diploma, I went on to study for a DUT (University Technical Diploma) in SGM. During my final-year internship at Numero Design, I discovered design, particularly digital design.
After college, I went abroad on an Erasmus exchange (2010–2011) to Denmark to do a DUETI. During that year, I was able to learn English and deepen my knowledge of design. It was a culturally enriching experience.
I then went on to study for a Master's degree in Digital Design at the ISD in Valenciennes.
During these three years, I developed my knowledge of 3D software. I discovered rendering software that allows you to create realistic images from 3D models.
My passion for international work has not left me, and I am currently doing an internship in Sweden at Howl Studio. I am in charge of 3D modeling for various objects created within the studio.
My DUT SGM (technical university diploma in 3D modeling) allows me to discuss with designers the processes that will be used for future production. I act as a link between the engineers and the marketing manager.

Lucile – 2010: Composite Calculation Engineer, SAFRAN ENGINEERING SERVICES

2008-2010: DUT SGM – IUT Nîmes
2010-2013:Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Industries Textiles de Roubaix

After completing my high school diploma in engineering sciences, I chose to pursue a DUT (university technical diploma) in SGM (my first choice) instead of a preparatory class in order to gain technical skills rather than theoretical knowledge.
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 improve my knowledge of composites.
During my engineering studies and DUT, I had the opportunity to do internships in different positions (production, quality, and R&D), which allowed me to better visualize what interested me.
I was hired after my final year projectat Safran Engineering Services, in the Composite Innovations department. I now work as an aeronautical design engineer with dual expertise in calculation and textiles. I continue to use the knowledge I acquired during my DUT.
One of the advantages of the DUT SGM in Nîmes is that it provides a wide range of knowledge over the course of two years, allowing everyone to find their specialty. In addition, it is a program that allows you to meet professionals and prepares you for the working world.The SGM program offered by the IUT in Nîmes provided me with a varied education and introduced me to materials engineering, a field in which the SGM program at the IUT had already taught me many fundamental concepts.Skills in metallurgy and sample preparation and analysis (although I admit that I should have paid more attention in this subject, which is certainly quite difficult, but remains the basic family of materials, especially in my current field of activity).
I also really enjoyed the damage analysis modules (even more so since starting my apprenticeship, as I have retained some of the basic concepts), the module on magnetic properties, and all of the modules on composites (practical and tutorial sessions) with the lecturers from Materials Engineering."

Justine – 2009: Assistant Project Manager,RCP Design Global

2007 to 2009: DUT SGM – IUT Nîmes
2009 to 2010: Bachelor's degree in Denmark
2010 to 2012:Master's degree in Global Design(Nancy)

After completing my technical degree 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 did an internship at a young start-up company that designs and crafts furniture. I then continued my second yearof master's studies at ENSGSI in Nancy, choosing the option: Management of Innovation and Industrial Design. To validate my master's degree, I did my internship at a design agency specializing in public transport 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 strengths that led to my hiring was my cross-disciplinary background and the fact that I had studied materials, which gave me 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 delighted! " 

Dual skills

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

2005 to 2007: DUT SGM (Technical University Diploma in Management and Administration) – IUT Nîmes (University Institute of Technology)
2007 to 2009:Bachelor's degree inInternational Industrial Sales

2009 to 2014: Exclusive sales representative for WÜRTH France

2015 to present: Sales Manager, Industry, Southern Region – TESA France

"The DUT SGM is much more than a tool in my everyday work; it is more of a real culture that allows me to navigate between the different types of jobs and services that I encounter every day in my life as a sales representative. From the design office to quality control, through to methods and industrialization services, all issues can be broken down and exploited, making it much easier to convey information to non-technical contacts that may initially seem difficult to grasp.

The program is comprehensive and covers a very broad spectrum of industrial activities and processes with a very (too) strong focus on polymers. This is a real differentiator for those who want a well-stocked toolbox and a wide range of career options.

Christophe – 2000: Purchasing Manager, ARDAH

1998-2000: DUT SGM – IUT Nîmes
2000-2003: Packaging school:ESIEC
2003-2012: Technical sales representative at CELLUTEC
2012-present: Sales manager atARDAH
Responsible for sales of aluminum and tinplate aerosol cans. Key account management.

"For several years, I have been in direct contact with major players in the cosmetics, perfume, luxury goods, automotive, and nuclear industries to meet the needs expressed by these clients. Understanding and anticipating their expectations and justifying the technical choices proposed are skills I have acquired throughout my professional career. But the IUT is certainly the first technical step that lays the foundations for these skills, which then just need to be developed and capitalized on through professional experience. When I entered the IUT, my only goal was to graduate with a two-year degree. Today, after 10 years in technical sales, my status has evolved over time and, looking back, I realize how lucky I was to have made the right choices at the right time, including enrolling at the IUT SGM in Nîmes. Thank you to the teaching teams at the IUT SGM and ESIEC.

Packaging

Norbert – 2008: Project Manager, Christian Dior Perfumes

2006-2008: DUT SGM – IUT Nîmes
2008-2011:ESI Reims (formerly ESIEC) in Packaging and Packaging

"As a student in the class of 2011, I completed two internships totaling nine months at Hermès Parfums during my studies before joining Interparfums after graduation.

Working for major luxury brands, my company develops and markets the perfume segment of these large houses. Within the company, my role as a packaging engineer ranges from the marketing brief to the delivery of products ready to be shipped and marketed around the world.
The multidisciplinary nature of the DUT SGM is one of the things I appreciated the most. It allows everyone to find "their happiness" but above all to prepare for working life, where versatility is the key word.
The SGM program gave me a solid foundation in the materials I use every day in designing new products. The courses in technical drawing, part stacking calculations, and material strength now enable me to choose the best materials, validate technical plans, and launch the production of industrial molds for glass, plastic, or zamac parts that will be used in the perfumes of tomorrow.

Projects carried out with industrial clients (unique organization in France), which makes students independent and responsible

Alternative teaching methods: escape games, serious games, hackathons