University of Montpellier is one of France’s oldest and most prestigious academic institutions. Founded in 1289 and located in the lively southern city of Montpellier—renowned for its pleasant climate, rich heritage, and scholastic excellence—the university has evolved over the centuries into a modern research powerhouse offering a wide array of programs and enjoying an international reputation for innovation.
A Historic Legacy
The University of Montpellier is among Europe’s oldest universities, originally established as a school of medicine.
- Early Beginnings: Founded in 1289 as a medical school, it quickly gained renown for its pioneering medical teaching and research.
- Expansion and Reorganization: Over the 19th and 20th centuries, it expanded to include law, arts, and sciences and underwent multiple reorganizations to meet evolving educational and research needs.
- Contemporary University: Today it enrolls over 40,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs and combines a centuries-old legacy with interdisciplinary modern research.
Academic Programs and Schools
The University of Montpellier offers degrees from bachelor’s through doctorate across six major faculties:
Faculty of Medicine
World-renowned for clinical training and research partnerships with local hospitals in health sciences, pharmacy, medicine, and public health.
Faculty of Science
Programs in mathematics, biology, physics, chemistry, and environmental sciences, with major research emphasis on biotechnology, genomics, and sustainability.
Faculty of Law
Courses in international, European Union, business, and public law, with leading research in environmental law and human rights.
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Degrees in history, philosophy, literature, sociology, and linguistics, including interdisciplinary cultural studies and education programs.
Faculty of Engineering and Technology
Engineering programs focused on sustainability, energy, aerospace, robotics, and materials science, supported by advanced research centers.
Faculty of Business and Management
Courses in business administration, international business, finance, and marketing, featuring strong industry connections and internship opportunities.
English-Taught Programs: Several Master’s programs in science, engineering, business, and law are offered in English to prepare graduates for global careers.
Faculty and Research Excellence
The university is celebrated for its research in medicine, biotechnology, environmental science, and social sciences:
- Health and Medicine: Leading biomedical, cancer, and neuroscience research in collaboration with regional clinics.
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies: Pioneering projects on climate change, sustainable agriculture, and water management.
- Genetics and Biotechnology: Hub for genomics, biopharmaceuticals, and drug development research.
- Social Sciences: Distinguished for cultural studies, political science, international relations, and human rights scholarship.
Its research centers collaborate closely with industries in healthcare, agriculture, biotech, and environmental management.
Scholarships and Financial Assistance
To support international students, the University of Montpellier offers:
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- For Master’s and PhD candidates; monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance. University nomination required.
- Montpellier International Scholarships
- €5,000–€8,000 per year toward tuition and living costs for Master’s students, awarded based on merit and need.
- French Government Scholarships
- Full tuition and living stipends for students from selected countries; apply via Campus France or French embassy.
- Erasmus+ Scholarships
- Monthly stipends and travel grants for EU exchange students; apply through home university.
- Research Fellowships
- Grants for PhD and postdoctoral researchers in biotechnology, medicine, and environmental studies.
Campus Life and International Community
Montpellier’s vibrant campus reflects the city’s cultural diversity:
- International Office: Assists with visas, housing, language support, and orientation.
- Student Clubs and Organizations: Over 50 associations for sports, arts, volunteering, and academic interests.
- Accommodation: Support locating affordable on- or off-campus housing.
- Transport: Excellent tram, bus, and bicycle networks connect campus and city.
Contact and Address Information
Université de Montpellier
163 Rue Auguste Broussonnet,
34090 Montpellier, France
Phone: +33 (0)4 67 14 92 92
Email: contact@umontpellier.fr
Final Thoughts
The University of Montpellier combines a historic legacy with cutting-edge research and an inclusive international community. Whether your interests lie in the sciences, humanities, medicine, or engineering, Montpellier provides the programs, resources, and support to help you achieve academic and professional success.
