Target level of study
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
180 credits
Duration
3 years
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Language(s) of instruction
French
Presentation
Physics and Chemistry major: L1 in the PCSI (Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Sciences) Portal
Fields of study:
Mechanics of points, solids, and fluids. Thermodynamics, statistical physics. Wave physics. Optics. Electromagnetism. Electrokinetics. Quantum mechanics. Experimental physics.
Organic chemistry. Inorganic chemistry. Inorganic materials, characterizations. Atomistics. Reactivity. Chemistry and electrochemistry of solutions. Symmetry and spectroscopy. Experimental chemistry.
Mathematical tools, computer tools (Python programming)
Languages and general culture Introduction to teaching professions
The advantages of the training program
The PC degree is a generalist degree in Material Sciences based on both Physics and Chemistry. The knowledge base it provides is sufficiently solid and broad to enable students to continue on to the MEEF master's degree, research master's degrees, or engineering schools. Thus, the Bachelor's degree in Physics and Chemistry offers much more than just dual expertise. It opens the door to a whole range of disciplines at the interface between these two sciences, as well as at the interface with many others that are at the heart of today's major societal concerns: biology, earth and environmental sciences, mathematics, and applied computer science.
Objectives
The Physics and Chemistry bachelor's degree is a generalist degree in Material Sciences aimed at providing a solid foundation of skills in the fields of Physics and Chemistry. It thus opens up a wide range of further study options, from professional bachelor's degrees to doctorates, including master's degrees and engineering schools, leading to employment at various levels, from senior technician to researcher or teacher-researcher, including engineering professions, in both the private and public sectors.
Know-how and skills
- Mobilize mathematical, computer science, physics, and chemistry concepts to address and solve highly abstract problems.
- Understanding scientific computing through digital tools
- Identify and independently carry out the various stages of an experimental process.
- Use the most common laboratory measuring devices in the fields of physics and chemistry.
- Validate a model by comparing its predictions with experimental results and assess its validity limits.
- Identify sources of error to calculate the uncertainty of an experimental result.
- Identify and select various resources (bibliographic, web, etc.) to document a subject.
- Write a report on experiences or bibliographic research
- Oral presentation of the results of research or a literature review
Organization
Knowledge assessment
Final exam with make-up session in most courses, continuous assessment in some cases, particularly for practical work
Program
Select a program
Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's degree
Organic Chemistry Part 1
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
The organic chemistry module 1 covers the study of the major classes of organic compounds (organometallics, alcohols, amines, carbonyl derivatives) and their reactivity. Carboxylic acids and derivatives are also discussed in the chapters devoted to the reactivity of organometallics, alcohols, and carbonyl derivatives.
Particular emphasis is placed on understanding reaction mechanisms based on the fundamental concepts acquired in the first year.
Newtonian Dynamics PC
Level of education
two years of postsecondary education
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
Time of year
Autumn
This course is partly intended to generalize the knowledge covered in the first semester of the first year (General Physics). With this in mind, we will discuss positioning in three-dimensional space, the associated kinematics, and mechanics in a non-Galilean reference frame. This course is also intended to broaden the scope of applications covered in L1S1. In this vein, we will cover fluid statics, the dynamics and energetics of harmonic oscillators, and the motion of celestial bodies (Kepler's laws).
Electrostatics & Magnetostatics
Level of education
two years of postsecondary education
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
This course is the first step in teaching electromagnetism at university. It covers electrostatics, steady currents, and magnetostatics.
See the syllabus in the "More info" tab.
Experimental Physics S3
Level of education
two years of postsecondary education
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
The two main objectives of physics are, on the one hand, to better understand—or learn more about—the world we live in and, on the other hand, to contribute to the advancement of techniques and technologies. Its purpose is to develop theories and test them against experience.
In this module, you will conduct experiments that illustrate concepts in mechanics, electricity, and thermodynamics that were presented in thefirst-year bachelor's degree modules.
Thermodynamics and kinetics
ECTS
6 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Use of basic principles in equilibrium thermodynamics to predict whether a reaction is possible, in which direction it is spontaneous, and to determine the proportions of reactants at equilibrium based on the equilibrium constant. Application to homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria and to specific cases of precipitation reactions (acid-base and redox reactions if time permits). Number of hours: 19.5.
In the second part, we will address kinetic aspects and therefore reaction speed. Only simple reaction orders will be studied during this year. Number of hours: 7.5.
English S3
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Math Tools S3
Level of education
two years of postsecondary education
ECTS
6 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
54h
This course builds on the mathematics taught in the first year. It covers the mathematical tools needed by physicists in analysis, in particular functions of several variables, differential operators, generalized and multiple integrals, and sequences and series, including entire and Fourier series.
Experimental Physics S3 PC
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Wave physics
Level of education
two years of postsecondary education
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
The first step is to review various concepts in wave physics (D'Alembert's equation, progressive waves, standing waves, reflection, transmission) through the study of different physical systems: mechanical (springs, strings, acoustics, etc.), electrical (telegraph lines, coaxial cables, etc.) or electromagnetic systems, and to arrive at a general formalism for the study of linear wave phenomena.
Then, after studying standing waves, we will move on to studying interference (wave tanks and other devices) and the related physical concepts: phase shift, path difference, conditions for constructive interference, destructive interference.
Experimental Physics S4 PC
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Python for Science
Level of education
Bachelor's degree +1
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
This module is an introduction to using Python for students pursuing a degree in science. It covers concepts in algorithmics and the Python language, but the approach is primarily geared toward practical applications in science. The examples will therefore focus on issues related to other first-year subjects.
Personal and Professional Project
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Inorganic Chemistry Part 1
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Electromagnetism
Level of education
two years of postsecondary education
ECTS
6 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
54h
The first part of this course aims to consolidate the concepts of magnetostatics and establish the relationships between the electromagnetic field at the interface of a plane of charges or current. We also introduce the expression of Laplace forces (force and moment) acting on volume or wire circuits. The second part is devoted to the properties of fields and potentials in variable regimes. After introducing Faraday's law describing induction phenomena, we establish Maxwell's time-dependent equations. An energy treatment allows us to define electrical and magnetic energies, as well as the Poynting vector. We apply these concepts to various examples, such as electromechanical conversion and induction heating via eddy currents. The final chapter is devoted to the propagation equations of fields and potentials, and their application in systems assimilated to a vacuum, as well as in perfect conductors and insulators. The concept of skin depth is also introduced.
Atomistics & reactivity
ECTS
6 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
The first part of this course presents the basics of quantum chemistry for chemists and physical chemists. It begins by reviewing the principles of quantum mechanics and its master equation, the Schrödinger equation. The solution of the Schrödinger equation in simple cases and the concepts of wave functions and quantization are presented and illustrated in simple cases. The hydrogen atom is then studied.
The course also examines approximation methods that can be used to determine the properties of complex systems where Schrödinger's equation cannot be solved directly. The effect of spin on the electronic properties of atoms and molecules will also be discussed.
The second part of this course focuses on the quantum description of molecular properties and reactivity. The qualitative construction of molecular orbitals using symmetry properties will be introduced, and the link between molecular orbital diagrams and chemical bonding will be explained. The link between molecular geometry and electronic structure will be discussed. This course will then focus on Hückel's method, which is used to obtain molecular orbital diagrams of π systems. The classic concepts of conjugation, delocalization, donor or acceptor character, and aromaticity will be studied in this approach. Frontier orbital theory is used to rationalize molecular reactivity (cycloadditions, electrocyclization) and molecular geometries.
English S4
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Physical and Chemical Profile
ECTS
30 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Introduction to Statistical Physics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
27h
Statistical physics is one of the fundamental branches of modern physics which, through its probabilistic approach, establishes relationships between the microscopic and the macroscopic. It deals with the evolution of systems with a very large number of particles (atoms, molecules, photons, etc.) and links macroscopic quantities such as pressure, temperature, etc., which characterize their state of thermodynamic equilibrium, to quantities that define the microscopic state of their constituents. This introductory course in statistical physics will cover microcanonical and canonical ensembles and will establish the link between the partition function and thermodynamic quantities such as average energy, pressure, temperature, and entropy. These results will be illustrated using ideal gases and a few simple quantum systems.
Advanced Organic Chemistry
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Introduction to Quantum Physics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
This course is a simplified introduction to quantum physics.
We will begin by providing a historical overview of the beginnings of quantum mechanics: atomic emission line spectrum, black body radiation (we will see the logic behind this name), photoelectric effect, etc.
A simplified presentation of Fourier transforms will help us understand the link between spectral line width and temporal evolution,
and later on, Heisenberg's inequalities.
A significant part of the course will be devoted to matter waves, through Schrödinger's equation, in very simple specific cases.
Finally, we will conclude with some aspects of magnetism (necessarily quantum).
Electrical Engineering and Electrokinetics
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
General Knowledge - Choose from the list below +
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Calling bullshit
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Creative writing
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
High-Frequency Waves for Medical & Healthcare Applications
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Arts and Sciences
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Introduction to Python Programming for Analysis and
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Discovering Electronics through Instrumentation
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Sport
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Nutrition, Sports, Health
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Concept info tools (PIX)
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Experimenting to create - dialogue between art, music, and mat
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Science and society
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Oulipian recreations
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Inorganic Materials - Synthesis and Characterization Part 1
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
The first part of the module will consist of presenting metals and alloys through crystallography (from the "ideal" crystalline solid to defects and solid solutions), followed by a second part devoted to their characterization by X-ray diffraction, and a final part addressing their synthesis through their solid/liquid binary diagram (description and construction) and the various transformations in the solid state.
Micro and macroscopic aspects of thermodynamics
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Thermodynamics: micro and macroscopic aspects
Thermodynamics is the tool of choice for studying matter on a macroscopic scale. In particular, in the case of chemical reactions, it allows us to predict the direction of their evolution and their state of equilibrium. In the first years of the bachelor's degree, we focus on describing the principles of thermodynamics and their direct application to chemistry in the case of simple single-phase equilibrium reactions or reactions between homogeneous phases. This teaching unit will deepen this knowledge in two directions.
First, we will generalize this macroscopic thermodynamic description framework to more complex systems, such as interfacial systems where surface tension plays a role, or non-uniform phases where the composition is not the same everywhere due to an external field. We will also study ruptures and equilibrium displacements.
Next, we will look at the link with the microscopic world, where matter is described at the atomic scale. We will show that the evolution predicted by thermodynamics is statistical in nature, with the state of equilibrium corresponding to the most probable macroscopic state given the constraints applied to the system. This will allow us to deduce the macroscopic thermodynamic properties of a physicochemical system from its microscopic description.
English S5
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Applied Optics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
At the beginning of this course, we will review the concepts of light rays and the conditions for approximation in geometric optics, as well as the concepts of wave physics that are important for physical optics.
Then, based on the scalar approximation of light waves, a special case of electromagnetic waves, we will describe light sources, interference phenomena with 2 waves, N waves, and then diffraction in the Fraunhofer approximation.
We will continue by studying various widely used physical systems, focusing on their resolution power and applications: microscope, astronomical telescope, Michelson interferometer, grating spectrometer, Fabry-Pérot interferometer.
Finally, we will conclude with the concepts of spatial coherence and temporal coherence of light sources and their use (stellar interferometry, speckle, etc.).
CAPES Physical and Chemical Sciences Profile
ECTS
30 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Advanced Organic Chemistry
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Introduction to Quantum Physics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
This course is a simplified introduction to quantum physics.
We will begin by providing a historical overview of the beginnings of quantum mechanics: atomic emission line spectrum, black body radiation (we will see the logic behind this name), photoelectric effect, etc.
A simplified presentation of Fourier transforms will help us understand the link between spectral line width and temporal evolution,
and later on, Heisenberg's inequalities.
A significant part of the course will be devoted to matter waves, through Schrödinger's equation, in very simple specific cases.
Finally, we will conclude with some aspects of magnetism (necessarily quantum).
Career Paths Teaching
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
24h
Time of year
Autumn
Electrical Engineering and Electrokinetics
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Preparation for the CAPES PC Physics Written Exam
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Preparation for the CAPES PC Chemistry Written Exam
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Micro and macroscopic aspects of thermodynamics
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Thermodynamics: micro and macroscopic aspects
Thermodynamics is the tool of choice for studying matter on a macroscopic scale. In particular, in the case of chemical reactions, it allows us to predict the direction of their evolution and their state of equilibrium. In the first years of the bachelor's degree, we focus on describing the principles of thermodynamics and their direct application to chemistry in the case of simple single-phase equilibrium reactions or reactions between homogeneous phases. This teaching unit will deepen this knowledge in two directions.
First, we will generalize this macroscopic thermodynamic description framework to more complex systems, such as interfacial systems where surface tension plays a role, or non-uniform phases where the composition is not the same everywhere due to an external field. We will also study ruptures and equilibrium displacements.
Next, we will look at the link with the microscopic world, where matter is described at the atomic scale. We will show that the evolution predicted by thermodynamics is statistical in nature, with the state of equilibrium corresponding to the most probable macroscopic state given the constraints applied to the system. This will allow us to deduce the macroscopic thermodynamic properties of a physicochemical system from its microscopic description.
English S5
ECTS
2 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Applied Optics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
At the beginning of this course, we will review the concepts of light rays and the conditions for approximation in geometric optics, as well as the concepts of wave physics that are important for physical optics.
Then, based on the scalar approximation of light waves, a special case of electromagnetic waves, we will describe light sources, interference phenomena with 2 waves, N waves, and then diffraction in the Fraunhofer approximation.
We will continue by studying various widely used physical systems, focusing on their resolution power and applications: microscope, astronomical telescope, Michelson interferometer, grating spectrometer, Fabry-Pérot interferometer.
Finally, we will conclude with the concepts of spatial coherence and temporal coherence of light sources and their use (stellar interferometry, speckle, etc.).
Physical and Chemical Profile
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Experimental Physics S6
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Programming for Physics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
27h
This course includes an upgrade and deepening of programming techniques as well as an introduction to numerical physics. We will begin with a review of procedural programming using the Python 3 language. We will then present the use of numerical methods relevant to simulation and the resolution of physical problems.
Inorganic materials: structure and properties
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Analysis (NMR, IR)
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
- Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
- Carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
- Infrared spectroscopy (IR)
- UV-visible spectroscopy
Teaching Careers Program
ECTS
1 credit
Training structure
School of Education
Programming for chemistry
ECTS
1 credit
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
S6 Tutored Projects
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
The supervised project is an experimental or digital simulation project carried out in groups of three students. It takes place in a practical work room, on one of the many physics and chemistry topics offered. It introduces students to the project approach and draws on their creativity, initiative, independence, and rigor in conducting experiments. The project concludes with a report and a defense, which are submitted for peer review and then evaluated by a jury.
Experimental Chemistry
ECTS
6 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Theoretical foundations in spectroscopy
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Elasticity and hydrodynamics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
This course builds on the teachings of point dynamics and rigid body dynamics from the first and second years. It covers elements of continuum mechanics, mainly within the limits of small deformations, linear elasticity, viscoelasticity, and viscosity. The emphasis is on simple cases and common applications.
Physical Science and Chemistry CAPES Profile
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Oral Exam Prep 1: Physics/Chemistry
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Experimental Physics S6
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Autumn
Programming for Physics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
27h
This course includes an upgrade and deepening of programming techniques as well as an introduction to numerical physics. We will begin with a review of procedural programming using the Python 3 language. We will then present the use of numerical methods relevant to simulation and the resolution of physical problems.
Inorganic materials: structure and properties
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Analysis (NMR, IR)
ECTS
3 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
- Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
- Carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
- Infrared spectroscopy (IR)
- UV-visible spectroscopy
Teaching Careers Program
ECTS
1 credit
Training structure
School of Education
Programming for chemistry
ECTS
1 credit
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Experimental Chemistry
ECTS
6 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Time of year
Spring
Elasticity and hydrodynamics
Level of education
Bachelor's degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training structure
Faculty of Science
Hours per week
36h
This course builds on the teachings of point dynamics and rigid body dynamics from the first and second years. It covers elements of continuum mechanics, mainly within the limits of small deformations, linear elasticity, viscoelasticity, and viscosity. The emphasis is on simple cases and common applications.
General Knowledge for FDS - Oral Exam Preparation
Training structure
School of Education
Hours per week
30h
Admission
Admission requirements
Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification for entry into L1
DUT, BTS, 1st year of CPGE in PC or PCSI for entry into L2
CPGE for entry into L3
Registration procedures
- Enrollment in L1 via ParcourSup: https://www.parcoursup.gouv.fr/
- Admission to L2 and L3 via e-candidat: https://candidature.umontpellier.fr/candidature/
- International students from outside the EU: follow the "Études en France" procedure: https://pastel.diplomatie.gouv.fr/etudesenfrance/dyn/public/authentification/login.html
And after
Continuing education
- Master's degrees in Physics and Chemistry in Materials Engineering, Water, Life Sciences, Scientific Communication, Computational Physics, Biomedical Physics, Materials Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Health, Microelectronics and Nanotechnologies, Nanosciences and Quantum Technologies, Sustainable Development, etc.
- Master's Degree in Teaching, Education, and Training (MEEF) with a focus on Physics and Chemistry.
- Engineering schools (admission based on application)
- Professional Licenses