Training Structure
College of Sciences
Language(s) of Instruction
French
Overview
The Coastal Water Master's program is a track within the Master's in Water Sciences.
It offers a multidisciplinary program combining theory and practice in the planning, management, and protection of coastal and marine areas. The program is based on courses in science, law, geography, and economics.
Objectives
The main objective is to train executives and managers in coastal and marine affairs, building on a solid scientific foundation and strong skills in economics, law, and management.
Expertise and Skills
The training focuses in particular on knowledge of:
- marine and coastal industries (fishing, aquaculture, shellfish farming, etc.)
- socioeconomic stakeholders in the coastal region
- the administrative and legislative framework governing coastal and maritime affairs
- methods for managing and protecting coastal ecosystems
- a foundation in the engineering of the construction or rehabilitation of coastal or port facilities
- specific risks associated with coastal areas
Organization
Knowledge Assessment
Final Exam or Continuous Assessment, depending on the course unit
Program
The M1 program admits 8 science students, who are then joined in the M2 program by 8 students from the social sciences and humanities track and 8 others from the economics track.
The courses in the M1 program are either shared with other tracks in the Water Master’s program or with the GCL (Coastal and Coastal Engineering) track in the STPE (Earth Sciences) Master’s program.
In the M2 program, the courses are specialized and taught by faculty members from the Faculty of Sciences, MOMA (Montpellier Management), and Paul Valéry University (Social Sciences and Humanities). In addition, numerous external professionals contribute to the program.
Select a program
M1 - Water and Coastal Zones (EL)
Project Management 1
2 creditsIntroduction to Risk Management and Vulnerability
2 creditsBibliographic Project
3 creditsMajor Questions in Coastal Dynamics 1
1 creditThe Water Cycle and Watersheds
3 creditsEnglish Theme 1
2 creditsCHOICE 1
9 creditsChoose 3 out of 5
Ocean, Atmosphere, Climate
3 creditsCommunication Techniques
2 creditsCoastal Environments and the Fundamentals of Coastal Hydromorphodynamics
3 credits
GIS Applications
3 creditsWater Quality and Microbiology
2 creditsEnglish, Topic 2
2 creditsM1 EL Internship
6 creditsCoastal and Port Hydromorphodynamics
3 creditsFundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering
2 creditsIWRM Participation Practices
3 creditsStatistics
3 creditsFrom Digital Mapping to Multi-Risk Analysis
3 creditsIn-situ Measurement Techniques and Data Analysis
3 credits
M1 - Water and Coastline (EL) - LEARNING
Project Management 1
2 creditsIntroduction to Risk Management and Vulnerability
2 creditsBibliographic Project
3 creditsMajor Questions in Coastal Dynamics 1
1 creditThe Water Cycle and Watersheds
3 creditsEnglish Theme 1
2 creditsOcean, Atmosphere, Climate
3 creditsCommunication Techniques
2 creditsCoastal Environments and the Fundamentals of Coastal Hydromorphodynamics
3 creditsCHOICE 1
9 creditsChoose 3 out of 5
GIS Applications
3 creditsWater Quality and Microbiology
2 creditsEnglish, Topic 2
2 creditsM1 EL Internship
6 creditsCoastal and Port Hydromorphodynamics
3 creditsFundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering
2 creditsIWRM Participation Practices
3 creditsStatistics
3 creditsFrom Digital Mapping to Multi-Risk Analysis
3 creditsIn-situ Measurement Techniques and Data Analysis
3 credits
M2 - Water and Coastal Zones (EL)
Maritime Stakeholders, Activities, and Practices
2 creditsPUBLIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
4 creditsWater and Urban Planning Law
1 credit12hCSR Standards
1 credit12hEconomic Evaluation of Regional Policies
12hLand Management
3 creditsLand Management
1 credit12h
Public Policy and Institutional English Skills
4 creditsWetland Functioning and Management
3 creditsDiagnostic Methodologies to Support Land-Use Planning
3 creditsEnglish for Professional Use
3 creditsEngineering and Project Management
3 creditsCharacterization and Management of Water in Coastal Environments
4 creditsClimate Change: Coastal Zone Management
4 credits
Diagnostic Tools
4 creditsProfessional Development Through a Collaborative Project
6 creditsLectures, Internship, and Thesis
20 credits
M2 - Water and Coastline (EL) - APPRENTICESHIP
Maritime Stakeholders, Activities, and Practices
2 creditsPUBLIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
4 creditsWater and Urban Planning Law
1 credit12hCSR Standards
1 credit12hEconomic Evaluation of Regional Policies
12hLand Management
3 creditsLand Management
1 credit12h
Public Policy and Institutional English Skills
4 creditsWetland Functioning and Management
3 creditsDiagnostic Methodologies to Support Land-Use Planning
3 creditsEnglish for Professional Use
3 creditsEngineering and Project Management
3 creditsCharacterization and Management of Water in Coastal Environments
4 creditsClimate Change: Coastal Zone Management
4 credits
Lectures, Internships, and Theses for Apprentices
26 creditsDiagnostic Tools
4 credits
Project Management 1
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Project management encompasses all the methods, tools, and techniques used to organize the execution of a project and achieve its objectives, from the initial concept through to completion.
Practical, real-world scenarios will be incorporated through exercises or case studies to help students develop the right habits and learn how to use project management tools.
Introduction to Risk Management and Vulnerability
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
Introduction to Risk and Vulnerability Management. Definition of Key Concepts, Case Studies from Thailand and Sommières
Bibliographic Project
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The EU Bibliographic Project consists of training in literature review, including the use of search engines, databases, and bibliographic reference management tools. Students work in pairs on a topic they have chosen themselves, related to their field of study. This literature review culminates in the preparation of a summary and a poster.
Major Questions in Coastal Dynamics 1
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The module “Major Issues in Coastal Dynamics” takes place at the beginning of the academic semester during an orientation seminar for the master’s program in “Coastal Engineering and Sustainable Coastal Dynamics” and the master’s program in “Water and the Coast,” which is generally held at an iconic coastal location. During this event, organized around a key theme in coastal science that changes each year, an introductory lecture is given on the definition of the coastline and the typology of terrestrial coastlines. This is followed by one or two presentations by specialists on a current topic in coastal science. Shortly after the seminar, students must write, either individually or in pairs, an analytical paper on the agreed-upon topic.
The Water Cycle and Watersheds
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
The EU curriculum is organized into three parts:
1) The Water Cycle and Water Balance
• The Main Water Reservoirs
• The Mechanisms of the Water Cycle
• Water Circulation: From the Global Scale to the Watershed Scale
• Humans: Their Impact on the Water Cycle
2) The Atmospheric Phase of the Water Cycle – Hydrology
• The watershed
• Atmospheric circulation and precipitation
• Evapotranspiration
• Infiltration
• Runoff
3) The underground phase of the water cycle – Hydrogeology
• Porous media and their hydrodynamic properties
• Different types of aquifers
• Piezometric levels and maps
English Theme 1
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
English tutorial course for students in the Water Sciences program who are working toward professional proficiency in English.
CHOICE 1
ECTS
9 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Aquatic Contaminants and Sustainable Development
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
The issue of contaminants in the aquatic environment is addressed from a multidisciplinary scientific perspective (chemistry, geochemistry, microbiology, etc.), while also addressing the regulatory aspects:
-
Overview of the main contaminants in the aquatic environment: chemical contaminants such as major elements, trace metals, organic micropollutants (pesticides, hydrocarbons, endocrine disruptors, microbiological contaminants, etc.), radioactive elements, and biological contaminants such as microorganisms, pathogenic bacteria, viruses, etc.
-
Focus on certain contaminants based on aquatic environments, taking into account, in particular, the hydrochemical characteristics of the water in relation to the geological and environmental contexts of hydrologic and hydrogeologic basins.
-
An overview of interactions between microorganisms and organic and inorganic contaminants, and their impact on the fate of contaminants in the aquatic environment; applications in bioremediation.
These lessons are illustrated using examples from current events, such as antibiotic resistance, and/or the speakers’ research topics.
From Land Use Planning to Land Management
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The course primarily consists of a detailed overview of the fundamentals of land-use planning: The main legal frameworks and their constant evolution (codes, laws, regulations), as well as the “ doctrines ” that shape their implementation, as well as the various technical “tools”—whether procedures or the preparation of applications (urban planning documents, or public or private construction or development projects). The tools and conditions for dialogue and coordination (examination of the various operational methods), as well as the land management approaches (land management and the tools for managing it), and the assessment of the various issues (financial, socioeconomic, and political), and finally, the decision-making. The various aspects mentioned above are highlighted as factors that determine the success—and thus the successful spatial implementation—of all development projects, regardless of their nature and scale.
Designed to cover all regions, the module also aims to focus on issues specific to coastaland similar areas. Because coastal zones have unique characteristics, a specific approach to these areas is essential to complement general approaches (the Coastal Zone Act, the Water Act, easements, and changes to regulatory frameworks and legislation).
Finally, the underlying theme of this module is the systematic examination of the many debates and issues involved in the confrontation between theemergency (or priority) socioeconomic and the environmental urgency (or priority) environmental, with an understanding of the trade-offs and constant adjustments that this tension gives rise to. The current urgency of the ecological and transitional crisis, as well as the acceleration of confrontations / conflicts of interest are examined and put into perspective.
With regard to the “ management ” of territories—presented in the course title (“From Land-Use Planning to Territorial Management”) as stemming from the land-use planning phase—this theme is also described and analyzed for each of the specific points covered under land-use planning, both as a consequence of the actions taken and as a condition for success —in the medium and long term—of projects being implemented in a territory, regardless of their scale.
How Aquatic Ecosystems Function
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This course unit is designed to enable students to gain in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function and to identify threats and vulnerabilities in the face of local pressures and climate change.
It will also enable students to 1) understand the specific characteristics of how benthic ecosystems function and the ecological roles of their components, 2) acquire in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function, 3) gain knowledge about the impact of chemical and biological contaminants (toxic and pathogenic microalgae), climate change, and human activities on aquatic ecosystems, their functioning, and their components, including the associated socioeconomic repercussions. This course unit will develop monitoring networks for the marine environment and the health of harvested marine animals by addressing mortality issues.
Issues, Stakeholders, Regulation, and Challenges in Water Management
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Water lies at the heart of multiple and conflicting issues, visions, and interests. The interplay of these various elements raises questions about integrated water resources management (IWRM) and regulation (particularly through public policy), the balance between collective and private values, and decision-making processes concerning collective issues—in short, governance. Decentralization, water and sanitation services, basin-level management, the European Water Framework Directive, and financial flows, in particular, illustrate various facets of governance.
How Hydrosystems Work
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This course is divided into two parts: one focusing on surface water and atmospheric water, and the other on groundwater. This course builds on the “Water Cycle” course from the first semester and lays the essential foundation for the specialized courses in hydrodynamics and physical hydrology that will be offered in the second semester. It therefore serves as a transitional course between fundamental knowledge of the water cycle and specialized knowledge related to the study and characterization of surface and groundwater resources.
Lectures combined with integrated tutorials are supplemented by practical exercises in the lab using computers and hydrogeological maps.
Ocean, Atmosphere, Climate
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
The “Ocean, Atmosphere, Climate” module aims to present the fundamental principles of atmospheric dynamics and ocean dynamics and offers a critical and well-documented perspective on climate change. The course is based on the analysis of official documents describing global change, well-documented discussions of key issues, and case studies applied to various global contexts.
Communication Techniques
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This learning unit focuses on mastering communication tools for the professional world, specifically learning: -(i) how to write a resume, a cover letter, and an email for an unsolicited application; -(ii) how to introduce oneself briefly, either verbally or in writing; -(iii) how to answer interview questions and avoid common pitfalls.
Learning these tools involves a theoretical introduction to them, but also—very quickly—putting them into practice. To this end, students will work in small groups, simulating realistic situations such as job interviews and presentations. The goal is to help them master these various tools as effectively as possible.
All courses are taught in the form of lab sessions, with a particular emphasis on:
- during “reality show”-style sessions, where each participant will have to introduce themselves to the others in less than 3 minutes, will be placed in job-interview scenarios, or will have to submit unsolicited applications or give impromptu presentations.
- On workshops for writing emails, cover letters, and resumes.
Coastal Environments and the Fundamentals of Coastal Hydromorphodynamics
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Classification of Coastal Environments
Physical processes driving coastal dynamics,
climate processes,
meteorological processes,
oceanographic processes.
Geomorphodynamics at the following scales:
geological,
historical,
seasonal,
events.
A case study examined in detail: the sandy coastline of Languedoc
GIS Applications
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The GIS Practice course consists of training in the use of Geographic Information Systems, covering basic concepts related to geographic information and proficiency in the open-source software QGIS. The majority of the course is devoted to an introduction through a combination of lectures and hands-on exercises. A personalized capstone mapping project allows students, at the end of the course, to apply the concepts they have learned. An introductory lecture by industry professionals provides context for the relevance of GIS approaches in general hydrology.
Water Quality and Microbiology
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Optimized management and protection of water resources (both surface and groundwater) require consideration of water quality. The assessment of the qualitative status of water bodies—particularly in light of current legislative frameworks—is based on specific chemical and microbiological quality criteria, as well as standards tailored to the intended uses of these resources.
English, Topic 2
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
English tutorial course for students in the Water Sciences program who are working toward professional proficiency in English.
M1 EL Internship
ECTS
6 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Coastal and Port Hydromorphodynamics
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Fundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
IWRM Participation Practices
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Spring
This module aims to provide students with a practical understanding of the implementation of IWRM and public participation in water management through an active learning approach.
It is centered on “Cooplage,” a support system for implementing participatory approaches to water management developed by researchers at the UMR GEAU, and the associated Agreenium MOOC, Terr’eau & co.
Students will work in small groups—comprising students from different tracks within the Master’s in Water program—on case studies drawn from the instructors’ ongoing research projects. Learning will take place through the application of certain tools from the “Cooplage” program to their case studies, particularly modeling and participatory simulation in the form of role-playing. To ground their work in real-world context, students will be connected with the stakeholders involved in these case studies.
Statistics
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
In Water Sciences, the use of probability and statistics for analyzing hydroclimatic and water quality data is essential. Lectures and application-based tutorials will help students brush up on their skills (covering high school and undergraduate-level problems), after which several new concepts will be introduced (including the test of conformity to a distribution).
The course is organized around the following chapters:
- Elementary Probability Theory, Combinatorial Analysis. (Lecture 1, Tutorial 1)
- Discrete and continuous random variables. Probability distribution and probability density function. Expectation, variance, covariance. (Lecture 2, Lab 2)
- Simple Linear Regression (covered in Tutorial 3)
- Multiple Linear Regression (covered in Tutorial 3)
- Some Common Probability Distributions (Binomial, Poisson, Normal, Gamma, Gumbel) and Their Applications (Lecture 3, Lab 4)
- Tests for Membership in a Law (covered in TD5)
From Digital Mapping to Multi-Risk Analysis
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
In-situ Measurement Techniques and Data Analysis
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
In-situ observation of coastal hydro-sedimentary processes in natural or human-altered environments is a central component of any scientific or engineering research in hydro-morphodynamics, coastal risk, coastal development, sand and water resources, or the search for protective solutions. In-situ observation provides objective evidence of the existence of a process, the performance of a development or protective measure, and the quantification of a resource for its exploitation. Observation, far beyond modeling or physical experimentation, serves both as the ultimate validation of an approach and as a source of new ideas.
The “In-Situ Measurement Techniques and Data Analysis” module is students’ first step into the world of in-situ measurement of coastal hydrodynamics and morphodynamics. The module is structured around an initial experience involving (i) formulating a scientific question in terms of in-situ observation in a coastal environment, (ii) designing a measurement device to address it, (iii) making logistical preparations for deployment, (iv) carrying out the deployment, monitoring the equipment, and retrieving the data, and (v) analyzing the data to answer the research question. Students are responsible for carrying out each of these steps within a highly structured framework for this initial experience.
Project Management 1
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Project management encompasses all the methods, tools, and techniques used to organize the execution of a project and achieve its objectives, from the initial concept through to completion.
Practical, real-world scenarios will be incorporated through exercises or case studies to help students develop the right habits and learn how to use project management tools.
Introduction to Risk Management and Vulnerability
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
Introduction to Risk and Vulnerability Management. Definition of Key Concepts, Case Studies from Thailand and Sommières
Bibliographic Project
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The EU Bibliographic Project consists of training in literature review, including the use of search engines, databases, and bibliographic reference management tools. Students work in pairs on a topic they have chosen themselves, related to their field of study. This literature review culminates in the preparation of a summary and a poster.
Major Questions in Coastal Dynamics 1
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The module “Major Issues in Coastal Dynamics” takes place at the beginning of the academic semester during an orientation seminar for the master’s program in “Coastal Engineering and Sustainable Coastal Dynamics” and the master’s program in “Water and the Coast,” which is generally held at an iconic coastal location. During this event, organized around a key theme in coastal science that changes each year, an introductory lecture is given on the definition of the coastline and the typology of terrestrial coastlines. This is followed by one or two presentations by specialists on a current topic in coastal science. Shortly after the seminar, students must write, either individually or in pairs, an analytical paper on the agreed-upon topic.
The Water Cycle and Watersheds
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
The EU curriculum is organized into three parts:
1) The Water Cycle and Water Balance
• The Main Water Reservoirs
• The Mechanisms of the Water Cycle
• Water Circulation: From the Global Scale to the Watershed Scale
• Humans: Their Impact on the Water Cycle
2) The Atmospheric Phase of the Water Cycle – Hydrology
• The watershed
• Atmospheric circulation and precipitation
• Evapotranspiration
• Infiltration
• Runoff
3) The underground phase of the water cycle – Hydrogeology
• Porous media and their hydrodynamic properties
• Different types of aquifers
• Piezometric levels and maps
English Theme 1
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
English tutorial course for students in the Water Sciences program who are working toward professional proficiency in English.
Ocean, Atmosphere, Climate
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
The “Ocean, Atmosphere, Climate” module aims to present the fundamental principles of atmospheric dynamics and ocean dynamics and offers a critical and well-documented perspective on climate change. The course is based on the analysis of official documents describing global change, well-documented discussions of key issues, and case studies applied to various global contexts.
Communication Techniques
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This learning unit focuses on mastering communication tools for the professional world, specifically learning: -(i) how to write a resume, a cover letter, and an email for an unsolicited application; -(ii) how to introduce oneself briefly, either verbally or in writing; -(iii) how to answer interview questions and avoid common pitfalls.
Learning these tools involves a theoretical introduction to them, but also—very quickly—putting them into practice. To this end, students will work in small groups, simulating realistic situations such as job interviews and presentations. The goal is to help them master these various tools as effectively as possible.
All courses are taught in the form of lab sessions, with a particular emphasis on:
- during “reality show”-style sessions, where each participant will have to introduce themselves to the others in less than 3 minutes, will be placed in job-interview scenarios, or will have to submit unsolicited applications or give impromptu presentations.
- On workshops for writing emails, cover letters, and resumes.
Coastal Environments and the Fundamentals of Coastal Hydromorphodynamics
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Classification of Coastal Environments
Physical processes driving coastal dynamics,
climate processes,
meteorological processes,
oceanographic processes.
Geomorphodynamics at the following scales:
geological,
historical,
seasonal,
events.
A case study examined in detail: the sandy coastline of Languedoc
CHOICE 1
ECTS
9 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Aquatic Contaminants and Sustainable Development
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Fall
The issue of contaminants in the aquatic environment is addressed from a multidisciplinary scientific perspective (chemistry, geochemistry, microbiology, etc.), while also addressing the regulatory aspects:
-
Overview of the main contaminants in the aquatic environment: chemical contaminants such as major elements, trace metals, organic micropollutants (pesticides, hydrocarbons, endocrine disruptors, microbiological contaminants, etc.), radioactive elements, and biological contaminants such as microorganisms, pathogenic bacteria, viruses, etc.
-
Focus on certain contaminants based on aquatic environments, taking into account, in particular, the hydrochemical characteristics of the water in relation to the geological and environmental contexts of hydrologic and hydrogeologic basins.
-
An overview of interactions between microorganisms and organic and inorganic contaminants, and their impact on the fate of contaminants in the aquatic environment; applications in bioremediation.
These lessons are illustrated using examples from current events, such as antibiotic resistance, and/or the speakers’ research topics.
From Land Use Planning to Land Management
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The course primarily consists of a detailed overview of the fundamentals of land-use planning: The main legal frameworks and their constant evolution (codes, laws, regulations), as well as the “ doctrines ” that shape their implementation, as well as the various technical “tools”—whether procedures or the preparation of applications (urban planning documents, or public or private construction or development projects). The tools and conditions for dialogue and coordination (examination of the various operational methods), as well as the land management approaches (land management and the tools for managing it), and the assessment of the various issues (financial, socioeconomic, and political), and finally, the decision-making. The various aspects mentioned above are highlighted as factors that determine the success—and thus the successful spatial implementation—of all development projects, regardless of their nature and scale.
Designed to cover all regions, the module also aims to focus on issues specific to coastaland similar areas. Because coastal zones have unique characteristics, a specific approach to these areas is essential to complement general approaches (the Coastal Zone Act, the Water Act, easements, and changes to regulatory frameworks and legislation).
Finally, the underlying theme of this module is the systematic examination of the many debates and issues involved in the confrontation between theemergency (or priority) socioeconomic and the environmental urgency (or priority) environmental, with an understanding of the trade-offs and constant adjustments that this tension gives rise to. The current urgency of the ecological and transitional crisis, as well as the acceleration of confrontations / conflicts of interest are examined and put into perspective.
With regard to the “ management ” of territories—presented in the course title (“From Land-Use Planning to Territorial Management”) as stemming from the land-use planning phase—this theme is also described and analyzed for each of the specific points covered under land-use planning, both as a consequence of the actions taken and as a condition for success —in the medium and long term—of projects being implemented in a territory, regardless of their scale.
How Aquatic Ecosystems Function
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This course unit is designed to enable students to gain in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function and to identify threats and vulnerabilities in the face of local pressures and climate change.
It will also enable students to 1) understand the specific characteristics of how benthic ecosystems function and the ecological roles of their components, 2) acquire in-depth knowledge of how aquatic ecosystems function, 3) gain knowledge about the impact of chemical and biological contaminants (toxic and pathogenic microalgae), climate change, and human activities on aquatic ecosystems, their functioning, and their components, including the associated socioeconomic repercussions. This course unit will develop monitoring networks for the marine environment and the health of harvested marine animals by addressing mortality issues.
Issues, Stakeholders, Regulation, and Challenges in Water Management
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Water lies at the heart of multiple and conflicting issues, visions, and interests. The interplay of these various elements raises questions about integrated water resources management (IWRM) and regulation (particularly through public policy), the balance between collective and private values, and decision-making processes concerning collective issues—in short, governance. Decentralization, water and sanitation services, basin-level management, the European Water Framework Directive, and financial flows, in particular, illustrate various facets of governance.
How Hydrosystems Work
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This course is divided into two parts: one focusing on surface water and atmospheric water, and the other on groundwater. This course builds on the “Water Cycle” course from the first semester and lays the essential foundation for the specialized courses in hydrodynamics and physical hydrology that will be offered in the second semester. It therefore serves as a transitional course between fundamental knowledge of the water cycle and specialized knowledge related to the study and characterization of surface and groundwater resources.
Lectures combined with integrated tutorials are supplemented by practical exercises in the lab using computers and hydrogeological maps.
GIS Applications
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The GIS Practice course consists of training in the use of Geographic Information Systems, covering basic concepts related to geographic information and proficiency in the open-source software QGIS. The majority of the course is devoted to an introduction through a combination of lectures and hands-on exercises. A personalized capstone mapping project allows students, at the end of the course, to apply the concepts they have learned. An introductory lecture by industry professionals provides context for the relevance of GIS approaches in general hydrology.
Water Quality and Microbiology
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Optimized management and protection of water resources (both surface and groundwater) require consideration of water quality. The assessment of the qualitative status of water bodies—particularly in light of current legislative frameworks—is based on specific chemical and microbiological quality criteria, as well as standards tailored to the intended uses of these resources.
English, Topic 2
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
English tutorial course for students in the Water Sciences program who are working toward professional proficiency in English.
M1 EL Internship
ECTS
6 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Coastal and Port Hydromorphodynamics
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Fundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
IWRM Participation Practices
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Spring
This module aims to provide students with a practical understanding of the implementation of IWRM and public participation in water management through an active learning approach.
It is centered on “Cooplage,” a support system for implementing participatory approaches to water management developed by researchers at the UMR GEAU, and the associated Agreenium MOOC, Terr’eau & co.
Students will work in small groups—comprising students from different tracks within the Master’s in Water program—on case studies drawn from the instructors’ ongoing research projects. Learning will take place through the application of certain tools from the “Cooplage” program to their case studies, particularly modeling and participatory simulation in the form of role-playing. To ground their work in real-world context, students will be connected with the stakeholders involved in these case studies.
Statistics
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
In Water Sciences, the use of probability and statistics for analyzing hydroclimatic and water quality data is essential. Lectures and application-based tutorials will help students brush up on their skills (covering high school and undergraduate-level problems), after which several new concepts will be introduced (including the test of conformity to a distribution).
The course is organized around the following chapters:
- Elementary Probability Theory, Combinatorial Analysis. (Lecture 1, Tutorial 1)
- Discrete and continuous random variables. Probability distribution and probability density function. Expectation, variance, covariance. (Lecture 2, Lab 2)
- Simple Linear Regression (covered in Tutorial 3)
- Multiple Linear Regression (covered in Tutorial 3)
- Some Common Probability Distributions (Binomial, Poisson, Normal, Gamma, Gumbel) and Their Applications (Lecture 3, Lab 4)
- Tests for Membership in a Law (covered in TD5)
From Digital Mapping to Multi-Risk Analysis
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
In-situ Measurement Techniques and Data Analysis
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
In-situ observation of coastal hydro-sedimentary processes in natural or human-altered environments is a central component of any scientific or engineering research in hydro-morphodynamics, coastal risk, coastal development, sand and water resources, or the search for protective solutions. In-situ observation provides objective evidence of the existence of a process, the performance of a development or protective measure, and the quantification of a resource for its exploitation. Observation, far beyond modeling or physical experimentation, serves both as the ultimate validation of an approach and as a source of new ideas.
The “In-Situ Measurement Techniques and Data Analysis” module is students’ first step into the world of in-situ measurement of coastal hydrodynamics and morphodynamics. The module is structured around an initial experience involving (i) formulating a scientific question in terms of in-situ observation in a coastal environment, (ii) designing a measurement device to address it, (iii) making logistical preparations for deployment, (iv) carrying out the deployment, monitoring the equipment, and retrieving the data, and (v) analyzing the data to answer the research question. Students are responsible for carrying out each of these steps within a highly structured framework for this initial experience.
Maritime Stakeholders, Activities, and Practices
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
PUBLIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Time of year
Fall
Water and Urban Planning Law
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
CSR Standards
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Economic Evaluation of Regional Policies
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Land Management
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Land Management
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Public Policy and Institutional English Skills
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Time of year
Fall
Acceptability of Public Policies (English)
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Environmental Policies (English)
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Wetland Functioning and Management
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The module's content is organized into five sections: (1) Irrigation equipment and infrastructure; (2) Irrigation management; (3) Socioeconomic analysis and consultation methods; (4) Lectures by professionals; (5) Case study: conversion of an irrigated system
Objectives*:
(1) Acquire knowledge and expertise regarding various components of how an irrigated system—whether individual or collective—functions, by drawing on the knowledge gained in other course units within the specialization:
(2) understand the sustainable management of water resources at the level of an agricultural region, from various perspectives (water resources, agronomic, technical, and socioeconomic) and at various scales (from the individual plot to the watershed).
Diagnostic Methodologies to Support Land-Use Planning
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
English for Professional Use
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Engineering and Project Management
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Characterization and Management of Water in Coastal Environments
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Climate Change: Coastal Zone Management
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Diagnostic Tools
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This course is designed to improve students’ proficiency in using geographic information systems (GIS) through hands-on computer lab sessions. Topics covered will include the creation and layout of maps in accordance with scientific standards, the digitization of paper maps, the use of databases, and the georeferencing of raster files.
Professional Development Through a Collaborative Project
ECTS
6 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Lectures, Internship, and Thesis
ECTS
20 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Time of year
Spring
Maritime Stakeholders, Activities, and Practices
ECTS
2 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
PUBLIC ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Time of year
Fall
Water and Urban Planning Law
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
CSR Standards
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Economic Evaluation of Regional Policies
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Land Management
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Land Management
ECTS
1 credit
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Public Policy and Institutional English Skills
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Time of year
Fall
Acceptability of Public Policies (English)
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Environmental Policies (English)
Training Structure
Montpellier Management
Number of hours
12h
Time of year
Fall
Wetland Functioning and Management
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
The module's content is organized into five sections: (1) Irrigation equipment and infrastructure; (2) Irrigation management; (3) Socioeconomic analysis and consultation methods; (4) Lectures by professionals; (5) Case study: conversion of an irrigated system
Objectives*:
(1) Acquire knowledge and expertise regarding various components of how an irrigated system—whether individual or collective—functions, by drawing on the knowledge gained in other course units within the specialization:
(2) understand the sustainable management of water resources at the level of an agricultural region, from various perspectives (water resources, agronomic, technical, and socioeconomic) and at various scales (from the individual plot to the watershed).
Diagnostic Methodologies to Support Land-Use Planning
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
English for Professional Use
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Engineering and Project Management
ECTS
3 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Characterization and Management of Water in Coastal Environments
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Climate Change: Coastal Zone Management
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Lectures, Internships, and Theses for Apprentices
ECTS
26 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
Diagnostic Tools
Level of Education
4-year college degree
ECTS
4 credits
Training Structure
College of Sciences
This course is designed to improve students’ proficiency in using geographic information systems (GIS) through hands-on computer lab sessions. Topics covered will include the creation and layout of maps in accordance with scientific standards, the digitization of paper maps, the use of databases, and the georeferencing of raster files.
Admission
Registration Procedures
Applications can be submitted through the following platforms:
French and European students:
- For the M1 program, follow the “My Master’s” procedure on the website:https://www.monmaster.gouv.fr/
- For the M2 program, students must submit their application through the e-candidat portal: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