Careers in Aquatic Life Sciences
Based at theSète Marine Station (Hérault), the Continuing Education Department of the University of Montpellier(formerly CREUFOP)has over 40 years of experience in professional training for careers in the aquatic life sector.
Whether you're a beginner, an enthusiast, and/or a professional, our training programs are designed to support you with an accessible and constantly evolving curriculum.
We bring in scientific experts and professionals to train you, share their real-world experience with you, and provide you with up-to-date, practical, and immediately applicable knowledge.
Table of Contents
- Training Program
- Calendar
- Public
- Teaching staff
- Educational Approach
- The station
- Testimonials
- Contact
TRAINING OFFER
Designed for anyone who wishes to acquire and/or enhance their expertise in the areas of livestock management, reproduction, animal welfare, or quality, safety, health, and the environment (QSHE), our training program is structured around four fundamental pillars:
- an understanding of the biology of aquatic organisms and their interactions with the physicochemical parameters of water;
- proficiency in professional techniques and procedures, from the design to the maintenance of structures, while ensuring animal welfare;
- a comprehensive overview of the industry and its various professions, including quality and certification issues;
- knowledge of and application of the regulatory framework and QHSE tools.
Flexible and diverse, it offers three types of training programs designed to meet your needs and goals:
- Short-term training courses
Organized over a few days, short training courses allow you to quickly acquire key skills in a specific subject area and thus quickly gain confidence in applying them in practice. - Micro-Certifications
Micro-certifications provide quick and practical access to specialized skills in just a few hours (between 7 and 35 hours), as evidenced by the awarding of a certificate from the University of Montpellier. - Long-term programs
Our long-term programs, ranging from University Diplomas (DU) to Professional Bachelor’s degrees, complement this catalog of short courses and micro-certifications with more in-depth programs.
In addition to this offering, we can design customized “à la carte” programs tailored to your specific needs.
For more information, please contact us at: sfc-aqua@umontpellier.fr.
Calendar
| MICRO CERTIFICATION | DATES |
|---|---|
| Phytoplankton / Microalgae Cultivation | September 22, 23, 24, 2026 |
| Zooplankton Culture / Live Prey | October 12, 13, and 14, 2026 |
| Biology and Physiology of Fish Reproduction | October 27, 28, 29, 2026 |
| Design of a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) | Early January 2027 |
| Aquaponics as a Business | February 16, 17, 18, 2027 (to be confirmed) |
| Genetics, Domestication, and Strain Management in Aquaculture | February 23, 24, 25, 2027 |
| Techniques for Seeding and Cultivating Macroalgae | March 3, 4, and 5, 2026 |
| Starting an Aquaculture Business: The Keys to Success | March 2027 (1 day) |
| SHORT COURSE | DATES |
|---|---|
| Use of Aquatic Animals for Scientific Purposes – Applicant | June 17–25, 2026 (in-person) (+ 5 hours of online learning) |
| Use of Aquatic Animals for Scientific Purposes – Designer | June 17–26, 2026 (in-person) (+ 11 hours online) |
Short courses and micro-
s by topic
Production of macroalgae, microalgae, and plankton; and larval rearing
In marine hatcheries, plankton production is used to feed fish and crustaceans during the early stages of their life cycles. This process requires specific methodologies and infrastructure, which we have in place at our facilities.
Micro-certification – Cultivation of Phytoplankton / Microalgae
Phytoplankton forms the basis of aquatic food chains. This three-day course provides participants with the fundamentals of microalgae production in a controlled environment, as well as techniques for identifying samples collected from the natural environment.
Micro-certification – ZOOPLANKTON CULTURE / LIVE PREY
Zooplankton production is a key step in the larval rearing of many aquatic species. Live prey not only provides a complementary and balanced dietary supplement, but also serves as an essential enrichment for animal welfare, aligning with several principles of the Five Freedoms of animal welfare.
This two-day training course will provide you with the essential basics for producing live prey used in hatcheries, including hands-on exercises with Artemia (Artemia salina) and rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis).
MICRO CERTIFICATION – Techniques for Seeding and Cultivating Macroalgae
Macroalgae constitute a major source of marine biomass and are central to the challenges facing the development of French aquaculture. This three-day training course, combining theory and practice focused on three iconic species found along our coasts—kelp (Wakame), sea lettuce, and porphyra (Nori) —will provide the essential knowledge and skills needed to cultivate them, both at sea and on land.
Fish farming, aquarium science, aquaponics, and biofloc
Our aquaculture program is based on a comprehensive, systemic, and environmental approach that considers the animal in the context of its rearing environment. To this end, we teach various production methods: closed-loop systems, aquarium science, biofloc production, and aquaponics, which combines fish farming with plant cultivation.
MICRO CERTIFICATION – PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE IN AQUAPONICS
Aquaponics is a sustainable production system that seamlessly combines aquaculture and hydroponics. This four-day training course is designed for those who wish to learn the essential skills and techniques for the synergistic production of fish and plants. It provides the foundational knowledge needed to launch an efficient and environmentally friendly aquaponics operation.
MICRO CERTIFICATION – Biology & Physiology of Fish Reproduction
Fish reproduction is a major challenge in both aquaculture and aquarium keeping.
Using an integrated approach that combines biology, physiology, and animal science, this course provides an understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of fish reproduction.
In this way, it provides the tools needed to manage the entire reproductive process, optimizing biological performance and rearing conditions in a manner that is both practical and sustainable.
Micro Certification – Genetics, Domestication, and Strain Management in Aquaculture
Tilapia is one of the most widely farmed fish in the world. This cichlid owes its success to its hardiness and high reproductive capacity, which have played a major role in its domestication worldwide.
Using tilapia as a model, this course provides the essential theoretical foundations in genetics required for the domestication of species and the preservation of strains.
This three-day course provides participants with the essential knowledge needed to successfully carry out a domestication process and ensure rigorous genetic management of populations, thereby guaranteeing optimal breeding conditions.
Regulations
To help professionals navigate the regulatory requirements associated with their activities, we offer a range of mandatory training courses closely aligned with our business lines and expertise in aquaculture. These courses incorporate animal welfare requirements to support industry stakeholders in implementing practices that are compliant, responsible, and in line with current standards.
Training on how to prepare an application for a “capacitaire” license for non-domestic animals
The Certificate of Competenceis a mandatory document for anyone responsible for a facility that breeds, sells, or displays to the public* non-domestic animals. This certificate ispersonaland is obtained by submitting an application to theprefect of the departmentwhere the applicant resides.
Compiling the file requires asignificant amountof individual effort and demandssolid knowledgeandpractical experiencewith the animals in question.
To assist applicants with this process, theContinuing Education Departmentoffers acustomized program designed to help them prepare their application and present it to the selection committee. This program includes:
- Regulations
- Biology
- Livestock Housing and Animal Welfare
- Hands-on trainingin our technical facilities
Important: This training program is designed to provide support and cannot, under any circumstances, replace the candidate’s own work or commitment to the certification process. The responsibility for success rests entirely with the candidate.
* Applies to a total presentation volume not exceeding 10 m³.
Every situation is unique: contact us to design content and a structure tailored to the needs and constraints of the candidate for the certificate of competence.
Contact:
Gérard SPOSITO
gerard.sposito@umontpellier.fr
04 67 74 45 03 | 06 87 91 47 15
Short Course – Use of Aquatic Animals for Scientific Purposes – Practitioner
Aquatic animals play a vital role in a wide range of scientific research. Their use contributes to major advances in various fields, such as biomedical research, environmental studies, ecotoxicology, wildlife monitoring, and conservation biology.
In accordance with Decree No. 2013-118 of February 1, 2013, which transposes European Directive TU into French law, anyone involved in experimental procedures on these animals is required to complete specific training.
This training program aims to share best practices in animal ethics and welfare, while developing the skills needed to work in a manner that respects animals and complies with current regulatory standards.
Short Course – Use of Aquatic Animals for Scientific Purposes – Course Designer
Aquatic animals play a vital role in a wide range of scientific research. Their use contributes to major advances in various fields, such as biomedical research, environmental studies, ecotoxicology, wildlife monitoring, and conservation biology.
In accordance with Decree No. 2013-118 of February 1, 2013, which transposes European Directive TU into French law, anyone involved in experimental procedures on these animals is required to complete specific training.
This training program aims to share best practices in animal ethics and welfare, while developing the skills needed to work in a manner that respects animals and complies with current regulatory standards.
Transferable skills
To ensure its long-term viability, aquaculture requires a range of complementary skills. We are committed to supporting the development of an environmentally responsible, sustainable, and prosperous aquaculture industry. To that end, we offer a series of short training courses covering cross-disciplinary knowledge related to the aquaculture sector.
MICRO CERTIFICATION – Design of a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS)
A recirculating aquaculture system (RAS ) is a set of water treatment components that enable the reuse of water in aquaculture. This 4-day training course provides an understanding of the components of an RAS and an introduction to its design.
MICRO CERTIFICATION – Starting an Aquaculture Business: The Keys to Success
Starting a career in aquaculture means taking on two roles at once: that of an aquaculturist and that of an entrepreneur.
With the expertise of Le Paysan Marin, spend a day stepping into the shoes of a business owner and explore all aspects of your future career.
From the initial concept to building the team and structuring the project, this training course provides you with the tools you need for each step, as well as the essential resources to move forward.
Come with an idea, leave with a solid, well-structured presentation.
Long-term training programs
University Diploma – Specialist Technician in Aquaculture, Aquariology, and Aquaponics
A two-year college degree. This 700-hour program provides students with the knowledge in biology, animal husbandry, water chemistry, and infrastructure necessary for managing an aquaculture operation.
Bachelor's Degree in Professional Studies – Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSSE), Specialization in Resource Management, Fisheries, and Aquaculture (ValPêA)
The ValPêA training program—Fisheries and Aquaculture Value Creation (450 hours)—is designed for professionals in the fisheries, aquaculture, and processing sectors who wish to transition into QHSSE roles.
Its goal is to enable them to master the fundamentals of quality, hygiene, safety, health, and the environment; to understand the specific challenges facing the aquatic products sector; and to gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry in order to implement quality, labeling, and certification initiatives.
Designed for students with two years of post-secondary education and professionals already familiar with these fields, this program aims to strengthen QHSSE skills and contribute to the development of France’s fishing and aquaculture sectors.
Public
Open to the general public, our training programs are designed for both beginners looking to explore careers in the aquatic life sector and professionals seeking to specialize, update their knowledge and skills, or develop new ones.
TEACHING STAFF
To ensure high-quality training that is closely aligned with the realities and evolving trends of the industry, our courses are designed and led by teams of experts from the professional world.
Through this approach, we prioritize hands-on learning and a teaching methodology that fosters professional networking with industry stakeholders to enhance our students’ career prospects.
Educational Approach
Our training programs are designed around a cross-disciplinary approach that combines theoretical instruction with hands-on, immersive learning.
We emphasize hands-on learning, particularly through supervised practical work in specialized facilities: microalgae, zooplankton, larval rearing, aquarium science, and aquaponics.
THE MARINE STATION AND ITS FACILITIES
All of our training programs in the field of aquatic life are held at the Sète Marine Station, a port city and a hub for aquaculture known for its maritime heritage and promotion of seafood products.
With a 500-square-meter hall, an aquaponics system, an aquarium room, and specialized facilities, the Sète Marine Station offers a stimulating work environment where various aquatic species are raised and cultivated according to the food chain model, from microalgae to adult fish weighing several kilograms.
Testimonials
Choosing the University of Montpellier’s Continuing Education Department to study aquaculture, aquarium science, or aquaponics at the Sète Marine Station is about much more than just earning a degree: it’s about launching a real career in France and abroad.
In this section, we hear from our alumni, each with their own unique backgrounds and career paths. They share their experiences during and after the program: acquiring practical skills, bringing their career goals to life, and discovering new opportunities…
Check out their profiles:
Mélanie CHAVANON
Diver-caretaker at the Nausicaà Aquarium in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Ever since I was a little girl, my dream has always been to work with marine animals, and more specifically to become an animal caretaker.
I took the TS3A certificate program (formerly TSA) as part of my continuing education because this format met my needs. I was really eager to enter the workforce, gain hands-on experience, and meet professionals in the field.
During the training, I had the opportunity to meet the supervisor at the Nausicaà Aquarium. Impressed by my background, he advised me to get my professional diving certification, which I did, and I was hired as a diver-caretaker at Nausicaà, a position I still hold today.
Alexis SIEDLACZEK
Expert consultant in recirculating aquaculture systems and aquaponics
When I enrolled at the University of Montpellier, I wanted to gain a wide range of skills that I could immediately apply in the workplace.
During my training, I completed my first project as a design engineer, which involved installing an aquaponics system for an eco-lodge in Myanmar.
I have continued to develop this consulting and research business ever since.
I support my clients in bringing their aquaculture or aquaponics projects to fruition by providing not only my technical expertise but also a structured project approach and a deep understanding of the economic realities specific to this type of project.
JULIEN LOUBET
Head of the Aquariology Division at the Biodiversarium, Banyuls Oceanographic Observatory (OOB), Sorbonne University
I enrolled in the TS3A certificate program (formerly TSA) to train as an aquarist in the field of public aquariums.
I chose the University of Montpellier because of its admission requirements and the program’s curriculum, which is based on lab work and input from professionals.
It is with a sense of nostalgia that I return to the SMEL (Coastal Environment Marine Station) every year for my presentations.
Guirec DEWAVRIN
Consultant and instructor in aquaculture at the Continuing Education Department of the University of Montpellier
I was part of the very first official graduating class, in 1981–1982. The first Aquaculture program lasted two years and was funded by the Ministry of Labor.
My plan was to set up an aquaculture farm in Brittany, which I did in 2000 with AquaStream in Lorient.
During those two years of training, I truly gained a wealth of knowledge that has served me well throughout my 45-year career in aquaculture production.
Contact
To enroll in one of our training programs or to learn more about our personalized support options, please contact our team of aquaculture experts: sfc-aqua@umontpellier.fr