Graduation Ceremony for the DAEU-B Classes of 22-23 and 23-24
On December 13, in the presence of Agnès Fichard-Caroll, vice president of the University of Montpellier in charge of education and campus life, Jean-Michel Marin, dean of the Montpellier Faculty of Sciences; Laurence Weil, director of the Continuing Education Department; Céline Ritterszki, deputy director; and Didier Lopez, head of education, two classes of continuing education students atthe University of Montpellier received their Diplôme d’Accès aux Études Universitaires, Scientific Track (DAEU-B).
This graduation ceremony, filled with emotion and pride, served as a celebration of the students’ hard work and success of these adult students who returned to school and, after 9 months of hard work, earned this valuable diploma, paving the way for new academic and professional opportunities.
The entire Continuing Education Department at the University of Montpellier would like to congratulate the graduates on their achievements and on earning this degree, which marks an important milestone in their lives.
The DAEU-B: A State-recognized diploma granting access to the university system
Organized by the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Montpellier, the DAEU-B, or Diploma for Access to University Studies—science track, is an alternative to the traditional baccalaureate, specifically designed for those who wish to resume their university studies after a break in their academic career.
This program is intended for adults (employees, job seekers) who have not earned a high school diploma and who wish to change course by returning to school to pursue a program requiring a foundation in science.
The DAEU-B thus enables students to acquire scientific skills at a level equivalent to that of the general baccalaureate by taking courses in mathematics, French, physics, chemistry, and biology, as well as receiving guidance on their post-DAEU plans.
A journey marked by determination, commitment, and perseverance
For many students, earning the DAEU-B was not just a formality. This diploma represents much more than a qualification: it embodies a second chance, a chance to take control of their own path, and a victory over self-doubt about one’s own ability to learn…
Testimonial from Blandine LIEBE, valedictorian of the 2022–2023 graduating class in Béziers:
“I now know that anything is possible for me, since I’ve finally earned the high school diploma I’ve been waiting for ever since I failed the science track 20 years ago.
Earning the DAEU-B made me realize that I had what it takes to succeed, and that boost in confidence was truly invaluable.”
This graduation ceremony provided an opportunity to highlight the determination of these trainees, some of whom were juggling a part-time job, family responsibilities, and demanding scientific studies.
The DAEU-B remains a significant challenge for those without prior training in the sciences, which is why we would like to highlight the ability adaptability and the perseverance of the graduates from the classes of 2022–2023 and 2023–2024, who rose to this challenge with flying colors.
A Bridge to the Future
For many, earning this diploma is far from the end of their journey. In fact, the DAEU-B is, above all, a gateway to new university studies. This diploma provides access to higher education programs, whether in scientific fields through a Bachelor’s degree, technical fields through a BTS or a BUT, paramedical or even medical fields, or in the fields of economics and accounting, among others.
Testimonial from Gwenaelle GOSNET, a 2023–2024 intern in Montpellier:
"My name is Gwenaelle Gosnet. I'm 26 years old, and I went back to school at age 25 after having stopped at age 17 due to dyslexia."
Last year, I decided to enroll in the DAEU-B program in Montpellier with the goal of being admitted to nursing school after failing in my attempt to take the ST2S baccalaureate as an independent candidate.
The DAEU was an opportunity and a chance that came my way, and I seized it. After spending a year working toward my goal and believing in myself, I was admitted in July 2024 to the IFSI (Nursing Training Institute) in Cahors.
"We mustn't lose hope."
The DAEU-B represents a valuable opportunity for adults who have taken a different path in life, offering them a new chance to learn and grow in an ever-changing academic and professional world. It serves as a reminder that learning does not end after high school and that it is always possible to change career paths and pursue further education, regardless of one’s background.
This event therefore highlights the importance of continuing education and access to education for everyone, regardless of age.
