Montpellier Campus

This preparatory year, which is accessible after high school, is intended for students who wish to learn the different creative processes and the technical fundamentals of the world of images through the practice of drawing.

The objective is that at the end of this first year, you will have the opportunity to follow a course in one of the following subjects: 3D Animation and Special Effects, Video Games or Concept Art Illustration, all validated by an RNCP qualification.

Also available in English for foreign students, you can then continue with the 3D Animation and Special Effects course in English.

The preparatory year in design, available at post-secondary level, allows students to deepen their knowledge of the world of design while promoting artistic practice.

During this preparatory year, they will be able to acquire the necessary foundations to evolve in a demanding creative environment.

Combining both general knowledge and targeted skills in applied arts, this preparatory year will prepare you in the best possible way to continue your studies in one of our following courses: Graphic Design Multimedia, Interior Architecture or Illustration Concept Art, all validated by an RNCP qualification.

Montpellier, the capital of the Hérault department, has a rich tradition of history, architecture and the arts. Constantly evolving, the city is now an emerging centre for new technologies, home to cutting-edge software development companies, graphic design studios, audiovisual production companies and start-ups specialising in animation and special effects.

The Campus Créatif, home to ESMA Montpellier, plays an active part in this dynamic, reinforcing it through creative synergy and fruitful collaboration between players in the artistic and digital fields.

Montpellier has won the title of ‘best student city’ because it continually invests in its students. The city boasts a particularly rich cultural, artistic and festive calendar, perfectly aligned with the expectations of its young people in terms of education, entertainment and quality of life.

The Cartoon Forum, the Cinemed festival, the Printemps des Comédiens, the Montpellier Dance Festival, the ZAT (Temporary Artistic Zone), and even Coeur de Ville en Lumière are all opportunities for ESMA students to enrich their culture and explore new artistic practices.

How can you resist the call of the Mediterranean when the temperatures rise, or a trip to the Pyrenees when the first snow falls? Situated at the crossroads of southern influences, Montpellier offers a wealth of varied activities and excursions.

The city centre is a lively place – to say the least! – with a host of events that punctuate city life from spring through to the last days of summer. Wander through the streets of the Ecusson, stroll along the Promenade du Peyrou, indulge in a shopping spree in Odysseum, visit the Musée Fabre, enjoy the evenings by the beach… In Montpellier, life is light, and every day brings its share of discoveries.

The best student city means an efficient transport network! Montpellier was the first major city in France to introduce free public transport. Montpellier is a forerunner in innovative urban development.

The city also boasts an ever-expanding tram network, providing easy access to the seaside resort of Palavas-les-Flots and major infrastructure such as the GGL Stadium. Finally, a significant effort is being made to extend the cycle network, with a budget of €150 million allocated to active mobility over the period 2021-2026.

These are major advantages for students, who are looking for efficient mobility solutions and a fulfilling quality of life.