Formulation and Industrial Chemistry
https://master-formulation-chimie-industrielle.univ-lyon1.fr/
Formerly part of the Chemistry Master’s degree, the Formulation and Industrial Chemistry track is now included within the Physical and Analytical Chemistry Master’s programme.
From a curriculum perspective, this evolution strengthens the Analytical Chemistry component in the first year (M1), providing essential knowledge for the characterisation of raw materials and formulated products. At the same time, it maintains a high-level training in formulation, with all dedicated courses preserved — and in some cases reinforced — compared to the previous accreditation. The scientific teaching structure of the second year (M2) remains unchanged.
From an organisational point of view, this change allows the programme to be offered in a work–study format starting from the M1 year. The Master’s in Physical and Analytical Chemistry – Formulation and Industrial Chemistry track can thus be followed either:
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under a two-year work–study contract (M1 and M2) with the same company, or
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as a one-year work–study placement (M2 only) after completing M1 as a full-time student.
A Training Programme Dedicated to Formulation
Formulation requires a global approach, from the synthesised molecule (active ingredient, polymer, surfactant, etc.) to the final product’s performance, while mastering the implementation process. The programme also develops analytical skills for the physico-chemical characterisation of formulated products — rheology, light scattering, tensiometry, wettability, surface analysis — and for the quality control of raw materials.
Professional Focus
This Master’s programme prepares experts for industrial careers:
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From R&D to application and quality control,
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From the laboratory to industrial scale,
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Across all fields where formulation plays a key role — from detergents to paints, materials (coatings, concretes, etc.), cosmetics, varnishes, and even food and pharmaceutical formulations.
A Profession at the Heart of Modern Industry
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Develop high-performance, cost-effective formulations,
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Work within a framework that promotes environmental and health responsibility.
A Programme Focused on Expertise
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Expertise in formulation science,
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Mastery of analytical chemistry techniques,
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Management training and communication skills,
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An international outlook.
A Learning Philosophy Centred on Autonomy
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A work–study structure promoting hands-on experience,
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Company placements to refine career goals,
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Work–study contracts ensuring strong professional integration,
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Individual and group projects encouraging initiative and collaboration.
Admission to the first year (M1) of the Master’s programme is open to students who have obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Science and Technology, from any university, with a specialisation in Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or Process Engineering.
The intake for the first year of the Master’s in Formulation and Industrial Chemistry is limited to 24 students.
Students holding a Professional Bachelor’s degree may also apply for admission to the Master’s programme (see specific requirements and prerequisites).
The aim of this Professional Master’s degree is to train students for careers involving research, design, development, and production of formulated products with controlled performance properties. Graduates will also acquire expertise in physico-chemical characterisation and quality control of these products, across a wide range of industrial sectors where formulation plays a key role: chemistry, speciality chemicals, materials (cements, glass, paper, etc.), cosmetics, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Formulation science requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing every stage from the synthesised molecule (active ingredient, polymer, surfactant, etc.) to the final product’s functional properties, while mastering the implementation and processing techniques that govern performance.
Students admitted to the first year (M1) of the programme generally hold a general Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or Process Engineering.
Students who have completed a Professional Bachelor’s degree may also apply for the Master’s programme. However, as the professional degree is primarily designed to prepare students for direct entry into the workforce, only a work–study contract (apprenticeship or professionalisation) in conjunction with the Master’s degree can be considered a natural continuation of such a qualification.
Applications from holders of a Professional Bachelor’s degree will be carefully reviewed, taking into account both the type of professional degree obtained and the candidate’s evolving career goals.
Therefore, if you have a clear professional project and a passion for Formulation Chemistry, do not hesitate to apply!
