Montpellier School of Sports Science
Skills for sports, education, and health

Sports Science in France

The Science and Techniques of Physical and Sports Activities (STAPS) was established as an academic discipline in 1974. Originally focused on training physical education and sports teachers, STAPS has since significantly expanded its range of programs.

The STAPS Departments

Currently, there are 50 university departments affiliated with STAPS, located throughout the country. Some are independent academic units (UFRs), while others are STAPS departments within larger academic units. The names may also vary from one university to another, such as UFR STAPS, UFR APS, Faculty of Sports Sciences, etc.

The Conference of Directors of the STAPS Academic Units (C3D)

The development of Sports Science programs is coordinated by the Conference of Directors and Deans of Sports Science Departments (C3D), currently chaired by Aurélien PICHON, Director of the Sports Science Department at the University of Poitiers. The work of the C3D in recent years has enabled a controlled and coordinated development of STAPS, notably through the establishment of five Bachelor’s degree specializations (Adapted Physical Activity and Health, Education and Motor Skills, Sports Training, Sports Management, Ergonomics and Performance). The C3D has ensured the inclusion of these specializations in the National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP) and defined a set of specifications for the organization of these programs. Similar work is currently being finalized for the Master’s specializations.

The C3D is also responsible for maintaining relationships with the discipline’s various partners, including those at the ministerial level, within the sports sector, and in the health sector.

The C3D website provides a wealth of information about the Conference’s activities and the various STAPS departments across France.

ANESTAPS

STAPS students also have a national student association, ANESTAPS (National Association of STAPS Students). TheANESTAPS website alsooffers a wealth of information and analysis on STAPS programs and career opportunities.