University technical institute (France)

[4] This is a type of educational institution, usually in small and medium-sized towns,[5] that offers post-secondary study programmes designed to provide higher vocational education or the technical skills needed to perform the tasks of a particular and specific job.

Prior to 2021, a university technical institute (IUT) was known for offering post-secondary studies lasting two to three years.

After finishing their DUT, students had the option to work, do a one-year professional bachelor's degree called Licence Professionnelle (a course also offered by IUTs), or further their studies in a university.

The university technical institute allow the preparation of a three-year career-focused vocational undergraduate diploma called Bachelor Universitaire de Technologie, (in English: "Bachelor of Technical Studies", the IUT diploma.

Rural areas and small and medium-sized towns are home to short higher education programmes, such as university technical institutes, but also the Brevets de Technicien Supérieur in high schools.