The University of Plymouth is one of the UK's largest universities, with over 23,000 students, including 2,000 international students from over 100 countries. Founded in 1862 as the Plymouth School of Navigation, it achieved full university status in 1992. Plymouth is renowned for its marine and maritime education, receiving the prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2012 for its global impact in this field. Today, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a strong emphasis on placement opportunities and work-based learning.
As a university dedicated to sustainability, Plymouth ranks among the top green universities in the UK. The city itself is an attractive place for students, consistently ranked as one of the most cost-effective places to study in the UK. The university’s Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Geography and Environmental Science, and Art and Design courses also rank highly nationally, making it a popular destination for students with diverse academic interests.
With a student satisfaction rate that puts several of its courses in the UK top ten, the University of Plymouth continues to deliver a world-class student experience.
The International Student Advice Service offers a comprehensive range of services for international students, helping them settle into life in the UK. The services include:
- Meet and Greet Service: This is available at Heathrow Airport at the start of the academic year.
- Orientation Programme: This covers the university campus, departments, and general British culture to help international students adapt smoothly.
- Languages Café: Hosted by the School of Tourism, this weekly event allows students to meet and practise different languages with native speakers in an informal setting.
Plymouth also provides ongoing support for students in areas such as
visa and immigration advice, English language support, and careers guidance.
The University of Plymouth consistently ranks well in various national and international rankings. In 2024, Plymouth placed:
- 70th in the Times University Guide
- 69th in the Guardian University Guide
- 661-670th in the QS World University Rankings 2025
Plymouth is also recognized for its research output. In the
REF 2021 (Research Excellence Framework), 78% of the university’s submissions were rated internationally excellent (4* or 3*), showing significant improvement from the previous assessment. Plymouth is known as one of the
top 40 global modern universities and is ranked among the best green universities in the UK.
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The University of Plymouth offers a vibrant student life, combining academic excellence with a wide range of extracurricular activities. With a campus located in the heart of Plymouth, students have access to the stunning natural surroundings of Devon and Cornwall, including the Dartmoor National Park and the nearby coastline.
The university has more than 100 clubs and societies, catering to a variety of interests from sports, art, and culture to more niche activities such as surfing and sailing, making Plymouth an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. The Students' Union plays a vital role in organising events and providing a sense of community on campus.
Plymouth is also a cost-effective city for students, with lower living costs compared to many other UK cities. This makes it an attractive option for students seeking high-quality education without the high expenses.
The University of Plymouth guarantees accommodation for all first-year undergraduates. There are six halls of residence on campus and six off-campus options, all within walking distance of the main campus and city centre. Students can choose from en suite rooms, studio apartments, or flats, typically shared with 3 to 11 other students.
Most accommodation includes shared kitchens and common areas, offering a social environment for students. Off-campus options are equally affordable, and the university’s accommodation services provide assistance with finding suitable housing.