Falmouth University - Uni4edu

Falmouth University

Falmouth, United Kingdom

Aerial view of Falmouth University Penryn Campus set in rolling green parklands, Cornwall coastline visible in the background, modern university buildings alongside historic structures, bright overcast sky typical of coastal England

Falmouth University

Falmouth, United Kingdom

Founded

1902

Institution Type

Public University

Total Students

7,000+

Academic Departments

9

Discover Falmouth University: A Creative Industries Powerhouse

Falmouth University is a specialist public university for the creative industries based in Falmouth and Penryn, Cornwall, England. Founded as the Falmouth School of Art in 1902, it has evolved over more than 120 years into a modern institution celebrated for fostering innovation and creativity across disciplines ranging from fine art and design to games, film, and business.

The university operates across two campuses in the coastal towns of Falmouth and Penryn, with the larger Penryn Campus operated in partnership with the University of Exeter. Falmouth emphasises hands-on, industry-focused education that bridges traditional arts with cutting-edge technology, and its courses are closely aligned with the creative industries.

With students from over 50 countries, Falmouth provides a diverse and inclusive community in one of the UK's most inspiring natural settings. The university's Chancellor, Dawn French, is a celebrated actor and comedian who has attended every graduation since her installation in 2014.

Key Milestones

  • 1902: Falmouth School of Art founded in response to the decline of Cornish mining, evolving from the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society.
  • 1989: Became an independent Higher Education Corporation following the Education Reform Act 1988.
  • 2005: Gained degree-awarding powers, becoming the only institution in Cornwall able to award its own degrees.
  • 2012: Granted full university status by the Privy Council, officially becoming Falmouth University.

Academic Structure and Departments

Falmouth University is organised into nine academic departments that work together to tackle real-world briefs and challenges. Working across disciplines and with strong industry connections, students are prepared to make an impact in the creative economy upon graduation.

Falmouth School of Art

With over a century of experience, the School of Art maintains a reputation for creative excellence across fine art, illustration, and creative practices.

  • BA(Hons) Fine Art
  • BA(Hons) Illustration
  • BA(Hons) Drawing

School of Film & Television

With a 50-year heritage and extensive industry connections, the School produces award-winning graduates in film, television, and screenwriting.

  • BA(Hons) Film
  • BA(Hons) Television
  • MA Film & Television

Games Academy

Ranked No.1 for Games Design in England by The Princeton Review (2025) and 13th globally, the Games Academy creates real games and digital products every day using professional-standard studios.

  • BA(Hons) Game Development
  • BA(Hons) Game Art
  • BSc(Hons) Computing for Games

Cornwall Business School

Students run their own enterprises, events, or marketing agencies alongside their studies, gaining real-world experience in business, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

  • BA(Hons) Business & Digital Marketing
  • BA(Hons) Creative Advertising
  • BA(Hons) Creative Events Management

Fashion & Textiles Institute

Students work on industry-sponsored projects with companies like Adidas, developing innovative approaches to fashion and textile design.

  • BA(Hons) Fashion Design
  • BA(Hons) Textile Design
  • BA(Hons) Fashion Styling & Art Direction

School of Communication

Offering opportunities to work on live briefs and learn from industry leaders, the School of Communication prepares students for careers in journalism, writing, and media.

  • BA(Hons) Journalism
  • BA(Hons) Creative Writing
  • MA Professional Writing

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate Admissions

  • Application RouteApply via UCAS (University code: F33) or directly to the university
  • Academic RequirementsCompleted high school diploma or equivalent with strong academic performance
  • IELTS RequirementMinimum overall score of 6.0, with no less than 5.5 in each component
  • PortfolioRequired for most creative arts programmes; submit your best creative work
  • Personal StatementA statement outlining your goals and why you want to study at Falmouth
Falmouth takes a holistic approach to admissions — decisions are based on portfolio, interview, and personal statement, not just grades. Many courses require an interview.

Postgraduate Admissions

  • Application RouteApply directly through Falmouth University's online application portal
  • Academic RequirementsRelevant undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2:2 classification (or equivalent)
  • IELTS RequirementMinimum overall score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each component
  • Portfolio / InterviewRequired for many creative programmes; online interviews available for international students
  • ReferencesOne or two academic or professional references required
Postgraduate programmes often have rolling admissions. International students are advised to apply 3-4 months before the course start date to allow time for visa processing.
January 31
UCAS Undergraduate Deadline

Main UCAS deadline for most undergraduate programmes. International students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

End of June
Late UCAS Applications

Applications may still be accepted via UCAS if places are available. After this date, apply directly to the university.

Rolling
Postgraduate Applications

Postgraduate deadlines vary by programme. Apply early for the best chance of securing a place and scholarship.

Year-round
Research Degrees (MPhil/PhD)

Applications for research degrees are accepted throughout the year. Contact the university for specific intake dates.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition fees at Falmouth University vary depending on your programme and fee status. The UK Government announced that undergraduate home fees will rise to GBP 9,535 per year from September 2025. International tuition fees typically range from GBP 15,000 to GBP 21,000 per year depending on the course.

Fee CategoryUK / Home StudentsInternational Students
Undergraduate Tuition (per year)GBP 9,535GBP 15,000 - 21,000
Postgraduate Tuition (per year)Contact university for current feesContact university for current fees
Accommodation (per week)GBP 105 - 189GBP 105 - 189
Living Costs (estimated per year)GBP 9,000 - 12,000GBP 9,000 - 12,000
TotalContact university for full cost breakdownContact university for full cost breakdown

International Talent Scholarship

A merit-based scholarship designed to support outstanding international students commencing their studies at Falmouth University.

  • Award Value: Up to GBP 10,000
  • Eligibility: International fee-paying students demonstrating academic excellence and creative talent
  • Application: Check the Falmouth University scholarships page for current deadlines and criteria

International Bursary

A financial support initiative aimed at international students commencing eligible part-time online postgraduate courses.

  • Award Type: Partial tuition fee reduction
  • Eligibility: International students on eligible online postgraduate programmes
  • How to Apply: Visit the Falmouth University international funding page for details

Campus and Facilities

Falmouth University is spread across two campuses in the neighbouring towns of Falmouth and Penryn in Cornwall. Both campuses offer professional-standard creative facilities, libraries with specialist collections, and inspiring environments that blend historic character with modern architecture.

Housing & Dining

Student Accommodation

Falmouth offers purpose-built student accommodation across both campuses, with options ranging from en suite rooms in shared flats to studio apartments.

  • Glasney Student Village: Over 1,400 en suite rooms in flats of seven with shared kitchen (Penryn Campus)
  • The Sidings: 233 en suite rooms near Penryn Campus, with studio flat options available
  • Tuke House: 156 beds near Falmouth Campus, primarily for foundation course students

Dining & Campus Life

Both campuses offer cafes and social spaces, while the surrounding towns of Falmouth and Penryn provide a rich selection of independent restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

  • Sustainable campus cafe at Penryn serving hot and cold food and refreshments
  • Stannary Bar on Penryn Campus hosting regular student events and social nights
  • Falmouth town centre offers gourmet restaurants, quirky pubs, and cocktail bars within walking distance

Student Life at Falmouth

Student life at Falmouth is a little beyond the ordinary. With stunning beaches minutes from campus, a vibrant creative community, and over 150 clubs and societies, you will find an inspiring and supportive environment to grow both personally and professionally.

Clubs & Societies

The Students' Union — unique in representing students from both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter — offers over 150 clubs and societies covering everything from creative pursuits to outdoor adventures.

Water Sports & Outdoor Activities

Fal Surf (one of the largest clubs with 300+ members), Fal Sail, Kayak Club, sea swimming, and MarineWatch for marine wildlife conservation.

Creative & Cultural Societies

Women In Business, Cornish Language & Culture, Asian Society, International Society, and various art and design-focused groups.

Sports Clubs

Rugby, football, netball, hockey, lacrosse, athletics, gymnastics, tennis, cheerleading, and a Multisport Society.

Environmental & Wellbeing

BeeSoc for bee-keeping, EcoSoc, Green Living, Vegan Society, and volunteering projects including Flicka Volunteers and Generation Wild.

Sports & Athletics

British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)

  • Surfing
  • Football
  • Rugby
  • Netball
  • Hockey
  • Sailing
Penryn Campus Sports Centre with fully equipped gym, fitness studio, and four-court sports hall

Location: Falmouth & Cornwall, United Kingdom

Panoramic view of Falmouth harbour and coastline, colourful waterfront buildings, sailing boats in the natural harbour, green headlands, blue ocean, typical Cornish coastal town atmosphere
Falmouth — a vibrant coastal town with the third deepest natural harbour in the world

Life in Falmouth, Cornwall

Falmouth is a traditional seaside town in Cornwall, south-west England, frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK. With stunning beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and a welcoming creative community, it provides a unique and inspiring setting for university life. Cornwall has a heritage and culture distinct from the rest of the UK, featuring lively towns and peaceful landscapes.

Coastal Lifestyle

Golden beaches are just minutes from campus, offering surfing, paddleboarding, sea swimming, sailing, and coastal walks year-round.

Creative & Cultural Scene

Cornwall is home to theatres, galleries, festivals like Boardmasters and the Sea Shanty Festival, and a thriving independent food and music scene.

Natural Beauty

Subtropical gardens, dramatic cliff paths, and the stunning Cornish countryside provide endless inspiration and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Transport Links

Both campuses are connected by frequent bus services and a nearby railway station offers local and national connections, including direct trains to London.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Network

94%
Graduate Employment
Graduates in employment or further study within six months
20%+
Graduate Entrepreneurs
Graduates who start their own businesses
120+
Years of Heritage
Building a global alumni network in the creative industries

Where Falmouth Graduates Work

BBC Adobe Rockstar Games Creative Assembly Rare (Xbox Game Studios) Supermassive Games Respawn Entertainment Firesprite

Practical Information for International Students

For International Students

International Student Support

Falmouth welcomes students from over 50 countries. The International Office provides guidance on visas, English language requirements, and settling into life in Cornwall.

Visa & Immigration Guidance

International students can apply via UCAS, directly, or through an educational agent. The university assists with CAS issuance and visa application processes for Student Route visas.

Careers & Employability Service

The Realworks employability team offers CV building, practice interviews, placement opportunities, and access to the Handshake student jobs portal. After graduation, the UK Graduate Route visa allows a two-year stay to find work.

Key Contacts

Falmouth University Admissions
  • +90 5435286292
  • +44 7868736984
  • corporate@uni4edu.com
  • info@uni4edu.com

Falmouth University Rankings

As a specialist creative university, Falmouth is most prominently featured in subject-specific league tables for art, design, and media rather than broad global rankings. The university consistently places within the top 100 UK universities and is internationally recognised for its creative programmes.

QS World University Rankings by Subject
#101-150 (Art & Design)
2026
The Guardian University Guide
#83 (UK)
2025
Complete University Guide
#61 (UK)
2025
The Princeton Review
#1 in England / #13 Globally
2025
SubjectRanking BodyRank
Game DesignThe Princeton Review#1 in England, #13 Globally (Undergraduate)
Art & DesignQS World University Rankings by Subject#101-150 Globally
Design & CraftsThe Guardian University GuideTop 10 in the UK
Fashion & TextilesThe Guardian University GuideTop 15 in the UK
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705
Graduate Students
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359
Academic Stuf
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7380
Students
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Public
Instution Type

Features

A creative‑focused university located on coastal Cornwall campuses, Falmouth blends hands‑on industry‑aligned teaching, innovative facilities (especially in game design, media, and arts), and strong graduate outcomes in creative industries.

Accommodation

Accommodation

Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.

Work While Studying

Work While Studying

See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation

Co-op/Internship Participation

Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.

Featured Programmes

Master's & Postgraduate

24 months

Photography MA

location

Falmouth University, Falmouth, United Kingdom

Earliest Intake

September 2025

Gross Tuition

12000 £

Master's & Postgraduate

24 months

Marketing and Digital Communication MA

location

Falmouth University, Falmouth, United Kingdom

Earliest Intake

September 2025

Gross Tuition

16000 £

Master's & Postgraduate

15 months

Indie Game Development (15 Months) Gdip

location

Falmouth University, Falmouth, United Kingdom

Earliest Intake

September 2025

Gross Tuition

7900 £

Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter

January - September

Location

Penryn Campus, Treliever Road, Penryn TR10 9FE, United Kingdom

Location not found

Map not found.

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