University of Plymouth
United Kingdom
University of Plymouth
Plymouth, United Kingdom
Founded
1862
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
18,000+
Acceptance Rate
~85%
Discover the University of Plymouth: A Leading Modern UK University
Discover the University of Plymouth: A Leading Modern UK University
The University of Plymouth is a public research university located in the heart of Britain's Ocean City. Originally founded in 1862 as the Plymouth School of Navigation, it gained full university status in 1992 and has since grown to become one of the largest universities in the South West of England, serving approximately 18,000 students from over 100 countries.
Plymouth is renowned for its research-led teaching and strong emphasis on applied, hands-on learning. The university is a three-time winner of the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education, most recently in 2019 for its pioneering research on marine microplastic pollution. It was also the second UK university to be verified as carbon neutral.
With a campus situated at the centre of a vibrant coastal city, students benefit from proximity to stunning beaches, Dartmoor National Park, and a thriving cultural scene. The university has invested over GBP 155 million in its campus, including a state-of-the-art marine building, a 24-hour library, and modern performing arts facilities.
Key Milestones
- 1862: Founded as the Plymouth School of Navigation to train merchant navy officers.
- 1992: Gained full university status after evolving through polytechnic and college mergers.
- 2000: Peninsula Medical School established in partnership with the University of Exeter.
- 2019: Awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize for the third time for marine microplastics research.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Plymouth is organised into three core academic faculties supported by multiple schools. Each faculty offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes designed to combine research-led teaching with practical, real-world experience.
Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business
This faculty brings together creative, cultural, and business disciplines, fostering innovation and ingenuity. It includes Plymouth Business School, the School of Art, Design and Architecture, and the School of Law, Humanities and Social Sciences.
- BA (Hons) Architecture
- BSc (Hons) Business Management
- BA (Hons) Fine Art
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Offering programmes in marine science, computing, mathematics, engineering, and environmental sciences, this faculty leverages Plymouth's unique coastal location for specialised research and field-based learning.
- BSc (Hons) Marine Biology
- MEng Civil Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
Faculty of Health
Encompassing medicine, dentistry, nursing, psychology, and allied health professions, this faculty delivers clinical and academic learning with a strong focus on social engagement and community health.
- BMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
- BDS Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
Plymouth Business School
Part of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business, Plymouth Business School offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees with strong industry partnerships, including programmes in maritime business and international shipping.
- BSc (Hons) Economics
- MSc International Shipping
- BSc (Hons) Cruise Management
Peninsula Medical School
One of the first medical schools established at a modern UK university, the Peninsula Medical School provides innovative medical education with a focus on community-based clinical placements across Devon and Cornwall.
- BMBS Medicine
- MSc Clinical Education
- PhD Medical Research
Peninsula Dental School
Ranked among the top dental schools in the UK, Peninsula Dental School trains future dentists and dental therapists while tackling oral health inequalities through its social enterprise initiative.
- BDS Dental Surgery
- BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene
- PGCert Advanced Dental Practice
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationA-levels, IB Diploma, or equivalent international qualifications
- English Language (IELTS)Overall 6.0 with no element below 5.5 (varies by programme)
- English Language (TOEFL)79+ overall (varies by programme)
- Application MethodVia UCAS for most undergraduate programmes
- Personal StatementRequired as part of the UCAS application
Postgraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationA good honours degree (2:1 or above) or international equivalent
- English Language (IELTS)Overall 6.5 with no element below 5.5 (varies by programme)
- English Language (TOEFL)90+ overall (varies by programme)
- ReferencesTypically two academic or professional references required
- Supporting DocumentsCV, personal statement, and research proposal (for research degrees)
Equal consideration deadline for most undergraduate programmes via UCAS.
Final date for undergraduate applications through UCAS for the autumn intake.
Most postgraduate taught programmes accept applications on a rolling basis until places are filled.
Research degree applications are accepted year-round. Check with the Doctoral College for funded studentship deadlines.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
The University of Plymouth offers competitive tuition fees compared to many UK universities. Fees vary depending on your programme and whether you are a UK/home or international student. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedules.
| Fee Category | UK/Home Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | GBP 9,250 | GBP 17,100 - GBP 39,500 |
| Postgraduate Taught (per year) | GBP 8,500 - GBP 12,500 | GBP 17,100 - GBP 23,050 |
| Accommodation (per year, approx.) | GBP 5,000 - GBP 8,000 | GBP 5,000 - GBP 8,000 |
| Living Costs (per year, approx.) | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 | GBP 9,000 - GBP 12,000 |
| Total | GBP 31,750 - GBP 41,750 | GBP 48,200 - GBP 82,550 |
Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
A prestigious scholarship offering a significant tuition fee reduction for high-achieving international undergraduate and postgraduate students in their first year of study.
- Award Value: 50% off first-year tuition fees
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievement; application required
- Application: Separate scholarship application must be submitted
International Postgraduate Platinum Scholarship
Awarded to postgraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic credentials, providing a tuition fee discount to support their studies at Plymouth.
- Award Value: GBP 3,500 tuition fee discount
- Eligibility: Equivalent of a good UK 2:1 degree and meet English language requirements
- Application: Application required; awarded automatically if criteria are met
Campus and Facilities in the Heart of Plymouth
Campus and Facilities in the Heart of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth's main campus is located in the centre of the city, offering students easy access to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and the stunning waterfront. Over GBP 155 million has been invested in campus facilities, creating a modern and inspiring learning environment.
A nine-storey landmark housing a public art gallery, digital media suites, and three performance rehearsal studios.
A dedicated marine research facility with wave tanks, ship simulators, and a diving centre supporting ocean science programmes.
A 24/7 library housing over 350,000 books, e-books, journals, and digital resources for research and learning.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
All first-year students who choose Plymouth as their firm choice are guaranteed university-managed accommodation. Six halls of residence are available on campus with additional off-campus options.
- En-suite rooms in flats of 3-11 students with shared kitchens
- Studio apartments available in select halls
- All halls within walking distance of campus and city centre
Dining and Social Spaces
The campus features a variety of cafes, restaurants, and social spaces. The Students' Union building is a central hub for socialising, events, and student services.
- Multiple cafes and food outlets across campus
- Students' Union bar and event spaces
- City centre restaurants and shops just steps from campus
Student Life at the University of Plymouth
Student Life at the University of Plymouth
Student life at Plymouth is vibrant and diverse, shaped by the university's coastal location and strong community spirit. With over 100 clubs and societies, extensive sports facilities, and a lively social scene, there is something for everyone.
Plymouth: Britain's Ocean City
Plymouth: Britain's Ocean City
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth is a vibrant coastal city on the south coast of Devon, England, known as Britain's Ocean City. With a rich maritime heritage, affordable living costs, and easy access to beautiful beaches and Dartmoor National Park, Plymouth offers an exceptional quality of life for students.
Affordable Living
Plymouth is one of the most affordable cities in the UK for students, with living costs around 48% cheaper than London.
Coastal Lifestyle
The city offers excellent surfing, sailing, and watersports, with stunning beaches just minutes from the campus.
Rich Maritime Heritage
Home to the largest naval base in Western Europe and the historic Barbican, where the Pilgrim Fathers departed for America in 1620.
Culture and Entertainment
Plymouth features theatres, galleries, a new city museum, vibrant nightlife, and an IMAX cinema, all within easy reach of the campus.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Plymouth Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university provides dedicated support including orientation programmes at the start of the year and a meet-and-greet service from Heathrow Airport for new international arrivals.
Specialist advisors help with Tier 4 student visa applications, extensions, and compliance. After graduation, you may be eligible for the two-year Graduate Route visa to work in the UK.
Free, impartial one-to-one careers guidance from professionally qualified advisors, plus access to placements, internships, and employer networking events throughout your studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Plymouth: Worldwide Rankings
University of Plymouth: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Plymouth is consistently ranked among the top modern universities in the UK and features in major global university rankings. It is particularly recognised for its strength in marine science, earth sciences, sustainability, and health-related disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Marine and Ocean Engineering | Shanghai Rankings (ARWU) | #11 Worldwide |
| Earth and Marine Sciences | QS World University Rankings | Top 100 Worldwide |
| Life Below Water (SDG 14) | THE Impact Rankings | #4 Worldwide |
| Dentistry | The Guardian League Table | #1 in the UK |
Features
The International Student Advice Service run orientation programmes at the beginning of the year as well as a meet and greet service from Heathrow Airport. Orientation covers the campus and departments as well as general information about the area and British culture. The School of Tourism runs a weekly Languages Café, where students can meet in an informal setting to talk with native speakers of different languages.
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
See guidelines on working while studying here.
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
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
Map not found.
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