University Guide
University of Plymouth
Founded as a School of Navigation in 1862, the University of Plymouth has grown into a university offering subjects from marine science and engineering to business, arts and healthcare. Its main campus at Drake Circus puts students close to the city centre, with the waterfront offering a change of scene between lectures. Practical facilities and opportunities for work-based learning help students connect their studies with their future careers.
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The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the University of Plymouth.
Rankings
Plymouth ranks 67th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2027. It also achieved triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023, receiving Gold overall and in both underpinning categories: student experience and student outcomes.
Employability
Plymouth reports that 94% of graduates are working or studying 15 months after graduation. Its Careers Service offers individual guidance, skills workshops and employer events, alongside support with applications and interviews. Students and graduates can use myCareer to explore opportunities and resources, with additional advice on work experience, postgraduate study and self-employment.
Fees
Standard full-time home undergraduate tuition fees are £9,790 for 2026/27, rising to £10,050 for new entrants in 2027/28. International and postgraduate fees vary by programme, so check your course’s fees and funding information. Allow for additional expenses such as field trips, equipment and placement travel, alongside your accommodation and everyday living costs. Fees may change in subsequent years.
Bursaries
Plymouth offers bursaries and support funds, including the Mayflower Award for eligible students facing barriers to higher education and discretionary help with financial hardship. For eligible international undergraduates starting in 2026/27, the Welcome to Plymouth Scholarship offers tuition discounts worth up to £6,000: £4,000 in the first year, £1,000 in the second and £1,000 in the final year. Assessment is automatic, but exclusions include medical, dental, online and sponsored study.
Accommodation
Plymouth’s six university-managed halls are on campus or in the nearby Student Village, with shared-bathroom and en-suite options. Published 2026/27 rents range from £141 to £233 a week. At Gilwell Hall, a shared-facilities room costs £5,781 for a 41-week licence, including utilities, Wi-Fi and contents insurance. For 2027/28, the accommodation guarantee covers eligible new first-year and foundation-year undergraduates who make Plymouth their firm choice and apply by 17:00 on 4 July 2027. Conditions apply, and a preferred hall or room type is not guaranteed. You can also compare private student accommodation in Plymouth through AFS.
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Students' Union
The University of Plymouth Students’ Union (UPSU) offers societies, sports clubs and events to help you meet people beyond your course. Elected presidents and student representatives raise concerns and help shape university life. Its Advice Centre provides free, independent and confidential support with accommodation, money, student finance, academic issues and wellbeing.
Famous for
Plymouth is particularly recognised for its marine and maritime expertise. Its research into microplastics, led by Professor Richard Thompson, helped establish a new field of environmental research and influence action on plastic pollution. This work earned the university a Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2019.
News
In August 2026, Plymouth was named Community University of the Year in the Daily Mail University Guide 2027. The award recognised its contribution to the city and wider South West, including partnerships with local employers, marine research and community healthcare facilities.
Accommodation for Students says
"Upon entering Plymouth, it’s easy to see that this is a city designed with student living in mind. With the university in the heart of the city, everything you need is just a short walk away".
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