When you study with the University of Plymouth – a ‘research-intensive’ university – you can be confident that your teaching is informed by internationally renowned research and experts who are committed to developing solutions to the planet’s most challenging issues. But what does this actually mean for you?
The University of Plymouth’s long-term strategy is underpinned by its vision “to be a broad-based, research-intensive university, open to all who can benefit from a University of Plymouth education, and delivering excellent interdisciplinary research, experiential education and civic engagement.” By 2030, at least three-quarters of academic staff will be research active (University of Plymouth 2030: a future of excellence).
In the last published national research assessment, the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, two-thirds of the University’s research was graded as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, the highest classifications possible.
Plymouth’s diverse portfolio of research spans three strategic institutes, the Marine Institute, Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research and the Sustainable Earth Institute. Additional expertise across the arts, humanities and business includes: smart cities, environmental building, coastal communities, heritage and place-making, digital and immersive technologies, arts-health research, environmental cultures, lifelong education and global displacement.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the benefits from studying with a research-intensive university.
Gain access to cutting-edge research and graduate with the latest knowledge
At a research-intensive university, education and teaching go hand in hand. Your course is designed and taught by academics who are leaders in their field, conduct game-changing research and have become adept at adapting to rapid change. Research forms a fundamental part of course content, which means you benefit from the very latest knowledge and thinking in your discipline.
Find your passion and be inspired by Plymouth’s pioneers
When you browse our website, chat online to our existing students and log on to your lectures, you’ll soon discover the ways in which the University’s research is positively impacting the world around us, from sustainable campus buildings to counteracting climate change and supporting conservation. When you learn what motivates us, chances are you’ll find your own personal passion too.
Become part of a global community of changemakers
When you join our community of pioneering students, academic staff and researchers, you’ll become part of a global online community of like-minded peers and world-leading researchers. Learning from others, sharing your views and experiences while you study, you’ll begin to build the professional networks that can advance your career and develop contacts across the globe who’ll let you know when suitable job opportunities arise.
Immerse yourself in your subject with a focus on professional and personal development
Because your teaching is informed by current issues and developments within the field, professional and personal development lies at the core of our curriculum. Whether you’re practising dentistry in a virtual environment or debating global politics, from the first week of your course, you’ll encounter experiences that advance your knowledge and help you gain sought-after skills that will make you more employable. Plymouth has been rated in the top 25 UK universities for job prospects (What Uni Student Choice Awards 2019).
Make your own contribution to advancing knowledge
One of the advantages of studying at a research-intensive university is that you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside and/or receive one-to-one supervision from a leading expert in your subject of interest. As part of your master’s degree, you will plan, design, conduct and evaluate your own research project, giving you an opportunity to make your own positive impact through new knowledge and insight – even before you graduate.
Witness first-hand the new discoveries and insight that is changing our world Being taught by active researchers gives you unique ‘front row’ access to amazing discoveries as they happen. You’ll not only be able to question your own lecturers, but will also have opportunities to attend online research seminars that take place across the University.
Ranked number one in the world for its marine impact (Times Higher Education Impact Ratings 2021), Plymouth has twice been awarded a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for its world-leading microplastics discovery work in 2019 and for its education and research solutions for the global marine sector in 2011.
Develop specialist research and a wide range of transferable general skills
Developing research skills can give you the edge when applying for jobs. You will be equipped to excel in any role which values critical thinking, problem solving, communications skills, and the gathering, assessment and analysis of data and evidence.
Alternatively, if you wish to continue your studies upon graduation, your master’s degree will provide the perfect foundation and connections with which to continue your research on a PhD.
Looking to take your learning to the next level?
From September 2022, you can take advantage of everything this research-intensive university has to offer without ever leaving your country. Our 100% online courses allow you to study at a time and place that suits you, alongside students from all over the world. Find out more about the courses currently on offer.