Arts University Plymouth

Overview

Founded in 1856, Arts University Plymouth (AUP) is a leading independent arts university run by artists and designers, for artists and designers. It’s home to a dynamic community of bright artistic minds from all over the world. Formerly known as Plymouth College of Art, in 2022 AUP achieved University status, and changed its name to reflect this.

The world needs creatives now more than ever. AUP’s proposition is that making is as important as reading and writing, as science and maths, and that the purpose of learning is inseparable from that of living your life. AUP is a place for making things, for making things happen, and for making a difference.

The benefit of studying at an arts university is that you are part of an environment that values your subject and helps you grow as a creative. AUP is no different, and the practical subjects students study set graduates up with strong ambitions to create award winning companies or head off to world-renowned companies.

In 2022, AUP won Best Small/Specialist University at the WhatUni awards and was the top rated Arts University according to the National Survey of Students. 

The University offers a variety of excellent courses across a number of creative disciplines. Due to the history of AUP in the city of Plymouth, they have a close relationship with organisations, which allow students to work with organisations in the city on live briefs and see their work come to life. Students have the privilege of learning at AUP’s state-of-the-art campus and have access to outstanding facilities. It’s home to an array of creative studios, social areas, and impressive workspaces to name a few.

Services

AUP has a relatively small population, with around 2000 students, of which there are about 100 international students. The international team are open and accessible, hosting student mixers and offering 1:1 support to students from enquiry to graduation.

Students also benefit from the universities student support services, careers and enterprise team and access to the award winning Student Union.

Rankings

• Best Small/Specialist University at the 2022 WhatUni Awards
• Top Arts University for Student Satisfaction according to the 2022 NSS

Accommodation

Not only is Plymouth one of the safest cities in the UK, but it is also one of the cheapest, with the average student accommodation rent being 50% cheaper than in London. AUP works with several accommodation providers in the city, and can recommend students with accommodation to suit their needs.