Arts University Plymouth

The history of Arts University Plymouth, a specialist creative arts institution, reaches back to 1856 and the founding of the Plymouth Drawing School. For many years it was known as Plymouth College of Art; it gained taught degree awarding powers in 2019, then university title in 2022, which places it among the UK's newer specialist arts universities. Most teaching happens at Tavistock Place, on a campus in the city centre, where studios and workshops extending over more than 13,000 square metres serve subjects ranging from photography, ceramics and games design to animation, fashion, graphic design, illustration and fine art. Facilities include Plymouth Arts Cinema, Fab Lab South West and MIRROR, a contemporary visual art gallery.

About 1,600 students make up the higher education community, mostly on BA (Hons) courses, alongside MA programmes in glass, craft, fine art, design, immersive media and museum studies. Pre-degree study, namely Level 3 extended diplomas and the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, takes place on a separate campus. In 2013 the institution also founded a free school for younger pupils, the Plymouth School of Creative Arts.

Information for International Students

The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) needed for a Student visa comes from the university's Senior International Officer, while a dedicated international team advises overseas applicants on their applications and on getting ready for life in the UK. Qualifications from abroad are assessed individually. Every degree applicant must provide a portfolio, either digitally or in person. If an applicant's English is still below the level for direct entry, an online pre-sessional English course may be offered. Those needing further preparation can follow a four-year Integrated Foundation route, which opens with a wide-ranging preparatory year covering art, design and media before the degree itself.

Homes for Students, the university's housing partner, has properties a short walk from campus. Details of the international scholarships on offer are held by the international office, and exchange links exist with partners in China, Europe and North America. The UK Graduate Route is open to those completing an eligible degree and allows them to spend a period working in the UK after their studies.