By Study Inn
The University of Exeter stands as a well-known centre of academic excellence in the county of Devon. Over the years, its blend of rich history and innovative approaches to modern-day education has elevated its status among global institutions. Known for its outstanding research, top-tier teaching, and impressive employability rates, Exeter has become an increasingly sought-after destination for students worldwide. This institution not only honours its storied past but also embraces the evolving demands of contemporary academia, making it a premier choice for the next generation of scholars. We’ll take a tour of all the reasons why Exeter University is so popular today with students and the world!
When was Exeter University founded?
In 1855, inspired by his vision of Exeter as the West of England’s cultural hub, Sir Stafford Northcote founded a School of Art in the city. By 1868, the Devon and Exeter Albert Memorial Museum opened its doors, leading to a surge in student enrolment. By 1922, the institution had relocated to Streatham, rebranding as the University College of the south-west. In 1955, the institution was granted its Charter, elevating it to a full-fledged university. Subsequently, it was structured into four distinguished faculties: Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Law.
During the 1960s, Exeter University rapidly expanded. Between 1963 and 1968, with student numbers nearly doubling, the university erected 10 significant buildings on the Streatham estate, accommodating key departments and about 1,000 students. The Arts Faculty began using the Queen’s Building in 1959, followed by the Amory Building for Law and Social Sciences in 1974. Later years saw a focus on developing self-catering accommodations for students.
Now, the university operates across four campuses: Streatham and St Luke’s in Exeter, and Truro and Penryn in Cornwall. Located mainly in Exeter, Devon, it’s the city’s primary higher education entity. The expansive Streatham campus houses most administrative facilities. In partnership with Falmouth University, the Penryn campus runs under the Combined Universities in Cornwall initiative.
Is Exeter a respected uni?
The university is a prestigious and greatly respected university home to nearly 70 esteemed research centres and institutes. Notable among them are the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, the Institute of Cornish Studies, the Environment and Sustainability Institute, and the Marchmont Observatory. Plus, the Centre for Leadership Studies, integrated into the University of Exeter Business School since 1997, stands out as Europe’s sole dedicated hub for leadership studies scholarship.
The University of Exeter is also a recognised Russell Group university. This group comprises 24 of the UK’s leading universities in their commitment to outstanding research and education. Exeter University excels in researching extrasolar planets, with its team leading global efforts using instruments like the Hubble Space Telescope, VLT Survey Telescope, and others. Collaborations with the Met Office in Exeter have led to Exeter students being involved in building highly sophisticated climate prediction models.
What does Exeter University specialise in?
The University of Exeter proudly ranks 15th worldwide in Mining Engineering, holding the top spot nationally. The university’s holistic academic offerings, from Sports-Related Subjects to Classics and Ancient History, consistently feature in the global Top 50, underscoring its commitment to diverse, high-calibre education.
Several disciplines, spanning Archaeology to Psychology, rank among the world’s Top 100. This broad-based excellence is highlighted by each of its three main faculties having at least one top-ranked subject. On the national stage, ten of Exeter’s subjects, including Archaeology and Politics and International Relations, stand tall in the UK’s top 10.
For prospective students, choosing Exeter means embracing rigorous academia, world-class faculty, and an exciting, ambitious community. This institution is more than just a university; it’s where global academic leaders are nurtured.
Exeter University’s sports and societies
The University of Exeter is home to over 300 diverse student societies, spanning hobbies, communities, and political platforms. Among these, the Debating Society boasts a rich history from 1893, welcoming distinguished speakers like Anthony Eden and Stephen Fry. Its legacy even extends to a scholarship, backed by the society’s alumni.
Exeter Student Volunteers collaborate with the local community through various projects, while the RAG group actively fundraises for selected charities, all with the aim of fostering student development.
Sport is integral to Exeter’s ethos. Managed by the Exeter University Athletic Union, recreational to competitive sports activities cater to diverse interests. With over 5,000 members participating in 50 sports clubs and another 3,000 engaging in intramural sports, there’s something for everyone. This enthusiasm extends to competitions like the British Universities and Colleges Sport, where Exeter competes in numerous disciplines, including rugby, hockey, and tennis.
Living in Exeter
A myriad of museums, galleries, and theatres, along with an active live music scene, ensures a stimulating cultural experience for students in Exeter. Exeter has affordable drink options according to our recent most fun uni cities ranking (coming a penny below the national average!). Exeter scored highly in our university rankings for having an impressive array of over 500 restaurants, beating only the diversity London has to offer.
Living in Exeter as a student brings a somewhat higher living cost, given its position in one of the UK’s more upscale regions in the south-west. Yet, compared to London, Exeter remains a more budget-friendly choice, with living expenses being approximately 26.3% less. To save money on living costs, all-inclusive student accommodation can save additional expenses on entertainment, cinema and gym memberships.
At Walnut Gardens, we offer more than just a place to stay. Our all-inclusive package encompasses utilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, wellness facilities, study zones, round-the-clock staff assistance, events, bike rentals, and a starter essentials kit, ensuring a top-tier student life in Exeter while simplifying budgeting. Our serviced apartments fuse private en-suite bedrooms with lively shared spaces, perfect for both solitude and camaraderie. Central to this is the Luxe Lounge – a chic hub for relaxation and fun, with all this just 8 minutes away from Exeter’s main campus.
Each apartment showcases 5-6 premium en-suite rooms centred around this contemporary lounge, boasting a state-of-the-art kitchen. Thanks to amenities ranging from a drinks cooler to a dishwasher, coupled with our proactive housekeeping, day-to-day tasks are a breeze. Engage in light-hearted banter at the breakfast nook or kick back with our 55-inch smart TV and an array of games.
Why choose Exeter University
Exeter University’s burgeoning popularity can be attributed to a range of factors, spanning from its academic prowess to its enriching student experiences. The institution’s unwavering dedication to maintaining excellence, both within the classroom and beyond, cements its esteemed position in the world of academia. As time progresses, Exeter continues to uphold its legacy of commitment, ensuring that students receive a profound and transformative education.
Start making memories today and book a viewing at Study Inn’s Walnut Gardens in Exeter!
