Residential pathway

Subject Strands: We aim to place participants on their first choice of residential and subject strand, but due to demand and availability we are not always able to do so. In this case, we will place participants on their second or third choice of residential and subject strand. Please do try to choose a residential and subject strand (see lists below) for your second or your third choice that you would be just as happy to study as part of the Exeter Scholars programme. Also, when choosing first, second, and third choices for subject strands, do not select the same subject strand multiple times - this will not increase your chances of getting your first choice.

STREATHAM CAMPUS: Streatham Campus is the University’s largest site in Exeter, is built around a country estate overlooking the city, and is readily acknowledged as one of the most beautiful in the country. A Registered Botanic Garden, Streatham Campus is described by The Times as the ‘best-gardened campus in Britain’ and by The Independent as having a ‘sublime’ setting. There are stunning views across the city to the sea at Exmouth, which is only a 15 minute train ride from the city. Many students say they simply fell in love with the campus when they came to visit – its lakes, parkland, woodland and gardens make it a very special place that offers a safe and enjoyable environment. 

The campus has seen huge investment over the past couple of years, the most ambitious part of which is the Forum, which provides a stunning centrepiece, offering a new Student Services Centre, a new multi-faith centre, a refurbished library, new technology-rich learning spaces, a 400-seat lecture theatre, retail and catering outlets. All the teaching buildings, together with the sports park, the library, the shops, restaurants, cafés and bars are within easy walking distance of each other.

Although a smaller city, Exeter is growing fast and caters so well for the diverse community we have become. The city centre is a 20 minute walk away where there are an exciting variety of shops, bars, restaurants and clubs, and open spaces. The historic Quay area by the river has a large range of eateries, bars and cafes, with access to many extra sports facilities . We have over 300 clubs and societies at Exeter, so there really is something for everyone. If there isn't one you want, you can start your own!

•  ARTS AND HUMANITIES: English & Creative Writing, Film & Television Studies, Visual Culture and Communications, Drama and Languages. 

In this exciting and diverse subject activity strand, you will have the opportunity to participate in taster sessions in English Literature, Creative Writing, Film and Television Studies, Drama and Communications. You will also be taught by experts from the department of Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies. This strand will nurture your appreciation of the arts and humanities and it will both challenge and inspire you to express yourself and find your own voice, as well as consider the past, the present and the future. All subject sessions are dependent upon staff availability.

• BUSINESS: Accounting & Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Management and Marketing.

The future is dynamic, complex and hyper-connected and Business permeates all aspects of life. The Business School subject activity strand covers a wide range of real-world issues that impact upon our everyday lives. We will guide you in exploring how people make decisions; the practical applicability of our subjects to jobs; and how business practices can be sustainable. You will be taught in a mixture of lectures, seminars and practical group work sessions by academics from our three main Business School departments: Finance& Accounting, Management, and Economics, and also by experts working in related departments. All subject sessions are dependent upon staff availability. 

• HISTORY & HUMANITIES: Archaeology, History, Classics, Human Geography, Philosophy, Theology & Religion and Anthropology.

In this subject strand you will take an exciting intellectual journey into philosophy, society, history, religion and culture and examine how human experience and the contemporary world are shaped. We will guide you to develop transferable skills such as critical reasoning, communication, research, imaginative thinking and problem-solving techniques. The sessions will be taught in a mixture of lectures, seminars and practical group work classes by academics from our HASS (Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences) departments. You'll also have hands-on sessions, studying the physical manifestations of history and culture with our Archaeological archives. All subject sessions are dependent on staff availability. 

• BIOLOGICAL AND HUMAN SCIENCES: Biosciences, Psychology and Sports and Health Science

Curious about how the human body works, how the brain controls everything we do, or how science can help people move better, feel stronger and stay healthier? This exciting pathway gives you a hands-on introduction to some exciting degree programmes at the University of Exeter Medical School: Neuroscience, and Exercise and Sports Sciences. Through a mix of interactive sessions and practical activities, you will find out what it is like to study these subjects at university and explore the many career opportunities they can lead to.

In Exercise and Sports Sciences, you will explore how the body responds to physical activity and how science can improve performance, recovery and wellbeing. This is not just about elite sport – it includes rehabilitation and even military performance.

Whether you are thinking about a future in research, healthcare, sport, business or graduate entry to Medicine or Dentistry, this pathway will help you take your first steps. By the end of this pathway, you will have a better understanding of what it is like to study these subjects, what you can do with your degree, and how to start shaping your future.

• CLINICAL, BIOMEDICAL & ALLIED HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONS: Clinical and Biomedical Science (which includes BMBS Medicine, Neuroscience and Biomedical Science), Nursing, Medical Imaging, Clinical Psychology 

Discover the amazing wealth of specialities, disciplines, and careers that make up the 'multi-disciplinary team' of UK healthcare. This exciting pathway gives you a hands-on introduction to some exciting degree programmes at the University of Exeter Medical School including Biomedical Science. Through a mix of interactive sessions and practical activities, you will find out what it is like to study these subjects at university and explore the many career opportunities they can lead to.

In Biomedical Science, you will uncover how this subject is at the core of modern medicine. Learn how scientists use subjects such as genetics, cell biology, physiology and immunology to understand diseases and develop life-changing treatments.

In Neuroscience, dive into the study of the brain and nervous system. You will see how this field helps us understand everything from memory and movement to mental health and neurological disorders, linking science with psychology and medicine.

Whether you are thinking about a future in research, healthcare, or graduate entry to Medicine or Dentistry, this pathway will help you take your first steps. By the end of this pathway, you will have a better understanding of what it is like to study these subjects, what you can do with your degree, and how to start shaping your future.

• SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (STEM): Astrophysics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, and Physics

This subject strand brings together several exciting disciplines that share a common goal: utilising scientific and mathematical understanding alongside cutting-edge technology to create solutions to real-world problems and answer questions about the universe. From studying the atmospheres of exoplanets to learn more about Earth's weather and climate, to using artificial intelligence to solve healthcare challenges, physicists, mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists employ scientific knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking to tackle significant societal issues and explore fundamental aspects of our world. 

During this subject strand, you will have the opportunity to meet academics, researchers, and current students, and participate in a range of activities across the disciplines. These include problem-solving workshops, hands-on sessions in our labs, and lectures and demonstrations from academics conducting research at the forefront of their fields. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it is like to study a STEM-based degree at university, discover the myriad opportunities it can open up, and appreciate the importance of these fields to society. 

• SOCIAL SCIENCES: Law, Criminology, Sociology, Politics, International Relations & Middle Eastern Studies

In today’s rapidly changing world, the study of the Social Sciences offers a unique opportunity to explore the forces impacting societies and individuals. This dynamic programme combines subjects such as Law, Criminology, Sociology, Politics, International Relations, and Middle East Studies, allowing you to explore how people behave, interact, and influence the world around them. Through interactive sessions led by top researchers, you will explore key social, political and legal topics.

Politics covers national affairs and political ideologies, while International Relations examines global issues and foreign affairs. Sociology explores social change and the consequences of human behaviour, Criminology offers insights into crime and criminal behaviour, and Law delves into the legal system’s impact on society. Arab and Islamic Studies and Middle East Studies combine them all together with its socio-political focus. This exciting programme will equip you with critical thinking skills and the ability to engage with a broad range of societal issues, both locally and globally, making it perfect for those passionate about understanding the legal, social and political forces shaping today’s world. All subject sessions are dependent upon staff availability.

 

PENRYN CAMPUS: At the University of Exeter, Cornwall, you will be part of a vibrant community where environmental consciousness and sustainability are woven into every aspect of our courses and culture. The Penryn campus offers the very latest academic, research and residential facilities set in 100 acres of countryside close to the waterside town of Falmouth, with beautiful views over the Fal estuary. Made up of around 6,000 students, it offers a unique arrangement as we share the campus with Falmouth University; a leading specialist arts institution. This combination creates a vibrant community of students from science, engineering, humanities, and arts backgrounds. 

Our small size means we are able to create an environment where you will have ample opportunity to contribute, ask questions and get to know those around you. Our students cherish the deeply personal experiences that are not only intellectually challenging but also great fun. Cornwall is a place where friendships and connections blossom that last well beyond graduation. 

During your time on the Exeter Scholars Residential based on our Penryn campus, you will experience first-hand the close-knit friendly community the campus offers, as well as the beautiful areas that surround the campus. 

We look forward to welcoming you to our fantastic campus in July!  

• CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY: Evolutionary Biology, Conservation Biology and Ecology, Animal Behaviour, Marine Biology and Zoology

Biology is the study of life, from the microscopic bacteria on our skin to the enormous blue whales inhabiting our oceans. As biologists, we ask questions about living organisms and how they interact with their environment. We try to understand the weird and wonderful behaviours that we observe and why these vary among different individuals and species. We study the evolutionary processes that produces the amazing diversity of life on Earth and how we can best conserve it. 

Our activities will provide an insight into life as a bioscience student. We believe in research-inspired teaching, and this will be reflected in the activities we run, which includes lab work, field work and a research project, and interacting with our current students.

Through this strand, you will broaden your knowledge of the bioscience subjects taught on the Penryn campus: animal behaviour, conservation biology and ecology, marine biology, evolutionary biology, and zoology. You will experience these areas and gain experience of different university learning styles in the classroom, lab, and in the field. Activities will include laboratory practical's, exploring research into ecology and conservation, and the opportunity to explore some of Cornwall's amazing wildlife that we are lucky enough to have in our Penryn campus. During all of these activities you will be joined by students and staff from the department and will be able to find out more about their research and where a degree in biosciences could take you. This is the perfect opportunity for budding scientists to learn more about what studying biosciences at university is all about! 

Please note that if you wish to study Zoology, Conservation Biology and Ecology, Animal Behaviour, Marine Biology, Evolutionary Biology at the University of Exeter at degree level, you will need an A level or IB or equivalent in one Science* subject. 

*Please check specific programmes on the Undergraduate website to confirm the accepted Science subjects.

• EARTH, ENVIORNMENTAL SCIENCES & ENGINEERING: Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Marine Science, Renewable Energy Engineering, Sustainable Energy Futures and Mining

Geography is an all-encompassing subject, covering the patterns and processes that shape both human society and the physical processes on Earth, and indeed how the two interact. As such, Geographers study the atmosphere, ocean, ice, land, life, renewable energy, and the relationships between communities and cultures and their environment. 

Geology is the study of the history of our planet, including the materials it is made of, and the processes that form mountains, ocean basins, and volcanoes. It also includes the study of ancient creatures preserved as fossils in rocks, and even the make-up of other planets in our solar system. 

Marine Sciences is the scientific study of oceans, the life that inhabits them, and their physical characteristics, including the depth and extent of ocean waters, their movement and chemical makeup, and the topography and composition of the ocean floors. 

Environmental Science is the study of our environment and the solutions to environmental problems. It covers plant and soil science, oceanography, atmosphere, geology, and the influence of humans on the environment. Here at Exeter, we also teach environmental law which is key to providing solutions to many of the environmental problems we face today, such as climate change and habitat loss.  

Engineers combine science, maths, creativity and critical thinking to solve challenges in society. Sourcing clean and sustainable energy is one of the biggest global challenges we face, and there is an ever pressing need to find new and innovative solutions to the ongoing energy and climate crisis. Through constant exploration and innovation, engineers are key to advancing endeavours in building a sustainable future. 

Overall, this subject strand will provide a taster of what it is like to study these subjects at degree level. We believe in research-inspired teaching and, in line with our focus on practical skills development, this course will largely be held in laboratory and field settings alongside classroom learning - truly immersing you in life as a university student studying one of the above subjects. You'll also get the chance to meet some of our current students and learn about their research and their experiences of university life. We are a friendly and welcoming group, and this subject strand will give you a great opportunity to find out what studying at university is like. 

• COMBINED HUMANTITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES: Business, Law, Politics, History and Environmental Humanities

In today's rapidly changing global world, we face a number of challenges surrounding inequality, the environmental crisis, and conflict, posing social and ethical dilemmas. The academic disciplines of Business, Law, Politics, History and Environmental Humanities work together to address these questions, even going so far as to address the gritty criminal side of law. In this subject strand, you will challenge yourself by examining some of the major questions facing our society and consider how we can make a difference. By understanding these challenges, we can identify opportunities to transform our ever-changing world for the better.

This subject strand will encourage you to think critically, reason effectively, and be reflective whilst analysing and discussing challenging topics by using in depth and involved activities for you to address these topics. With this strand you can be a part of the global conversation and solving the environmental issues, stand up to argue morality with your strand and discover where the fields of Business, Law, Politics, History and Environmental Humanities could lead you.

 

 

Code of Conduct: As part of the application, you will need to read and agree to the Residential Code of Conduct, which can be found below‌. Please ensure that you read and agree to this before submitting your application, as you will be asked to indicate your agreement as part of the application form.

IMPORTANT: The residential event is a compulsory component of this programme pathway, and without attending the residential, a student will not be able to take part in the programme. 

Please find the Code of Conduct and programme eligibility below:

Programme eligibility:

In order to apply, you must meet the following general eligibility criteria:

You do not live in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Bristol, or Dorset

You are studying at a non-fee-paying school (state school) or are home-educated
If you are studying at a fee-paying school on a full scholarship or bursary, you are able to apply on this basis. Please note that we may ask for evidence of your full scholarship or bursary.  If you are home educated you are able to apply, but must meet at least one of the ten programme eligibility criteria

You are in year 12

You have achieved a minimum of 8 GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C), to include GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) and above

You are a Home/EU registered student, or you expect to be so by the time you apply for higher education
(If you are not a Home student for tuition fee purposes but meet the eligibility criteria for our Sanctuary Scholarship (for refugees / asylum seekers / people with limited leave to remain), then we would welcome an application from you

PLUS

You must meet at least one of the following ten additional programme eligibility criteria:

1. You live in a neighbourhood where a low percentage of young people progress to higher education as defined by your home postcode
If you are not sure then you can use our postcode eligibility checker to find out if your postcode qualifies. This will also be checked by the University of Exeter once you have submitted your application.

2. You live in a low-income neighbourhood as defined by home postcode
If you are not sure then you can use our postcode eligibility checker to find out if your postcode qualifies. This will also be checked by the University of Exeter once you have submitted your application.

3. You are in receipt of free school meals
This statement will be verified with your school or college.

4. You are eligible for school bursaries
This statement will be verified with your school or college.

5. Your parents have not studied at university

6. You are or have been living in care
Anyone who has been or is currently in care or from a looked-after background at any stage of their life, no matter how short. This care may have been provided in one of many different settings, such as in residential care, foster care, kinship care, or looked after at home with a supervision requirement.

7. You have caring responsibilities
Anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem, or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.

8. You have a disability

9. You are an estranged student
We define an estranged student as someone who does not have the support and approval of their family, and who often has no contact with their family at all.

10. You are a refugee or asylum seeker
Defined as a student who has submitted a claim for asylum within the UK and is awaiting a response, who has Limited Leave to Remain in the UK, who has been awarded Humanitarian Protection or Refugee status in the UK, or who is the dependent family member of someone with one of these immigration statuses.