Academic study
Teaching excellence
We are very proud to have been awarded a Gold rating in the first Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). Our Gold rating takes into account our teaching, programmes, facilities, and our students’ success. We have been particularly praised for
- our outstanding commitment to ensuring positive outcomes for all students
- our use of business, industry and professional experts in our teaching
- our outstanding teaching environments
- offering the highest quality support for independent study and research
- having optimum levels of contact hours and class size
This means we are now recognised for excellence in both our teaching and our research (98% of our research rated as of “international quality” in REF2014)
Given that we’re also top 5 in BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport), and 158th rated in the world by the international QS rankings, this is yet further proof that Exeter is one of the very best universities in the UK.
Find out more about our teaching excellence and what lead to our TEF Gold rating.
Academic excellence
The University of Exeter featured in the UK's top 14 in the past 5 years (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide) and the CWTS Leiden Ranking 2015 places us 34th in the world for involvement in scientific collaboration and impact. We are a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research intensive universities.
The quality of education and experience received at the University of Exeter means we rank 8th in the UK in the latest Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey.
According to the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency Data, we are placed 9th out of all UK universities for achievement: 84 per cent of our students graduate with either a First or 2:1.
Our students demand a lot of us and we of them – we aim to make our teaching inspirational and your learning exceptional.
Research-inspired learning
The staff who teach you at the University of Exeter don't just give lectures; they also work on world-class research, creating new knowledge and expanding our understanding of the world and ourselves, conducting the experiments, writing the articles, and authoring the books that other people teach from. 99 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally recognised (Research Excellence Framework 2021). You will be taught by experts and be part of a culture that is inspired by research, discussing the very latest ideas in seminars and tutorials and may become an active member of a research team.
Learning support
We provide a range of services and resources to help you develop the skills you need for academic success.
Working together
We are proud to work in partnership with our students to continuously improve the education and student experience. Students volunteer to run change projects and receive training from University staff to help them succeed.
Additionally, all degree programmes have student representation through Student-Staff Liaison Committees, where your feedback on teaching and learning can be embedded into continually improving teaching.
Supporting your learning
To help you reach your full potential, we offer a variety of skills programmes, workshops, online and physical resources, all designed to develop your skills so that you can thrive. The support on offer includes areas such as:
- essay writing
- managing dissertations
- presentation skills
- time management and prioritising
- critical reading and writing
- revision strategies and exam techniques
- note-taking
Academic personal tutoring
Your personal tutor will be available to discuss any problems with you, academic or otherwise. Your tutor will also support you to identify specific advice relating to your programme of study.
Students are integral to research capability
Professor Geoff Nash discusses the important part research plays in our Natural Sciences programme.
The role of business within student learning
Dr Esther Reed explains how students get involved in her Theology & Business Ethics module.
Student led research projects
Professor Craig Williams explains how students are involved with leading research projects in Sport and Health Sciences.
Involving students in research
Dr Paul James explains the value of engaging students with research.