Is Exeter a Good Uni?

When it comes to choosing a university, the decision can be daunting. With so many options available, students might ask themselves, "Is Exeter a good Uni?" To answer that question, let’s delve into the various rankings, achievements, and unique attributes of the University of Exeter.

A Brief History

Before we answer the question, let’s go back in time and discover how Exeter University came to be one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

The University of Exeter’s rich history dates back to the 19th century, with its origins rooted in three distinguished educational establishments:

St Luke’s College (established in 1838)
Exeter School of Science (established in 1855)
Camborne School of Mines (established in 1888).

These institutions eventually merged, and in 1955, the University of Exeter was formally established with the granting of a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth II during a visit to Streatham the following year.

Since then, Exeter has grown significantly, achieving research excellence and securing its place as a member of the prestigious Russell Group of leading UK universities. This historical foundation contributes to Exeter’s reputation, offering a blend of tradition and modern academic achievement.

To learn even more about the history of Exeter University, take a look at this blog here, written by the Uni itself.

Exeter’s Global Reputation

So, let’s answer the question “Is Exeter a good Uni” by looking at some facts and figures.

Exeter is undeniably one of the top universities in the world. The latest QS World University Rankings (2024) placed Exeter at 153rd globally, a significant achievement that highlights its growing prestige.

This 10-place rise from the previous year positions Exeter among the elite institutions worldwide, a testament to its dedication to academic excellence and research impact. With over 1,500 universities participating in the QS rankings this year, Exeter's position reaffirms its status as a top-tier global university.

A Leader in Sustainable Development

Exeter’s commitment to addressing global challenges is another indicator of its quality. In the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, Exeter excelled, ranking in the top 10 worldwide. The university's leadership in specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is particularly impressive:

1st globally for Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6)
6th globally for Life Below Water (SDG 14)
7th globally for Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
12th globally for Climate Action (SDG 13)
Top 20 globally for Zero Hunger (SDG 2)

These rankings highlight Exeter's dedication to sustainability and its impactful research. For students passionate about making a difference in the world, this is yet another reason why Exeter is a good University to consider.

Excellence in Research

Exeter’s research output is another area where the university shines. According to the CWTS Leiden Ranking 2024, Exeter ranks 7th in the UK, 10th in Europe, and 38th in the world when it comes to the quality of publications. The "PP top 10%" metric, which measures the percentage of outputs in the top 10% most cited, underscores the university's significant contributions to global research.

Strong National Rankings

Exeter's standing is not just strong on the global stage; it’s also a top performer in the UK. The university consistently ranks highly across major UK higher education league tables:

11th in the UK (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)
18th position out of 122 (The Guardian League Table 2024)
15th place (The Complete University Guide 2024)

As well as this, Exeter was named runner-up in the prestigious University of the Year award for the second consecutive year, a recognition of its all-around excellence.

Recognition and Awards

Adding to its accolades, Exeter has been awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize four times, most recently in 2020. This prestigious award recognises exceptional contributions to the UK’s intellectual, economic, and cultural life. Exeter’s research on the devastating effects of plastic pollution, which earned this award, exemplifies the university's commitment to impactful, real-world research.

Subject-Specific Strengths

Exeter also boasts strong performance in subject-specific rankings, with 17 subjects positioned in the global top 100 according to the QS World University Subject Rankings. Notably, Mining Engineering is ranked 15th globally and 1st in the UK. Other subjects like Sports-Related Studies, Geography, Classics, and Environmental Sciences also feature in the elite top 50 globally.

So, Is Exeter a Good Uni?

With its strong global and national rankings, impactful research, commitment to sustainability, and recognition for excellence, the University of Exeter is undoubtedly one of the best universities in the world.

Whether you’re looking for a top-ranked global institution, a leader in sustainability, or a university with strong subject-specific programs, Exeter offers it all. For students aiming to study at a university that not only provides high-quality education but also makes a significant impact on the world, Exeter is an excellent choice.

If you’re ready to explore what the University of Exeter has to offer, whether you're considering it for your academic future or simply curious about the stunning campus, why not experience it firsthand? With our dedicated conference and events team, we offer a range of unique venues across the beautiful Streatham Campus. From conferences and exhibitions, to school proms and events, our team’s expertise ensures every event is memorable.

Plus, when you choose Event Exeter, you're supporting the University’s mission, as all income generated is reinvested to enhance the experience for students, staff, and visitors. Reach out to us today, and discover how we can help you make your next event extraordinary.