10 reasons to choose Falmouth University
Creativity is at the heart of everything we do.
Falmouth University is known for its specialist creative courses, its practical, project-based approach to learning, its coastal Cornwall setting and its strong links with the creative industries.
With 125 years of art school heritage, industry-standard facilities and strong connections with the creative industries, Falmouth offers an environment where ideas can be explored and skills developed. Collaboration across disciplines, practical experience and a forward-thinking approach to education empowers our students to be bold with their ideas, try new things and shape their own creative futures.
Read on to discover our top 10 reasons to choose Falmouth University.
1. Experience 125 years of creative heritage
We have been educating artists, designers, makers and entrepreneurs since 1902, when Falmouth School of Art first opened its doors. While traditional disciplines such as painting and drawing remain an important part of our story, our offering has now grown to encompass everything from film, photography and fashion to music, theatre and game development. Today, our courses span two campuses in Cornwall, bringing together students from different backgrounds and cultures and encouraging them to push their ideas further, develop new skills and discover different ways of thinking.
2. Learn by doing, making and experimenting
At Falmouth, we value a practical approach to learning. Our students develop their skills and put ideas into practice in studios, workshops and real-world settings. From self-directed projects to live industry briefs set by professional partners, they are given opportunities to explore their interests and bring their ideas to life. We look beyond exam results to recognise your passion and potential through our contextual admissions approach. And with assessment based on coursework rather than exams, you can demonstrate what you've learned through your projects, practical work and ideas.
3. Build skills for a career in the creative industries
The constantly evolving creative industries account for over 2.4 million jobs in the UK alone. From AI to immersive technologies and big data, new tools and ideas are reshaping how creative work is made, shared and experienced. At Falmouth, we bring emerging technologies into our teaching, helping you build the skills, adaptability and independent thinking to navigate a changing jobs market. Whether you're an artist exploring new media or a programmer developing innovative solutions, you'll be encouraged to challenge conventions and find your own approach. And if the career you want doesn't exist yet, you could create it yourself: 25% of Falmouth graduates start their own businesses, according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026.
4. Bring your ideas to life with specialist facilities
Your ideas deserve the right tools and space to take shape. At Falmouth, you’ll have access to industry-standard facilities across a range of disciplines, from recording studios and photography darkrooms to games studios, performance spaces and fashion workshops. We continually invest in our equipment and resources, including the design and advanced manufacturing facilities on Penryn Campus, which feature 3D scanners and printers. You can also borrow photography and film equipment, with experienced technicians on hand to offer guidance and support.
Beyond our specialist studios and workshops, you’ll find libraries on both campuses, a 128-seat cinema in the School of Film & Television, a 200-capacity theatre in the Academy of Music & Theatre Arts and the Games Academy, ranked number one in England for undergraduate game design in The Princeton Review’s 2026 rankings.
5. Immerse yourself in Cornwall’s beauty
Cornwall has long attracted artists, entrepreneurs and free thinkers, drawn by its distinctive culture, independent spirit and striking landscape. From dramatic coastlines and glorious beaches to historic harbours and lively market towns, the county offers a different perspective on life and work. Its history of innovation and radical thinking, alongside the sense of possibility that comes from being on the edge of the land, has helped shape Falmouth’s outlook and approach to learning. And for those studying online, Cornwall’s influence remains part of the university’s identity, connecting a global student community to the place and ideas that make Falmouth distinctive.
6. Find your creative voice
From film, photography and illustration to games, fashion, music and fine art, Falmouth offers a wide range of courses for people who want to turn their interests into something more. Whether you already know what you want to pursue or are still exploring your options, you’ll find opportunities to develop your skills, experiment with new approaches and discover what you do best. Our courses span different disciplines, techniques and ways of thinking, with opportunities to explore your subject in depth and connect with other areas of practice. You’ll be encouraged to develop your own perspective, follow your curiosity and find the direction that feels right for you. Explore our undergraduate courses to discover where your interests could take you.
7. Benefit from real-world expertise
At Falmouth, our students learn from people who bring professional experience, specialist knowledge and fresh perspectives into their teaching. Our academic staff are practising professionals who have built brilliant careers across a wide range of disciplines, from BAFTA-winning filmmakers to acclaimed novelists and award-winning artists. Their combined wealth of industry experience helps connect classroom studies with the realities of working in the creative industries. This commitment to academic excellence is reflected in Falmouth’s position as the fourth-ranked university in the South West in the Complete University Guide 2027.
8. Embrace a unique student lifestyle
As a smaller, specialist university by the sea, Falmouth offers a student experience shaped by its close-knit coastal community and the freedom to pursue interests beyond the classroom. Across our two campuses, the Students’ Union brings together students from Falmouth University and the University of Exeter, with a diverse range of clubs and societies to get involved in. From surfing and sea swimming to puppetry, beachcombing and student radio, there are plenty of ways to try something new, meet people from different courses and find like-minded people. Whether taking part in student-led activities, campaigning for change or discovering a new hobby, there’s more to university life than studying.
An introduction to Falmouth and Exeter Students' Union
9. Join a global community of creatives
One of Falmouth’s greatest strengths is its collaborative spirit. Whether on-campus or online, students across disciplines work together on projects that bring different perspectives and skills together, from fashion students teaming up with filmmakers to game developers collaborating with writers. These connections encourage experimentation, broaden perspectives, and create opportunities to learn from one another. With students and alumni connected across the world, Falmouth’s community extends beyond individual courses and campuses, building relationships that can continue long after graduation.
10. Find the support you need to thrive
Student wellbeing is a priority at Falmouth. In 2025, we became the first and only specialist creative arts institution to receive the University Mental Health Charter Award, recognising our commitment to supporting student mental health and wellbeing. From dedicated wellbeing and accessibility teams to academic guidance and 24/7 mental health support, a range of services are available to help students navigate the challenges of university life, including support for neurodivergent students. Our campuses and wider community aim to provide a welcoming environment where students feel safe, supported and able to thrive.
Ready to make your mark?
Study with us and you’ll graduate with more than a degree. You’ll join a thriving, collaborative community, gain hands-on experience in world-class facilities, and be supported to explore your creativity in one of the UK’s most inspiring locations. Whether your ambition is to write, design, perform, innovate, or build the next big thing, Falmouth is where your journey begins.