University of Exeter

Future-focused teaching

At Exeter, our academics are not only leaders in their fields, but also dedicated teachers who bring the latest insights and discoveries directly into the classroom. Our undergraduate provision has been awarded Triple Gold in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework, recognising the outstanding quality of our teaching, learning environment and student outcomes.

Every programme is designed to be future-focused and inclusive: embedding digital skills, innovation and entrepreneurship to ensure our graduates are prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Interdisciplinary learning and global outlooks are at the heart of our approach. We encourage  students to make connections across disciplines, tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives, build confidence and develop the knowledge, creativity and resilience to shape their own futures and address society’s biggest challenges.

Research with purpose

Our researchers are actively shaping solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges, delivering real change and making a positive impact worldwide. With over 99% of our research recognised as of international quality (REF 2021), we are at the forefront of advancing knowledge, shaping policy, and delivering innovation that benefits both people and planet.

We are recognised among the top 30 universities in the world for progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (THE Impact Rankings 2025), reflecting our commitment to a greener, healthier, and fairer future, for all.

Through interdisciplinary collaboration, international partnerships and a commitment to inclusivity and impact, we’re shaping a positive future, driving progress on the issues that matter most - from climate action and health innovation to economic resilience and social justice.

Tackling the climate emergency

The climate and ecological crisis is one of the greatest challenges of our time. We are home to the UK’s five most influential climate scientists (Reuters Hot List), working within a community of over 1,500 researchers, students and professionals in climate and environmental science. This expertise underpins research into:

•    Circular Economy - Tackling social, environmental, and economic challenges through sustainable design and innovation.
•    Environmental Economics - Shaping a future where environmental and economic well-being go hand-in-hand.
•    Green Futures - Leading interdisciplinary research to better understand and tackle climate change.
•    Healthier Oceans - Transforming global marine policy, from shaping the 30x30 target to banning microbeads and strengthening marine protected areas.
•    Global Tipping Points - Identifying sources of hope that could combine into cascades of positive change, accelerating climate action.

Transforming health and wellbeing

We are at the forefront of cutting-edge health research, working in partnership with healthcare providers, industry and communities to turn discovery into practice. Our work spans critical areas across all ages, including:

•    Antimicrobial Resistance - Influencing global policies and driving innovation to combat one of the world’s greatest health threats.
•    Child and Adolescent Mental Health - Improving outcomes for young people worldwide, from early prevention to clinical care.
•    Dementia - Advancing understanding, treatment and support to improve quality of life.
•    Diabetes - Transforming prevention, management and care through pioneering research and patient partnerships.
•    Neuroscience - Unlocking the workings of the brain to inform new therapies for neurological and mental health conditions.
•    Public Health and Sport Sciences - Enhancing athletic potential and translating discoveries into innovative public-health solutions.

Building a fairer society

Our expertise in Business, Economics, Law and Social Sciences is helping to address some of the most complex challenges facing communities worldwide. Our researchers are advancing knowledge and solutions in:

•    Evidence-Based Justice - Using research to inform fairer, more effective legal systems and policies.
•    Social Inequality and Inclusion - Addressing disparities and driving positive change towards a more equitable society.
•    Global Food Security - Developing sustainable solutions to feed a growing world population.