Facts and figures

In 2019 we were awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize in recognition of our ground-breaking research and policy impact on microplastics pollution in the oceans. 

It recognised nearly two decades of world-leading enquiry by Plymouth researchers, led by Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS, which has resulted in repeated scientific breakthroughs and influenced national and international legislation.

It is the third time that the University has been honoured with a Queen’s Anniversary Prize, which celebrate excellence, innovation and public benefit. The last occasion was in 2012 when the University was recognised for the breadth and excellence of its marine and maritime research, teaching and training. The University also won the award for widening access to education in rural communities in 1994. 

The University of Plymouth became the first university in the world to be awarded the Social Enterprise Mark, in recognition of our long-standing support for the sector. The University held this accreditation from 2011 to 2018. The award demonstrated our social value to the wider world and community, and was a testament to the commitment, energy and vision that we pride ourselves on.

In September 2013 we were proud to join the acclaimed Stonewall Diversity Champions programme, Britain's good practice employers’ forum on sexual orientation. This partnership means that as a university we receive one-to-one advice from Stonewall’s workplace team, and benefit from an extensive network of over a hundred high-profile employers.