Plymouth Marjon University leads the region and triumphs in the national top ten in latest student survey

Released: 04.08.25

Plymouth Marjon University has been rated by students as the top university in the South West and one of the top 10 nationally across key questions and categories in this year’s National Student Survey (NSS). 

The survey, conducted by the Office for Students, collects feedback from nearly half a million students completing their studies at further and higher education institutions across the UK. 

The 2025 National Student Survey (NSS) results highlight Plymouth Marjon University’s continued excellence in delivering an outstanding student experience: 

• Top 11 in the UK for Overall Positivity, with a score of 86%, surpassing the sector average of 83% 

• Top 10 nationally and 1st in the South West for ‘Academic Support’ 

• 9th in England and 11th in the UK for ‘Learning Opportunities’ 

Three Marjon courses received a positivity score of 100% from students: 

• BA Hons Journalism 

• BEd Primary Education 

• BSc Sport Rehabilitation and Conditioning 

Other courses rated highly at Marjon include BA Hons Football Coaching and Development (96%), BA Hons Primary Education (94%), BEd (Hons) Physical Education - Secondary Education (with QTS) (97%), and BSc Psychology (97%).  

Student feedback also placed Marjon at the top in the region for questions focusing on the balance between directed and independent study, how well courses develop the knowledge and skills needed for students' futures, and the quality of support provided by teaching staff.  

With a growing focus on workforce development and regional impact, Plymouth Marjon University continues to expand its apprenticeship provision to meet local and national needs, particularly those within public and community-facing sectors.

Among its standout programmes, the Assistant Practitioner (FdSc) Apprenticeship achieved a 100% satisfaction rating for the second consecutive year. This two-year foundation degree plays a vital role in addressing regional skills gaps and strengthening the NHS workforce in Plymouth, contributing to the broader healthcare skills landscape across the South West.

Isobella-Skye Taylor, President of the Marjon Student Union, added: “Marjon gives its students a supportive and engaging learning environment where all students feel valued and heard. There’s an unwavering commitment to delivering a fantastic student experience with small class sizes, personalised support, and a strong sense of community, which has been reflected in the survey. I encourage those receiving their exam results soon and going through 'Clearing' to join us and experience it for yourself!" 

Professor Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor at Marjon, said: “The yearly results from NSS are a really important moment for Plymouth Marjon University to be ‘graded’ by the students for our performance. Our staff are deeply committed in providing a top level, supportive environment for students to achieve their best not just academically but with their wellbeing and personal growth. We’re delighted with these results which show as a small university we consistently achieve excellence on both the regional and national stage.” 

Each year, final-year students are invited to complete the National Student Survey (NSS), which asks them to reflect on their entire university experience. The NSS helps universities and colleges enhance the student experience while promoting transparency and accountability across the Higher Education (HE) sector 

Marjon is open for Clearing and welcomes enquiries and applications from prospective students. Get started here! 

*Institutions with degree awarding powers, registered with the Office for Students with permission to use ‘university’ in their title.