Student Societies and Academic Clubs in Plymouth: Complete Guide 2025

TL;DR: Why Plymouth Societies Hit Different

• Plymouth's got 165+ student societies across three unis
• All are free to join
• Student-run groups covering literally everything
• Over 30,000 students are already in

University lectures are just the beginning. If you ask most students, the real uni experience kicks off the moment you join a society. And in Plymouth, you're spoilt for choice with over 165 different student groups to explore.

What makes it even better? The sense of community here is strong. We're talking 30,000+ students actively getting involved. And the best part? Every single society is completely free to join. No hidden costs, no gatekeeping just jump in.

The vibe is very much “by students, for students.” These societies aren’t run by staff or admin, they’re led by people just like you. That means you get a say, you shape the culture, and you decide how things are run.

And it all ties in with how you live, too. Being close to the action matters, which is why so many people look for student accommodation in Plymouth that keeps them connected whether it’s to campus, the beach, or their society meetups.

Plymouth's Three University Networks

University of Plymouth (UPSU)

The massive one: 25,000+ students, 120+ societies, 50+ sports clubs

The University of Plymouth runs the biggest show. Their underground building in Drake Circus is society central. Everything from freshers' fairs to weekly meetups happens there.

Why it's good:

• A huge variety of academic societies
• Strong international groups
• Professional development focus
• Real industry networking

Want to dive deeper into what this university offers? Check out our complete University of Plymouth guide covering academics, facilities, accommodation, and student life insights. If your societies meet near campus, it helps to live nearby. Here’s a breakdown of the best student accommodation near the University of Plymouth to make commuting effortless.

Plymouth College of Art

The creative powerhouse: 2,500+ students, 25+ societies, all arts-focused

Plymouth College of Art is smaller but incredibly creative. These societies mix artistic passion with actual career development.

What students love:

• Photography competitions monthly
• Fashion and life drawing sessions
• Zine society for publishing nerds
• Industry networking that actually works

Choosing the right university is step one. From course options to accommodation types, here’s a detailed guide to the top universities in Plymouth, including everything students need to know before deciding.

Plymouth Marjon University (MSU)

The family vibe: 2,000+ students, 20+ tight-knit societies

A small campus means societies feel like proper communities. Everyone knows everyone.

Student favourites:

• Mountaineering trips every weekend
• Mature students society (21+ only)
• Environmental projects on campus
• Serious sporting culture

The Top Student Societies in Plymouth

Academic and Professional Groups

Join Plymouth student societies if you want more than just lectures. These societies offer real industry exposure, career advice, and networking. Great for boosting your CV and connecting with professionals in your field.

Cultural and International Societies

Perfect for: International students, cultural celebration, language practice

What happens: Cultural festivals, food events, language swaps, home-away-from-home feeling.

Big cultural groups:

• International Student Society: 2,000+ members, 100+ countries
• Chinese Students: Lunar New Year parties, language help
• Indian Society: Diwali celebrations, Bollywood classes
• African Caribbean: Music nights, cultural pride events
• European Society: Travel groups, exchange support

These groups offer more than just fun—they’re a gateway to language practice and cultural exchange. From French conversation cafés and Spanish immersion nights to German beer festivals and multilingual socials, students get to connect, celebrate, and learn in a global environment.

Many societies host food socials during orientations, festive celebrations, or annual dinners. Luckily, Plymouth’s student-friendly restaurants often offer group discounts, perfect for bonding over new cuisines without breaking the bank. 

Sports and Adventure Clubs

The coastal advantage: Plymouth's location creates unique opportunities

Costs: Most societies charge £20-50 yearly for kit and travel\

For students who love staying active, Plymouth is a dream come true. With beaches, moors, and the sea just minutes away, you can surf, hike, sail, or climb right after lectures. It’s one of the best cities to balance academics with outdoor thrills.

Water sports (because you're by the sea):

• Surfing Club: Weekly beach sessions, kit provided
• Paddleboarding: Beginner-friendly, equipment sorted
• Wild Swimming: Year-round, safety training included
• Sailing Club: Learn on Plymouth Sound, racing teams
• Kayaking: River and sea adventures

Traditional sports:

• Rugby (men's and women's)
• Football (multiple divisions)
• Hockey (indoor and outdoor)
• Basketball (competitive leagues)
• Tennis (on-campus courts)

Adventure stuff:

• Rock Climbing: Indoor walls plus Dartmoor trips
• Mountaineering: Weekend hikes, shared gear
• Ski Club: Annual European resort trips
• Clay Pigeon Shooting: Pro coaching, competitions

Creative and Arts Groups

Plymouth is a city where creativity meets community. From photography and drama to music and painting, these societies offer a space to express yourself, meet like-minded people, and collaborate on fun, artistic projects.

If you’re into history or art, Plymouth’s museums and art galleries can be the perfect extension of your society interests. Explore the best museums in Plymouth for students and discover great places to visit with your creative crew.

Visual arts:

• Photography: Monthly competitions, gallery shows
• Film Society: Student screenings, production opportunities
• Art Group: Life drawing, workshops, studio access

Performance:

• Drama: Two major shows yearly, open auditions
• Choir: Weekly practice, concert performances
• Dance: Multiple styles, beginner-friendly
• Music: Bands, solo performances, recording access

Writing:

• Writers Group: Weekly workshops, published magazine
• Zine Society: Self-publishing, distribution help
• Poetry: Open mics, spoken word events

Digital:

• Game Development: Learn coding, create games
• Podcast Society: Equipment access, distribution
• Social Media: Content creation, digital marketing

Special Interest and Hobby Groups

This is where the wonderfully weird stuff happens. Whether it's anime, knitting, or medieval sword fighting, these societies help you find your crowd and bond over shared passions. It’s more than a hobby, it’s your community.

Want to impress your society friends with some trivia? Check out these fun facts about Plymouth for students—you’ll be surprised by what this coastal city is hiding!

Gaming:

• D&D: Multiple weekly campaigns, beginner workshops
• Board Games: Friday night sessions, tournaments
• Video Games: Esports teams, casual nights
• Tabletop War: Miniature painting, strategy competitions

Unique interests:

• Witchcraft Society: Herb workshops, seasonal celebrations
• Upcycling Fashion: Sustainable clothing, repair skills
• Crochet Group: Weekly crafting, charity projects
• Beekeeping: Campus hives, honey production
• Mature Students: 21+ networking, life balance

These groups go beyond just fun, they offer real support. You’ll find subject-specific study circles, peer mentoring from senior students, and even international groups that help with visa advice and cultural adjustment. They're a great way to feel supported while doing what you enjoy.

How to Actually Join

Simple Steps

University of Plymouth:

1. Go to upsu.com/societies during the term
2. Browse 120+ societies
3. Click "Join" on the interesting ones
4. Show up to welcome events (week 2-3)
5. Start participating immediately

Arts University Plymouth:

1. Fill the form at artsuniplymsu.co.uk/societies
2. Wait 7 days for email confirmation
3. Follow society's Instagram accounts
4. Attend first meeting (email advertised)

Plymouth Marjon:

1. Email society presidents directly (listed on website)
2. Join Facebook groups for chat
3. Attend taster sessions during freshers

Freshers Week Society Fair

When: First week of September and January
Where: Campus and city centre
What happens: Society stalls, freebies, sign-ups, mini demos

Pro tips:

• Bring a big bag (seriously, loads of freebies)
• Don't join everything immediately
• Ask about trial sessions first
• Get contact details for later
• Join Facebook groups even if unsure

Joining Later

Good news: You can join anytime during the year. Joining a society isn’t just for Freshers Week—you can hop in anytime during the year. Most societies make it easy for new members to feel at home with taster sessions, casual socials, and even buddy systems if you're feeling unsure. Sports clubs often run “Give it a go” events, so you can try things out before committing.

Best times:

• October: After settling in
• January: Fresh start energy
• February: Post-exam stress relief
• March: Spring energy, outdoor groups restart

Starting Your Own Society

The Process

Starting your own society is easier than you might think. All it takes is a clear idea, a few like-minded students, and a basic plan. With university support and simple requirements, you can turn your passion into a thriving student group. 

University of Plymouth needs:

• 10 founding members (current students)
• Constitution document
• Committee of 4+ people
• Annual plan with events
• First-year budget proposal

Arts University Plymouth:

• Email studentsunion@aup.ac.uk with a proposal
• 5 founding members minimum
• Simple application process
• Quick approval (2 weeks usually)

Plymouth Marjon:

• Contact LWilliams@marjon.ac.uk
• Flexible requirements
• Support throughout setup

What Universities Give You

Universities genuinely encourage students to follow their hobbies and interests. In Plymouth, they make sure you’ve got everything you need to host your first successful society meeting.

Free stuff:

• Meeting rooms: Bookable spaces everywhere
• Equipment: Projectors, sound systems, sports kit
• Marketing: Social media promotion, poster printing
• Training: Committee skills, event planning, safety
• Money: £200-£500 yearly for established societies

Societies can get extra funding through SU support, local sponsors, or member fees. This money helps cover events, trips, guest speakers, and equipment—making activities bigger and better. 

Extra funding:

• Fundraising events: With SU support
• Local sponsorship: Business partnerships
• Competition winnings: Inter-uni tournaments
• Member fees: Optional small charges for special kit

Popular Society Ideas

Starting your own society builds leadership, management, and communication skills—great for your CV and a solid test run for future entrepreneurs. Timeless favourites include study groups, cultural societies, creative clubs, adventure outings, and networking circles. Trending now are sustainability, mental health, digital skills, and food culture groups. 

Always work:

• Subject study groups
• Cultural celebration societies
• Creative skill sharing
• Adventure and outdoor stuff
• Professional networking

Trending now:

• Sustainability groups: Environmental action, campus improvement
• Mental health support: Peer counselling, stress management
• Digital skills: Coding, social media, podcasting
• Food cultures: Cooking classes, cultural dining
• Entrepreneurship: Startup support, business development

Why Societies Actually Help

Academic Benefits

Getting involved in societies can boost your CV. Leadership roles showcase your ability to manage teams, while organising events proves your project management skills. Building a community reflects strong communication, and committee positions highlight your teamwork abilities—skills every employer values

Study support:

• Study groups within subject societies
• Peer tutoring from senior members
• Exam stress relief through social stuff
• Research collaboration opportunities

Social and Personal Benefits

Joining societies is one of the easiest ways to make real friends. Shared interests spark natural conversations, while regular meetings help build consistent connections. Events and group activities create relaxed, fun environments that lead to lasting memories and strong friendships.

Confidence building:

• Public speaking through presentations
• Leadership development via committee roles
• Social skills in welcoming environments
• Personal growth through new experiences

Cultural integration (especially internationals):

• Understanding British uni culture
• Language practice in relaxed settings
• Cultural exchange with local students
• Support network for homesickness

Money Benefits

Are you worried about expenses? From cheap societies to shared equipment, uni life in Plymouth is easier on the wallet than many UK cities. Learn more in our full breakdown of the cost of living in Plymouth for students. Also, keep track of your spending by using our cost of living calculator.

How to save cash as a member of student societies:

• Group discounts: Travel, tickets, equipment
• Skill sharing: Free tutoring, language exchange, tech help
• Equipment sharing: Sports gear, creative tools, study resources
• Free events: Society socials replace expensive nights out

Earning opportunities:

• Committee positions (some paid)
• Event management experience for freelance work
• Networking leading to part-time jobs
• Skills development for better employment

Accommodation and Society Connection

Society life thrives when you’re well located. Here's why living in Plymouth student accommodation is a smart choice. Find the top student halls near campus for better access to events, friendships, and uni life.

Living Near Society Hubs

Not sure which neighbourhood suits your lifestyle? Whether you're into surf, study, or society meetups, here’s a rundown of the best areas to live in Plymouth as a student.

University of Plymouth students:

• Greenbank: Walking distance to main campus societies
• Mutley Plain: Close to sports facilities and outdoor groups
• City centre: Easy access to cultural and arts societies

Matching accommodation to interests:

• Sports people: Near Plymouth Life Centre
• Arts students: Barbican area for creative community
• Academic societies: Central for library and lecture access

Society-Based Housing Matching

Many student societies help members find the right accommodation. International groups often assist with flatmate matching to ensure cultural comfort, while academic societies may recommend quiet, study-friendly housing. Sports clubs tend to guide members toward shared homes near training spots, and creative societies often connect students with artistic communities for more inspiring living environments.

Benefits:

• Built-in social groups from day one
• Shared interests with housemates
• Group study opportunities
• Coordinated event attendance

Do you prefer high-end amenities while staying close to society events? Discover the top options for luxury student accommodation in Plymouth, offering modern design, gym access, and prime locations. Getting to your society meetups (or back from late-night events) is easier with solid transport. Here’s a complete guide to Plymouth’s transport system for students, including buses, walking zones, and student discounts.

Events Throughout the Year

Annual Highlights

September - October:

• Freshers Fair: Biggest recruitment event
• Welcome socials: Every society hosts intro events
• Taster sessions: Try before committing
• Committee elections: Leadership opportunities

November - December:

• Cultural celebrations: Diwali, Christmas, Hanukkah events
• Charity fundraising: RAG Week prep begins
• Inter-society collabs: Joint events and projects
• Winter sports: Ski trip planning, indoor climbing

January - March:

• Spring recruitment: Second chance to join
• RAG Week: Major charity fundraising across unis
• Competition season: Inter-uni tournaments
• Skills workshops: Professional development

April - June:

• Summer prep: Outdoor activity planning
• End of year celebrations: Society awards
• Handover events: New committee training
• Alumni networking: Graduate return events

Outside of society events, there’s always something happening in the city. From coastal walks to live music nights, here are some of the top things to do in Plymouth for students when you’re not in lectures or meetings. Looking to turn your Friday society socials into full-on nights out? Here’s your guide to nightlife in Plymouth, with everything from budget clubs to live gigs.

International Student Society Life

Wondering what life’s really like here if you’re from abroad? Here’s a full look at student life in Plymouth for international students, from cultural fit to social tips.

Culture-Specific Groups

These groups matter because they offer a sense of belonging, celebrate your cultural identity, and provide a supportive, family-like community while you're away from home.

Asian societies:

• Chinese Students: 500+ members, Lunar New Year, academic support
• Indian Society: Diwali events, Bollywood dancing, cricket
• Pakistani Society: Cultural nights, religious support
• South East Asian: Food festivals, travel coordination
• Japanese Society: Anime clubs, language exchange, cultural workshops

European groups:

• EU Society: Brexit discussions, travel coordination
• German Society: Oktoberfest, language practice
• French Society: Wine tasting, conversation cafes
• Italian Society: Food appreciation, cultural exchange
• Scandinavian: Northern lights trips, hygge workshops

African and Middle Eastern:

• African Caribbean: Music events, cultural pride
• Nigerian Society: Traditional dress, academic networking
• Ghanaian Society: Food festivals, community support
• Middle Eastern: Cultural education, religious accommodation

Integration Support

International Student Society:

• 2,000+ members from 100+ countries
• Weekly social events for mixing
• Practical support: banking, NHS, housing
• Host family connections with locals
• Academic buddy system with UK students

Language support:

• English Conversation: Weekly sessions, grammar help
• Academic Writing: Essay skills, referencing help
• Presentation Skills: Confidence building, public speaking

Cultural integration:

• British Culture Society: Understanding UK customs, humour, and social norms
• Food Share Groups: International potluck dinners
• Travel Societies: Exploring UK destinations together
• Festival Celebrations: British holidays and traditions

Thinking about safety as an international student? Plymouth is one of the UK’s more secure student cities. Here’s a full look at how safe Plymouth is for international students.

Career Development Through Societies

Professional Networking

Student societies are a great way to build career connections—offering alumni networks, access to industry speakers, internship opportunities through business groups, and even graduate job recommendations from well-placed contacts.

Industry-specific:

• Engineering Society: Site visits, graduate recruiter events
• Business Society: Local entrepreneur speakers, startup access
• Teaching Society: School connections, qualified teacher mentoring
• Healthcare Society: NHS professional meetings, clinical skills

Skills development:

• Public Speaking: Toastmasters-style meetings, confidence-building
• Leadership Society: Management skills, team building
• Entrepreneurship: Business competitions, investor pitch practice

Want to earn while you learn? Many students balance societies with part-time gigs. Explore the top part-time jobs for students in Plymouth that offer flexibility and career growth.

CV-Building Opportunities

Committee positions:

• President: Leadership, strategic planning, external representation
• Treasurer: Financial management, budgeting, funding applications
• Secretary: Communication, organisation, minute-taking
• Social Secretary: Event planning, marketing, community engagement
• Marketing Officer: Social media, content creation, brand building

Project management:

• Event organisation: Conferences, socials, fundraising
• Community outreach: Charity partnerships, local engagement
• Inter-university coordination: Competitions, collaborative projects

Transferable skills:

• Communication: Presentations, social media, public relations
• Organisation: Time management, multi-tasking, deadlines
• Leadership: Team motivation, conflict resolution, decisions
• Financial: Budget management, fundraising, resource allocation

Getting Maximum Value

Active Participation Tips

How to be valued:

• Show up regularly: Builds relationships, shows commitment
• Volunteer for stuff: Even small tasks show enthusiasm
• Bring mates: Grow the society, share experiences
• Contribute ideas: Suggest events, improvements, new directions
• Help others: Support newcomers, encourage participation

Balancing multiple societies:

• Start with 2-3 max: Quality over quantity
• Choose different types: Academic + social + hobby for variety
• Manage time: Use calendars, set participation priorities
• Be seasonal: More active during less busy academic periods

Leadership Development

Getting involved in societies can open doors to major roles within the Students’ Union (SU). Many active members go on to become SU Presidents, Vice-Presidents, or Student Trustees, positions that carry real influence and responsibility. These roles not only give you a voice in shaping student life but also provide valuable campaign and leadership experience that stands out on your CV. Plus, they offer formal recognition for your contributions, making them a smart move for any ambitious student.

Moving to committee:

• Watch first: Understand how the current committee works
• Volunteer gradually: Help with events before seeking major roles
• Express interest early: Elections usually happen in the spring
• Prepare properly: Create manifestos, understand responsibilities

Conclusion: Your Society Journey

Joining societies can seem overwhelming at first, especially when there are so many to choose from. But trust us, taking it step by step makes it way easier (and more fun). The Plymouth difference: Where else can you join a surfing society, practice Mandarin with natives, learn marine conservation, and organise charity events - all while living one mile from England's most beautiful coastline?

New to the city and curious about how it all fits together? Your societies are waiting. Your people are waiting. Your best uni experience is waiting.

Still deciding if Plymouth’s right for you? Get a balanced view from real students in our blog on the pros and cons of living in Plymouth. Are you ready? Visit your uni's society pages, follow their socials, and show up. That's it.