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Mature students

You are a mature student if you are over the age of 21 when you start your higher education studies. At Plymouth Marjon University we welcome people of all ages to our undergraduate courses. In fact, adults returning to study are some of our most able students, bringing experience and skills gained from work, family and other life experiences. Our mature students come from a wide range of educational and work backgrounds, and span a very wide range of ages, and together they are a third of our total student population.

Are you wondering if becoming a mature student is right for you? If so, this page was written by a mature student to tell you the key things you might need to know , so read on! If you have more questions you can use the chat feature on this page to put them directly to a mature student, or you can see our mature student FAQs.

We have a position of mature students' officer in the Student Union who you can also contact about mature student life. Find details for the Student Union Officer contacts. 

Academic support

Many mature students who have been out of education for a period worry about their ability to return to academic study. If you would like to brush up on your academic skills, you can attend study skills sessions and talk to your personal development tutor. Our tips:

  • Remind yourself of your motivation – times can get hard as a student, try to remember why you chose to study.
  • Booklists – are meant to help and to not confuse! Find out what your main texts are.
  • Learn to discard information – you can’t use all the notes in one piece of work, only use what’s relevant and keep the rest of your notes for exam revision.

We're a social bunch

Many mature students worry that they will be the only mature student on their course and will struggle to make friends. But they quickly realise they aren't the only ones. We have a lot of mature students and we're a really inclusive community. Give yourself time and take advantage of the opportunities to meet new people. Our tips:

  • Go to the Freshers Fair and join clubs and societies that interest you – this is a great way to meet like-minded people. If you don’t find a society, why not start your own?
  • Go to some of the events that are taking place during Freshers.
  • If family commitments make it difficult to meet other students, use the University Facebook page and the Students’ Union Facebook page to keep in touch with new friends, or organise your own socials at times to suit you. We encourage you to join the Marjon Mature Students Society Facebook group to meet others. 

Family and friends

Involve your family and friends in your university life and talk to them about your experiences here. It is better for everyone to understand in advance how studying will impact your life and the time you have available. Be realistic about what time you will need and plan around the busy times of the year. Also remember studying can be tiring, plan your week to ensure you get enough rest!

Childcare

Marjon recognises that many students will be combining their studies with caring for children. Flying Start Nursery is located on campus and a full range of childcare facilities advice is available through the Plymouth City Council website.

The Students’ Union can run family-friendly events so that you have the chance to meet other students that may be in the same position as you. Speak to the SU about putting these events on throughout the year.

Accommodation

Students have several options to consider when thinking about which accommodation to choose. Living on campus is  great for many new students; however this isn't for everyone. Look at our accommodation options and see what suits you best. If you would prefer not to live on campus then we recommend that you choose off-campus accommodation that is university approved.

Our top tips

  • Give yourself time to settle.
  • Recognise that your maturity is an asset.
  • Organise your time before you start your induction.
  • Work to your strengths and face your fears!
  • Make connections - a great way to start is by joining the Mature Students Society.
  • Involve your family and friends in your new university experience.