Studying at the University of Exeter

Seminars and tutorials

Seminars and tutorials are discussion groups with your tutor and a group of students. The discussion could be about a previous lecture or a specific topic. Sometimes each student is asked to prepare for a discussion. Seminars and tutorials are more informal than lectures but you are expected to prepare for the discussion topic and to participate in that discussion. This is your opportunity to ask questions and to improve your academic skills. Always tell the tutor if there is something you have not understood.

Small group work

Most courses provide opportunities for students to work in a small group on a task assigned by the tutor. Group work can be valuable and enjoyable. You will learn from each other and improve your collaborative skills.

Workshop, laboratory, field or studio sessions

If you are going to study a subject with a practical element, some of your time will be spent in workshop, laboratory, field or studio sessions where you can develop your skills and expertise through practical work. Afterwards you may have to write up the results and maybe give a presentation on them.

Computer work

Almost all subjects will require some form of computer work as part of the course.

Term dates 2023-24

Arrivals Weekend Fri 15 – Sun 17 Sept 2023

Welcome Week Mon 18 – Sun 24 Sept 2023

Term 1 Mon 25 Sept – Fri 15 Dec 2023 (exam period 8 – 13Jan)

Term 2 Mon 15 Jan – Fri 29 Mar 2024 (orientation 15Jan 2024)

Term 3 Mon 29 Apr – Fri 14 June 2024

Study Abroad, International Exchange and Exchange students

Arrivals Weekend Fri 15 – Sun 17 Sept 2023

Welcome Week Mon 18 – Sun 24 Sept 2023

Semester 1 Mon 25 Sept 2023 – Sat 13 Jan 2024 (exam period 8 – 13Jan)

Semester 2 Mon 15 Jan – Fri 14 Jun 2024

You will be required to type your assignments or maybe undertake data analysis using specific software. If you have difficulty accessing or using a computer to complete your work, you should contact your personal tutor, IT support or the AccessAbility Office.

Personal academic tutors

All taught students are allocated a Personal Academic Tutor when they start their studies at Exeter. Your tutor will contact you to arrange meetings throughout the academic year. These meetings may be one-to one or group tutorials and will be focused on your transition, academic progress and ambitions. In addition to these tutor-arranged meetings you can contact your tutor for advice and guidance about your studies and the range of support services available to you.