How UPSU supports your Plymouth student experience

The University of Plymouth Students’ Union (UPSU) is an independent, democratically led charity that represents the needs of the students studying at the University of Plymouth.

Our purpose

We are here to support the wellbeing of every student studying with the University of Plymouth. We want to make sure you have a successful, fulfilling and rewarding time both at University and in the future. We do this through helping you: to be empowered, learn and grow; be socially fulfilled; feel more financially secure and know you are supported and cared for.

We represent your views in University decisions, as well as local and national topics. We campaign for you on issues you care about, as well as providing opportunities for you to meet new people, socialise, develop your skills, campaign for change and try something new.

Your Membership

When people hear the phrase Students’ Union or SU, what springs to mind for many is a bar and cheap pints. While we do have an award-winning venue, social space and bar to unwind in after a day of lectures, what we are and what we can offer you go so much further than those four walls. Most importantly, we are a student-led organisation – we are a union of students. As a member, your SU belongs to you, you shape what the Students' Union is and does.

By enrolling on a University of Plymouth course, you are automatically a member of the Students’ Union. Being a member gives you the opportunity to enjoy the following benefits;

Stand as a candidate and vote in UPSU elections
Participate fully in student groups and hold a Committee position
Represent UPSU/the University in ‘BUCS’ or other inter university competitions
Be elected or appointed as a student representative and represent the views of students
Undertake paid work in a ‘student staff role’ at UPSU
Access the UPSU Advice Centre service
Get support from UPSU and use UPSU resources for student-led activity which falls within the remit of our purpose.
Have access to exclusive, members only events and activities

You have the option to opt-out of membership at any time, either by informing us in writing by emailing info@su.plymouth.ac.uk or by changing your preferences in your Student Profile in the Student Records System (be aware that opting out of membership will mean that your access to our services will be limited)

You can also opt-in via your Student profile if you have previously opted out.

All members must abide by the UPSU Members Code of Conduct

Associate Membership

Associate Membership of the Union exists in order to allow the Union some flexibility in offering benefits of the Union to people who would not otherwise be entitled to access events and activities and that can offer a mutual benefit. These memberships are approved at the discretion of UPSU and may be withdrawn or limited at any time. Associate members involvement in activities should never be at the expense of any full member.

Applications for Associate Membership are available for the following people:

Students registered with the University of Plymouth, other than those eligible for full membership
Carers of members - where the member needs support to be able to fully participate
UPSU staff
University staff
A person deemed to be providing benefit or support to UPSU or members that supports our purpose
In the case of Honorary Life Members, someone who has demonstrated significant dedication and commitment to UPSU
Student Members from another University that are undertaking a period of study at the University of Plymouth.

Find out more about Associate Membership, eligibility and how to apply.