Celebrating achievements at Graduation 2024

Thousands of students, families, staff and invited guests have attended three days of ceremonies held in Plymouth
Graduation 2024
More than 2,500 students have celebrated the completion of their degrees during the University of Plymouth’s annual Graduation Week.
Across ten ceremonies, students from the University’s three faculties were honoured in front of an audience including families, friends and University staff.
Several were presented with special prizes in recognition of their achievements, also getting the chance to have photos taken with their fellow students and many of the lecturers and technicians who have supported them through their studies.

Graduations are always very special and joyful events, wherever they are and whatever the weather. The overwhelming feeling for every graduate, every family and friend, and every member of staff who has supported and guided our students is pride. The University of Plymouth knows how to put on a great graduation, always just the right balance of pomp and fun for such a special and unique occasion, and our graduation team do the most amazing job.

Judith Petts DBEProfessor Dame Judith Petts DBE
Emeritus Professor

Graduation 2024
During the ceremonies, six leading figures from fields including entertainment, enterprise and exploration were presented with honorary degrees. They were:
  • Dame Darcey Bussell DBE, regarded as the most famous British ballet dancer of her generation: Honorary Doctorate of Arts;
  • Dr Andrew Garrad CBE FREng, pioneer of renewable energy technologies and innovation: Honorary Doctorate of Science;
  • Sarah Kenny OBE, CEO of BMT – a leading engineering and technology consultancy – and champion of the UK’s maritime industries: Honorary Doctorate of Science;
  • David Loosley, Secretary General of the Baltic and International Maritime Council and member of the Maritime 2050 Experts Panel: Honorary Doctorate of Science;
  • Paul Rose, one of the world’s most accomplished scientific expedition leaders and broadcaster: Honorary Doctorate of Science;
  • Timothy Taylor, award-winning creator and series producer of TV archaeology show Time Team: Honorary Doctorate of Arts.
The week also offered opportunities to celebrate the University’s achievements over the course of the past year, in particular during a Civic Reception held in the Graduation Marquee .
Professor Petts added:
“Our Graduation ceremonies always provide us an opportunity to confer honorary awards to very special people who have achieved so much in their lives and careers, and who support the University in so many ways. We have many guests from our business and city community during the ceremonies, and it is clear that they greatly enjoy and value the University.”
Dame Darcey Bussell - Graduation 2024
Dame Darcey Bussell, Honorary Doctorate of Arts
Paul Rose - Graduation 2024
Paul Rose, Honorary Doctorate of Science
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