The Earl of Wessex, Prince Edward received jewellery and Cornish ales when he paid a visit to the Tremough university campus earlier today.
As well as a tour of some of the latest developments at Cornwall's £200 million campus, he planted a tree to mark the recent university status for Falmouth University.
Prince Edward got to see Falmouth University's Academy of Innovation and Research and the University of Exeter's Environment and Sustainability Institute and The Exchange.
And he was told about some of the research projects taking place, from the biology of bees to global warming, interactive animation and video conferencing to support artists.
Escorted by the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward Bolitho, he met a number of local dignitaries, student union officials and staff.
Professor Anne Carlisle, vice chancellor of Falmouth University, said: "His visit marks a distinctive and historic chapter for Falmouth and Penryn and we are thrilled that during the visit, we have been able to commemorate and celebrate university title with a plaque.
"It means so much for so many talented students and staff to be acknowledged in this way."
