The College Swansea University

The College Swansea University

United Kingdom

Students Satisfaction

82%

Intake

September and January

Int. Fee Range

£15,000 to £19,000/pa

Overview

The College Swansea University, Wales, UK, is an established and esteemed international pathway provider with undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

It provides a seamless transition to Swansea University with quality academic support for all students. The College has a multicultural campus experience, exceptional teaching and the opportunity to gain skills that will enable students to prepare for degree-level study and a lifetime of learning.

Extended Overview

The College is a partner of Swansea University and fully acknowledges the importance of supporting the academic journey of international students. Therefore, it guarantees progression to the University if students successfully complete their programme.

It also offers a supportive and welcoming environment with diverse learning opportunities, such as smaller class sizes, a more personalised learning experience and available university facilities.

As a student, you have been studying in the same location, with the same university facilities and support, as a Swansea student would from the first day.

The college also guarantees that you will be taught by an expert team of academics and tutors who can provide high-quality teaching based on world-leading research, and spend every day learning in one of the most beautiful campus locations in the UK.

Mission Statement

The College aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed for academic and professional success. Mainly, the college's mission is to offer international students academic pathways to the (Swansea) university, providing first-class service from skilled academics and staff from application to enrolment, teaching, and assessment.

History

The College Swansea University was created in 2018 as a collaboration between Swansea University and Navitas. Prior to this, the college operated as International College Wales Swansea (ICWS) and had a long history of supporting their international student population.

The College was able to enhance academic offerings and integrate itself more closely with Swansea University as a part of this development.

The College is situated on Swansea University's Bay Campus and offers a modern learning environment with great facilities.

The College continues to contribute to Swansea University's international education strategy and supports a diverse and inclusive academic community.

Key Milestones

  1. 1920: Swansea University is founded as University College of Swansea.
  2. 1996: The university is renamed University of Wales Swansea.
  3. 2007: Swansea University becomes an independent institution.
  4. 2015: Bay Campus opens, expanding the university’s facilities.
  5. 2018: The College, Swansea University is established, replacing ICWS.
  6. Present Day: The College continues to support international students with pathway programmes leading to Swansea University degrees.

Accreditation

The College is accredited by the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS).

Campus Facilities

The college offers a range of modern campus facilities designed to enhance student life and academic success. Here’s an overview of key areas:

Academic Building Atrium

The College Atrium is a light-filled space located on the ground floor of the College building. It provides a spacious setting for students to meet, relax and study in. There are a number of spaces to sit in, including desks, tables and sofas, making it a great space for individual or group work.

Academic Building Study Area

The College has space dedicated to study, with computer labs and space specifically designed for quiet study. These locations offer spaces for small-group teaching and independent study.

Beachfront Campus

Swansea University’s Bay Campus is situated right on the beachfront, which offers the students who study there fantastic views across the coast and direct access to the beach. This location provides an excellent advantage of enjoying outdoor activities and a relaxing study space.

Academic Building Coffee Area

Within the atrium, there is a Costa Coffee outlet where students can buy a variety of snacks and hot and cold drinks. The coffee area is a useful location for students to grab a drink and socialise between classes.

ROD Jones Halls of residence

The College provides modern student accommodation including ROD Jones Halls of residence, which means that you will have an en-suite bedroom and a common area for each Hall. This is a great opportunity to engage in a strong sense of community, which has been a major part of student living.

ROD Jones Hall Shared Kitchen

The shared kitchen in ROD Jones Hall has basic equipment and storage, which allows for students to prepare meals and connect with one another in a communal environment.

Other Amenities

The college provides a variety of additional amenities, including:

  1. Libraries with extensive academic resources.
  2. Sports facilities, including gyms and playing fields.
  3. Dining halls offering a range of meal options.
  4. Student lounges for relaxation and socialising.

Student Life

As a student at Swansea University, you can expect a student experience full of wonderful possibilities. The College provides a balance of educational excellence, above average activities and entertainment, and a beautiful coastal location. Here is a taste of The College Swansea University student experience:

Living Here

Swansea is a great city overall. It provides good access to amenities while also providing lots of green space and coastal views. Our Bay Campus is located right by the sea, giving you access to some of the best views in the world. You are also close to the city centre, Uplands, and Mumbles, so can enjoy the range of shops, cafes, and entertainment venues on offer.

Nightlife and Culture

The nightlife scene in Swansea is great, especially on Wind Street, which is really popular with students for bars, pubs and clubs. There is also a decent cultural scene in Swansea.

Taliesin Arts Centre puts on films, exhibits, and live performances. Swansea Arena attracts a lot of high-profile events and acts. If you're into sports, you can enjoy a match from either the Swansea City FC or Ospreys Rugby Team.

Accommodation

New students may be guaranteed accommodation in university residences if they apply before the application deadline. There are various accommodation options available including en-suite, shared kitchens, catered or self-catered meal plans.

There is also off campus accommodation available in the city centre through partnered organisations where you can make preferences for quiet accommodations, single-sex accommodations, and alcohol-free accommodations.

Students Union

The Union supports over 150 societies and more than 50 sports clubs, which means there is something for everyone! The Union organises more than 280 events a year which range from social to professional development opportunities. The Union elects six full time officers every year to represent student interests.

Getting Around

Swansea University has fantastic transport links. With bike hire schemes, bike storage on campus, public transport discounts, bus services between campuses, and student applications for the My Travel Pass where you can get further discounts.

Swansea University is on the M4 corridor and West Coast rail line, so you are not far from anywhere. London is just less than three hours away.

Student Jobs

Swansea has many part time job opportunities for students on campus and in the city. The university provides career support and will help students find career-related work experience, placements and roles after graduation.

Other Facts

  1. Swansea has 52 green spaces, including award-winning parks and gardens.
  2. The Gower Peninsula offers surfing, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
  3. The Wales National Pool provides top-tier swimming facilities.

Transportation

Although Swansea promotes walking and cycling to college, if you (as a student) cannot do this, you do have the option of using public transport. Public transport is a safe, convenient, cheap, and sustainable option to make the journey to college and about town.

Public transport

As a student, you will enjoy the great transport links serving Swansea University's Singleton and Bay Campuses.

First Bus Uni Bus

The First Bus Uni Bus network is designed exclusively for the travel requirements of Swansea's students. This network connects all major student accommodation locations with the Singleton Campus, Bay Campus, and Swansea city centre.

There are a selection of tickets available and students can usually get discounted rates if they apply for My Travel Pass.

  1. Designed for Swansea University students.
  2. Covers all student accommodation areas.
  3. Links Singleton Campus, Bay Campus, and the city centre.
  4. Range of ticket options available.
  5. Discounts available with My Travel Pass.

Bay Campus Park and Ride Shuttle Bus

To support sustainable travel to the university, it recommends the Fabian Way Park and Ride site, which has secure parking. A free shuttle bus service is available to Swansea University staff and students, operated by South Wales Transport.

The shuttle operates to and from the Fabian Way Park and Ride to the Bay Campus every 15 minutes during peak times. The shuttle is a direct and looped route.

  1. Free shuttle bus for Swansea University staff and students.
  2. Operates between Fabian Way Park and Ride and Bay Campus.
  3. Runs every 15 minutes during peak times.
  4. Direct and loop services available.

Taxi Travel

Taxis are available throughout Swansea and can be one of the easier ways to travel to and from university campuses and other places within the city. Taxis can generally be found at taxi ranks in the city centre, or called by phone (or via one of several apps).

Rail Services:

There are two main railway lines serving Swansea, connecting it with various parts of Wales and beyond in the UK.

  1. Great Western Railway (GWR) has services from Swansea to various major cities, including Cardiff and London Paddington, which allows for longer-distance travel
  2. Transport for Wales provides regional rail services connecting Swansea with other towns and cities within Wales. The services depart from Swansea High Street Station.

Housing and Accommodation

While the college is primarily situated on the Bay Campus, you are warmly invited to consider making this modern and vibrant campus your new home. The college accommodation at Bay Campus offers the safest and securest option and is also convent.

You will generally be residing in high-quality en-suite study bedrooms and you will also be a short walk from The College's academic building and the university's facilities.  

Halls fees and contract dates

These fees will vary depending on the room type you select and the duration of your contract for the academic year. Please make sure to visit the official university accommodation pages where prices and contract periods will be updated before your application.

Reservation deposit policy for students:

  1. £100.00 payable upon accommodation acceptance.
  2. Payment via Accommodation Account.
  3. Secures room reservation.
  4. Acceptance and payment within 3 days of the offer.
  5. Non-refundable deposit required for accommodation.
  6. Failure to take up accommodation incurs a penalty.

Medium en-suite room

A medium en-suite room on Bay Campus offers privacy and a good living quality. You will have a study area and an en-suite bathroom with privacy and convenience.

Sizes will vary a little but you will generally have more than enough space for study, relaxation, and belongings to help you to succeed in academic life.

Accommodation features:

  1. A small double bed (3/4 size)
  2. Bedside chest
  3. Desk and chair
  4. Bookshelf
  5. Clothing storage
  6. Blackout curtains
  7. Pinboard
  8. Mirror
  9. Broadband service
  10. Personal belongings insurance
  11. Access to shared kitchen and communal facilities
  12. And many more

Tips:

  1. If you are under 18 when your programme at The College begins, you will automatically be placed in an alcohol-free flat.
  2. When applying, you can choose from options like quieter flats, single-sex accommodation, or alcohol-free flats.

Premium en-suite room

Premium en-suite accommodation on Bay Campus has more features, and potentially more space, than your medium en-suite room. Also, while you will have your own private study space and en-suite bathroom, premium rooms may offer a little more space for your workspace or better views. Furthermore, a more desirable accommodation location could provide you with additional comfort during your stay.

Accommodation features:

  1. A full double bed
  2. Armchair
  3. Drawer unit
  4. Bedside chest
  5. Desk and chair
  6. Bookshelf
  7. Clothing storage
  8. And many more

Tips:

  1. If you are under 18 when your programme at The College begins, you will automatically be placed in an alcohol-free flat.
  2. When applying, you can choose from options like quieter flats, single-sex accommodation, or alcohol-free flats.

Communal features

Living in the halls on Bay Campus also has a collection of shared features included, which are constructed to support your student experience. Usually, this will involve a shared cooking and living space where you can socialise, cook with each other.

Uncommonly, there could be social areas, laundry and potentially an outdoor location, supporting our residents to build and maintain a sense of community through opportunities to share and relax.

Rooms features:

  1. 6-11 bedrooms each.
  2. Common room with large kitchen.

Kitchen facilities:

  1. Cooker
  2. Hob
  3. Sink
  4. Microwave
  5. Kettle
  6. Fridge/freezer
  7. Breakfast bar and stools
  8. Coffee table
  9. Sofa

Prefer to live off-campus:

Although Bay Campus offers local accommodation, Swansea is home to a wide range of off-campus accommodation options. This includes private halls, shared houses and apartments across the city with a variety of prices and living styles.

If you do find off-campus accommodation, Swansea University accommodation services can provide support and advice on how to access suitable off-campus accommodation.

Additionally, students may receive a 20% Discount on Rod Jones Hall Accommodation. This Rod Jones Hall accommodation discount may be subject to terms and conditions, so you should review full terms, conditions, and eligibility on the Swansea University Accommodation Services website. This could provide a discount option for eligible students obtaining cheaper on-campus living.

Extracurricular Activities

As a student, you may also be able to participate in the wide range of extracurricular activities at Swansea University itself. Being in a university environment from the beginning of your studies means you can embrace student life from the start.

Here are some highlights about extracurricular activities you can look forward to:

Societies and clubs: Swansea University offers over 150 student societies and clubs, all run by the Students' Union. It covers a broad range of interests, including academic subjects, culture, hobbies (e.g. creative writing, film, and gaming), faith organisations, and political and campaigning groups. Joining societies is a great way to meet like minded people, learn new things, and be part of the university community.

Sport and recreation: Swansea University has a great sporting practice with over 50 sports clubs available for students of all abilities and experience, from the inexperienced to the serious athlete. A wide range of sports are available to play for fun with us, including team sports such as rugby, football, and hockey, and individual sports like swimming, tennis, and all the martial arts. The university prides itself in providing excellent sports facilities for student use. The Get ACTIVE programme also allows you to engage with physical activity in a more informal way.

Volunteering: There are many ways to volunteer at the university and within the local Swansea community. Volunteering is valuable as it gives you an opportunity to give back to the community, gain experience and develop essential employability skills. The university also has a "Discovery" volunteering programme that aims to connect students to a range of projects.

Social events: The Students' Union hosts many social events throughout the year including welcome events, themed nights, cultural events, and the Summer Ball. These all provide for socialising, having fun, and connecting with fellow students.

Arts and culture: There is a lot going on in arts and culture in Swansea. The university runs some events, and the Taliesin Arts Centre on Singleton Campus also has cinema screenings, exhibitions, and live performance events. A number of the student societies are also arts and culture based.

International student support activities: The university has specific welcome and social activities for international students to help them settle in, meet friends, and experience Welsh culture. These activities may include trips to a local attraction, and social gatherings.

Student media: You can get involved in student media through the Students' Union. The student media may include opportunities in radio, television, and student publications.

If you can positively engage with these extracurricular activities you will enhance your university experience and study, build an additional support network, develop new skills, and make the most of the opportunities available to you.

Fees and Scholarships

Tuition fees range for international students may vary by programme (Foundation, International Year One, and Pre-Masters).

Career Services

The college offers a range of career services to support Foundation, International Year One, and Pre-Masters students in their professional development. Here are some key services available:

  1. One-to-one career consultations with advisors
  2. Guidance on career pathways related to your intended degree
  3. Skill-building sessions relevant to your intended field of study
  4. Support for developing your professional profile
  5. Advice on gaining work experience
  6. Online career resources and platforms
  7. Employer presentations and networking opportunities
  8. Information on internships and placements
  9. Support in searching for part-time jobs
  10. And more

Location

The college's location is on the Swansea University Bay Campus. This is a modern and exciting beach-fronted location. The exact address is The College Swansea University, Bay Campus, Fabian Way, Swansea SA1 8EN, United Kingdom. The Bay Campus is on the eastern approach into Swansea, meaning it will have a self-contained feel while still being part of the city.

The Learning Hub: On the Bay Campus, The Learning Hub is a key space for students. The Learning Hub provides modern study areas, IT provision, and is typically home to the support services available to improve your learning experience. It is an essential building for students at The College, providing designated space for academic work and collaborative work.

Top Attractions: Swansea and the immediate area has a lot to offer. On the Bay Campus doorstep is Swansea Bay beach itself, a beautiful stretch of sandy beach. In short travel distance you will enjoy the Gower Peninsula - the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK, famed for its dramatic coastline and sandy beaches such as Rhossili Bay and Three Cliffs Bay. Other attractions close by are the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea Marina, Mumbles Pier, and Singleton Park and its Botanical Gardens.

Surroundings: The Bay Campus has a unique location directly on the beach providing views of the sea and an energising coastal environment. The campus is surrounded by the Crymlyn Burrows Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which is a designated geological study area with agreed biodiversity and it combines natural beauty with the academic life of the University.

Wales Cultural Scenes and Landmarks: The Bay Campus itself is a modern development but opens up the rich cultural network that Wales has to offer. Swansea is home to the Dylan Thomas Centre, located in the city centre to commemorate the Welsh poet. There is also Oystermouth Castle, a historic Norman castle overseeing Swansea Bay, and many other rich venues to explore.

Just a bit further into Wales, you will come across places like Cardiff Castle, Caernarfon Castle, and the Brecon Beacons National Park, all of which can be reached for a day trip. Alongside these iconic sites, the Welsh language and traditions can be seen as part of everyday life in Swansea and Wales in general, with loads of cultural events and festivals held throughout the year.

Nearby Park: While the Bay Campus borders the Crymlyn Burrows SSSI, Singleton Park, which is the largest urban park near Swansea University (and easily accessible from the Bay Campus by public transport) has botanical gardens, a boating lake, miniature golf to rent, and is used for different events and festivals throughout the year.

Frequently asked questions

It's an official pathway college located on Swansea University's Bay Campus. It provides specialised programmes like Foundation, International Year One, and Pre-Masters to prepare international students for successful entry into Swansea University degree courses.