

University of South Wales
United Kingdom
Guardian University Ranking 2024
72
-19Students Satisfaction
82%
Graduates Employability
95%
Int. Student Percentage
10%
Int. Fee Range
£15,850 - £22,000/pa
Overview
The USW or University of South Wales, England, UK is an esteemed public and leading institute, mainly known as top-class teaching and research with a high employability rate.
The university offers a vast range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various disciplines, but specifically specialised in Business, Engineering, and MBA courses.
It's a top university with more than 30,000 students with over 3,500 international students from 120 countries.
Extended Overview
An innovative and thriving public institution, the University of South Wales has a flourishing history dating back to the mid-18th century. The institution is committed to making a welcoming and inclusive environment for each student to flourish.
They work directly with the students to assist them complete their studies to enter their chosen careers respectively. And to do that massively, the University of South Wales has established their campuses in three different locations, such as Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd.
Besides, the USW has approx 500+ UG and PG courses, and in terms of student numbers, it becomes the second largest university of Wales. And it is renowned for its top-class teaching, research, and student experience.
Students can engage with its dynamic and vibrant student life with a wide range of clubs and societies, sporting activities, and social events.
Mission Statement
The motto of USW, or the University of South Wales, England, UK, is "Success Through Endeavour," and its vision is to change lives for a better world. USW's goals are to maximise graduate success through high-quality research and innovation impact.
USW aims to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. This, in turn, contributes to Wales's social and economic development by providing graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a dynamic and changing world.
History
The University of South Wales traces its roots back to 1841 with the founding of the Newport Mechanics' Institute. This institution, dedicated to adult education, evolved over time, ultimately becoming the University of Wales, Newport.
In 1913, the South Wales and Monmouthshire School of Mines was established in Treforest, focusing on mining and engineering. This institution later evolved into the Polytechnic of Wales, and subsequently, in 1992, gained university status as the University of Glamorgan.
A significant milestone occurred in 2013 with the merger of the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales, Newport, forming the University of South Wales.
This union brought together institutions with rich histories and diverse strengths, creating a larger and more comprehensive university.
In 2020, the university entered a strategic alliance with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, aiming to strengthen Wales' innovation capacity and support economic regeneration.
The university experienced a data breach in 2019, impacting 30,000 students and necessitating the temporary offline status of the student record system.
Key milestones:
- 1841: Opening of Mechanics Institute, Newport.
- 1913: Opening of South Wales and Monmouthshire School of Mines, Treforest.
- 2013: Merger between the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales, Newport.
- 2014: Rowan Williams appointed Chancellor.
- 2015: London Campus closes.
- 2016: Caerleon Campus closes.
- 2020: Dubai Campus closes.
This historical overview highlights the evolution of the University of South Wales from its humble beginnings to its current position as a leading institution in higher education within Wales.
Accreditation
The USW or University of South Wales, England, Uk is a well-reputed institution with a strong focus on quality education and research.
The university is accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), the UK's independent quality body.
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
- Bar Standards Board (BSB)
- BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT
- British Dyslexia Association (BDA)
- British Psychological Society (BPS)
- Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC)
- Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM)
- Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
- Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM)
- Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
- Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
- Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA)
- Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT)
- Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
- Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
- General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)
- Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
- Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE)
- Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)
- Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
- Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)
- Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)
- Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- Royal Society of Biology (RSB)
- Society of Sports Therapists (SST)
Campus Facilities
The University of South Wales boasts modern and well-equipped campuses across three locations: Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd.
Cardiff Campus: The Cardiff campus located in the heart of Welsh capital where the city features a range of modern buildings, including the iconic Atrium Building.
The campus is loaded with creative energy and it's a home to the University's renowned arts and design faculties and a hub for aspiring filmmakers, fashion designers, game developers, and musicians. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as:
- Libraries: A modern library with extensive resources, comfortable study spaces, and access to online databases.
- Laboratories: The campus provides well-equipped laboratories for scientific research and practical work in various disciplines, including engineering, science, and healthcare.
- Workshops: It has specialist workshops for creative arts, engineering, and other practical subjects.
- Student Union: A vibrant Student Union building with social spaces, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Newport Campus: The campus nestled on the banks of the River Usk and offers a blend of modern architecture and historic charm.
It's a hub for students studying subjects like engineering, computing, and business, with strong industry connections and a focus on practical learning.
- Modern buildings: It features innovative teaching spaces, including lecture theaters, seminar rooms, and computer labs.
- City center location: Students are eligible for easy access to the city center and its amenities.
Pontypridd Campus: The campus situated in the picturesque valleys of South Wales and offers a more tranquil setting for learning and exploration. It's a home to the iconic Alfred Russel Wallace Building and provides a unique blend of historical significance and modern facilities, cherishing a strong sense of community.
- The iconic Alfred Russel Wallace Building: A landmark building housing academic departments and student facilities.
- Focus on sustainability: The campus incorporates sustainable features and promotes environmental awareness.
Courses
Foundation
- Accounting and Finance
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
- Applied Cyber Security
- Automotive Engineering
- Biology
- Biomedical Science
- Building Surveying
- Business and Management
- Childhood Development
- Chiropractic
- Civil Engineering
- Community Football Coaching and Development
- Computer Science
- Computing
- Construction Project Management
- Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Criminology and Criminal Justice and Youth Justice
- Digital Forensics
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- English and Creative Writing
- Environmental Science
- Forensic Investigation
- Forensic Science
- Health, Wellbeing and Social Care Management
- History
- Human Resource Management
- International Wildlife Biology
- Law
- Logistics, Procurement and Supply Chain Management
- Marketing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry
- Natural History
- Natural History and Media
- Pharmaceutical Science
- Professional Policing
- Psychology
- Public Services
- Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management
- Real Estate
- Sociology
- Sports Coaching and Development
- Youth and Community Work
Undergraduate
- Accounting and Finance
- Accounting and Finance (Including Foundation Year)
- Accounting and Finance (Sandwich)
- Advertising
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering (4 Years)
- Aeronautical Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Aeronautical Engineering (Sandwich)
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering (4 Years)
- Aerospace Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Aircraft Engineering and Maintenance Systems (Top-Up)
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Animation (2D and Stop Motion)
- Applied Computing (Top-Up)
- Applied Cyber Security
- Applied Cyber Security (Including Foundation Year)
- Applied Cyber Security (with Placement Year)
- Automotive Engineering
- Automotive Engineering (4 Years)
- Automotive Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Automotive Engineering (Sandwich)
- Banking, Finance and Investment (Top-Up)
- Biology
- Biology (Including Foundation Year)
- Biology (Sandwich)
- Biomedical Science
- Biomedical Science (Including Foundation Year)
- Biomedical Science (Sandwich)
- Building Surveying
- Building Surveying (Including Foundation Year)
- Business and Management
- Business and Management (Including Foundation Year)
- Business and Management (Sandwich)
- Business Management (Accounting and Finance) (Top-Up)
- Business Management (Event Management) (Top-Up)
- Business Management (Human Resource Management) (Top-Up)
- Business Management (Marketing) (Top-Up)
- Business Management (Supply Chain Management) (Top-Up)
- Business Management (Top-Up)
- Childhood Development
- Childhood Development (Including Foundation Year)
- Childhood Development (Sandwich)
- Childhood Studies (Top-Up)
- Chiropractic
- Chiropractic (Including Foundation Year)
- Civil Engineering
- Civil Engineering (3 Years)
- Civil Engineering (4 Years)
- Civil Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Civil Engineering (Sandwich)
- Civil Engineering (Sandwich) (4 Years)
- Community Football Coaching and Administration (Top-Up)
- Computer Animation
- Computer Games Design
- Computer Science
- Computer Science (Including Foundation Year)
- Computer Science (Sandwich)
- Computing
- Computing (Including Foundation Year)
- Computing (Sandwich)
- Construction Project Management
- Construction Project Management (Including Foundation Year)
- Construction Project Management (Sandwich)
- Counselling and Therapeutic Practice
- Creative and Therapeutic Arts
- Creative Industries (Popular Music Technology) (Top-Up)
- Criminal Justice
- Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Criminology and Criminal Justice (Including Foundation Year)
- Criminology and Criminal Justice and Youth Justice
- Criminology and Criminal Justice and Youth Justice (Including Foundation Year)
- Criminology and Criminal Justice with Psychology
- Digital Forensics
- Digital Forensics (Including Foundation Year)
- Digital Forensics (with Placement Year)
- Documentary Photography
- Early Years Education (Top-Up)
- Early Years Education and Practice (with Early Years Practitioner Status)
- Education
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (4 Years)
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Sandwich)
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Top-Up)
- Engineering Technology Management (Top-Up)
- English and Creative Writing
- English and Creative Writing (Including Foundation Year)
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Science (Including Foundation Year)
- Environmental Science (Sandwich)
- Fashion Business and Marketing
- Fashion Business and Marketing (Sandwich)
- Fashion Design
- Fashion Design (Sandwich)
- Fashion Promotion
- Fashion Promotion (Sandwich)
- Film
- Football Coaching and Performance
- Football Coaching, Development and Administration
- Forensic Investigation
- Forensic Investigation (Including Foundation Year)
- Forensic Investigation (Sandwich)
- Forensic Science
- Forensic Science (Including Foundation Year)
- Forensic Science (Sandwich)
- Game Art
- Graphic Communication
- Health, Wellbeing and Social Care Management
- Health, Wellbeing and Social Care Management (Including Foundation Year)
- History
- History (Including Foundation Year)
- Hotel and Hospitality Management
- Human Resource Management
- Human Resource Management (Including Foundation Year)
- Human Resource Management (Sandwich)
- Illustration
- Interior Design
- Interior Design (Sandwich)
- International Business (Top-Up)
- International Business and Management
- International Wildlife Biology
- International Wildlife Biology (Including Foundation Year)
- International Wildlife Biology (Sandwich)
- Journalism
- Law
- Law (Including Foundation Year)
- Law Accelerated Route
- Legal Practice (SQE)
- Logistics, Procurement and Supply Chain Management
- Logistics, Procurement and Supply Chain Management (Including Foundation Year)
- Logistics, Procurement and Supply Chain Management (Sandwich)
- Marketing
- Marketing (Including Foundation Year)
- Marketing (Sandwich)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering (3 Years)
- Mechanical Engineering (4 Years)
- Mechanical Engineering (Including Foundation Year)
- Mechanical Engineering (Sandwich)
- Media Production
- Media, Culture and Journalism
- Medical Sciences
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Including Foundation Year)
- Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Sandwich)
- Midwifery
- Music Business
- Music Producing
- Natural History
- Natural History (Including Foundation year)
- Natural History (Sandwich)
- Natural History and Media
- Natural History and Media (Including Foundation Year)
- Natural History and Media (Sandwich)
- Nursing (Adult)
- Nursing (Child)
- Nursing (Learning Disabilities)
- Nursing (Mental Health)
- Operating Department Practice (ODP)
- Performance and Media
- Pharmaceutical Science
- Pharmaceutical Science (Including Foundation Year)
- Pharmaceutical Science (Sandwich)
- Photography
- Popular and Commercial Music
- Primary Initial Teacher Education with QTS
- Professional Policing
- Professional Policing (Accelerated)
- Professional Policing (Including Foundation Year)
- Psychology
- Psychology (Including Foundation Year)
- Psychology (Sandwich)
- Psychology with Counselling
- Psychology with Counselling (Sandwich)
- Psychology with Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Psychology with Criminology and Criminal Justice (Sandwich)
- Psychology with Developmental Disorders
- Psychology with Developmental Disorders (Sandwich)
- Public Services
- Public Services (Including Foundation Year)
- Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management
- Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management (Including Foundation Year)
- Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management (Sandwich)
- Real Estate
- Real Estate (Including Foundation Year)
- Real Estate (Sandwich)
- Rugby Coaching and Performance
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Sociology (Including Foundation Year)
- Sound, Lighting and Live Event Technology
- Sound, Lighting and Live Event Technology (Sandwich)
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Sports and Exercise Therapy
- Sports Business and Management
- Sports Coaching and Development
- Sports Coaching and Development (Top-Up)
- Sports Journalism
- Strength and Conditioning
- Theatre and Drama
- TV and Film Set Design
- Visual Effects and Motion Graphics
- Working with Children and Families
- Youth and Community Work
- Youth and Community Work (Including Foundation Year)
Postgraduate
- Acute Medicine (Online Delivery)
- Advanced Coaching in Strength and Conditioning
- Advanced Computer Science
- Advanced Performance Football Coaching
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Analytical and Forensic Science
- Animation
- Applied Cyber Security
- Applied Health Economics (Online Delivery)
- Applied Health Economics (Online Delivery) (2 Years)
- Artificial Intelligence
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
- Aviation Engineering and Management
- Behaviour Analysis and Therapy
- Behaviour Analysis Supervised Practice
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMH)
- Chiropractic
- Civil Engineering
- Civil Engineering (Environmental)
- Civil Engineering (Structural)
- Clinical Psychiatry (Online Delivery)
- Clinical Psychology
- Computer Science
- Computing and Information Systems
- Construction Project Management
- Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine (Online Delivery)
- Crime and Justice
- Cyber Security, Risk and Resilience
- Data Science
- Data Science (18 Months)
- Dementia Studies
- Dermatology in Clinical Practice (Online Delivery)
- Design Innovation
- Diabetes (Online Delivery)
- Digital Forensics
- Documentary Photography
- Drama
- Education (Innovation in Learning and Teaching)
- Electronics and Information Technology
- Endocrinology (Online Delivery)
- Engineering Management
- Enhancing Clinical Practice
- Expedition and Wilderness Medicine (Online Delivery)
- Film
- Film (Cinematography)
- Film (Directing)
- Film (Documentary)
- Film (Editing)
- Film (Production Management)
- Film (Screenwriting)
- Finance and Investment
- Finance and Investment (18 Months)
- Financial Services Management
- Forensic Audit and Accounting
- Games Enterprise
- Gastroenterology (Online Delivery)
- Graphic Communication
- Health and Public Service Management
- Higher Education in Community Health and Wellbeing
- Human Resource Management
- International Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- International Security and Risk Management
- Law, Technology and Innovation
- Laws
- Laws (International Commercial Law)
- Leadership & Management (Education)
- Leadership in Healthcare (Online Delivery)
- Leadership in Sport
- Legal Practice
- Legal Practice Course (LPC)
- Legal Research
- Management
- MBA
- MBA (Global)
- MBA (Global) (Marketing)
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering (Albstadt)
- Medical Education (Online Delivery)
- Mobile and Satellite Communications
- Music Engineering and Production
- Nursing (Adult)
- Nursing (Learning Disabilities)
- Nursing (Mental Health)
- Obesity and Weight Management (Online Delivery)
- Pain Management (Online Delivery)
- Pain Management (Online Delivery) (1 Year)
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Post Compulsory Education and Training
- Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine (Online delivery)
- Primary Initial Teacher Education with QTS
- Professional Accounting (with ACCA)
- Professional Policing (Online)
- Professional Practice
- Professional Practice (SQE)
- Project Management
- Psychology (Conversion)
- Public Health
- Renal Medicine (Online Delivery)
- Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology
- Respiratory Medicine (Online Delivery)
- Rheumatology (Online Delivery)
- Safety, Health and Environmental Management
- SEN/ALN (Autism)
- Sexual and Reproductive Medicine (Online Delivery)
- Songwriting and Production
- Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (School Nursing)
- Sport, Health and Exercise Science
- Sports and Exercise Medicine (Online delivery)
- Sports Coaching and Performance
- Strategic and Digital Marketing
- Strategic Procurement Management
- TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
- Visual Journalism
- Wildlife and Conservation Management
- Working for Children and Young People (Youth Work Initial Qualifying)
- Working with Adult and Young People Who Offend
Research
- Business Administration
- Counselling Psychology
- Law / Accounting & Finance
Divisions and Departments
The USW or University of South Wales is organised into several academic divisions and departments. Here's a breakdown:
Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
- School of Computing and Mathematics
- School of Engineering
- School of Applied Sciences
Faculty of Business & Creative Industries
- School of Design & Digital
- School of Production & Performance
- South Wales Business School
Faculty of Life Sciences and Education
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies
- School of Education, Early Years and Social Work
- School of Health, Sport & Professional Practice
- School of Care Sciences
Faculty and Staff
The USW employs a prestigious faculty and diverse staff committed to providing high-quality education and research opportunities.
- Professor Michael Gunn - Lay Governor
- Richard Lloyd-Owen - Lay Governor
- Alison Ramsey - Lay Governor
- Michael Plaut OBE - Lay Governor
- Debbie Jones - Lay Governor
- Michael Stevens - Lay Governor
- Professor Philip Gummett CBE - Lay Governor
- Sanjay Balakrishnan - Lay Governor
- Sion O'Connor - Lay Governor
- Steve Wilson - Lay Governor
- Sharon James - Lay Governor
- Louise Evans - Chair of the Board
- Rowan Williams - Chancellor
- Ben Calvert - Vice-Chancellor
- Professor Martin Steggall - Pro Vice-Chancellor
- Dr Louise Bright - Pro Vice-Chancellor
- Professor Donna Whitehead - Deputy Vice-Chancellor
- Mark Milton - Chief Operating Officer
- Rachel Elias-lee - Chief Financial Officer
- Zoe Durrant - Chief People and Inclusion Officer
Student Life
Student life at the University of South Wales is dynamic and diverse, offering a unique experience across its three campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd.
Cardiff, the capital city, provides a bustling environment with a thriving nightlife scene. Students can enjoy a wide range of pubs, clubs, and live music venues.
The city boasts a rich cultural tapestry, offering world-class museums, theaters, and the iconic Cardiff Castle. Cardiff is also a shopper's paradise, with a diverse range of options from high-street brands to independent boutiques.
Newport, situated on the River Usk, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a blend of history and modern living. The city boasts a vibrant waterfront and a range of pubs, bars, and live music venues.
Pontypridd, nestled in the scenic valleys of South Wales, provides a more tranquil setting. Students can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside and explore the Brecon Beacons National Park. While quieter than Cardiff and Newport, Pontypridd still offers a range of social venues and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Across all campuses, the USW Students' Union plays a vital role, organizing social events, representing student interests, and providing support services.
Students can engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports clubs, societies, volunteering opportunities, and cultural events.
Student Statistics
- Female 55%
- Male 45%
- Other 0%
- UK Students 86%
- EU Students 04%
- International 10%
- Full-time 72%
- Part-time 28%
- First year 41%
- Other years 59%
- Postgraduate 27%
- Undergraduate 73%
Transportation
The University of South Wales is well-connected by public transport, making it easy for students to travel between campuses and access local amenities.
Cardiff Campus:
The campus is conveniently located in the heart of Cardiff. The campus boasts excellent public transport links that facilitate easy access to Cardiff Central Station, which offers direct train connections to major cities throughout the UK.
Additionally, frequent bus services connect the campus to all parts of the city, ensuring convenient travel options for students and visitors alike.
Newport Campus:
The campus is ideally situated in the city center of Newport, providing excellent public transport connections for students and visitors alike.
The regular bus services connect the campus and Newport's other parts and its surrounding areas, ensuring easy accessibility.
Additionally, convenient access to Newport railway station further enhances the connectivity, making it simple for individuals to travel to and from the campus.
Pontypridd Campus:
The campus is conveniently situated in the town center of Pontypridd, offering excellent transportation options for students and visitors alike.
A free shuttle bus service connects the campus to nearby towns and villages, ensuring easy access to essential amenities.
Additionally, the train station is within close proximity, providing seamless connections to Cardiff and other regions across South Wales, making it an ideal location for commuting and exploring the surrounding areas.
General Transportation Considerations:
Cycling:
- Cycle-friendly campuses with secure bike storage facilities.
- Encourages sustainable and healthy travel.
Walking:
- Many students choose to walk or cycle to campus, particularly those living in nearby areas.
Car Parking:
- Limited on-campus parking available.
- Encourage students to use public transport where possible.
Housing and Accommodation
USW guaranteed all first-year (full-time/part-time) undergraduate or postgraduate students to have a place in their Halls of Residence.
Besides that they offer a vast range of accommodation options to suit different students needs and preferences.
On-Campus accommodation:
- Modern and comfortable residences: Available on all three campuses (Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd).
- Variety of options: En-suite rooms, studios, and shared apartments to choose from.
- On-site amenities: Many residences include amenities such as social spaces, kitchens, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet access.
- Supportive environment: On-site staff provide support and guidance to residents.
Off-Campus accommodation:
- Wide range of options: Private rented accommodation, including flats, houses, and student houses, is available in areas surrounding each campus.
- Flexibility: Offers greater independence and flexibility in terms of living arrangements.
- Local support: The university provides guidance and support to students in finding suitable off-campus accommodation.
Key considerations:
- Budget: Accommodation costs vary depending on the type of accommodation and location.
- Location: Consider the proximity to campus, local amenities, and transport links.
- Lifestyle: Choose accommodation that aligns with your preferred living style.
- Contract length: Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your tenancy agreement, including contract length, notice periods, and any associated fees.
- Safety and security: Choose accommodation that is safe and secure, with adequate security measures in place.
- Bills and utilities: Understand the costs associated with utilities such as electricity, gas, and internet.
Extracurricular Activities
The University of South Wales offers an exciting and engaging student experience beyond the classroom. With numerous personal and social growth opportunities, students can participate in various extracurricular activities, such as:
Sports Clubs:
- Football
- Rugby
- Netball
- Basketball
- Hockey
- Rugby League
- Cricket
- Badminton
- Squash
- Swimming
- Athletics
- Lacrosse
- Judo
- Karate
- Yoga
- Dodgeball
- Cheerleading
- Table Tennis
- Volleyball
- Ultimate Frisbee
Societies:
- Music Society
- Drama Society
- Film Society
- Gaming Society
- Anime Society
- Photography Society
- Debating Society
- Politics Society
- Law Society
- Medical Society
- Engineering Society
- Environmental Society
- Charity Society
- Christian Union
- Hindu Society
- Muslim Society
- LGBTQ+ Society
- International Students' Society
- Book Club
- History Society
Volunteering:
- Student Volunteering Service
- Community Action
- Hospital Volunteering
- Animal Shelters
- Local Charities
- Food Banks
- Environmental Projects
- Befriending Schemes
- Youth Work
- Educational Support
Arts and Culture:
- Drama Society
- Music Society
- Art Society
- Film Club
- Choir
- Orchestra
- Dance Society
Student Union Events:
- Freshers' Fair
- Summer Ball
- Charity Events
- Live Music Nights
- Comedy Nights
- Film Screenings
- Quiz Nights
- Sports Days
- Festivals
- Career Fairs
Partnerships and Collaborations
The USW (University of South Wales) engages in a variety of partnerships and collaborations to enhance its academic offerings and research impact. These collaborations include:
Academic partnerships:
- Blackburn College
- Bridgend College
- Cardiff and Vale College
- European College of Business and Management
- Gower College Swansea
- The College Merthyr Tydfil
- Coleg Gwent
- Coleg y Cymoedd
Industry partnerships:
- UNICAF Online
- NPTC Group
- QA Higher Education
- Cardiff and Vale University Local Health Board
- Devon and Cornwall Police
- Dorset Police
- Dyfed Powys Police
- Dyslexia Association Singapore (DAS)
- English Football League Trust (FLT)
- GetReskilled Ireland
- Gloucestershire Constabulary
- London Examinations Board
- Powys Teaching Health Board
- Strasberg Center for Entrepreneurship (SCE)
- Westford University College
- Wiltshire Police
- Learna Limited
- Albstadt-Sigmaringen
- International Medical University (IMU)
- Lexicon
- Northwest Normal University
- Nurtingen-Geislingen University of Applied Sciences
- Suzhou University of Science and Technology (SUST)
Charitable organisations:
- Welsh Children's Charity
- Barnardo's Cymru
- RSPCA Cymru
- Age Cymru
- Macmillan Cancer Support (Wales)
- National Trust Wales
Research Opportunities
The University of South Wales, England, UK, offers a range of research opportunities for students and staff. Here are some of the key research areas and opportunities:
High-impact projects:
- Cybersecurity research
- Sustainable development projects
- Research into social justice and equality
- Research into innovative healthcare technologies
Research areas:
- Crime, Security and Justice
- Health and Wellbeing
- Creative Innovation
- Sustainable Environment
Research institutes, centers, and groups:
- Centre for Criminology
- The International Centre for Policing and Security
- The Information Security Research Group
- Centre for Social Policy Research
- Sport, Health and Exercise Science Research Group
- Unit for Development in Intellectual and Development Disabilities
- Lifespan Health and Wellbeing Research Group
- Genomics Policy Research Group
- Welsh Institute for Health and Social Care
- Geographical Information Systems Research
- Creative Industries Research Unit
- European Centre for Documentary Research
- The George Ewart Evans Centre for Storytelling
- Centre for the Study of Media and Culture in Small Nations
- History Research Unit
- English Research Unit
- Hypermedia Research Group
- Centre for Gender Studies in Wales
- Sustainable Environment Research Centre
- Centre for Automotive and Power Systems Engineering (CAPSE)
- Engineering Research Group
- Mathematics Research Group
- Wireless and Optoelectronics Research and Innovation Centre
- Applied Sciences Research
- Hypermedia Research Group
Fees and Scholarships
The USW or University of South Wales offers a range of fees and scholarships to support students in their studies.
Tuition fees: The tuition fees for USW programmes vary depending on the course, level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate), and student's residency status (UK/EU or international).
The University of South Wales Scholarships for International Students
The University of South Wales scholarships for international students provide financial support to talented students globally. Some of the popular scholarships include:
- USW Dean's List Scholarship
- USW International Excellence Scholarship
- International Office Scholarships
- USW Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship
- Chancellors International Development Scholarships
- EU Scholarships
- USW International Students Progressing to Masters
- USW Alumni Scholarship
- USW Widening Participation Scholarships
- USW Progression Bursary
- USW Hardship Fund
- USW Student Support Fund
- Welsh Government Bursaries
- Student Finance Wales Grants
- Tuition Fee Loans
- Maintenance Loans
- International Student Bursaries
- Erasmus+ Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- Rotary Scholarships
- Fulbright Scholarships
Alumni Network
- Randii Wessen - Scientists
- Lee Dillon - MP for Newbury
- Jill Evans - MEP for Wales
- Leanne Wood - Former party leader of Plaid Cymru
- Emma Wools - South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner
- Kevin Brennan - Politician
- Suzy Davies - Politician
- Catherine Thomas - Politician
- Joe Blackman - Entrepreneur, Ambassador of The Princes Trust
- Christopher Chung Shu-kun - Member of Hong Kong Legislative Council
- Trudy Norris-Grey - Microsoft
- Gemma Hallett - Entrepreneur and Founder of miFuture
- Carole Bromley - Poet
- Emma Darwin - Novelist
- Philip Gross - Poet, Novelist, Playwright and Academic
- Paul Groves - Poet
- Maria McCann - Novelist
- Gareth L. Powell - Science Fiction Author
- Dan Rhodes - Writer
- Rachel Trezise - Author
- Camilla Way - Author
- Tine Wittler - Writer and Presenter
- Gareth Evans - Film director and Screenwriter
- Philip John - Director and Screenwriter
- Kirk Jones - Film director and Screenwriter
- Asif Kapadia - Film Maker
- Justin Kerrigan - Writer and Director
- Teddy Soeriaatmadja - Film Director
- Peter Watkins-Hughes - BAFTA Cymru Award-Winning Writer/Director
- Scott Barley - Film Maker
- Jayde Adams - Comedian, Actor, Writer and Singer
- Behnaz Akhgar - Weather Presenter
- Max Boyce MBE - Entertainer
- Lorna Dunkley - Newsreader and Presenter
- Ben Green - Comedy Actor
- Harry Greene - Television Personality
- Mark Labbett - TV Personality
- Nicola Miles-Wildin - Performer
- Richard James Burgess - Producer, Musician, Digital Music Innovator
- Martin Goldschmidt - Co-founder and Managing Director of UK independent record
- Mike Howlett - Musician and music producer
- Jon Maguire - Songwriter and Former member of duo Lilygreen & Maguire
- Sion Russell Jones - Singer and Songwriter
- Ian Watkins - Singer and Convicted child Sex Offender
- Holding Absence - UK Rock Band
- Matthew Jarvis - Rugby Player
- Rupert Moon - Rugby Player and Businessman
- Darren Morris - Rugby Player
- Gemma Hallett - Rugby Union Player
- Jamie Robinson - Rugby Player
- Nigel Walker - Former Olympian and Rugby Player
- Roger Cecil - Painter, Mixed Media Artist
- Maciej Dakowicz - Photographer and Photojournalist
- Ken Elias - Artist
- Tracey Moberly - Interdisciplinary artist
- Tish Murtha - Documentary Photographer
Career Services
The University of South Wales career support comes to encourage, guide, and assist you to develop the best version of yourself. And the services include:
Career guidance and advice:
- One-to-one careers guidance sessions: USW provides personalized support from experienced careers advisors to help students explore career options, identify their skills and interests, and develop career plans.
- Workshops and seminars: Covering a range of topics such as CV writing, interview techniques, job search strategies, and networking.
- Career planning workshops: The career support services help students to explore career options and set clear career goals.
- Access to online resources: Students are also eligible to use the online resources to find the career guides, job boards, and industry information.
Job and Internship opportunities:
- Job fairs and employer events: With the career support of the University of South Wales students will get the opportunities to network with potential employers.
- Assistance with finding internships and placements: Through the career support students will get a vast range of services, including support with applications and securing placements.
- Access to job boards and vacancies: Students are also enabled to access a wide range of job opportunities, including graduate roles, internships, and part-time work.
Skills development:
- Workshops on essential employability skills: The USW's career services for skills development makes students better in leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
- Development of transferable skills: It also enhances skills valued by employers, such as critical thinking, research, and digital literacy.
Additional services:
- Alumni mentoring: The career services of University of South Wales also connect students with successful graduates for guidance and support.
- Entrepreneurship support: The USW's career services offers guidance and resources for students interested in starting their own businesses.
- Support for international students: It also provides guidance on visa and immigration matters, and assistance with finding employment in the UK or abroad.
Awards and Recognitions
Awarded the QAA Quality Mark for meeting or exceeding UK expectations for quality and standards in its QAA review.
- Shortlisted for Times Higher Education University of the Year Award in 2023.
- Top 50 UK institutions for research power by the Times Higher Education.
- CADARN Learning Portal Educational Media Awards in 2016.
- Recognised at national procurement awards in 2024.
- Engagement & Impact Awards 2024.
- Guardian Higher Education Award in 2013 (The University of Wales, Newport).
Rankings and Achievements
- 51st in the Guardian University Guide 2025
- 94th in the Times University Guide 2025
- 95th in the University League Table 2025
- 23rd in the UK by People & Planet University League in 2024/25
- 101th in the Complete University Guide in 2024
- 91th in the Complete University Guide in 2024
- 72th in the Guardian University Guide in 2024
- 53th in the Guardian University Guide in 2024
- 53rd in the Guardian University Guide 2023
- 103rd in the Times University Guide 2023
Location
The University of South Wales is located in three (03) locations with five (05) outstanding campuses in Cardiff, Pontypridd, and Newport.
Thus the phrase came "Three locations One University" and it gives its students the golden opportunity and atmosphere to study and live to make a big difference to the society.
Cardiff campus:
- Surroundings: The Cardiff campus is located in the heart of Cardiff, a dynamic capital city with a long history and culture. The campus offers easy access to shops, restaurants, theaters, and entertainment venues.
- Campus features: Modern buildings, including the Atrium Building, a striking architectural landmark.
- City life: Students can experience the buzz of a capital city, with a diverse range of cultural attractions, including the Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, and the National Museum Wales.
Newport campus:
- Surroundings: The Newport campus situated on the banks of the River Usk in the city center of Newport. The campus offers a blend of urban and riverside living.
- Campus features: Modern buildings with impressive architecture. And the campus also provides easy access to the city center, with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- City life: Students are eligible to explore the historic city of Newport, with its rich industrial heritage and vibrant waterfront.
Pontypridd campus:
- Surroundings: The Pontypridd campus has two sites (Treforest and Glyntaff) and is firmly located in the historic town of Pontypridd. And it nestled amidst the scenic valleys of South Wales. The campus offers a more tranquil setting with easy access to the Brecon Beacons National Park.
- Campus features: A range of modern buildings, including the iconic Alfred Russel Wallace Building.
- Countryside: The countryside is surrounded by stunning landscapes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the Welsh countryside.
Frequently asked questions
The USW or University of South Wales, England, UK provides so many courses to choose the right one for you. Besides, it offers high-quality teaching, modern facilities, dynamic student life, strong industry connections, and is surrounded by beautiful locations. And its work-based learning, real-life industry projects, and career development support makes you top.