The University of South Wales, or the USW, is a pioneering multi-campus university in South Wales, United Kingdom. It was instituted on 11 April 2013 from the merger of the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales, Newport.
With over 30,000 students, the University of South Wales has become the second-largest university in Wales and one of the ten most prominent campus universities in the UK by student number.
The University of South Wales is well-known for its rich international community, with 3,500 international students representing around 120 countries. The international student community at USW accounts for nearly 10% of the total student population.
The university has three main campuses in South Wales, Cardiff, Pontypridd and Newport. The Pontypridd campus is the largest and is a mix of modern infrastructures and historic buildings. The Cardiff Campus rests close to Pinewood and BBC Studios and is the media hub of the university.
The Newport campus is situated near the Hall of the Residence and is easily accessible with multiple transport options. One can pursue programmes in counselling, business, social work, and community work at this campus.
If you want to discover more about the University of South Wales, what it’s like to study at USW, or live in South Wales, welcome to our blog page.
Is the University of South Wales a Good University?
The University of South Wales is one of the finest universities to study abroad in the UK and is well-known for three main things — filmmakers, sports, and successful young graduates.
This renowned public university has produced many award-winning sports teams, filmmakers, and other notable personalities pursuing remarkable careers. Also, many famous media celebrities are still associated with this university.
The University of South Wales is an international centre of knowledge that was nominated for the “THE Leadership and Management Awards” 2017 for its unique career-focused approach. Most of the faculty members at the USW have won awards for their work, meaning you’ll be learning first-hand from real experts.
The university prides itself on its high employment rates, with over 95% of USW graduates who got employment within six months. The USW is renowned for its strong partnerships with over 100 professional bodies and businesses, including global companies, including IBM, Rolls-Royce, HSBC and the BBC.
The university offers over 500 undergraduate and postgraduate courses for students. USW also provides a range of impressive facilities, including a unique business clinic where students experience real work experience by providing clients with business solutions. Moreover, USW has an internationally recognised film school, award-winning Sports Park, which is also used by the Cardiff City Football Club and the British Lions Rugby Squad.
What are The University Rankings?
- 82 in The Guardian – University Rankings, 2022
- 91 in The Complete University Guide, 2022
- 99 in The Times University Guide, 2022
- 1001 in The World University Rankings by Times Higher Education, 2022
Moreover, the university has become the only Welsh institution to be awarded an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Education by the National Cyber Security Centre. USW is one of only eight universities to receive this recognition and was named cyber university of the year in 2020.
In the Research Excellence Framework (REF2014), half of USW’s research was rated world-leading or internationally excellent. Following this, the University of South Wales boosted the amount of research rated as ‘world-leading.
The USW ranks 15th overall in the UK for world-leading research in sports and exercise science, while creative industries are ranked top in the UK for their impact.
University of South Wales Accommodation
South Wales University offers accommodation options at every campus. Each campus has something different to offer. While some students choose to live at university, some prefer private accommodations. The campus accommodation in Pontypridd and private student residences in Cardiff and Newport are popular among international students.
You could select from a beautiful and affordable private accommodation in Cardiff at one of the three different campuses in fantastic locations with Meraki Student. All the south Wales campuses are within 30 kilometres of each other means no matter the location of your private accommodation; you’re never too far away from the action!
Meraki offers a wide range of properties near the University of South Wales, including student halls, flats, studio apartments, private apartments, etc.
Where Is the University of South Wales?
The university is situated across three campuses throughout beautiful South Wales in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd, which means you can enjoy everything the region offers.
The University of South Wales has the best modern and rural settings. The vibrant city campuses in Newport and Cardiff, while our Pontypridd Campus is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and green open spaces.
South Wales has vibrant city life, culture, nightlife, music festivals, award-winning beaches, outdoor adventure, history and breath-taking countryside. South Wales is just a 2-hour train journey away from London and is well connected with an international airport in Cardiff.
Travelling around South Wales is easy with excellent transport links. All the campuses can be easily reached by road, rail and air. Pontypridd Campus is a 20-minute train journey from Cardiff and is, whilst Newport is just 10 minutes by train, close to the Wales/England border.
Conclusion
The University of South Wales is a welcoming university that guarantees a sincere and exceptional study-abroad experience in a new country and culture.
Students at USW can choose from a plethora of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and connect with potential employers with the university’s partnerships with over 100 companies.
Opting to study at the University of South Wales could mean learning in the busy and vibrant capital city of Cardiff. Or, travel to the smaller town of Newport and spend your time there, or live in the quaint city of Pontypridd, just outside of Cardiff.
The University of South Wales has something for everybody and therefore your time here will be comfortable and pleasant with suitable accommodation. Choose the best student housing near the University of South Wales to make your study abroad journey worthwhile with Meraki Student!