About University
The University of South Wales (USW), known in Welsh as Prifysgol De Cymru, stands as one of the largest and most dynamic universities in the UK. It boasts campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd. Formed in 2013 through the merger of the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales, Newport, USW builds on a rich history dating back to institutions founded in the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the South Wales and Monmouthshire School of Mines.
Today, it serves over 30,000 students, making it the second-largest university in Wales and a major player in UK higher education. USW excels with its applied, hands-on approach to learning, ranking in the Top 50 UK universities according to the Guardian University Guide 2026. It leads Wales in supporting new business startups for the fifth consecutive year and ranks 6th in the UK.
USW offers more than 300 undergraduate and postgraduate courses across key faculties: Business and Society, Computing, Engineering and Science, Creative Industries, and Life Sciences and Education. Popular programs include engineering, computing, creative industries like animation and film, health professions, and business management. The university prioritizes employability, with 94-96% of graduates in employment or further study within 15 months, thanks to strong industry partnerships, work placements, and state-of-the-art facilities such as simulation labs, aerospace centres, film studios, and the National Cyber Security Academy.
Students enjoy inspiring contrasts: the vibrant city life of Cardiff, the coastal and cultural access from Newport, and the scenic valleys around Pontypridd. With affordable accommodation, a supportive community where lecturers know students by name, and recognition as Cyber University of the Year multiple times, USW provides a career-focused, practice-led education in a welcoming Welsh environment.
Whether pursuing undergraduate degrees, postgraduate studies, or international opportunities, the University of South Wales prepares students for successful futures through innovative teaching, real-world experience, and a commitment to building better lives and communities.
Popular For
The University of South Wales (USW) is renowned for its strong emphasis on employability and career-focused education, making it a popular choice for students seeking practical, industry-relevant degrees.
- High graduate employment rates, with 95% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months.
- Strong industry partnerships with organisations like the NHS, FAW (Football Association of Wales), and Screen Alliance Wales, offering placements and live projects.
- Leading in Wales for supporting graduate startup businesses, ranking top in Wales and 6th in the UK for new enterprise creation.
- Hands-on teaching with simulated learning and real-world experiences integrated into courses.
- World-class facilities including animation studios, film/TV production suites, green screens, and the ATRiuM building in Cardiff dedicated to creative subjects.
- Top rankings in Wales for animation, forensic science, and drama; with courses often in the UK top 25.
- Strong ties to the creative sector, producing graduates who enter roles in film, games, and media.
- Unique aerospace engineering programmes, ranked top in the UK for teaching and assessment (Guardian University Guide).
- State-of-the-art aerospace centre, flight simulators, and aviation maintenance engineering courses.
- Strengths in civil engineering, computing, and cyber security, including the National Cyber Security Academy.
- Leading programmes in nursing, midwifery, health professions, and psychology.
- High rankings for value added, continuation rates, and teaching quality in health-related subjects.
- Advanced simulation labs for realistic clinical training, contributing to excellent graduate outcomes in healthcare.
2013
Established
#82
Ranking
44+
Courses Available
Location & Address
Llantwit Rd, Treforest, South Wales
Cardiff,
UK
Need Help with University of South Wales?
Our expert counselors can guide you through the university application process and help you maximize your university opportunities.
Contact Us