Overview for International Students
The University of South Wales (USW) is one of Britain’s largest and most exciting universities, offering a modern, career-focused education. With campuses in three locations—Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd—USW offers a unique study experience that blends city life with stunning scenery.
USW is renowned for its hands-on approach to learning. The university invests heavily in simulating real-world work environments, featuring facilities such as a crime scene house, a full-size aircraft hangar, a stock exchange trading room, and industry-standard film studios. This practical focus ensures that graduates are “industry-ready,” with 95% of students in employment or further study within six months of graduating. The university is a popular choice for international students due to its supportive environment, affordable tuition, and low cost of living compared to other UK regions.
Courses
| Course Name | Tuition Fee | Scholarship | Intake | IELTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSc Construction Project Management | £17,900 | February 2026 | ||
| LLM Law | £16,900 | February 2026 | 6.0/5.5 |
History
While the University of South Wales was officially formed in 2013 through the merger of the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales, Newport, its academic roots stretch back to 1841.
The institution’s heritage is built upon the Newport Mechanics’ Institute and the South Wales and Monmouthshire School of Mines (founded in 1913). This history is deeply entrenched in the industrial revolution of Wales, created originally to serve the mining and engineering industries of the region. Over the last century, it has evolved from a technical institute into a comprehensive modern university, combining nearly 200 years of educational heritage with 21st-century innovation.
Ranking
The University of South Wales is recognized for its excellence in specific subject areas and student satisfaction:
Cyber University of the Year: Named Cyber University of the Year at the National Cyber Awards for four consecutive years (2019-2022).
Top 10 in the UK: For Complementary Medicine (Complete University Guide 2025).
Top 20 in the UK: For Health Professions (Guardian University Guide 2024).
Top 5 in Wales: Consistently ranked highly within Wales for student support and social inclusion.
Rated 5 Stars: Awarded 5 Stars for employability and teaching in the QS Stars University Ratings.
