Cardiff University

Cardiff University

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Located in the heart of Wales’ capital, Cardiff University is a prestigious Russell Group institution, known for academic excellence, innovation, and a vibrant student experience. With 90% of research rated world-leading or internationally excellent, we drive global progress while offering an affordable, student-friendly city with a thriving social and cultural scene.

Top reasons to study here

  • Cardiff is a global university, with international collaborations and students from over 138 different countries.
  • Cardiff graduates among the UK’s most employable with 86% of graduates working in the UK in highly skilled employment.
  • Our Centre for Student Life offers 24/7 resources for wellbeing, career guidance, financial advice, and support with visas, health, and settling into university

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History

Cardiff University, established in 1883 and granted a Royal Charter in 1884, began as the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire. Initially small, with only 13 academic staff and 102 full-time students, it grew through mergers, including one with UWIST in 1988 and the College of Medicine in 2004. Today, Cardiff University is a leading global institution, offering its’ students a world-class education and support.

Education

Being Teaching Excellence Framework silver institution, Cardiff University is globally renowned for its high-quality, research-led teaching and innovative degree programmes. Students benefit from learning in a stimulating environment, guided by world-leading researchers and award-winning academics. The university offers a dynamic teaching approach that blends traditional methods with digital resources, including online collaboration and the Virtual Learning Environment. This flexible model enhances learning and prepares students for modern careers. International students can also access free English and study skills support, ensuring success in their academic journey.

Research

We use our knowledge to develop innovative, internationally excellent research that will have an impact on the world.

  • One of only 24 research-intensive Russell Group universities in the UK
  • 11th in the UK for research impact in the Research Excellence Framework (REF)
  • 14th in the UK for research power in the Research Excellence Framework (REF)
  • We have won seven Queen's Anniversary Prizes
  • Our researchers include two Nobel Prize winners - Professor Sir Martin Evans and Professor Robert Huber

Career

Ranked 12th in the UK for graduate employability (THE Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24), with graduates in demand by top global employers like Microsoft, Shell, and the BBC. 86% of Cardiff University graduates were in highly skilled UK employment 15 months after graduation.

 

The university offers dedicated student support services who can help you map out your future plans. Our Student Futures team provide opportunities to boost your employability and can support you as you plan for life after university. 

 

We offer:

  • Careers advice
  • Work experience
  • Employability and enterprise skills
  • Cardiff Award
  • Graduate recruitment workshops
  • Networking events, graduate recruitment workshops, and industrial placements.

 

Cardiff alumni receive continued career support for up to three years post-graduation, including mentorship, tailored job fairs, and entrepreneurial resources. 

University Ranking

Academic Ranking of World Universities by Shanghai Jiao Tong University
2024
151
2023
151
2022
151
ARWU World University rankings is the first world university ranking. It ranks the world's top 1000 colleges and universities based on objective indicator.
QS World University Rankings by TopUniversities
2025
186 -32
2024
154 12
2023
166
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world.
World University Rankings by Times Higher Education
2025
201 -11
2024
190 -3
2023
187
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities.
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report
2025
-
2024
184 -32
2023
152
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world.

Housing services

Cardiff University offers 17 accommodation options, all located near campus. These include a variety of halls and houses to suit different preferences and budgets. International students who meet application requirements are guaranteed single-occupancy rooms. The Residence Life team brings a fun and friendly community to your university student accommodation with an exciting blended calendar of social events, drop-in sessions and helpful workshops throughout the year.

Library services

Cardiff University campuses have 16 libraries, and 2,500 flexible study spaces. The libraries hold over 1.1 million printed books and provide access to more than 1.5 million online books, journals, and resources. The university also houses a range of unique and historical print collections, archives, and online resources to support learning and research.

ICT services

Students have access to free IT support and services, including Microsoft Office 365 for up to five devices and free antivirus software for personal computers. The campus-wide eduroam network is available for secure internet access, and IT rooms are accessible, some 24/7. Support is also available via phone, in-person at the Centre for Student Life, and at Repair IT in the Students' Union.

Medical services

Having a GP (general practitioner) in Cardiff means you can easily access care and medication if you need it.

You will need to find a local GP surgery and contact them about registering with the practice.

You will normally be able to drop into the surgery and ask to register. GP surgeries have catchment areas, so we recommend you search for a local GP practice by using your postcode.

Our brand-new Centre for Student Life is a one-stop hub for all your student needs and the Health and Wellbeing team offer a range of services to help students look after their physical and mental wellbeing during their time at university. 

Campus life

Cardiff University has multiple campuses across the city, with main sites at Cathays and Heath Park. Located just a short walk from the city center, it offers easy access to shops, cafes, and transport links. The campuses feature facilities like student accommodation, libraries, computer labs, canteens, and sports facilities. The Students' Union, next to the Centre for Student Life, provides social and study spaces, career advice, wellbeing support, shops, and entertainment, ensuring students have everything they need.

Sports facilities

Cardiff University offers excellent sports facilities spread across four sites on both campuses, catering to a wide range of formal and informal activities. Key features include a modern Sports Training Village with indoor courts, a fitness suite, strength and conditioning rooms, and floodlit artificial pitches. The Fitness and Conditioning Centre provides personal training and fitness programs, while Studio 49 offers over 100 fitness classes each month. Outdoor facilities include 33 acres of grass pitches, including a floodlit 3G pitch, ensuring year-round sports opportunities for students.

Student clubs

Life at Cardiff University offers exciting opportunities both on campus and in the city. The Students' Union, ranked 2nd best in the UK, is a vibrant hub with live entertainment, diverse clubs and societies, welfare services, food outlets, shops, and even a bank. With over 230 societies and an annual 'Go Global' festival celebrating international cultures, there’s something for everyone. The university also offers four student-run media channels, a language learning program through Languages for All, and Global Opportunities to help students enhance their degree through study, work, or volunteering abroad.

Accreditation

A large number of our programmes are accredited by external bodies, including:

·       Architects Registration Board (ARB)

·       Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

·       Association of MBAs (AMBA)

·       BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT

·       British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

·       Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE)

·       Chartered Management Institute (CMI)

·       Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)

·       and more.

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Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom

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