Aberystwyth University

Address and Location

The main Aberystwyth University campus sits high on Penglais Hill, with spectacular views over Aberystwyth and Cardigan Bay. In addition to being home for thousands of students, Aberystwyth is also where visitors will find the National Library of Wales.

Background and History

University College Wales first opened its doors in 1872. Some years later the college became a founding member of the University of Wales. In the 1960s the college relocated to the current Penglais campus. Since then the institution has continued to expand, in part thanks to financial assistance from the Welsh Government.

Location and Accessibility

By rail: Despite being tucked away in West Wales, Aberystwyth has good train links with the Midlands. Students travelling from the South of England or Scotland should be prepared for a long trip back and forth though.

By road: Aberystwyth is easy to reach using the A44 or A487.

Accessibility: The university has made a commitment to offering outstanding services for students with mobility issues. Special arrangements can be made for note-taking and exams, and library staff are happy to help with the use of specialist computing software.

What's on Offer

BA, BSc, Foundation Degree, MScEcon, FdSc, MA, MPhil, PhD, MPhys, MBA, Law

Entry Requirements

The university sets reasonable attainment targets, most courses require 180 to 340 UCAS points for entry.

University Accommodation

First-year students have the option of catered en suite accommodation or basic self-catered residences, set across 10 sites in and around Aberystwyth.

Private Accommodation

The student housing office provides a list of approved landlords, making finding second and third-year accommodation considerably easier.

 

Academic Strengths and Research

University courses in accounting, biology, business, computer science, literature, environmental science, geography and history are of high quality. In the past, the university's research in geography, information studies, art, history and mathematics has been found 'world leading' and 'internationally excellent'.      

Tuition Fees

Currently all undergraduate courses cost £9,000 per academic year. Fees for international and postgraduate courses vary.

Financial Support: Students who perform well in exams before enrolment may be eligible for an academic scholarship. Residential and sports bursaries are also available.

Academic Facilities

The university's main library is home to more than 845,000 books and journals. Also on-site are modern laboratories, natural fieldwork areas, lecture rooms and support services. Texts can be purchased from on-site bookshops and rare manuscripts accessed at the nearby National Library of Wales.

Other on-site Amenities

Cash services are available from on-site ATMs. Sports activities are held at the Penglais Centre, which features a pool, gym and weights room.

Medical and Social Care

Students are encouraged to register with a local GP upon arrival in Aberystwyth. Given the shortage of dentistry practices in the area, it is advisable to remain on the books of your home practice. All religions are welcome at the university, and there are various faith groups on campus.

What's On in the Area

You would be forgiven for thinking that drinking alcohol is Aberystwyth's favourite pastime as there are more than 50 fully-licensed establishments in the city. The biggest university event of the year is the May Ball, which has featured performances by Jools Holland and Feeder in the past. Aberystwyth is close to plenty of local beaches and the countryside for walks and picnics.    

Moving on

All undergraduates and postgraduates are welcome to visit the university Careers Centre. Staff there help with everything from interview techniques to writing targeted job applications and taking psychometric tests. University job fairs are held regularly, giving students a chance to meet local recruiters.

Aberystwyth is the oldest university institution in Wales, and more Aberystwyth graduates have gone on to become Members of Parliament than at any other UK university, Oxbridge excepted. Other famous alumni include animated film-maker Jan Pinkava, and television presenter Alex Jones.      

Is Aberystwyth University the place for you?

If you're put off by the thought of studying at a large city university, Aberyswyth could be just the ticket. Students here feel close to the countryside and the local beaches are a plus. To compare the university with similar institutions, take a look at the Universities of Portsmouth or Plymouth.