Swansea University

Set in an absolutely stunning location between the Gower Peninsula and Swansea Bay, the university campus is regarded as one of the finest in the UK. Many students walk past the sweet smelling botanical gardens of Singleton Park on their way to lectures. Swansea is only a short drive away from Cardiff, the cosmopolitan capital city of Wales.

 

 

Background and History

The University officially opened its doors in 1920 and a small and select group of students enrolled. A period of gradual expansion followed, and by 1939 there were 65 staff and 485 students. One of the proudest moments in the history of Swansea University came during the 1960s, when the now famous Professor Olek Zienkiewicz developed the "finite element method" Swansea has continued to excel academically ever since.

Location and Accessibility

Travel by rail: Students are warned that train tickets to Swansea, as with other locations, can be very expensive. However, there is a high speed rail link from London and an established network with other UK cities.

Travel by road: Drivers are advised to take the A42, leaving at junction 42 for Fabian Way. The University is well signposted.

The University has an inclusive policy and has invested a great deal in facilities for people with accessibility issues. As well as dedicated parking spaces, there are ramps, adapted toilet facilities and lifts on the campus.

What's on Offer

BA, BSc, MA, MSci, MMus, MBA, Graduate (Conversion) Diploma, Graduate Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate.

Entry Requirements

To study in the majority of departments students are expected to have achieved between 280 and 300 UCAS points, equivalent to BBC/BBB. Students who have achieved slightly lower grades may gain a place on the Higher National Diploma Scheme.

University Accommodation

The majority of students live in the Hendrefoleon student village, just a short walk away from the main campus. These halls of residence look onto pretty woodland and grassy areas, which make it an enjoyable place for relaxation. A number of postgraduate students reside in the quaint Victorian houses of Ty Beck. Places are also available in the Panmean and Horton buildings, where many of the rooms are en suite.

Private Accommodation

There are a number of University managed properties, ideal for students taking their first steps away from campus accommodation.

Faculties and Departments

The University of Swansea is made up of eight different schools: School of Arts and Humanities, School of Business and Economics, School of Engineering, School of Environment and Society, School of Human and Health Science, School of Law, School of Medicine and the School of Physical Sciences.

Academic Strengths and Research Profile

Swansea University's School of Engineering has an outstanding profile. It has attracted heavy funding from Rolls Royce and been responsible for the training of many top engineers. Student satisfaction is particularly high in the departments of Biological Sciences, Civil and Chemical Engineering, Economics, Finance and Accounting, Law, and Sports Science.

Tuition Fees

Undergraduate fees currently cost £9,000 per year, no matter what department or school you are studying in. However, individuals whose primary residence in Wales and are studying for their first degree are not required to pay fees upfront.

Postgraduate fees and fees for overseas students vary depending upon the course of study. It is therefore advisable to contact the university directly or visit their website for up-to-date information.

Grants, Bursaries and Financial Support: Students who achieve straight As in their A levels will be eligible for a £3,000 excellence scholarship. Those that achieve two As and one B will be eligible for a £2,000 excellence scholarship. There are various income related bursaries and sporting scholarships available.

Academic Facilities

The central library was merged with the Administrative Computing Unit to form a large scale learning resource for all Swansea students in 2011. Stored within this grand complex are over 800,000 books and periodicals, and more than 1,000 study spaces, many of which have been fitted with modern computing equipment. Film students may be particularly excited to hear that the Library and Information Centre is also home to the Richard Burton Collection, chronicling the life and times of the famous actor.  

Other on-site Amenities

The University strives to maintain excellent levels of student satisfaction. Those living in halls enjoy access to broadband internet, telephone, laundry service and bike parking. There is an ATM, one stop shop and counselling centre on the campus. Students of all tastes will find a club or society of interest.

Medical and Social Care

Registration at the on-site NHS General Medical Practice is encouraged. The expert staff are available to advise on a wide range of health issues, and provide medical assistance whenever required. Matters of spirituality are addressed at the University Chaplaincy and Mosque.

What's on in the Area

There is so much to see and do in Swansea that students seldom complain of boredom. Walking along the scenic Gower Peninsula is a real pleasure. It is also worth taking a day out to explore the historic fishing village of Mumbles, where the famous Welsh poet Dylan Thomas once lived. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game of Premiership football at or watch rugby stars such as Alun-Wyn Jones and Tommy Bowe flick the passes at the Liberty Stadium.

Moving On

Students who aren't sure what to do upon graduation are invited to have a chat with the helpful careers guidance experts in the Library and Information centre. They provide help when it comes to the writing of CVs and filling in application forms, as well as the securing of suitable placements/internships. Regular career fairs give students the opportunity to speak with potential employers.

The University recently spent £20m on the development of a 50-metre pool, which is now used by international athletes and students. The student radio station is called Xtreme. First set up in 1968, it is the third oldest station of its kind in the UK. Among the celebrities to have graduated from Swansea University are Welsh rugby star Alun-Wyn Jones and international cricketer Simon Jones.

Is Swansea University the place for you?

If you enjoy the great outdoors and are keen to partake in activities such as climbing and hill walking If you like the thought of living beside the sea. If you are looking for the buzz that comes with living in a big city then Swansea isn't the place for you. Why not try King's College London or The University of Manchester?