University of South Wales
Overview
University of South Wales, established in 1839 by Horace Mann, is the first public co-educational college in America. Located in Westfield, Massachusetts, this public university offers a rich history and a commitment to providing accessible education. With a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, complemented by professional programs, Westfield State continues to serve a diverse student body, fostering intellectual curiosity and civic engagement.
University of South Wales has a student population of around 4,702, with an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 4,630. The university offers over 50 majors and 50 minors, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1. The university has an acceptance rate of 82%.
Highlights
Acceptance Rate- 60%
Total International Students- 36
Student to Faculty Ratio- 15:1
Placement Rate (PG)- 88%
University of South Wales Rankings
The University of South Wales has received rankings from various organizations. Here’s a brief overview:
Ranking Agency | Rank |
US News Regional Universities North | #155 |
THE World University Rankings | #1201-1500 |
University of South Wales Intakes
The University of South Wales (USW) has multiple intakes for international students, with the main ones being in September/October and January/February.
- September/October Intake: This is the principal intake for the academic year, with most undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting during this period. The application deadlines can vary, so it’s best to check the specific course page.
- January/February Intake: A number of programs also offer a second intake in January or February. This provides an alternative for students who miss the main intake or prefer to start their studies at a different time of the year. This is a common option for many postgraduate courses and international foundation programs.
University of South Wales Courses
The University of South Wales (USW) offers a variety of postgraduate programs with a standard duration of one year for most full-time master’s degrees. Total fees for international students vary based on the program of study.
Program Name | Duration | Total Fees for International Students (approximate) |
MSc in Applied Cyber Security | 1 year | £17,900 |
MSc in Project Management | 1 year | £17,900 |
MBA Master of Business Administration | 1 year | £17,900 |
MSc in Data Science | 13 months | £17,900 |
MSc in Civil Engineering | 1 year | £17,900 |
MSc in Public Health | 1 year | £17,900 |
MSc in Management | 1 year | £17,900 |
Cost of Studying at the University of South Wales
The cost of studying at the University of South Wales (USW) for international students includes both tuition fees and living expenses. The university is often considered more affordable compared to those in larger UK cities.
Expenses | Undergraduate Programs (approximate) | Graduate Programs (approximate) |
Tuition Fees | £15,850 – £16,200 | £16,900 – £17,900 |
Living Expenses | ||
Accommodation | £4,600 – £7,600 | £4,600 – £7,600 |
Food & Utilities | £3,000 – £4,500 | £3,000 – £4,500 |
Personal Expenses | £1,500 – £2,000 | £1,500 – £2,000 |
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776/year | £776/year |
Books & Supplies | £500 – £700 | £500 – £700 |
Total Estimated Annual Cost | £26,150 – £31,776 | £27,276 – £32,876 |
University of South Wales Scholarships
The University of South Wales offers a variety of scholarships to international students, most of which are automatically applied upon admission. These scholarships are designed to help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees.
Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Scholarship Amount |
International Office Scholarship | – Self-funding international students. – You are automatically considered upon application. | Up to £1,500 for undergraduates and up to £2,000 for postgraduates. |
Chancellor’s International Development Scholarship | – Non-EU international students from specific regions, including South Asia and Africa. – You are automatically considered upon application. | £2,500 tuition fee reduction per year of study. |
Early CAS Scholarship | – Students who are CAS-ready (and meet all visa requirements) by a specified deadline. | An additional £500 scholarship on top of any existing USW scholarship. |
Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship | – Postgraduate students from specific countries (e.g., India, Vietnam, USA, Canada). – Awarded based on academic excellence. A separate application is required. | Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees. |
Chevening Scholarships | – Talented professionals and future leaders from eligible countries (not including the USA or EU). – Must meet specific work experience and academic requirements. – A highly competitive, external scholarship with a separate application process. | Covers full tuition fees, living costs, and travel to the UK. |
University of South Wales Admissions
The University of South Wales (USW) welcomes international students and has a straightforward application process. Admissions are based on academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and other supporting documents. The university has a dedicated international admissions team to help applicants throughout the process.
Masters
Admission Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution is required. The minimum grade is typically a 2:2 equivalent on the UK degree classification scale, though many competitive programs require a 2:1. For example, applicants from the U.S. are generally expected to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher in a relevant undergraduate degree.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirements:
- Duolingo: 95 overall
- TOEFL: 72 iBT
- IELTS: 6.0 overall
Additional Requirements:
International students must submit sealed transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts.
Bachelors
Admission Requirements:
USW has country-specific entry requirements. For example, applicants from the United States typically need a High School Graduation Diploma with a Grade B average (3.0 GPA or higher). Students from India usually need to achieve a minimum of 60-65% in their 12th standard, depending on their examining board.
English Language Proficiency Test Requirements:
- Duolingo: 95 overall
- TOEFL: 72 iBT
- IELTS: 6.0 overall
Additional Requirements:
International students will have to submit a college essay, a letter of recommendation, and official transcripts.
Accommodation at the University of South Wales
The University of South Wales provides a range of accommodation options across its campuses to help students feel at home. They guarantee an offer of a room to all first-year students who apply by the deadline.
On-Campus Accommodation
- Convenient Locations: USW has halls of residence at its campuses in Pontypridd, Cardiff, and Newport. This allows you to live close to your lectures, the library, and the Students’ Union.
- Variety of Room Types: Accommodation options typically include single rooms with private showers and toilets, as well as shared kitchen and dining areas. All bills (utilities and Wi-Fi) are generally included in the rent.
- Community: Living in halls is a great way to meet people and make friends from different backgrounds and courses. Halls are also staffed with security and support teams.
Private Accommodation
- University-Approved Housing: The university’s accommodation service maintains a database of private landlords and properties that meet safety and quality standards. This is a helpful resource for students who prefer to live off-campus.
- Off-Campus Options: You can find private student halls and houses for rent in the cities surrounding the campuses, giving you a wider choice of locations and living arrangements.
Student Essential Services
Life at the University of South Wales (USW) offers a dynamic and engaging experience. With campuses in cities like Cardiff and Newport, students can enjoy a mix of urban life and access to the beautiful Welsh countryside.
- Students’ Union: The USW Students’ Union (USWSU) is at the heart of student life, running over 100 clubs and societies that cater to a wide range of interests, from academic and cultural groups to various sports. Joining a society is a great way to meet new people and try something new.
- Sporting Opportunities: USW has a thriving sports environment. The university’s Sports Park and other facilities offer a range of opportunities for both competitive athletes and casual players.
- Student Support: USW is committed to a supportive environment. The university provides a dedicated International Student Support team to assist with everything from visas to settling in. Other services include academic advisors, a health service, and a student money advice team.
- Location and Culture: The university’s campuses offer a taste of vibrant Welsh culture. Cardiff, as the capital city, has a lively nightlife, a variety of restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city and its surroundings offer a lower cost of living than many other parts of the UK.
Location of University of South Whales
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application process for international students at the University of South Wales?
International students apply directly to the university through its online application portal. For most undergraduate courses, you can also apply through UCAS. The university operates a rolling admissions policy, so it’s best to apply early to secure a place, especially for popular programs.
What are the English language requirements to get into the University of South Wales?
All non-native English speakers must prove their English proficiency. USW accepts a wide range of tests, including IELTS (with a typical overall score of 6.0 for undergraduates and 6.5 for postgraduates) and other recognized tests. The specific scores required can vary by program.
Does the University of South Wales offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, USW offers several scholarships for international students. Many are automatically applied upon admission, such as the International Office Scholarship and the Chancellor’s International Development Scholarship, which offer a tuition fee reduction. Students can also apply for external scholarships like the Chevening Scholarships.
Can I work while studying at the University of South Wales?
Yes, international students on a full-time student visa are legally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holiday periods. The university’s careers service can help you find suitable part-time work.
Can I get a job in the UK after graduating from the University of South Wales?
Yes, graduates with a student visa may be eligible to apply for the Graduate Route visa, which allows them to stay in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to seek work or work in any role. The university’s careers team provides extensive support to help you find a job.
