Universities in Wales: A New Comprehensive Guide for Students 2025

Best Universities in Wales 2025: Top Picks for Students

Wales is a top destination for higher education, blending stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and academic excellence. Whether you’re searching for the best universities in Wales, affordable study options, or research-intensive programs, this guide covers everything you need to know about studying in Wales in 2025.

Key Highlights of Studying in Wales

• World-Class Education: Home to research-driven universities with strong global rankings and industry ties.
• Affordable Living: Lower costs compared to other UK regions, with access to scholarships and student support.
• Diverse Experiences: From urban excitement in Cardiff to coastal tranquility in Swansea, plus outdoor adventures in Snowdonia.
• Student-Friendly Environment: High satisfaction rates, cultural immersion, and opportunities for internships, volunteering, and festivals.

Why Study in Wales in 2025?

Wales offers an unbeatable mix of high-quality education and quality of life. Universities here are internationally recognised for their research output, innovative teaching, and strong employability rates. With a lower cost of living than England or Scotland, students can focus on their studies while enjoying Welsh traditions, the Welsh language (Cymraeg), and breathtaking scenery. Many institutions provide excellent support for international students, including visa guidance and career services. In 2025, expect enhanced focus on sustainable practices, digital innovation, and global partnerships.

Learn more about things to do in Wales here

Top Universities in Wales

Explore the best universities in Wales, each offering unique strengths in research, teaching, and student experience. We’ve highlighted key details to help you choose the right fit for your academic goals.

1. Cardiff University

Located in the heart of Cardiff, Wales’ dynamic capital, Cardiff University is a leading research institution. As the only Russell Group university in Wales, it excels in research and innovation. Key strengths include journalism, engineering, medicine, and business, with a vibrant campus life enriched by city amenities like museums, theatres, and professional networks.

Learn more about things to do in Cardiff here

2. Swansea University

Situated in the coastal city of Swansea, this university boasts two modern campuses: Singleton Park and the beachside Bay Campus. Renowned for engineering, computer science, and medical research, it offers cutting-edge facilities and a focus on practical, industry-relevant skills. Students enjoy a relaxed seaside lifestyle with easy access to beaches and outdoor activities.

Learn more about Swansea here.

3. Aberystwyth University

Nestled in the charming seaside town of Aberystwyth on Wales’ west coast, this university is famous for pioneering the world’s first International Politics department. It provides a close-knit community atmosphere, ideal for students seeking personalised support. Strong in arts, humanities, and environmental sciences, with a focus on research-led teaching.

Learn more about Aberystwyth here

4. Bangor University

Positioned in North Wales between Snowdonia’s mountains and the Menai Strait, Bangor University is perfect for nature lovers. It’s acclaimed for marine sciences, psychology, and environmental studies, with a strong emphasis on outdoor and community-based learning. The smaller size fosters a supportive, inclusive environment.

5. University of South Wales (USW)

With campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd, USW is one of the largest universities in Wales, emphasising practical, career-focused education. Known for creative industries, engineering, and business, it has robust industry links for internships and employability. Diverse student body and flexible course options make it accessible for all.

6. Wrexham University (Prifysgol Wrecsam, formerly Glyndŵr University)

Based in Wrexham, North East Wales, this university prioritizes applied learning and accessibility. Popular for mature and part-time students, it’s known for industry ties in engineering, health, and creative fields. High student satisfaction and supportive entry routes set it apart.

7. University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

Spanning campuses in Swansea, Carmarthen, and Lampeter, UWTSD is one of Wales’ oldest institutions with modern vocational focus. Excels in creative arts, teacher training, and humanities, blending tradition with innovation. Ideal for students interested in cultural heritage and practical skills.

Student Life in Wales

Life as a student in Wales is enriching and balanced. Experience welcoming communities, festivals like the Hay Festival or Cardiff’s music scene, and outdoor pursuits in areas like the Brecon Beacons. Universities offer strong support for mental health, inclusivity, and international students. In 2025, expect more emphasis on sustainability, Welsh language courses, and hybrid learning options.

Final Thoughts on Universities in Wales

Whether you’re aiming for a Russell Group experience at Cardiff or a coastal vibe at Swansea, Wales’ universities provide diverse, high-quality options for 2025. With strong rankings, affordable tuition, and unbeatable scenery, studying here prepares you for global success. Research each institution’s entry requirements, scholarships, and open days to find your perfect match.

Definitions

• Russell Group University: A self-selected association of 24 leading UK public research universities focused on excellence in research, teaching, and innovation. They represent top institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, emphasizing world-class academic standards.
• Campus University: A university where most academic buildings, facilities, residences, and amenities are located on a single, self-contained site, often in a green or dedicated area, promoting a community feel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Universities in Wales

Cardiff University FAQs

• Is Cardiff a Russell Group university? Yes, Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, the only one in Wales, known for its research-intensive focus.
• Is Cardiff University Russell Group? Yes, it joined the Russell Group in 1998 and is recognized for high-quality research and teaching.
• How many universities in Cardiff? There are at least three main universities: Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and a campus of the University of South Wales.
• Is Cardiff University a Russell Group? Yes, it’s the sole Welsh representative in the Russell Group, emphasizing excellence in fields like medicine and engineering.
• How many students at Cardiff University? Approximately 33,000 students, making it one of the largest in the UK.
• Is Cardiff University good? Yes, it’s highly regarded, ranked #181 in QS World University Rankings 2026 and top in Wales for research and teaching quality.
• Is Cardiff a campus university? It has a main campus in Cathays Park with many facilities centralized, though integrated into the city, offering a blend of campus and urban life.
• Where is Cardiff University? Located in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, with buildings primarily in the city center and Cathays area.
• What is Cardiff University known for? Renowned for research in medicine, journalism, engineering, and business, with strong industry and global ties.
• Is Cardiff Metropolitan University good? Yes, it’s well-regarded for subjects like sport, art, and education, with strong employability and student satisfaction rankings.
• How old is Cardiff University? Founded in 1883, it’s over 140 years old with a rich history in Welsh education.

Swansea University FAQs

• Is Swansea a Russell Group university? No, Swansea University is not part of the Russell Group, but it’s highly ranked for research and teaching.
• Is Swansea University Russell Group? No, though it competes strongly in research areas like engineering and medicine.
• How many universities in Swansea? Two main universities: Swansea University and a campus of University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
• Is Swansea University a Russell Group? No, but it’s recognized for excellence, ranking #292 in QS World University Rankings 2026.
• How many students at Swansea University? Around 20,000-22,000 students from diverse backgrounds.
• Is Swansea University good? Yes, it’s top-ranked in Wales for many subjects and achieved its highest-ever QS ranking in 2026.
• Is Swansea a campus university? Yes, with two dedicated campuses offering self-contained facilities and a coastal setting.
• Where is Swansea University? In Swansea, South Wales, with campuses at Singleton Park and Bay Campus near the beach.
• What is Swansea University known for? Famous for engineering, computer science, medical research, and innovative facilities.
• How old is Swansea University? Founded in 1920, it’s over 100 years old with a strong research heritage.

Aberystwyth University FAQs

• Is Aberystwyth a Russell Group university? No, Aberystwyth University is not in the Russell Group, but it’s esteemed for its academic community.
• Is Aberystwyth University Russell Group? No, though it has a long history of research excellence.
• How many universities in Aberystwyth? Primarily one: Aberystwyth University, as the main higher education institution in the town.
• Is Aberystwyth University a Russell Group? No, but it’s ranked for high student satisfaction and teaching quality.
• How many students at Aberystwyth University? Over 8,000 students, including a global community.
• Is Aberystwyth University good? Yes, it’s top in England and Wales for student satisfaction and excels in research-led teaching.
• Is Aberystwyth a campus university? Yes, with a main campus in a seaside town providing a close-knit environment.
• Where is Aberystwyth University? In Aberystwyth, a seaside town on the west coast of Wales.
• What is Aberystwyth University known for? Pioneering International Politics, strong in humanities, sciences, and community-focused education.
• How old is Aberystwyth University? Founded in 1872, it’s the oldest university in Wales, over 150 years old.

Bangor University FAQs

• Is Bangor a Russell Group university? No, Bangor University is not a Russell Group member, but it’s strong in research.
• Is Bangor University Russell Group? No, though it ranks well globally for specific subjects.
• How many universities in Bangor? Primarily one: Bangor University, dominating the local higher education scene.
• Is Bangor University a Russell Group? No, but it’s listed among top universities for student union and research.
• How many students at Bangor University? Around 10,000-12,000 students across its programs.
• Is Bangor University good? Yes, ranked in the top third globally in QS 2025 and top in Wales for certain metrics.
• Is Bangor a campus university? Yes, its campus forms a significant part of the city, with integrated facilities.
• Where is Bangor University? In Bangor, North Wales, near Snowdonia and the coast.
• What is Bangor University known for? Marine sciences, psychology, environmental studies, and outdoor opportunities.
• How old is Bangor University? Founded in 1884, it’s over 140 years old with a tradition of excellence.

University of South Wales (USW) FAQs

• Is USW a Russell Group university? No, the University of South Wales is not in the Russell Group, focusing instead on practical education.
• Is University of South Wales Russell Group? No, but it’s one of the UK’s largest by student numbers.
• How many universities in South Wales cities like Cardiff, Newport, Pontypridd? Multiple, including USW’s campuses, Cardiff University, and others—around 3-4 key institutions across these areas.
• Is University of South Wales a Russell Group? No, though it excels in industry-linked courses.
• How many students at University of South Wales? Over 30,000 students, making it the second largest in Wales.
• Is University of South Wales good? Yes, known for employability, practical training, and rankings in cyber security and postgraduate studies.
• Is USW a campus university? It has multiple dedicated campuses, offering a mix of campus and city experiences.
• Where is University of South Wales? Campuses in Cardiff, Newport, and Pontypridd, South Wales.
• What is University of South Wales known for? Practical courses in creative industries, engineering, business, and strong industry partnerships.
• How old is University of South Wales? Formed in 2013 through mergers, with roots dating back to the 19th century.

Wrexham University FAQs

• Is Wrexham a Russell Group university? No, Wrexham University is not part of the Russell Group, emphasizing applied learning.
• Is Wrexham University Russell Group? No, but it’s top-ranked for student satisfaction.
• How many universities in Wrexham? Primarily one: Wrexham University, as the main provider in the area.
• Is Wrexham University a Russell Group? No, though it ranks highly in teaching quality and inclusion.
• How many students at Wrexham University? Around 7,500 students, with a focus on personalized attention.
• Is Wrexham University good? Yes, ranked #1 in England and Wales for student satisfaction and top in Wales for teaching quality.
• Is Wrexham a campus university? Yes, with three campuses providing modern facilities.
• Where is Wrexham University? In Wrexham, North East Wales, with additional sites nearby.
• What is Wrexham University known for? Accessible entry routes, applied learning, and links to local industries like engineering and health.
• How old is Wrexham University? Founded in 2008 (as Glyndŵr), with roots in earlier institutions.

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) FAQs

• Is UWTSD a Russell Group university? No, University of Wales Trinity Saint David is not in the Russell Group, focusing on vocational education.
• Is University of Wales Trinity Saint David Russell Group? No, but it has high satisfaction rankings.
• How many universities in Swansea, Carmarthen, Lampeter? In Swansea: 2 (UWTSD and Swansea Uni); Carmarthen and Lampeter primarily UWTSD.
• Is University of Wales Trinity Saint David a Russell Group? No, though it’s known for supportive teaching.
• How many students at University of Wales Trinity Saint David? Over 13,000 students across its campuses.
• Is University of Wales Trinity Saint David good? Yes, ranked highly for student satisfaction with teaching and inclusion.
• Is UWTSD a campus university? It operates multiple campuses, each with dedicated facilities in rural and urban settings.
• Where is University of Wales Trinity Saint David? Campuses in Swansea, Carmarthen, Lampeter, plus others in Wales and beyond.
• What is University of Wales Trinity Saint David known for? Vocational subjects, creative arts, teacher training, and cultural heritage.
• How old is University of Wales Trinity Saint David? Formed in 2010, with roots back to 1822, making it one of Wales’ oldest.