Cardiff University
Cardiff University has been producing successful graduates since 1883, combining a prestigious heritage with modern and innovative facilities. It is known for its world-leading research, rewarding student experience and fantastic location.
The education system
Just like the rest of the United Kingdom, Wales offers three levels of education:
- Undergraduate/Bachelor's degree
- Postgraduate/Master's degree
- PhD/Doctorate
Undergraduate degrees are usually three years. Yours could be four years if you choose to take a valuable work placement, usually in year 3. Master's degrees are one or two years. Some degrees combine undergraduate and postgraduate study, which take four years to complete (e.g. MEng). PhDs require at least three years of study.
A proud Russell Group University
Cardiff University is a founding member of the Russell Group, a set of leading UK universities dedicated to excellence. Cardiff is also the only Russell Group University in Wales. Here, you will have amazing experiences both in and outside of the classroom. The University's research-based teaching is delivered by experts and its Students' Union is multi award-winning. Cardiff University is ranked 32nd in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
Become an employable graduate
In an increasingly competitive global job market, you will need to stand out from the crowd. The majority of degree programmes at Cardiff University give you the option of a professional placement year and/or internship — usually in your third year. Find out more how studying at Cardiff University will set you up for a successful future.
An exciting home city
The University is based in the beautiful civic centre, in the heart of Cardiff. Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom. One of Europe’s youngest capital cities, it was crowned the capital of Wales in 1955, partly due to the excellent reputation of its university.
Cardiff is a vibrant modern city with a multicultural history. It is a small city and almost everywhere can be reached on foot from the University. It is safe and friendly, with students making up 20% of the population. Cardiff is also affordable; it is the 2nd most affordable university city for monthly rental costs according to the NatWest Student Living Index 2023.
A warm Welsh welcome
Cardiff is a city known for its diversity, inclusivity, and sense of fun. These values are also reflected in the University’s motto, “Truth, Unity and Concord”. It is a place where difference is celebrated and those from other countries and cultures are welcomed with open arms.
Research excellence
90% of Cardiff University's research is world-leading or internationally excellent.
REF 2021
Ranking
Cardiff University is ranked 32nd in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
I think the one word I would use to describe Cardiff is ‘special’. The first thing is Welsh people are absolutely friendly. They are very warm. You never feel different to anyone, even though there are of course things that make us different to other people.
Lafan from Qatar
Studying BA Media and Communications
