Swansea University

Located on the stunning Swansea Bay coastline, this Welsh university provides easy access to the city centre, as well as to the beaches of the spectacular Gower Peninsula.

Swansea has recently been named University of the Year by students at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2019, where it was also runner-up in the Postgraduate category. It’s also recognised as a UK top 30 research institution (Research Excellence Framework 2014).

The University offers a range of taught and research postgraduate programmes across several academic colleges:

• College of Arts and Humanities
• College of Engineering
• College of Human and Health Sciences
• School of Law
• College of Science
• Medical School
• School of Management

Swansea’s campuses are currently undergoing a period of re-development in anticipation of the University’s centenary in 2020, with both the Singleton Park and Bay campuses undergoing extensive renovations and improvements to provide state of the art student facilities.

The University’s libraries provide specialised subject librarians to help you with your studies, dedicated postgraduate study areas and training courses for doctoral students.

Postgraduate student reviewers were very positive about their time at Swansea University, praising the experience as a whole, from the facilities available to the level of support on offer.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“My overall university experience has been very enjoyable. I have learnt so much already and met some excellent people. The first week was a little intense, re-adjusting to a formal learning setting again, but I have really enjoyed the challenge.”

“Great, would not change a thing - great city, campus, lecturers etc. Would highly recommend the university to any future perspective student, undergraduate or postgraduate!”

“I had the most positive experience at Swansea I think I could have asked for. I had some brilliant lecturers, I absolutely loved my Undergraduate degree (American Studies) which I achieved a First Class in which then earned me a fully paid scholarship for my Masters, I got 2 excellent jobs in the University as well as 2 separate work experience placements, and when I needed the emotional and academic support it was there, when I struggled with the transition in my first year I spoke to the Wellbeing centre and they were so helpful and supportive.”

Many of Swansea’s courses offer work placements, giving students an opportunity to gain invaluable experience in their industry. The University’s award winning Swansea Employability Academy can provide you with guidance on job searching, CV writing and interview preparation, ensuring that you are fully equipped to enter the jobs market. The Swansea Employability Award can also provide you with additional opportunities to help enhance your career prospects throughout your postgraduate degree.

Reviewers found the access to employability and career services at Swansea University highly beneficial, valuing the training and advice offered to postgraduate students seeking to enter the world of work.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Offers talks about careers, often presented by different employers and the Uni informs you of the ones which may be relevant to your course and future. Also offers the SEA award to help you with deciding a future career.”

“The Uni provides many opportunities for employment and many workshops to enhance our CV skills.”

“Very employment focused and provides many opportunities for placements, advice and support.”

“The School of management at Swansea University have a specific employability team who are amazing. They help you with all kinds of things from CVs to work skills to job applications.”

The expertise and experience of Swansea University’s lecturers was frequently mentioned by the student reviewers. As well as praising the high quality of teaching, special mention was also given to the high level of personal and academic support provided by staff. Swansea’s postgraduate courses were also recognised as providing industry relevant and transferrable content, ensuring that you are equipped with all the necessary skills and knowledge for your chosen career.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Our lecturers are passionate about their subjects and it greatly increases the quality of the teaching. They are also very helpful and supportive. I don't see any problems with teaching aspect of the course.”

“I like how the Professors and students are close and they very helpful to enhance our careers and knowledge. They are experts in their course.”

“Minimal lecture time, with many labs and seminars encourage discussion between students and lecturers around the focused topic. This leads to a more comfortable academic environment.”

“High quality researchers teach through their own experience.”

Swansea’s Students' Union exists to help students enjoy every aspect of university life. They organise activities and events and offer support for students facing any educational or personal difficulties. Student reviewers found the SU did a good job at this, with many praising the range of activities on offer, and the level of support available.

Students also commented on the SU’s inclusivity and democracy: its 5 full time officers, 16 part-time officers and a team of other staff and volunteers can provide you with both personal and academic support.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“The Students’ Union is very good at getting people involved, and seems to take into account what the students are asking for. For example, they recently opened a vegan shop on campus and host events people are interested in.”

“I think the Students’ Union is wonderful, particularly the steps they are taking recently to encourage sustainable commerce within the University as well as inclusivity for students of all backgrounds.”

“Amazing SU, always providing events and the way the SU have incorporated and increased the outreach of the 'swanglomerate' is incredible, providing an anonymous advice and support through social media in a way which benefits the whole community.”

Swansea University offers 4 types of accommodation specifically for postgraduate students. These are:

• Bay Campus (offering en-suite, premium en-suite and 1-2 bedroom flat options)
• Beck House (offers a range of accommodation including en-suite rooms and couple/family flats)
• Hendrefoelan Student Village (4- 7 bedroom flats with shared facilities)
• Singleton Park Campus (en-suite accommodation with shared kitchens available on campus for postgraduate and mature students.

There is a variety of private accommodation available in Swansea, with areas such as Brynmill, Uplands and Port Tennant being popular student choices.

Student reviewers who stayed in university accommodation were happy with their choice, while those who decided to rent privately had a positive experience on the whole.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“It's a very comfortable housing which I feel secure and safe. The staff are very accommodating and efficient.”

“It’s beautiful and has all the amenities you need to survive. Our safety is of great importance to them so they put measures in place to ensure that.”

“I love my apartment! it is clean and spacious.”

Swansea offers a fantastic range of facilities across its campuses. This includes several well stocked libraries (open for 24 hours a day), cafes, restaurants, two auditoriums, the Richard Burton Archives, and several dedicated postgraduate study areas.

The University is also home to the International Sports Village, which provides three sports halls, two astro pitches, an indoor and outdoor running track, fitness and power gyms, outdoor pitches, spin studios and physiotherapy facilities. The Wales National Pool, situated in Swansea’s Sports Village, was used as a training facility for several professional athletes who competed in the 2012 London Olympics.

Swansea’s stunning beachside location provides students with the opportunity to try a range of outdoor activities, including paddle boarding, kayaking and surfing.

Students have been very impressed with the level of ongoing investment and development taking place at Swansea University.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“As a campus university, we have a lot of excellent facilities. Having a GP surgery, dentist, shop, bank, post office and plenty of food outlets is really useful. Our academic facilities are also excellent, we have a vast library and a fair amount of study space, and the university pays a lot for online journal/text book access. For students of all disciples of science we have excellent, brand-new, state of the art facilities. Overall the facilities on campus are excellent.”

“The facilities are excellent, plenty of computers within the library. The food is great too.”

“Great, clean, accessible, new.”

“24 hour library with lots of PCs.”

Whether you are looking for some retail therapy after a long lecture or want to indulge in some student events, Swansea has plenty to offer away from the campuses.

Student reviewers often mentioned the close proximity to the beach, the short distance between campuses and the city centre, and the famous Wind Street where several bars and clubs line a single street.

Many students found that despite Swansea’s small size, it packs in a lot – from beautiful seaside views to busy shopping streets, with many bars and pubs to socialise in, restaurants and cafes to enjoy, and museums and galleries to explore.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Swansea is great for city life. There's everything you need in the city centre from shops, to cinemas, restaurants, activities like bowling and laser tag, and Swansea Market where you can buy good quality, fresh produce for an excellent price. Then you have the benefit of walking 15 minutes away from the city centre and you're on the beach.”

“They city is very easy going and relaxed. I loved living so close to the beach and being able to walk most places. There is also good night life and there are plenty of sports facilities.”

“City life is great we have a good mix of sun sea and city.”

“Swansea is a very relaxed place with excellent beaches. Gower is a must.”

Overseen by the Students’ Union, there are 120 societies and 50 sports clubs for Swansea University students to join, providing a great way to make friends and meet likeminded people. These range from subject based societies to hobby groups and cultural clubs.

Students were highly impressed by the range and variety of clubs and societies.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“There is a vast range of sports clubs and societies, from Chess to Cricket, charitable societies, academic societies, religious societies, political party societies and almost every sport you can think of. There's something for everyone.”

“I am active member of Swansea Women in Business Society. The members are very supportive and enthusiastic. I also proud of them so much, that they have achieving so many things during their studies.”

“Over 50 sports clubs and a variety of societies -joining a society here gives you a fantastic experience!”

“Fantastic, I joined canoe club in my first year and haven't looked back since.”

"There’s a range of societies to suit a lot of tastes whether people are in to sports or want to make friends through common interests like baking, languages or politics."

Swansea’s Student Services offers support and advice in a variety of areas, including careers and employability, health and wellbeing, disability and money and finance, as well as a special advisory service for international students.

Many of our reviews praise the level of support they give to students, both in and outside the lecture halls and on and off the campus.

Swansea University Students on Postgraduate Search say:

“Academic tutors are very knowledgeable, and know how to help you when you need it.”

“Really inclusive feel, great academic and pastoral support from fantastic set of lecturers!”

“The academic support is really good, I've had some excellent academic and emotional support from my lecturers. The University does have a Well-being centre who can offer you emotional support, counselling sessions and help you liaise with your lecturers if you're struggling and there is an Academic and Learning Support department.”

“The best thing about Swansea is the availability of staff and their flexibility in helping you out and considering your individual circumstances.”

UK Students per Year:

Fees are dependent on what type of postgraduate qualification you study and how long the course takes to complete.

Research Course Fees:

• PhD (full-time) 3 years £4327
• PhD (part-time) 6 years £2163.50
• MPhil (full-time) 2 years £4,327

Taught Course Fees:

Taught course fees will vary depending on which course you study. For a full list of fees, visit Swansea’s individual course pages.

International Students Per Year:

Tuition fees will vary across different subject areas.

Please visit Swansea’s website for more information on international tuition fees.

The University invests significantly in postgraduate study, with over £10 million in postgraduate scholarships available last year.

Research Scholarships

Swansea University offers a number of awards for students pursuing PhD, MPhil, MRes or Master’s by Research studies, with deadlines throughout the academic year. Please visit the website for a full list of current research scholarships.

Taught Master’s Scholarships

Swansea offers a number of taught Master’s scholarships across a range of subject areas. The university offers over 100 taught Master’s Excellence scholarships each year, worth £3000 each and available to First Class honours students. Eligibility requirements and funding amounts can vary, so please check individual adverts carefully before applying. Please visit the website for a full list of current taught Master’s scholarships.

Hardship Fund

If you’re a UK/EU student you can apply for the Swansea University Hardship Fund. Administered by Swansea’s Money@CampusLife department, this is available both before and during your study. The Hardship Fund is non-repayable and is based on your student income.

If you’d like to be considered for the fund before starting your course, you‘ll need to present a financial statement with your university application.

International Scholarships

Swansea University offers a range of scholarships for international postgraduate students, including:

• Eira Francis Davies Scholarship Provides the full cost of tuition fees for women who wish to study a postgraduate course in the College of Human and Health Sciences.
• International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries Available to Swansea’s international alumni students who wish to study either a research or taught postgraduate course.
• Santander Scholarship Worth up to £6,000 towards tuition fee costs.
• Chevening Scholarship This is a government programme that is given to outstanding students with leadership potential. Normally given to students who are applying for a one-year Master’s degree.

To find out if you’re eligible, and how much you can receive, contact the university directly.

• Research

In the top 30 of the research universities, Swansea is internationally recognised for its research-led attitude across all of their departments.

• Engineering

Swansea’s College of Engineering offers a range of innovative engineering postgraduate courses including civil, aerospace, energy, computational, medical and environmental engineering at both taught and research levels.

Swansea University works with a range of local and international companies, and regularly ranks highly for their teaching, output and facilities.

Sports

If you’d like to find out more about the science behind sports, you can study subjects like sports and exercise science as well as health science. To get a place on the course, you need either a first or upper second class degree in a Sports Science or similar science based subject.

Engineering

Swansea has a range of specialist engineering courses available, including aerospace, chemical, mechanical, material, energy, computational, electronic and electrical. Although entry requirements change depending on the subject and level you want to study at, you’ll generally need a first or upper second class degree in an engineering (or similar) discipline.

Swansea is a UK top 30 university for research excellence; 90% of its research has been judged as internationally excellent in its impact (Research Excellence Framework 2014).

Swansea’s collaborative research links with industry are among the best in the UK, with a long history of working closely with multinational organisations, including Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Santander, IBM and the NHS.

The University attracts some of the world's best academics, teaching, working and conducting research within its state-of-the-art-facilities. Swansea’s consistently high standard of research sits alongside outstanding teaching quality.

Swansea offers over 140 taught postgraduate degrees in a wide range of subject areas that typically take a year to finish. If studied full time, you’ll be taught modules for 9 months before spending 3 months on your dissertation or project work.

The University offers a range of distance learning courses: Visit the Swansea University website for more information.

As well as offering a range of taught and research degrees across a variety of subjects, Swansea ensures postgrads are looked after by giving them their own open days, dedicated study spaces and reserving sections of University accommodation.

To make things easier for postgraduate students, Swansea has a directory of expertise on their site so you can find academics who are working in the industry you want to be in and contact them with any questions you may have.