History
The University opened its doors on 24 October 1883 and was formally established by Royal Charter in 1884.
We were named the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire and were tiny in comparison to our current size.
We merged with the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology (UWIST) in 1988. In 1999 the public name of the University changed to Cardiff University.
Education
Our students benefit from teaching and research that is driven by curiosity and creativity.
We work in partnership with our students to create a stimulating and supportive environment in which all our students can thrive.
Studying and learning in a research-rich environment means our students are taught by scholars working at the frontiers of knowledge in their disciplines.
Research
We use our knowledge to develop innovative, internationally excellent research that will have an impact on the world.
- One of only 24 research-intensive Russell Group universities in the UK
- 11th in the UK for research impact in the Research Excellence Framework (REF)
- 14th in the UK for research power in the Research Excellence Framework (REF)
- We have won seven Queen's Anniversary Prizes
- Our researchers include two Nobel Prize winners - Professor Sir Martin Evans and Professor Robert Huber
Career
Cardiff University graduates are amongst the most sought-after in the UK.
96% of our graduates were in employment and/or further study, due to start a new job or course, or doing other activities such as travelling, 15 months after the end of their course.
We also have dedicated student support services who can help you map out your future plans. Our Student Futures team provide opportunities to boost your employability and can support you as you plan for life after university.
We offer:
- Careers advice
- Work experience
- Employability and enterprise skills
- Cardiff Award
- Graduate recruitment workshops
- Networking opportunities with employers
Distance Learning Courses
Medicine & Health (31)
- Short Course Care of the critically ill obstetric patient
- Short Course Cleanroom Protocols
- M.Sc. Clinical Geriatrics
- M.Sc. Clinical Optometry
- M.Sc. Clinical Pharmacy
- M.Sc. Clinical Research
- M.Sc. Critical Care
- M.Sc. Diabetes Practice
- Postgraduate Certificate Eye Care Governance
- Short Course Introduction to organ donation
- Short Course Introduction to sepsis
- M.Sc. Medical Education
- Postgraduate Certificate Medical Education
- M.Sc. Medical Toxicology
- Postgraduate Certificate Medical Toxicology
- Postgraduate Diploma Medical Toxicology
- Short Course Nutrition and the critically ill
- M.Sc. Pain Management
- M.Sc. Practical Dermatology
- Postgraduate Diploma Practical Dermatology
- M.Sc. Psychiatry
- Short Course Rehabilitation of the critically ill
- Postgraduate Certificate Therapeutic Prescribing for Optometrists
Arts, Design & Architecture (5)
Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences (5)
- M.Sc. Medical Toxicology
- Postgraduate Diploma Medical Toxicology
- Postgraduate Certificate Medical Toxicology
Business & Management (2)
Computer Science & IT (2)
- Short Course Conducting a Systematic Review
Education & Training (2)
- M.Sc. Diabetes Practice
- Postgraduate Certificate Medical Education
Law (2)
- LL.M. Canon Law
Natural Sciences & Mathematics (2)
- M.Sc. Clinical Geriatrics
Housing services
We have a range of accommodation to suit individual preferences and budgets.
Both undergraduates and postgraduates (arriving in September) are guaranteed a single occupancy room and new undergraduates will be allocated with other first year students.
Accommodation in university residences is also guaranteed for international students.
Our Residence Life Team are available to help ensure you have the best possible time whilst staying in our accommodation.
They are committed to providing a warm welcome and helping you to make a smooth transition into university.
Library services
Our libraries hold over 1.1 million printed books, and provide access to more than 1.5 million online books, journals and resources.
We also hold a range of unique and historical print collections, archives, and online resources to support learning and research.
We provide a range of spaces to accommodate a variety of learning styles with 13 libraries across our campuses.
From silent areas to social study spaces, we are sure you’ll find a place to study that suits you perfectly.
ICT services
After enrolling you will have access to the student intranet where you will find a range of IT support, tools, and resources to help in your study, including access to free anti-virus software and a free subscription to Microsoft Office while you're studying here.
You can also access the University-wide wireless network, computer suites, an IT clinic, training and workshops.
Medical services
Having a GP (general practitioner) in Cardiff means you can easily access care and medication if you need it.
You will need to find a local GP surgery and contact them about registering with the practice.
You will normally be able to drop into the surgery and ask to register. GP surgeries have catchment areas, so we recommend you search for a local GP practice by using your postcode.
Our brand-new Centre for Student Life is a one-stop hub for all your student needs and the Health and Wellbeing team offer a range of services to help students look after their physical and mental wellbeing during their time at university.
Campus life
Cardiff University is made up of two large, well-located campuses.
- Cathays Park: With wide tree-lined avenues and elegant Portland stone buildings, it's an inspiring place to study.
- Heath Park: Our dedicated healthcare campus, with four Academic Schools on the same site as the University Hospital of Wales.
Both campuses are within a short distance of Cardiff city centre where you’ll find beautiful green spaces, modern shopping centres, historic indoor markets and our very own medieval castle.
Sports facilities
We provide our students with the opportunity to participate in both elite and recreational sport, across four main centres on campus.
There are over 60 clubs for men and women to get involved in, ranging from traditional sports (such as rugby and cricket) to martial arts, motorsports and watersports.
We also run a High Performance Programme that provides support for student athletes, recognised as having outstanding potential.
Sport is a big part of the culture of Cardiff and going to see an event or match is a quintessential part of studying here.
From world-famous sporting arenas like the Principality Stadium to Sophia Gardens and the international sports village in Cardiff Bay, there’s so many great venues offering a variety of sports at the heart of the Welsh capital.
Whether you like watching rugby, football, ice hockey, cricket or more unusual sporting events, like monster trucks and speedway, Cardiff has plenty to offer you.
Student clubs
Our Students’ Union is rated 2nd in the UK, according to WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2023.
It is run by students, for students and is home to a whole host of live entertainment, diverse clubs and societies as well as presenting a range of exciting activities.
It also provides welfare and advice services to all students. The Students’ Union has several food outlets, shops and even a bank so you can find everything you need under one roof!
Cardiff Business School is accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA), one of the world's leading authorities on post-graduate business education.
