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CONTENTS

1. Why study in Swansea?

2. About Swansea

3. Swansea University

4. University of Wales Trinity Saint David

5. Living in Swansea

6. Entry requirements

7. Transport links

8. Getting around Swansea

9. Things to do in Swansea

Why study in Swansea?

People know Swansea for its art, culture, music, sport, seafood, Italian ice-cream, and Swansea market. It has a thriving student population, so there'll be plenty for you to do and see and loads of new people to meet.

About Swansea

Swansea, also known as Abertawe in Welsh, is a beautiful waterfront city on the south coast of Wales, overlooking Swansea Bay. Just down the road is the Gower Peninsula, the first place in Britain to be named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Swansea University

Swansea University is a research-led university. Its stunning waterfront campuses offer a perfect mix of study and seaside life, attracting students from around the world.

Location

Swansea University’s two campuses are in beautiful locations at each end of the waterfront. One is set in lush parkland while the other is right by the beach. Both are within easy reach of the city centre, Uplands and the Mumbles, giving lots for students to explore and experience.

Facilities

On campus, there are a wide variety of food and drink outlets as well as a bank, laundrette, and shops to buy groceries. There are libraries on both sites, providing a range of study spaces. An inclusive faith service offers space and non-judgmental support for all students.

Students can access advice on student funding, financial hardship and budgeting. There is also a range of scholarships available.

See Swansea University profile page for an interactive map and more information.

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David is a friendly, inclusive and supportive learning community. It offers a wide choice of employment-focused courses, often taught in smaller classes. Students receive tailored academic and personal support to help them succeed.

Location

UWTSD's main campuses are at Swansea, Carmarthen, and Lampeter. The uni also has campuses in London, Cardiff, and Birmingham. In Swansea, the university has sites across the city, from waterfront to city centre.

Facilities

You'll find attractive study areas at all UWTSD libraries. Lampeter houses the uni's special collection of resources, which includes medieval manuscripts. Study skills and IT workshops help students develop their digital and information skills. Student Hubs (Hwb) offer a range of services, providing a one-stop-shop for any queries. Students can contact the Hwb team in many ways, including the new Hwb app that makes on-the-go access easy.

See University of Wales Trinity Saint David profile page for an interactive map and more information.

Living in Swansea

Both Swansea University and UWTSD offer on-campus and off-campus accommodation. Swansea University guarantees new students a room in residences if they make the uni their firm choice and apply before the deadline. Swansea can support students with finding private sector accommodation if they prefer to live off campus. UWTSD has connections to a number of accommodation providers in Swansea. The uni's accommodation team can offer guidance on finding a place to live.

Each university offers a range of housing options, including en suite rooms. Your choice depends on your preferences and budget, and on ensuring you apply early.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary from uni to uni and course to course. The best way to check what you need to get into your preferred course at each university is to use our . There you can see what each course’s entry requirements are.

Transport links

Average train journey times from Swansea

Getting around Swansea

Although Swansea is the second largest city in Wales, there are many transport options to help you get around easily.

Walk

With golden beaches and lush rolling hills, Swansea is in a perfect location for those who enjoy walking. No matter what your level of fitness, there are walks to suit everyone in Swansea. Singleton Park is also right on the doorstep of Swansea University's Singleton Park campus.

Cycle

There are some great cycling routes in and around Swansea with unbeatable views of the dramatic coastline. You can also cycle around the city centre using local off-road routes and the flat coastal path.

Bus

Local buses connect Swansea city to nearby attractions such as the Gower Peninsula, Mumbles, Neath, Port Talbot, and more. There are also frequent bus services connecting the universities to the city centre.

Train

Swansea is well connected to other parts of Wales and the rest of England. In fact, it takes under three hours to get from London to Swansea by train. Other major cities accessible by rail include Bristol, Plymouth and Birmingham.

Things to do in Swansea

There’s plenty to see and do in Swansea. You can enjoy picturesque landscapes, eat fish and chips by the sea, stroll around museums and galleries or watch a gig at one of the many music venues.

Arts and Culture

Swansea has a rich history with many cultural attractions. What was once known as ‘Copperopolis’ for its major role in global copper production is now a modern and creative metropolis.

The city boasts a wealth of museums and galleries, including Swansea Museum, the oldest museum in Wales, which dates back to 1841. Along the road, you’ll find the National Waterfront Museum, showcasing the city’s industry and innovation.

Literature lovers can also check out the Dylan Thomas Centre, celebrating the life of the famous Swansea-born poet. Art enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Mission Gallery, and Attic Gallery.

Food and drink

Being on the coast and close to the countryside, Swansea is well known for both its fresh fish and salt marsh lamb. Many Italian immigrants moved to Wales in the 19th and early 20th centuries, so you’ll notice a strong Italian influence in Swansea. You can enjoy authentic Italian ice cream in the city, with one of the most famous being Joe’s Ice Cream in Mumbles.

For a more traditional treat, head to Swansea Market for a cup of tea and a Welsh cake. Another Welsh staple is Cawl, a hearty broth made with seasonal vegetables and lamb. For students on a budget, there are also many affordable places to eat and drink, such as the Brunswick Arms.

Outdoors

With the Gower Peninsula close by, there’s plenty to enjoy in Swansea’s great outdoors. Here you’ll find Three Cliffs Bay and Rhossili Bay offering vast sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. Buses run to each of these outdoor attractions from Swansea city centre.

At the start of the Gower Peninsula is the quaint yet cosmopolitan town of Mumbles. Stroll along the beach, browse independent shops and boutiques, try local seafood, or climb to Oystermouth Castle to enjoy the view.

If you’re looking for green spaces nearer to home, you can also relax in one of Swansea's parks, such as Singleton Park, Victoria Park, and Cwmdonkin Park.

Nightlife

Swansea comes alive at night with an array of bars, pubs, and clubs to keep you up until the early hours. Many partygoers head to Wind Street for a broad choice of venues. Some of the most popular include Flickering Light, a '50s-style speakeasy, and No Sign Wine Bar, one of the oldest bars in Swansea.

Top nightspots in Swansea include Popworld, Bambu Bar, Sin City, and Peppermint. These venues cater to all music tastes and run nights throughout the week.