Overview

Cardiff Metropolitan University, or Prifysgol Metropolitan Caerdydd in Welsh, has heritage beginnings in the form of the historic Cardiff School of Art in 1865. The Cardiff Metropolitan University now offers over 115 full-time, 58 sandwich/placement, and 33 part-time courses across four campuses located in Cardiff within a 3-mile radius.

The university has five schools, which include the School of Education, Health Sciences, Management, Sports, and Art and Design. The Young University Ranking rated the university between 301-350 in 2022, while it’s between 1001-1200th in the World University Rankings 2023 by THE.

History

Cardiff Metropolitan University finds its history rooted in 1865 at the Cardiff School of Art opening in the Old Free Library Building in Cardiff. From there, developmental and merger events took place, shaping what would become the Cardiff Institute of Higher Education in 1990. This particular name change was triggered when four colleges merged.

In 1996, the Institute became the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, upon being granted University College status. After formally splitting from the University of Wales, the educational institute was renamed once again, now Cardiff Metropolitan University, in 2011.

Throughout these changes and since gaining autonomy in 2011, Cardiff Metropolitan University has undergone rapid change and development. While the studies have remained practice-focused, their vision has expanded. Students can now engage in a wide range of courses and disciplines along with benefitting from their industry placements, international travel & study, and professional accreditations.

Ranking & Achievements

  • Ranked 93rd in the Times University Guide 2023
  • 73rd in the Guardian University Guide 2023
  • Placed 72nd by The Complete University Guide – University Ranking (UK) 2023
  • 166th by QS World University Rankings 2023
  • In REF (Research Excellence Framework) 2021, Cardiff Metropolitan University’s research outcomes of Sports were Internationally Excellent or World Leading which is about 88%
  •  Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Art and Design ranked 5th in the UK with nearly 83% being Internationally Excellent or World Leading.

Breakdown of the Fees Structure

International students can expect to pay £12,000 to £13,500 depending on course and degree.

Scholarships

Cardiff Metropolitan University provides scholarship and bursary opportunities for students enrolling in their undergrad, postgrad, and research programmes to assist with expenses concerned with the costs of studying at the university. The university divides the scholarship schemes into categories including Home Students, Research Scholarships, NHS Bursary (for students applying for an NHS-funded course), and International scholarships.

Research scholarships are offered to doctoral and post-grad students. Schemes include the Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Research Innovation Award (RIA), KESSII Scholarships, and others. The Cardiff Metropolitan University also supports and accepts bursaries and scholarships from outside Cardiff Metropolitan University. Some of the options listed on their website include the Cardiff Community Endowment Fund, Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol, Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust, NHS Wales Bursary Scheme, Trendhim Scholarship, and the St. Matthias Trust.

Cardiff Metropolitan University in Wales provides great exposure through courses delivered by highly qualified experts and lecturers. The educational institute’s dedication to providing excellence in teaching and research results in over 97% of its graduates pursuing professional fields of work and further study and an overall 84% student satisfaction score. If you find yourself compelled to apply to Cardiff Metropolitan University for undergraduate, postgraduate, or research degrees, we can help you through the application process.

Student Statistics

  • 71% Undergraduates
  • 29% Postgraduates
  • 89% of Full-time students
  • 11% of Part-time students
  • 84% of the UK
  • 16% from the EU and countries around the world
  • 46% Male
  • 54% Female
  • Over 12,000 Student Population

Student Life

Cardiff being the capital of Wales, had exciting nightlife and other social, shopping, and recreational opportunities for over 66,000 local and international students studying in schools across the city. Not only that, but it is also one of the most affordable and easy-to-navigate cities for students.

Not far from the campuses are located in Roath and Cathays suburbs. Pubs, cafes, restaurants, shops, bars, etc., line these locations and the city center. You can also find some of these establishments catering to students. For instance, some nightclubs in the city hold student-themed events.

There is also great architectural and sporting heritage in Cardiff, which students can see at the Cardiff City Stadium, Principality Stadium, and others. Cardiff Metropolitan University students can also join the Cardiff Met to explore the city and what lies beyond its boundaries.

Accommodations

First-time students can choose between catered and self-catered accommodations on-campus, expecting to pay around £170 per week for catered accommodations and around £130 per week for self-catered accommodations. The accommodations at the Cyncoed and Plas Gwyn campuses provide both self-catered and catered accommodations along with en suite options. There are nearly 1,000 study bedroom options at these campuses. There are halls dedicated to international students, along with alcohol-free options.

Cardiff Metropolitan University also provides 650+ en suite rooms in private halls, and they also help students find a suitable place off-campus if required. The Residential Life program also provides a series of events for resident students to keep them engaged.

Transport

Cardiff is easy to get around both on foot and by public transport, which is pretty affordable as the university runs the Cardiff Met Rider along with the Cardiff Bus service. Both campuses also have a nextbike service where students can rent bikes for the day to get around to the campus’s facilities.

To cover longer routes, you can travel around Cardiff in a car or a ride-hiring service via the M4. You can also travel by rail through Cardiff Central. To catch local and international flights, the Cardiff International Airport is easily accessible.

Student Support

Cardiff Metropolitan University is very active in regards to its student support activities. In addition to money advice and helping students find financing solutions for pursuing an education at the university, there a Students Service Centre. It includes their Wellbeing Service that helps students with disabilities find free, impartial counselling and advice for mental health issues along with disability support for issues such as dyslexia and others. The i-zone is a part of the Student Support and Employability team. Located at the Cyncoed and Llandaff campus, it is dedicated to providing non-academic student services and support.

In addition to external placements through job fairs, the university’s Careers Services helps students find seasonal and part-time work around Cardiff. Cardiff Metropolitan University also has a Students’ Union that creates many opportunities by dedicating SU spaces in both campuses where students can socialise. The SU also works to enhance the student experience at Cardiff Metropolitan University by running numerous societies, clubs, training, and other extra-curricular activities.

Location

There are over 12,000 students enrolled at Cardiff Metropolitan University, and they come from 140 different countries. Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, is home to all three of the university’s campuses.

FAQ

Why should you choose Cardiff Metropolitan University?

Cardiff Metropolitan University’s Performance Sport Program and its state-of-the-art Sports Facilities make it a national and international leader in student athletics.

If you send an email to Cardiff Metropolitan University, how long does it take to get a response?

During 21 business days, you should receive an email with the outcome of your application.

How is Cardiff as a study abroad destination?

Cardiff is a major city with a vibrant community vibe, making it a great place to study. Every year, students from over 130 different nations flock to this city because of the many opportunities it offers.

In what percentage does Cardiff Metropolitan University result in employment?

Cardiff Metropolitan University has an excellent reputation because of its great links to well-regarded companies and specialized jobs assistance. Furthermore, nearly 95% of its graduates find work or continue their studies after graduation.

Does living in Wales cost less than in England usually?

The cost of living in Wales is roughly four times less than in some parts of England, thus many students choose to come here for their higher education since it seems like a fun and cheap adventure. Wales has more affordable living costs than the rest of the United Kingdom.

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