Focus on Wales

International students choose university education in Wales not only because they know they will receive a top quality UK education and can choose from a wide range of degree courses, but for many other reasons too.

International students at the thirteen higher education institutions in Wales can study for UK degrees which are validated by the University of Wales or the University of Glamorgan. Students have a wide choice of places to study ie. at universities near the sea, in more tranquil rural areas, or in one of the vibrant towns and cities.

The universities all provide excellent student accommodation, catering and sports facilities and usually within walking distance from the campuses. Dedicated staff, such as international officers, student advisors and welfare advisors offer support services to students, and many have health centres on campus.

The cost of living in Wales is lower than many other parts of the UK so money goes further. Wales is recognised as a safe and friendly environment in which to live. Cardiff and Swansea have long histories as international ports and this means these cities are well used to welcoming people from all over the world. In fact, people from many countries have settled in Wales and their influence has enriched the culture and life of the country. This is evident by the fact that restaurants serving the cuisine of many nations have sprung up all over Wales and the foods from all corners of the world are widely available.

Unlike some of the large urban conurbations in other parts of the UK, no place in Wales is so large that students feel lost and disorientated. For example, Cardiff has fewer than 300,000 inhabitants yet it is the capital city of Wales and developing at a rapid rate. Added to that, most towns and cities boast good shopping centres and exciting social scenes.

Wales holds many attractions for visitors eg. mountains, beaches, lakes and historic castles yet it is also a very modern country and just a couple of hours away from London. Theatres, concert halls, exhibition facilities and sports stadiums throughout the Principality of Wales attract world famous artists and many festivals take place, from the traditional to the modern and multicultural. Indeed, Wales has produced many world famous artists such as Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta Jones and pop groups eg. Catatonia, Stereophonics and Manic Street Preachers.

Economic activities include new industries such as electronics, tourism, car components and financial services as well as long-standard activities such as agriculture. The most up-to-date techniques are used and the availability of a well-educated, skilled workforce means that Wales is attracting a good deal of international investment. It also means that the education institutions provide practical training courses to provide the skills needed by these industries.

English is the main language used in Wales yet it is a bilingual country. Welsh is one of the oldest languages in Europe and about 20% of the population is bilingual. However, the language of education is English and international students can take advantage of the excellent accredited English language schools in Wales if they need to brush up on their English language.

So, in choosing Wales, international students are sure to find a high quality UK education in a country of great friendliness and warmth and at a reasonable cost.

Author: Linda Hall
British Council Wales