University of Cardiff

Overview

Cardiff University is recognised in independent government assessments as one of Britain's leading teaching and research universities. Founded by Royal Charter in 1883, Cardiff University today combines impressive modern facilities and a dynamic approach to teaching and research with its proud heritage of service and achievement. Cardiff University 's breadth of expertise in research and research-led teaching encompasses: the humanities; the natural, physical, health, life and social sciences; engineering and technology; preparation for a wide range of professions; and a longstanding commitment to lifelong learning. From its outstanding central location amidst the parks, Portland-stone buildings and tree-lined avenues that form the city's elegant civic centre, Cardiff University's students and staff are drawn from throughout the world, attracted by its international reputation and commitment to innovation and excellence in all areas of activity. Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group of Britain's leading research universities. Having gained national and international standing, Cardiff University's vision is to be recognised as a world-leading university and to achieve the associated benefits for its students, staff and all other stakeholders. Cardiff University was ranked seventh out of 106 British universities in the most recent Government assessment of research and placed 99 in the Times University World Rankings, world-class academic staff at Cardiff University ensure that students are exposed to a stimulating learning environment and the very latest thinking in their disciplines. 

Services for International Students

The International Development Division co-ordinates an Induction Programme for International Students which includes a coach collection service from Cardiff and Heathrow airports straight to your accommodation in Cardiff. The induction programme includes five days of events designed to introduce students to life in Cardiff, the University, the city and the surrounding countryside. The University of Cardiff’s coach tour of South Wales is very popular and a great way to make friends! 

Accommodation

Cardiff University guarantees a single occupancy place in University residences to all international students. A place in one of the University’s 4,700 student rooms is guaranteed to all first-year undergraduates entering through the normal admissions cycle. The vast majority of student residences are single en-suite study bedrooms in self catered flats — and students enjoy some of the lowest rents in the UK, according to a survey by the National Union of Students.
Networked computers offering a wealth of software applications are available to every student, there is a dedicated Graduate Centre providing support and facilities for postgraduates additional to those available within their Schools. 

Campus

The campus has an excellent central location amidst the parks, Portland-stone buildings and tree-lined avenues that form the city's elegant civic centre, the University's students and staff are drawn from throughout the world, attracted by its international reputation and commitment to innovation and excellence in all areas of activity.  Cardiff is a member of the Russell Group of Britain's leading research universities.

Health centre

Cardiff University operates a Health Service at 47 Park Place to supplement that provided by your General Practitioner (Doctor): Email: health@cardiff.ac.uk ; Phone: (029) 2087 4810 The Health Centre is open from 9.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Monday to Friday. A slightly restricted service is available during the recesses. For appointments or to speak to a nurse, please phone (do not email). You may also call in without an appointment. 

Location

The Cardiff University campus is located about 2 km from the central train and bus station. If it is your first time in Cardiff and you have lots of luggage then it is advisable to catch a taxi from the city centre. There are taxi ranks throughout the city centre and at the main bus and train stations. The journey will take around 10 minutes and cost around £7. If you arrive in the city late at night, the taxi fare is likely to be more expensive. There may also be a surplus charge for your luggage.
From Cardiff Central Station there is also a frequent train service which stops at Cathays Station, located on-campus. The train from Central Station to Cathays costs around £1.60 and takes 6 minutes. There are also regular bus services. The number 27 leaves from stand D3 in front of Cardiff Central Station and gets to Park Place in 7 minutes. It costs around £1. Cardiff is a captivating and cosmopolitan place. Though the city is compact, friendly and safe, it has all the facilities you would expect of a modern capital city. These include one of the most attractive shopping centres in the UK, a variety of bars and cafes, and Cardiff Castle. It is undergoing an ambitious regeneration programme that promotes modern design and architecture, and now boasts iconic buildings such as the Millennium Stadium, a host of major sporting events, and the Wales Millennium Centre, one of the leading performing arts venues in the world. Its green parks and waterfront provide an alternative to urban life, and beyond the city, beaches, mountains and secluded woodlands provide a dramatic backdrop for budding walkers, cyclists, surfers and sailors.
 URL: www.cardiff.ac.uk