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Applied learning is education in practice, not just in theory. We focus on the student needs for today to help you meet the employer demands of the future.
What is applied learning?
Applied learning is when students apply the knowledge and skills they’ve gained from a traditional classroom and lecture, to hands-on settings in real-world environments, or through creative projects.
It is now widely accepted that educational experiences delivered through practical hands-on settings, either through work placements, work experience, or through working in industry-standard facilities, are vital for developing students' skills and ensuring they are well-prepared for success in their future careers. This is why at USW we champion this forward-thinking approach to education.
We’re proud to say our students get in on the action from day one. We believe that practical learning is just as important as theoretical knowledge when it comes to your education. We want to ensure you graduate with the skills employers are looking for, by practicing them in a real world or in a simulated environment, so you are prepared, confident, and career-ready.
Find your courseDeveloping transferrable skills for the workplace
Our facilities, whether it’s our Aerospace Centre, Sports Park, Moot Court or our Clinical Simulation Centre, all contain environments and equipment that mimic real world settings, so nothing will come as a shock to you when you’re in the professional environment – you’ll be prepared and in control!
Immersive Facilities at UniversityReal-world experience
With our hands-on work placements, you won’t just learn about your future career—you’ll live it.
At the University of South Wales, we pride ourselves on giving you invaluable experiences that go beyond textbooks. From day one, you’ll build confidence, develop practical skills, and make industry connections that will set you apart.
Many of our courses offer, and even guarantee, work placement opportunities, so instead of simply sitting in a lecture theatre, you can get a taste for what it’s really like to work in a Legal Advice Clinic, on a TV and film set, or even in an operating theatre! If you want to truly experience your career from day one, we’ve got you covered.
It’s your future, your career - why wait to get started?

Industry connections
Not only do our industry partners allow us to set up relevant work experience, but the partnerships inform our curriculum, so everything you learn is relevant for the field you’re embarking on. These connections also allow for great networking opportunities, so who knows? You could meet your future employer during your first year of university.