USW ranks as top university in Wales in The Guardian University Guide 2027

The University of South Wales (USW) has been ranked as the top university in Wales in The Guardian University Guide 2027. USW has risen to 24th in the UK (out of 123 universities), up 19 places from last year.  

Subjects topping the rankings 

In the subject tables, USW is first in the UK for Marketing and public relations, and Midwifery. Four other subjects also make the UK top 10: Animation and game design (7th), Aerospace engineering (8th), Children’s nursing (8th), and Health professions (9th).  

A number of subject areas have also placed in the top 25 in the UK – Fashion and textiles (11th), Law (11th), Nursing (11th), Forensic science (15th), Education (18th), and Psychology (25th).  

In Wales, USW tops the subject tables in Aerospace engineering, Animation and game design, Children's nursing, Education, Law, Marketing and public relations, Midwifery, and Nursing.  

Highest ever position in rankings to date 

The University is also 23rd in the UK for ‘spend per student’, 28th in the UK for students being ‘satisfied with assessment’, and 33rd in the UK for ‘value added’ – a measure of how the University’s teaching and support enables students to exceed their expected academic performance during their time with us. 

Professor Osama Khan, USW Vice-Chancellor, said: “We are absolutely delighted that The Guardian has recognised USW as the top university in Wales, and as a top 25 UK university, marking our highest ever position in the rankings to date. 

“This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of colleagues across the University, whose commitment to delivering an outstanding student experience continues to make a real difference. It also reflects the ambition and success of our students, who are at the heart of everything we do. 

“The Guardian University Guide places a strong emphasis on student experience and employability, making this recognition particularly meaningful. Through our distinctive approach to education, we are equipping students with the knowledge, skills and industry experience they need to succeed in their careers. We remain committed to providing innovative, industry-connected learning that helps our students reach their full potential.”