Studying at the University of South Wales (USW) has been an incredible experience, particularly as a Computer Science student. One of the standout aspects is the practical, career-focused approach to learning. Throughout my studies, I’ve had the opportunity to work on real-world projects, use industry-standard tools, and gain insights from guest speakers and lecturers with real industry experience. The university’s strong ties with tech companies and organizations also help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. The facilities and resources available at USW are another highlight. The computing labs are well-equipped, and access to specialized software has been crucial for coursework and personal projects. The support from lecturers and academic staff has also been invaluable—they are approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in students' success. Additionally, the university fosters a diverse and inclusive community, making it a welcoming place to study and collaborate with peers. However, there are areas that could be improved. While the course content is comprehensive, I believe more hands-on, industry-led projects and opportunities to work directly with companies would enhance our learning even further. Expanding the range of optional modules in emerging fields like blockchain, extended reality, or quantum computing could also help students specialize in cutting-edge areas. Additionally, while support services are available, improving mental health and career guidance accessibility—especially as deadlines and job applications approach—would greatly benefit students. Overall, my time at USW has provided me with a strong technical foundation, valuable industry insights, and a supportive learning environment. With continued improvements in practical opportunities, emerging tech exposure, and student support services, USW could further solidify its reputation as an outstanding place to study Computer Science. Thank you Nimasha Withanage.

The BSc (Hons) Computer Science course at the University of South Wales is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining in-class lectures, online resources, and practical sessions. This flexibility has been beneficial, allowing students to balance independent study with hands-on learning. In-person sessions, particularly for coding and technical subjects, are essential in helping us grasp complex concepts, while online resources provide extra support for revision and self-paced learning. Course hours are well-structured, with a mix of lectures, lab sessions, and tutorials throughout the week. The practical nature of the course ensures that we apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, which has been extremely valuable in building technical skills. The workload is manageable but challenging enough to encourage independent learning and problem-solving—key skills for any computer science graduate. One of the biggest strengths of the course is the accessibility and support from lecturers. They are always approachable, whether through scheduled office hours, email, or online discussion forums. Their real-world industry experience also adds a practical perspective to lessons, making the content more relevant to current trends in technology. However, there are areas for improvement. While the blended learning approach works well, more structured online support—such as recorded lectures for revision or additional interactive coding workshops—would enhance the learning experience. Additionally, smaller group tutorials or more frequent one-on-one support sessions could help students who need extra guidance with complex topics. Overall, the teaching methods at USW provide a good balance of flexibility, practical experience, and academic support. With slight improvements in online resources, additional contact time, and personalized support, the course could become even more effective in preparing students for careers in the tech industry. Thank you Nimasha W.

The University of South Wales is located in a great area for students, offering a mix of city life, natural scenery, and affordability. Depending on the campus, students can experience the vibrant city of Cardiff, the historic town of Pontypridd, or the coastal atmosphere of Newport. Cardiff, as the capital of Wales, is a fantastic student city with a lively atmosphere, plenty of entertainment, and a strong job market. It has a great selection of restaurants, cafes, and nightlife, as well as cultural attractions like Cardiff Castle, the Principality Stadium, and the Wales Millennium Centre. The city is also well-connected by public transport, making it easy to travel around. Pontypridd offers a quieter student experience with a close-knit community and access to beautiful green spaces, including Ynysangharad Park. The cost of living is lower compared to larger cities, making it a more budget-friendly option for students. Newport, another key location for USW students, is also an affordable and developing city with good transport links to Cardiff and Bristol. The surrounding area is ideal for students who enjoy outdoor activities, with the Brecon Beacons and Welsh coastline not too far away. This provides great opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature. While the area has many benefits, there is always room for improvement. More dedicated student events and social spaces outside of Cardiff could enhance the student experience, and better transport links between campuses would make travel easier. Overall, the university’s location offers a good balance of city life, affordability, and access to nature, making it a great place to study and live as a student. Nimasha.

The food facilities. The cafe and restaurants are wonderful, I really love existing in them and the food-though expensive-is nice and staff are really pleasant. My timetable works really well, having everything in two days saves me travel money. Perhaps better directions as a way to improve, when new the layout and maps can be quite confusing.

Course hours fine. Having everything in two days works, though it is exhausting, I would not change it because it saves me travel expenses and allows much more freedom for the rest of the week. In-person lectures I have no comment on, no faults found. Though lecturer assistance when an assignment is particularly unhelpful, little help was given despite multiple people struggling. Informing the class that the lesson is online would also be helpful before everyone arrives for the lesson and perhaps the timetable could update with that information too .