Cardiff University

At Cardiff University you’ll be among great minds. You’ll join a thriving community of 10,000 postgraduate students from more than 115 countries.

Here are our top reasons to choose Cardiff University for your postgraduate study:

World-leading research

We are a research intensive university, with 90% of our research confirmed as world-leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2021). Our researchers are working to tackle major challenges facing society, the economy and the environment. We’re also a member of the prestigious Russell Group of leading universities. 

Teaching excellence

We’ll encourage you to take risks, face your fears, and develop resilience in an environment where it is safe to fail. Academic life at Cardiff University is challenging, innovative and rewarding. You’ll engage with leading academics and benefit from the knowledge and insight generated by their research.

A capital city with a difference

Full of character, heritage and ambition, Cardiff has all the benefits of being an exciting, modern capital city whilst also being a compact and affordable place to live. The city was rated the #1 most affordable UK city for students in 2022 (Natwest Student Living Index 2022).

On the doorstep to wild Wales

Beyond the buzz of the city, you’ll find incredible beaches, countryside and mountains. The nearby Brecon Beacons National Park offers outstanding scenery and wildlife alongside ample opportunity for adventure sports and outdoor pursuits.

A wide range of postgraduate programmes

We offer more than 400 postgraduate study options. Many of our programmes can be studied part-time, which is ideal if you need to balance study with professional, financial or family commitments. We also offer a number of conversion courses.

Expert career guidance

Wherever you are in your career journey, our team of professional careers advisers can help you develop your career plans after graduation. We provide postgraduates with hands-on placements and internships with industry partners; workshops and interview skills advice; graduate employment fairs and a jobs board with more than 1,000 opportunities.

Funding opportunities

We understand that the cost of your studies is one of the most important factors in choosing where to continue your studies. We have a number of funding opportunities available, including our £3,000 master’s scholarships and Alumni Discount schemes. Many courses are also eligible for government postgraduate loans for master’s programmes for UK students.

Outstanding student support

We want to help you make the most of your postgraduate experience, by ensuring you can access any additional help you may need. From money advice and confidential counselling to disability services and award-winning childcare, our support services are here to support you every step of the way.

Languages for All

Learning a new language opens up a world of opportunities. Our Languages for All programme gives you the chance to improve your language skills alongside your studies – for free. Choose from languages including Arabic, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn Welsh for free alongside your studies.

One of the best Students’ Unions in the UK

Our Students' Union is rated 2nd best in the UK (WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2023). Home to over 200 student societies and 60 sports clubs, a free employment service and a number of social spaces, the Students' Union caters to every student's needs.

How to apply

Applications for the majority of our postgraduate programmes can be made via our website. Read our step-by-step guidance on how to apply.

Open Days and events

Come along to our next postgraduate event and discover Cardiff University for yourself.