In the last six years, the number of students applying to Swansea has increased significantly.

And this year, a record number of students accepted Swansea offers as their first choice, meaning the University has been able to further improve the quality of its student intake.

Professor Rhys Williams, the University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Dean of Admissions, said: “We are delighted with the number of high quality student admissions again this year, which reflects Swansea’s continuing popularity nationally and internationally.

“The University has a well-deserved reputation for teaching and research and, combined with our outstanding location on Swansea Bay, it’s not hard to see why students are drawn in such numbers each year to study and live here.”

Earlier this month, the 2008 National Student Survey – an annual review of what students think about their courses, including teaching quality, academic support, management, resources, and personal development – showed Swansea students are once again among the UK’s most satisfied.

The University maintained its ranking of second place in Wales for overall satisfaction, with 87 per cent of students indicating that overall, they are satisfied with the quality of their course. The sector average is 83 per cent.

Areas highlighted favourably by Swansea’s students include teaching on their course, with the ability of staff to communicate effectively rated at 91 per cent, the enthusiasm of staff rated at 85 per cent, and with regards to learning resources, IT access and support rated at 87 per cent.

And in terms of personal development, 81 per cent of students said their communication skills had improved.

New arrivals to Swansea are enjoying a full programme of welcome events arranged by the University and the Students’ Union, with the annual Freshers’ Fairs taking place this Wednesday and Thursday (September 24 and 25).

The University’s new intake of around 500 undergraduate international students were also given a warm welcome to the city on Sunday (September 21), with a Civic Reception held in the University’s main building Fulton House.

The event was jointly hosted by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard B Davies and the Deputy Lord Mayor of the City and County of Swansea, Councillor Alan Lloyd.

New first year students were also offered the opportunity to enrol on to their courses online for the first time this year.

More than 1,600 students took advantage of the service and had already enroled in advance before the traditional enrolment process began on Monday morning (September 22).

“We warmly welcome all our new and returning students and we wish them a successful and happy time during the duration of their studies,” said Professor Williams.

For further information visit the University’s new students’ website, or the Students’ Union website.

What out new students say

Matt Hodder from Bath, who is studying BSc Psychology, said: “I chose Swansea because of the location and I heard that the University had a good reputation. 

“My first impressions of Swansea are that the people are friendly; there is a good students’ union; good sports facilities; and helpful staff.  Swansea is a fantastic area and I like the picturesque location.  The transport is very efficient and there is generally a good community spirit.”

Florence Kong from Hong Kong, who is studying BEng Civil Engineering, said: “Swansea is a nice city.  My first impression of Swansea is that it is beautiful, quiet and sunny!  The environment is great and the beach location is awesome.”

Billy Stewart from Ireland, who is studying BSc Economics and Mathematics, said: “I had heard good things about Swansea University.  My first impression is that Swansea is a friendly place with an excellent nightlife.  I like the atmosphere and the staff are very helpful.”

Isobel Silky Payne from London, who is studying BSc Psychology, said: “I chose to come to Swansea because it is a pretty city and I liked the description of the course. 

“My first impressions of Swansea are that it is a very friendly place and there is a lot more to do here than I expected.  I like the University’s location as it is so close to the beach.”

Olaosebikan Olajumoke from Nigeria, who is studying MSc Management Finance said: “I chose to study at Swansea University because of the lovely location, and it was easy for me to find all the information I needed online. 

“My first impressions of Swansea are that the staff and students are friendly and the way of life seems relaxing.”