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About Cardiff University
Cardiff University was established in 1883 as one of the founding colleges of the University of Wales. Our motto, Gwirionedd, Undod a Chytgord – ‘truth, unity and concord’ – sets out our commitment to working together to make a positive and lasting difference to our communities, and continues to shape our institution today.
We are one of the largest universities in the UK and the only Welsh member of the Russell Group. By 2035, our vision is to be:
- Recognised globally as a pioneer for research and innovation, built on our strength-in-places, initially through translational excellence in creative industries and advanced manufacturing (compound semiconductors).
- Attractive to students of all ages and backgrounds, learning in a variety of ways, taught using the best pedagogy, enabled by flexible delivery and digital innovation.
- The university of choice for regional, national and global alumni, partners and funders looking for bold and brave approaches to the future.
- A valued and active anchor partner in our city-region, driving significant progress on the Cardiff Capital Region Investment Zone and Academic Health Sciences Precinct.
- An employer and educator of choice, with a vibrant, international staff and student body that is also representative of our diverse city-region.
We are firmly grounded in our sense of place. ‘Cynefin’ is a touchstone for us, a place where people feel they belong. We are a capital city university; an anchor institution for Cardiff and Wales, embodying Welshness, embracing the Welsh language, proud of our heritage. As the biggest university in Wales – and a major employer, with more than 7,000 staff – we work with communities, industry and government to help overcome the most urgent challenges of our times. Our widening participation and civic mission activity sees engagement from across the university community and makes a difference to a diverse range of people.
Our economic impact is significant. A recent report estimated our contribution to be £3.7 billion in 2020–21, at the height of the pandemic. Our benefit to cost ratio stands at 6.4:1, higher than the Russell Group average of 5.5:1.
Over recent years we have invested heavily in our estate and infrastructure, making transformative improvements in both teaching and research facilities, the latter of which has brought exciting new external partnerships and collaborations.
We celebrate being multicultural and multilingual, drawing together the best minds from across the globe and nurturing homegrown talent. Our real strength comes from the diversity of our community, with over 30% of staff originally from outside the UK. Staff and students from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives work together, driven by a continuing curiosity and a desire to make a positive difference.
Our students leave us well-prepared for their continuing success, in 2020-21 95% of graduates were in employment, further study, due to start a new course/job or doing other activities. Our alumni network continues to grow, creating enthusiastic ambassadors for our University across an ever-increasing range of countries.
More information can be found on the links below: