Torn between Cardiff University and Swansea University? While both Welsh institutions offer excellent teaching and student life, Cardiff tends to lead in global rankings, research strength, and employer recognition — as a proud member of the Russell Group. Swansea, meanwhile, is praised for its beachside campus, creative energy, and community vibe. Whether you’re after a fast-paced capital city experience or a more laid-back coastal lifestyle, this guide compares everything from rankings and graduate prospects to campus life and student support to help you decide where you’ll thrive.
It is no secret that Cardiff University and Swansea University are rivals as two of the best universities in two of the biggest cities in Wales.
Welsh Varsity brings the rivalry to a head each year by hosting a number of sporting events between the two universities, with the rugby game being the centrepiece of the competition.
Whether or not Cardiff win Varsity, one thing is clearer than day: Cardiff is just the better university. Here are seven reasons why, in the fight of Cardiff University vs Swansea University, the capital will always win.
Swansea or Cardiff? Why is Cardiff City better?
While both Swansea and Cardiff are celebrated cities in Wales, each boasting its own unique charm and history, there are several reasons why many favour Cardiff City.
Firstly, as the capital city of Wales, Cardiff possesses a rich cultural heritage and offers a plethora of attractions like the iconic Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, and the National Museum Cardiff.
But when it comes to studying in Cardiff, there are a number of reasons why students may prefer Cardiff over Swansea. So let’s see why, shall we?
1. The City
Let’s put aside the universities for a brief minute and focus on the cities that they’re in. To give credit where credit’s due, Swansea is a decent city with adequate nightlife and attractive views. However, it doesn’t come close to Cardiff which is just basically Swansea’s sexier, smarter and sassier sibling. With the Principality Stadium, the Castle and Bute Park, the buildings, shops and nightlife are just bigger, better and far more exciting. Swansea, eat your heart out.
2. Academic success
Let’s be real — Cardiff University generally has better academic success than Swansea and is commonly regarded as more prestigious. For a start, Cardiff is one of the 24 Russell Group Universities in the UK meaning it conducts the best research, gives the finest teaching and learning experience and has great links with public and business sectors. Furthermore, Cardiff is in the top five universities for research in the UK. Sorry, Swansea.
3. The University buildings
Granted, Swansea University has a swanky modern campus with some smart new buildings. However, it doesn’t beat Cardiff University’s array of stunning buildings including the Main Building, Bute Building and Glamorgan Building. Regal and beautiful, they just make going to lectures each day far more exciting.
4. SU Nights
Nothing can rival Juice or the Lash, even Swansea’s equivalent. The Cardiff University SU gets Hannah Wants, Andy C and Annie Mac, along with nights like Treatment and Cirque. Let’s not forget that the SU also has its own VK bar too so you can down the sickly orange passionfruit nectar to your heart’s delight. What do Swansea get?
5. Cathays vs ?
You’ve got to feel sorry for Swansea — they don’t have a Cathays. Holding a special place in many students’ hearts, Cathays is where most Cardiff University students live and is littered with pubs, takeaways and bin bags. Messy but pretty endearing, Cathays is a community and is just the place to be. It’s a mystery where the students of Swansea reside.
6. Sporting prowess
Swansea hate to admit it but Cardiff University just have the best sporting teams. Stronger, faster, better… they have everything the Swansea teams want but can’t quite have. It’s admittedly unfair that Cardiff University are dominant in both academia and sport, but hey, life isn’t fair.
7. Fun
It’s way more FUN being a Cardiff University student than a Swansea one. There’s always something going on in the university, whether it’s filming an episode of Doctor Who and running into Peter Capaldi or getting your hands on the free food that the SU always seem to give out. There’s just never a dull moment.
FAQs on Comparing Cardiff and Swansea Universities
Cardiff University ranks higher in both UK and global league tables. As of the QS World University Rankings 2025, Cardiff is ranked 186th globally, while Swansea University is ranked 298th.
Yes. Cardiff University is the only Welsh member of the prestigious Russell Group, recognised for its world-leading research, excellent teaching, and industry connections. Swansea University is not part of the Russell Group.
Cardiff offers a buzzing student scene with over 200 societies, major events, and a vibrant city backdrop. Swansea is known for its friendly feel, seaside lifestyle, and smaller campus community — perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed environment.
Cardiff University reports that 96% of its graduates are in full-time employment within 15 months. It has strong links with employers like Google, HSBC, and the BBC. Swansea also performs well for graduate employability, but Cardiff generally leads in this area.
Cardiff is a capital city with a lively, cosmopolitan vibe, major attractions, and excellent transport. Swansea offers coastal views, a relaxed pace, and access to beaches like the Gower Peninsula. Both offer great student life — the best choice depends on your lifestyle preference.
