University of South Wales (USW) Career Opportunities & Graduate Outcomes Complete Guide for Applicants (2025)
Explore graduate jobs, internships, and employability outcomes at University of South Wales in 2025. Discover career services, alumni success, and tips.
🎓 Introduction
The University of South Wales (USW) is one of Wales' largest universities, known for practical teaching and career-focused degrees. With strong industry links across aerospace, healthcare, media, and business sectors, USW produces graduates ready for employment in 2025's competitive job market.
This guide explores career opportunities, graduate jobs, internships, alumni support, and practical steps you can take to maximise your employability after graduating from USW in 2025.
📊 Graduate Employability & Rankings
USW has built a strong reputation for employability and practical learning:
91% of USW graduates employed or in further study within 15 months (HESA 2024).
Known for employability in engineering, health, and creative sectors.
Recognised for hands-on, practical learning approach.
Strong industry partnerships with major employers like Airbus, NHS Wales, and BBC.
🏢 Top Industries Hiring USW Graduates
USW's graduates work across diverse industries, with particularly strong representation in:
Aerospace & Engineering
Major employers include Airbus and GE Aviation.
Graduates work in aircraft design, manufacturing, and maintenance roles.
Health & Nursing
NHS Wales and healthcare providers across the UK.
Strong placement programs integrated into nursing and health courses.
Film & Media
Cardiff is a UK media hub with BBC and Netflix productions.
Graduates work in television, film production, and digital media.
Business & Management
SMEs across South Wales and larger corporations.
Roles in project management, finance, and business development.
💡 USW's location in Wales provides access to both Welsh employers and major UK companies, with Cardiff serving as a significant business and media center.
💼 Graduate Schemes, Placements & Internships
USW emphasizes practical experience through comprehensive placement programs:
Placements embedded in courses — nursing and engineering programs include mandatory work experience.
Employer links with BBC, NHS, Airbus, and Welsh Government.
Strong enterprise support for student start-ups and entrepreneurship.
Graduate+ scheme — additional employability skills development program.
Industry mentoring — professionals provide guidance and career insights.
🌍 International Student Career Support
USW provides dedicated support for international students:
USW International Careers Service — specialized support team.
Guidance on UK job search — CV writing, interview skills, and application processes.
Visa and work permit advice — understanding post-study work options.
Entrepreneurship support — guidance for international students starting businesses.
💷 Salary Insights & Graduate Outcomes
USW graduates enjoy competitive starting salaries across various sectors:
Sector
Average Starting Salary
Career Progression
General Graduate Average
£24,000–£30,000
Strong growth potential
Aerospace Engineers
£32,000+
Excellent progression
Nursing Graduates
£27,000+
NHS pay scales
Media & Creative
£22,000–£28,000
Project-based growth
🌟 Alumni Success Stories
USW's alumni network spans across industries and continents:
TV producers working with major broadcasters like BBC and ITV.
Engineers at leading aerospace companies including Airbus and Rolls-Royce.
NHS leaders in healthcare management and clinical roles.
Graduates working across Europe in business and technology sectors.
Successful entrepreneurs who started businesses during or after their studies.
🔑 Tips for Maximizing Careers at USW
Gain experience in Cardiff's media industry — take advantage of the city's status as a UK media hub.
Explore engineering placements with Airbus — leverage USW's strong industry connections.
Join alumni networks for career mentoring and job opportunities.
Participate in the Graduate+ scheme — develop additional employability skills.
Engage with enterprise support — explore entrepreneurship opportunities.
Build Welsh language skills — valuable for public sector roles in Wales.
❓ FAQs — Quick Answers
What is USW's employability rate?
👉 91% of USW graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation.
Which industries hire USW graduates?
👉 Top industries include Aerospace & Engineering, Health & Nursing, Film & Media, and Business & Management.
What are average salaries for USW graduates?
👉 Average salary ranges from £24,000-£30,000, with aerospace engineers earning £32,000+ and nursing graduates £27,000+.
Does USW support international students with career advice?
👉 Yes, USW has a dedicated International Careers Service providing guidance on UK job search, visas, and entrepreneurship.
Are placements available at USW?
👉 Yes, many courses include embedded placements, particularly in nursing and engineering programs.
✅ Conclusion
USW combines affordability with strong employability outcomes. Graduates benefit from placements, industry partnerships, and practical training that prepares them for successful careers across diverse sectors. The university's strong connections with major employers like Airbus, NHS Wales, and BBC provide excellent opportunities for career development.
If you're looking for a university that offers practical, career-focused education with strong industry links and excellent employability outcomes, USW provides outstanding value and opportunities for professional growth.