UCW adheres to the core higher education value of developing you as an independent learner; this will allow you to make active choices to manage your studies autonomously. You will be expected to both take ownership of your learning and to explore how you manage your own research, time management, and academic performance embedding reflection as a key practice.

UCW’s teaching approach emphasises small class sizes and personalised support, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment.

Tutors use a range of methods, including blended learning with digital resources, video lectures, and interactive online tools to enhance classroom instruction. Many courses incorporate work-based learning opportunities through placements, internships, or live briefs to ensure students gain hands-on industry experience, essential for developing professional skills and building connections.

UCW offers a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions, allowing students to benefit from various teaching methods. Lectures provide core knowledge and foundational theories in large-group settings, while seminars encourage active participation through discussion, debate, and deeper exploration of topics. Workshops are interactive, often hands-on, sessions where students apply theories in simulated or real-world scenarios. Practical sessions in labs, studios, or industry settings let students develop specific technical skills related to their field of study, with guidance from industry-experienced lecturers.

Assessments at UCW are designed to reflect real-world practices and vary by course. Typical methods include coursework, practical assessments, presentations, written exams, and portfolios. Coursework may involve essays, interviews, reports, case studies, or research projects, allowing students to demonstrate knowledge and critical thinking. Practical assessments evaluate hands-on skills, especially in fields like health, creative arts, and engineering. Presentations and group projects develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Most courses use formative assessments throughout the course, providing feedback to aid student progression before final (summative) assessments. This approach to teaching, learning, and assessment at UCW prepares students with both academic knowledge and real-world skills, ensuring they graduate as well-rounded, confident professionals.

You will be taught by experts in their field who deliver groundbreaking research and innovation that makes a real, positive difference to both your studies and future potential.  Our teaching, learning and assessment practices are embedded across the institution, ensuring strong support for student learning, progress, and achievement. Additionally, UCW’s commitment to research, innovation, scholarship, professional practice, and close collaboration with employers is recognised as an outstanding feature of our educational environment.

External speakers and work-based learning are a key feature of our programmes. These will enable to apply your studies to the working world, thus enhancing your career opportunities through networking and experiential learning.

Our goal is to deliver an exceptional educational experience, using the most effective teaching and learning methods, tailored to meet the unique needs of your course. Learning at UCW primarily takes place in person, where you will benefit from diverse teaching approaches across our campuses, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and hands-on laboratory and field activities where appropriate. UCW’s smaller class sizes create a supportive learning environment, ensuring you have access to a wide range of high-quality, readily available academic support. This unique approach fosters both personal and academic growth, empowering you to succeed.

Our virtual learning environment gives you access to study materials and activities online, as well as interactive sessions with staff and other students - so you can organise your studies to suit you.  Our buildings are also accessible to students wishing to work independently or in small social groups. In our libraries you can where you can book a private, group or PC study space, or use one of our informal study spaces.