Creative industries: Front door always open to industry
The University of South Wales is a powerhouse for the creative economy in Wales. Our Faculty of Creative Industries in the heart of Cardiff is a ‘porous’ facility, a space where the front door is always open to industry, where professionals feel they can come, use the facilities, share their ideas and show how they work.
The Creative Industries Research Institute delivers excellent research that makes a significant impact on culture, civil society and the industries themselves. In the most recent UK research assessment exercise all of the Institute’s research was deemed to have world-leading or internationally excellent impact. The Institute works closely with academic partners from around the world and have long-established ties with partners in the arts, broadcasting, and third-sector organisations. Research spans both traditional academic publications and practice-based outputs including exhibitions, films and performances.
The University is a rich resource for the UK’s creative industries, from the major production studios and BBC at Roath Lock, to the abundant ecosphere of smaller specialist creative businesses set up by graduates.
Key elements of each student’s education are interaction with industry, and simulation of the professional environment, developing of an individual’s personal network and profile through a close link with industry, whether it is through one-to-one teaching by professional performers or work placements, guest lectures, and industry collaboration.
To strengthen industry connections the University of South Wales has three BBC Fellows, drawn from many different areas of specialism, who bring their industry experience to influence teaching and course development.
Students and staff are working on live projects with the likes of BBC Cymru Wales, Welsh National Opera, Skillset and National Museum Wales. Students undertake paid placements working on major television productions such as Dr Who and Casualty, as well as major international blockbusters including Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales and Show Dogs.
As a direct result of their work placements students go on to secure jobs with employers across the world.