Students come to Newport from all over the UK and from more than 40 overseas countries, attracted not only by the University's reputation for high-quality courses but also by the pleasant surroundings and very friendly and supportive atmosphere.

Newport's University is regarded as part of the local community, with most of its students coming from South-East Wales. Of its 9,000 students, almost 6,000 are studying part-time, which allows them to gain their qualifications while continuing with family or work commitments. There is a wide age range, with a much higher proportion of mature students than in other Welsh higher education institutions.

The range of awards available includes Access and Foundation, HNDs, HNCs, First Degrees, Professional and Postgraduate qualifications including PhDs.

The University has developed a reputation as a Centre of Excellence for Lifelong Learning and was among the pioneers of Access-type courses, which allow mature students without formal qualifications to return to learning in a supportive and informal atmosphere.