Welcome from the Vice-Chancellor

Congratulations and a very warm welcome to you to Aberystwyth University.

I took up the role of Vice-Chancellor in January 2024, and I am very excited to welcome you all as the first cohort of students in my first new academic year.  Aber is very special to me, as some time ago now, I was also a new and nervous first year student, and later a PhD student, who was experiencing the apprehension of starting a new chapter in my life.

I love this University, its staff, its students and all our supporters. I hope that you too have the enriching, life changing experiences that I had.  This is your place to grow both academically and personally, to achieve your potential and make your mark on the world. Since our foundation in 1872, Aberystwyth has been known for excellence in teaching and research.

Our focus is to ensure you have an outstanding education. You will be taught by subject-leading academics who will share with you the latest thinking and discoveries in their areas. We also provide outstanding student support, designed to ensure you get the most out of your studies and time with us here in Aberystwyth.

Soon you will be settling into your new environment, surrounded by new people, new experiences and a host of new opportunities.

Change can sometimes be a little daunting but be assured that there is a place for you here at Aber. Accessing these webpages is the first step to informing yourself of all that is on offer to help and support you as you transition to university life.

These pages provide comprehensive information moving from your pre-arrival to induction activities, and academic department introductions and activities.

It also provides useful practical information such as checklists, maps and so much more.

I wish you well for the first days and weeks at Aber, and hope to welcome you, in person, when you arrive in September.  

Professor Jon Timmis, Vice-Chancellor