Examining the relationship between night shift work and health outcomes among international students at the University of South Wales, Treforest Campus

Night shift work is increasingly common among international students who rely on paid employment to meet living and educational expenses. However, the health and well-being implications of this work pattern remain underexplored, particularly within the United Kingdom higher education context. This study examines the relationship between night shift work and health outcomes among international students at the University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, addressing a gap in research on how employment-related demands affect students’ physical, psychological, academic, and social well-being. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with ten international students who had engaged in night shift work for at least three months. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns and experiences. The findings indicate that night shift work is associated with sleep disruption, fatigue, stress, anxiety, reduced academic engagement, and decreased social participation. Participants reported difficulties maintaining a balance between employment and academic responsibilities, with many relying on personal coping strategies rather than institutional support services. The study highlights the need for more targeted university interventions, including flexible academic arrangements, counselling services, and employment support tailored to working international students. This research contributes to the growing literature on student well-being by providing context-specific evidence on the challenges faced by international students engaged in night shift work and offers recommendations for improving institutional support and student outcomes.