South East Technological University
Empowering the South East | Ireland's Newest TU
Overview
South East Technological University (SETU) was established in 2022 through the merger of Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) and Institute of Technology Carlow. As Ireland's newest technological university, SETU serves as the anchor institution for higher education across the south-east region, with campuses in Waterford, Carlow, and Wexford.
SETU is nationally recognised for its strengths in engineering, pharmaceutical science, computing, and business. The university benefits from strong ties to the south-east's thriving pharma, technology, and agri-food industries, with companies such as Bausch + Lomb, Glanbia, and numerous tech firms providing placement and employment pathways for graduates.
With over 18,000 students, including more than 2,000 international learners, SETU provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The region's affordable cost of living, beautiful coastline, and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for students seeking a high-quality education outside of Dublin.
Why Choose South East Technological University
Pharmaceutical Science Leader
SETU is a national leader in pharmaceutical science education, with strong ties to Ireland's south-east pharma corridor and major employers like Bausch + Lomb and Glanbia.
Multi-Campus Advantage
With campuses in Waterford, Carlow, and Wexford, SETU offers diverse study locations across Ireland's sunny south-east region.
Engineering Excellence
State-of-the-art engineering labs and workshops, with programmes accredited by Engineers Ireland and strong industry placement opportunities.
Strong Graduate Employment
Over 90% of SETU graduates are employed or in further education within nine months, thanks to industry-focused curricula and work placements.
Research & Innovation
Home to leading research centres in telecommunications, advanced manufacturing, and health sciences with significant national and EU funding.
Affordable Quality Living
The south-east offers excellent quality of life with lower living costs than Dublin, alongside beautiful coastlines and historic towns.
Popular Courses for International Students
Undergraduate Programmes
BSc Computer Science
Software development, networking, cloud computing, AI fundamentals
BEng Engineering
Mechanical, electrical, civil, and building services engineering
BSc Pharmaceutical Science
Drug development, quality control, regulatory affairs, lab techniques
BBS Business
Management, marketing, enterprise, international business
BSc Nursing
General and psychiatric nursing with extensive clinical placements
BSc Science
Biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science
BA Accounting
Financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, audit
BSc Sport & Exercise
Sports science, exercise physiology, coaching, health promotion
Postgraduate Programmes
MSc Computing
Software development, data science, cybersecurity, cloud systems
MSc Pharmaceutical Science
Advanced drug formulation, regulatory compliance, quality assurance
MBA
Strategic management, leadership, innovation, global business
MSc Data Science
Machine learning, big data analytics, statistical modelling, AI
MSc Construction Project Management
Project planning, building information modelling, contract management
MSc Applied Computing
Software architecture, DevOps, enterprise computing, research methods
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- Academic: Completion of 12 years of education with satisfactory grades equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)
- TOEFL: 80 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 56
- Application: Via CAO or SETU International Office direct application
- Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, passport, English test results, reference letter
Postgraduate
- Academic: Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (2:2) or equivalent GPA
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL: 88 (internet-based)
- PTE Academic: 61
- Application: Direct via SETU's online portal
- Documents: Transcripts, CV, personal statement, 2 academic references, portfolio (some programmes)
Application Deadlines
- September Intake (Main): February 1 (CAO) / July 15 (SETU Direct, recommended: May for visa processing)
- January Intake: Limited programmes available. Check specific course pages
- Rolling Admissions: Some postgraduate programmes accept applications year-round
Scholarships for International Students
SETU International Scholarship
Up to €3,000
High-achieving international students from non-EU countries applying to full-time programmes
SETU President's Scholarship
€2,500
Students demonstrating outstanding academic results and leadership potential
Government of Ireland Scholarship
€10,000 + full fees
High-achieving non-EU students (national competition via HEA)
Science Foundation Ireland Awards
Varies
STEM postgraduate students in funded research areas
Sports Scholarships
Up to €2,500
Elite athletes representing SETU in varsity and national competitions
SETU Merit Award
Up to €2,000
International students with exceptional Leaving Certificate or equivalent results
Campus & Student Life
Campus Facilities
- Modern campuses in Waterford, Carlow, and Wexford
- Advanced engineering and pharmaceutical science laboratories
- Dedicated computing labs and software development suites
- SETU Arena: state-of-the-art sports and fitness facility
- Modern libraries with extensive digital and print resources
- Student accommodation on and near campuses
- Clinical nursing simulation suites
- Business incubation and enterprise centres
- Cafeterias, student lounges, and social spaces
- Telecommunications and software research centres
Student Life
- 80+ clubs and societies across all campuses
- International students' society and multicultural events
- Waterford: Ireland's oldest city with Viking heritage and festivals
- Sports clubs: GAA, soccer, rugby, basketball, athletics
- Outdoor activities: coastal walks, beaches, and mountain trails
- Student Union with events, welfare support, and advocacy
- Part-time work: 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours during holidays
- Spraoi Festival, Winterval, and Kilkenny Arts Festival nearby
- Career services and graduate employer networking events
Location & Contact
Address
Cork Road, Waterford, X91 K0EK, Ireland
Getting There
- From Dublin Airport: 2.5 hours by bus (Bus Eireann) or car via M9 motorway
- From Waterford City Centre: 10 minutes by bus or short taxi ride
- Bus: Regular Bus Eireann services from Dublin, Cork, and Limerick
- Train: Irish Rail services from Dublin Heuston to Waterford (2.5 hrs)
Contact Information
- Phone: +353 51 302000
- Email: info@setu.ie
- Website: www.setu.ie
- International Office: www.setu.ie/international
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (GMT/IST)
Ready to Study at South East Technological University?
Join 2,000+ international students at Ireland's newest south-east university. Our team will guide you through every step, from application to arrival in Waterford.
