South East Technological University

South East Technological University (SETU) in Waterford, Ireland, is a dynamic institution formed from the merger of Waterford Institute of Technology and IT Carlow. Established in 2022, SETU is the first technological university in Ireland's South East, offering a student-centered education with a strong commitment to lifelong learning, access, equality, and inclusion. It boasts a diverse student body, with over 1,040 international students in 2024, marking a 10.6% increase from the previous year.

Academics

SETU Waterford offers an extensive range of over 140 academic programs from Higher Certificate to post-doctoral research, covering Humanities, Health and Nursing, Science and Informatics, Engineering and Architecture, Business, and Education. The university emphasizes applied knowledge, connecting theory with real-world applications through practical assignments, research, and critical thinking. Notable programs popular with international students include the Master of Business and Master of Business in Business Analytics. Many programs also integrate work placements, providing valuable hands-on experience.

International Students

SETU provides comprehensive support services for international students through its International Offices, assisting with immigration, visas, opening bank accounts, and obtaining a Personal Public Service (PPS) number. The university organizes cultural and social events and supports international student societies to aid cultural integration. SETU is committed to fostering a diverse campus community and was awarded the Excellence in Diversity, Inclusivity and Equality Award in 2023. On-campus accommodation options, such as College Campus and City Campus, offer en-suite rooms and various facilities, with a dedicated website, SETU Student Pad, to help students find accredited private rental accommodation.

Campus & Location

The SETU Waterford campus is a vibrant hub located in the historic city of Waterford, which offers a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene. The campus features modern facilities including a library, meeting halls, laboratories, and dedicated spaces for collaborative projects, alongside an on-campus gym and initiatives promoting student well-being. The SETU Arena, adjacent to the West Campus, is the largest sports, conference, and events center in the South East. Waterford is well-connected, with public transport links and proximity to the scenic Waterford Greenway, a 46km off-road cycling and walking trail.

Career Outcomes

SETU maintains strong industry connections and actively promotes interaction with businesses, government, and the community, facilitating research collaborations, incubation, and business mentoring support for start-up enterprises. The university's New Frontiers program, funded by Enterprise Ireland, specifically helps start-up promoters transition to entrepreneurship, offering mentoring and support to develop investment-ready business plans. SETU also connects students and graduates with employers through internships, training programs, and recruitment services. The university aims to produce well-rounded graduates prepared for success in various industries.