South East Technological University (SETU), Ireland - Ranking, Reviews, Courses, Tuition Fees

Overview

About South East Technological University (SETU)

South East Technological University (SETU) is an excellent option for students interested in learning in Ireland. There are over 18,000 students learning at the university, with a diverse community that is spread across three main campuses: Carlow, Waterford, and Wexford. While the university is relatively young, it is built on more than 50 years of quality higher education experience and innovation.

Learning at SETU is designed to connect academic study with the skills needed in the workplace. Many of the courses offered are shaped by close relationships with local and national employers, with practical learning opportunities woven into study programmes. This means that students aren’t just starting their careers with academic knowledge, but with genuine practical experience and the skills and confidence to excel in their futures.

Classes are typically kept small, so that lecturers get to know their students and can tailor learning to meet their individual needs. In turn this makes it easier for students to ask questions, get involved in discussions, and get the guidance they need.

There are specialist services for international students at SETU, with support beginning during the application process and continuing as students arrive in Ireland. This covers all of the potential needs of students, including academic help, personal wellbeing, adjusting to UK life and preparing for employment.

All three of the campuses are based in Ireland’s south east, a region known for its friendly community and affordable living costs compared to larger Irish cities. The campuses are also designed for a balanced university life beyond just academia – there are sports facilities, student-led activities, and over 100 clubs and societies that students can join.

Overall, SETU is a good choice for international students who want a quality practical education, inspired by industry partners, balanced with a healthy and enjoyable student life.

Graduate outcomes

SETU graduates are highly sought after by employers thanks to its internationally recognised degrees, career-focused programmes, strong industry partnerships and practical approach to learning. Throughout their studies, students gain valuable real-world experience through work placements, industry projects, professional practice and applied learning opportunities, ensuring they graduate with the skills, knowledge and confidence employers value.

This combination of academic knowledge and practical experience also helps students to develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork and problem solving, which is another way the university gives students an advantage for their future careers. The partnerships with industry also means students get a clearer understanding of workplace expectations, so they are prepared to step into a role once they graduate.

The university’s dedicated careers development centre supports students at every stage of their career journey, offering career planning, CV and interview preparation, placement opportunities, employer networking events and graduate recruitment support. Combined with an internationally recognised qualification, these experiences help SETU graduates build successful careers in Ireland and around the world.

Why Study at SETU?

Choosing where to study is one of the biggest decisions students make, and at SETU they'll find everything they need to succeed both academically and personally.

Career-focused education – Programmes are developed in partnership with industry, giving students the practical skills and real-world experience employers are looking for.
Practical learning – As a technological university, SETU combines academic excellence with hands-on learning through laboratories, industry projects and work placements.
Small class sizes – Students learn in a supportive environment where lecturers know them by name, providing personalised guidance throughout their studies.
Affordable education – SETU offers excellent value for money, with competitive tuition fees and a lower cost of living than many other parts of Ireland, helping students make the most of their budget.
Close to Dublin – The campuses are within easy reach of Dublin and Dublin Airport, giving students convenient access to Ireland's capital while enjoying a more relaxed, friendly and affordable place to live.
Strong industry connections – SETU works closely with leading employers to ensure its programmes prepare students for the workplace and future career opportunities.
A global community – Join students from around the world in a welcoming, diverse and inclusive university community.
Outstanding student support – From arrival in Ireland through to graduation, dedicated teams are here to support students’ academic, personal and career journey.
A vibrant student experience – With over 100 clubs and societies, excellent sports facilities and a packed calendar of events, there are endless opportunities to make friends, develop new skills and enjoy university life.

At SETU, students will graduate with more than a qualification – they’ll leave with the knowledge, practical experience and confidence to build a successful career anywhere in the world.

Finances

How much will it cost?

Average tuition fees per year

12,75,633 Undergraduate Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

12,98,542 Postgraduate Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

11,20,613 Vocational Fees are for indicative purposes, check with institution for details

Eligibility

Language entry requirements

International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate their English language proficiency to ensure they are well prepared for academic study at SETU. This is an additional requirement alongside any specific programme entry requirements. However the required minimum language test scores are standard across all programmes at the university.

SETU accepts a wide range of internationally recognised English language qualifications, including IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge English and a number of other recognised tests. The university’s website has a full list of the different test options, and the minimum scores required for each, including overall scores and minimum component scores where this applies.

The minimum scores are different for students applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification, due to the more complex level of study in a postgraduate degree. Typically students must have been issued their results within two years prior to applying to study at SETU.

Department and Faculty

Teaching quality

At SETU, an education is about more than earning a degree. The full range of career-focused programmes combine practical learning with real-world experience, giving students the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in their chosen career.

Students will learn in a supportive environment where lecturers know them by name and are invested in their success. Through group projects, problem-based learning, Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) and hands-on experiences, students will develop the skills employers value most, as well as learning the academic and practical fundamentals of the subject.

Many programmes include industry projects and work placements, thanks to SETU's strong links with leading employers and professional bodies. Students will also have opportunities to study abroad with one of the university’s international partner institutions, helping them to build a global perspective and prepare for an exciting future.

Department structure

International students have a wide range of programmes to choose from, covering both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. The full list of departments and areas of study are:

Within each department there are several programmes that students can choose between, and students are encouraged to explore all of the options. Course pages have information on the structure of the course, any special features of that program, and information on any specific application information and fees. International students can also visit the university’s fees pages to get more detailed information on the costs of study at SETU and when fees must be paid.

Campus and facilities

Campuses

Carlow

Waterford

Wexford

Student support

At SETU, student wellbeing and success are a priority. A dedicated student services team is here to help students settle into university life and make the most of their experience from the first day through to graduation.

Students have access to a wide range of support services, including accommodation advice, a health centre with nurses and visiting doctors, free and confidential counselling, chaplaincy services with a multi-faith prayer room, and dedicated support for students with disabilities.

Academic support is also available through maths and English learning services, while the careers service helps students prepare for employment with CV workshops, interview preparation, placements and career guidance. The Students' Union represents the student voice and organises clubs, societies and social events throughout the year.

International Support

A dedicated global office supports students before they arrive and throughout their studies. From visas and accommodation to registration, orientation and settling into life in Ireland, the team is there every step of the way, ensuring students feel supported from arrival to graduation.

Scholarships & Funding

All eligible international students automatically receive an international entry award when they receive an offer of admission. Awards range from EUR 1,000 to EUR 4,000, depending on the programme, and are based on academic achievement and English language results. The award is automatically deducted from tuition fees.

SETU also offers a number of 50 percent and 100 percent International Scholarships. Open to all eligible international students, these prestigious scholarships are awarded through a highly competitive, holistic review process that recognises academic excellence and personal achievement.