Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) (Common Entry)

Year One, Semester One

In semester 1, students explore each of the different engineering disciplines via the ‘Introduction to Engineering’ module which includes five exciting mini-projects typically lasting two weeks and completed in groups. There will also be a range of presentations from external Professional Engineers explaining how each discipline makes a positive impact on the world.

The other modules in semester 1 concern Maths, Science, and Critical Thinking skills, all fundamental to Engineering disciplines. These are ‘Engineering Mathematics 1’, ‘Engineering Computing’, ‘Physics 1’ and ‘Thinking & Learning’.

There are also additional tutorials for Maths to support students and help explain the link between the different Maths topics and the Engineering disciplines

Semester One Student-Mentor Meetings

Each student will meet their mentor every week throughout the first semester. These meetings offer the opportunity to ask detailed questions and get individual guidance as to which discipline they should pursue.

Specializing

Students start to specialize in one of the four specialist engineering areas in Semester 2 of Year 1 and further specialize in the next three years.

Career opportunities will be subject to your choice of specialist exit pathways. Common Engineering Honours Entry is the gateway to four Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree options. Students start to specialize in semester 2 of Year 1 and further specialize in the next 3 years.

Follow-study for Engineering (Common Entry) graduates

Opportunities for postgraduate study are available at SETU Waterford and other institutions including Master of Engineering, Master of Science, or a PhD. The opportunities for postgraduate study will be subject to the course you choose to get your degree in.

Discover SETU: Your Gateway to Global Success

Embark on a transformative journey at South East Technological University (SETU), a contemporary European university nestled in the southeast of Ireland, a nation renowned for its dynamic economy and global influence. At SETU, we mirror Ireland’s forward-thinking spirit, providing a launchpad for your future in one of the world’s most hospitable countries. (SETU is a regional powerhouse with campuses spread across the southeast, with international students studying on our Carlow, Waterford, and Wexford campuses. With over half a century of experience in higher education, research, innovation, and collaboration, SETU nurtures a thriving community of over 18,000 students, supported by a dedicated team of more than 1,500 staff. Our vision is to expand our reach and impact even further in the next decade.

Our university boasts cutting-edge research facilities and strong ties with leading global corporations. We are dedicated to helping you turn your dreams into reality. Our campuses offer a vibrant, manageable environment, rich with diverse cultural experiences. Here, every student is given the tools to excel academically and flourish personally.

SETU’s research prowess is recognised both in Ireland and globally, laying a solid foundation for future growth. We are committed to equipping students with the skills they need to excel in the competitive job market. International students can select from a variety of career-focused programmes, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and foundation qualifications.

SETU provides a range of services and facilities, from academic support to recreational amenities. Our university is a hub of activity with numerous clubs and societies and is renowned for its excellence in competitive sports.

Our Carlow campus, located 85km from Dublin and 97km from Dublin Airport, is surrounded by the quintessential Irish countryside, complete with mountain trails, forests, and ancient monastic sites.
The Waterford campus, 170km from Dublin and 177km from Dublin Airport, is situated in Ireland’s oldest city, a perfect blend of the old and the new, It's a city bursting with life and historic streets to explore.

At SETU, we foster an inclusive campus environment where students form lifelong friendships while achieving academic milestones. It’s the beginning of an exciting journey for those aspiring to build successful careers in fields like business, law, humanities, science, sport, or engineering.

Academic Disciplines and Programmes

International students can choose from a wide array of programmes, spanning foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate qualifications. SETU offers programmes and conducts research across a broad spectrum of academic disciplines, including:

• Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry
• Architecture
• Arts and Social Sciences
• Built Environment
• Business
• Computing
• Early Years Education
• Engineering
• Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts
• Law
• Media, Design and Music
• Science
• Sport Management
• Sport Science

International Foundation Programme

International students can enrol in our certificate programme, Preparation for Higher Education. This programme equips students with the fundamental knowledge and skills required for higher education. Students receive English language tuition, as well as education in mathematics, IT, and a field of their interest. The modules available are:

• English for Professional Communication
• Information Technology
• Learning to Learn
• Introductory Maths
• Management
• Engineering Science
• Computer Systems

This programme provides a valuable opportunity to explore degree-level studies and make informed choices. Upon completion, students can pursue a degree course in the following academic year.

International Office

We have a dedicated international team ready to support international students. At the beginning of the year, international students attend an induction/orientation programme. This is a great opportunity to meet other international students and learn about the dedicated support available at SETU.