SETU welcomes first cohort across three new programmes
The first cohorts of students in Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy and Home Economics have commenced their studies at South East Technological University (SETU), as the University introduces these three highly anticipated professional programmes to the South East for the first time.
Dr Eilidh Thomson and Dr Siobhan Walsh, Veterinary Medicine lecturers; Tim Ashmore, Teagasc Kildalton College Principal; Dr Anne-Marie Butler, Head of Education in Teagasc; and James Ryan, Assistant College Principal in Kildalton pictured with the first students of the five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (MVB) at South East Technological University (SETU).
The five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (MVB), five-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) and three-year BA (Hons) in Home Economics represent a significant expansion of SETU’s academic provision and offer students in the region new pathways into these careers.
Around 40 students have now commenced the MVB, which combines scientific study with clinical training and practical experience to prepare graduates for professional veterinary practice. The programme is delivered across three integrated phases, with a fully distributed clinical education model at its core. Students will study at SETU and also benefit from access to teaching and specialist facilities at Teagasc Kildalton College.
Dr Mary-Kate Burke, Head of Department of Veterinary Medicine, said: “We are delighted to welcome the first cohort of Veterinary Medicine students to SETU. Their arrival marks a significant milestone for both SETU and the South East region. Our MVB programme has been designed around practical, contextualised learning, giving students the knowledge, clinical skills and real-world experience to prepare them for a diverse and rewarding veterinary career. As our first cohort, they have the exciting opportunity to help shape the future of veterinary medicine at SETU.”
The MPharm has also welcomed close to 40 students to its first intake. The five-year programme brings together academic and professional learning, preparing graduates for modern pharmacy practice while providing opportunities to engage with the region’s healthcare sector.
Dr Claire Lennon, Head of Department of Pharmacy, said: “As a department, we are incredibly proud to welcome the first group of Master of Pharmacy students to SETU. Our team has been very busy, preparing all of our programme activities and we are excited now to showcase these to our new students. We are very ambitious for the MPharm, and the impact it will have in the years ahead within the region. As a new programme, and in line with SETU ethos, we see our students as true partners in this journey. We also thank the four pharmacists who joined our induction from across the sector today, to give students insight on their careers since entering the profession.”
Almost 4O students have taken up places on the BA (Hons) in Home Economics. The three-year programme combines practical and creative learning with the development of professional skills, preparing graduates for a range of careers and settings.
Dr Aileen Murphy, Programme Director of BA (Hons) in Home Economics, said: “It is very exciting to welcome our first students to the new BA (Hons) in Home Economics at SETU. This programme gives students the opportunity to develop practical, creative, and professional skills that can make a real difference in people’s lives. We are very proud to be starting this new chapter at SETU.”
ENDS
Media contact: Claire Quinn, Communications and PR Officer, +353 (0)87 710 5148, email claire.quinn@setu.ie