Bachelor of Science (Honours) Common Entry

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

South East Technological University Waterford

Program Overview

If you’re excited about science but not yet sure which specific path to specialise in, the BSc (Hons) Common Entry at South East Technological University gives you the perfect launchpad — starting broad and letting you choose your focus after Year 1, whether that’s biopharmaceuticals, brewing and distilling, pharmaceutics, or another science field. This flexible honours degree blends practical lab work with academic fundamentals, helping you build solid skills while discovering what truly inspires you.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in the core science disciplines. You’ll be introduced to subjects like Fundamental Biology, Chemistry 1 and 2, Physics 1 and 2, Laboratory Science, Quantitative Methods, and Current Concepts in Science, exploring both theory and hands‑on practice. There are also electives such as Current Concepts in Brewing and Distilling Science to give you a taste of potential specialisms before you choose your direction.

Year 2
After completing the common first year, you’ll confirm your specialism and begin more focused study in that field. Whether your interest lies in biopharmaceutical science, brewing and distilling, or pharmaceutics and drug formulation, Year 2 deepens your understanding with tailored modules that strengthen both the academic and practical skills required in your chosen industry while continuing laboratory‑based learning.

Year 3
In Year 3 you’ll start to apply your knowledge in real‑world contexts, integrating more advanced science modules with practical assignments and workshops. A significant feature of this stage is the industrial work placement, giving you valuable professional experience and industry connections before your final year.

Year 4
Your final year focuses on advanced topics within your specialist pathway, often culminating in a major project or research assignment that showcases your expertise. This is also the stage where you prepare to transition into graduate roles or further study with confidence, armed with both theoretical depth and practical experience.

Focus Areas

Broad scientific foundation, specialisation options in biopharmaceuticals, brewing and distilling, pharmaceutics, analytical and laboratory skills, industrial placement experience.

Learning Outcomes

You will understand key concepts across biology, chemistry, physics and quantitative science, develop practical laboratory skills, critically evaluate scientific data, and apply your knowledge in real‑world settings including industry placements.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This honours degree is a Level 8 qualification on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, recognised across Ireland and internationally, and designed to equip graduates for scientific roles or further professional study.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

SETU’s science degrees are developed with industry needs in mind and include work placements that consistently receive strong feedback from employers, helping graduates transition into careers in research, laboratory science, healthcare, industry, and beyond.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At SETU, science isn’t just something you read about — it’s something you do. From day one, students engage in hands‑on laboratory work that develops core experimental skills, supported by instructional resources and guided practice in essential techniques used in chemistry and biology. Throughout the programme, there’s a strong emphasis on practical learning, including advanced equipment and industry-focused modules that prepare you to step confidently into professional environments. In addition to on-campus experiences, the degree includes a period of industrial work placement that gives you real workplace exposure and connects your academic learning with professional practice:

Practical laboratory experience: You’ll work in fully equipped science labs, learning how to use balances, filtration apparatus, solution preparation, and other core tools of the science trade, with guidance from experienced instructors.
Industrial work placement: In Year 3, students participate in a structured industrial placement that provides direct exposure to real-world scientific roles, helping build professional networks and employability skills.
Library and collaborative study spaces: SETU libraries on all campuses offer quiet study areas, group work zones, and access to extensive scientific journals, books, and digital collections that support research and project work throughout your degree.
Careers and employer engagement: The Careers Development Centre works with students and local employers to support internships, part-time work, and graduate opportunities, while promoting employability skills alongside scientific training.
Research environment and innovation centres: While the Common Entry programme focuses on foundational science learning, SETU’s Waterford campus is part of a wider research ecosystem — including centres in biotechnology, eco-innovation, and more — that informs advanced projects and future opportunities for students.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BSc (Hons) Common Entry programme go on to rewarding careers across science, research, and industry, including roles such as laboratory scientist, quality control analyst, biopharmaceutical technician, or research support specialist. With hands‑on skills, industry experience, and strong employability support from SETU, you’ll be well‑placed to confidently step into the professional world and build a future in sectors that value scientific expertise and practical experience:

Support from the Careers Development Centre: Throughout your studies and after graduation, the Careers Centre helps you build employability skills, refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and connect with employers through job fairs, workshops, and one‑to‑one guidance. Services are available on all campuses, giving you personalised support at every stage.
Graduate outcomes and employment prospects: Science graduates from SETU have access to a wide range of roles within core science fields as well as in broader areas like management or technical sales. The degree provides a strong foundation for diverse career pathways and improves your chances of employment or further study.
University–industry partnerships: SETU maintains active connections with employers and local industry, supporting internships, work placements, and guest employer events. These partnerships give students real‑world experience and often lead to job opportunities.
Long‑term accreditation value: This honours degree is recognised on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications at Level 8, meaning employers in Ireland and internationally value it for both its academic depth and practical relevance.
Graduation outcomes: Because the Common Entry programme leads into specialised honours degrees, your final award opens doors to careers in science, research, industry, or even roles outside traditional laboratory settings, depending on the specialism you choose.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, many students continue their studies at postgraduate level, pursuing a master’s in areas such as molecular biology, biopharmaceutical science, pharmaceutical science, or related research fields. Others take professional certifications, honours projects, or integrated research opportunities that strengthen their expertise and expand career options.