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1 Year On Campus Masters Program
South East Technological UniversityThe Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Artificial Intelligence at South East Technological University (SETU) is a cutting‑edge Level 9 programme designed to prepare you for the fast-growing world of AI with strong industry relevance and hands-on learning. It’s ideal for graduates with a STEM background or computing experience who want to turn their passion for intelligent systems into practical, real-world solutions.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 (Full-Time, 1-Year Programme)
In the first year, you will build a solid foundation in the core technologies and tools that power modern AI. You’ll start with Programming and Tools for AI, gaining fluency in essential languages and frameworks used in the industry, then move on to Practical Machine Learning, where you will design, train, and evaluate real models. Deep Learning introduces neural networks and advanced architectures, while AI at the Edge explores AI applications outside traditional server environments and considers their societal impact.
Later in the programme, you will apply your skills in AI Application Domains, tackling challenges in robotics, autonomous systems, and intelligent cyber-physical environments. Intelligent Cyber-Physical Systems teaches how AI integrates with sensors, hardware, and real-world systems. Throughout the year, labs, seminars, and case studies help you confidently connect theory with practical problem-solving.
Focus Areas
Programming and tools for AI, machine learning, deep learning, AI in real environments, AI ethics and society, intelligent cyber-physical systems, AI application domains
Learning Outcomes
Students will design, implement, and evaluate AI systems, apply machine and deep learning techniques to real problems, integrate AI with physical systems, and understand ethical, societal, and practical considerations in AI deployment.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The diploma is awarded at Level 9 on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications, preparing graduates for advanced careers in AI, data analytics, machine learning engineering, and providing a pathway into MSc or PhD study.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
SETU is Ireland’s only technological university in the South East, recognized for industry-focused postgraduate learning and a research-driven environment. Graduates are well-positioned for roles in software engineering, machine and deep learning, data architecture, and AI consultancy, with strong practical experience gained throughout the programme.
At SETU, hands-on experience is central to the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Artificial Intelligence. You won’t just learn AI concepts in theory — you’ll apply them in real situations through lab sessions, group projects, and problem-based learning that mirror challenges faced in the workplace. The Carlow campus provides dedicated facilities where you can experiment with models, test algorithms, and collaborate with classmates, gaining both technical skills and confidence in professional teamwork. This approach ensures you leave the programme ready to tackle real-world AI problems from day one.
Your practical learning experience at SETU includes:
Opportunity to practice programming and AI development in on-campus lab sessions for modules such as Programming and Tools for AI and Practical Machine Learning.
Structured problem-based learning and group projects that connect theory to real machine learning and deep learning applications, helping you build a professional portfolio.
Access to university libraries and digital resources, offering extensive collections of books, journals, and research materials to support your coursework and independent research.
Collaborative study and group work spaces designed for postgraduate-level research, presentations, and teamwork.
Participation in university-wide technology events and initiatives related to AI and digital innovation, connecting you with the broader research and tech community.
Support from IT and digital learning services, including high-speed campus networks and computer labs that help you run the AI tools and software required for your studies.
Graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Artificial Intelligence are well-prepared to step into exciting careers where their skills are highly sought after. Typical roles include AI/ML Engineer, Data Analyst, Software Developer, or Machine Learning Specialist, allowing you to work on intelligent systems and real-world applications. With Ireland’s tech sector continuing to grow and organisations increasingly adopting AI solutions, this qualification helps you transition smoothly from study to meaningful work.
Career Services Support: SETU’s Career Development Centre offers personalised career coaching, CV refinement, interview preparation, and job search assistance. Students also benefit from networking opportunities and on-campus recruitment events tailored to computing and technology roles.
Strong Graduate Outcomes: Many graduates in computing and AI fields find employment within six months of completing their studies and earn competitive starting salaries in Ireland’s tech sector.
Industry Connections: SETU has strategic relationships with local and multinational employers, giving students exposure to real industry demands. Applied learning throughout the programme helps bridge the gap between academic study and professional expectations.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: As a Level 9 qualification on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications, this diploma is recognised internationally, adding strong credibility whether you aim for specialist roles or global opportunities.
Graduate Prospects: Graduates can pursue roles in data analytics, software engineering, and machine or deep learning, with opportunities for specialisation in areas such as computer vision or AI system architecture.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this diploma, you can continue your studies in the Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence at SETU, where the diploma often serves as a pathway into the full Master’s programme. This route allows you to deepen your expertise, expand your research skills, and strengthen your career prospects. You may also consider pursuing PhD studies or specialised postgraduate research in AI and related computing areas, opening doors to advanced technical and academic careers.
Applicants need a second-class honours Level 8 degree in Computer Science (or equivalent) with sufficient programming and numerate content, and the programme team must confirm eligibility based on relevant module performance.Candidates without the standard entry requirements may be considered if they hold a Level 7 (or higher) undergraduate degree and have at least 5 years of relevant industry experience.Applicants who do not have a primary degree will only be considered with a minimum of 10 years verifiable relevant industrial experience.Shortlisted applicants who don’t meet the standard entry requirements may be invited for an interview.EU and international graduates with qualifications aligned with the Bologna framework or NARIC Level 8 equivalence.English language requirements: IELTS Academic 6, TOEFL CBT 213, TOEFL iBT 80, or TOEFL PBT 575India: Four-year professional bachelor’s degrees (e.g., B.Tech, BEng, BPharm, PharmD) or three-year degrees that meet entry requirements (e.g., BBA, BCA, BMS) with a minimum final mark/GPA of 60%, equivalent to Level 8 on the Irish National Framework.India: Cognate degrees allow entry to Master’s programmes; non-cognate degrees allow entry to Higher Diploma programmes; three-year general honours degrees (e.g., BSc, BA, BCom) do not meet entry requirements.USA: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 60%, equivalent to Level 8 on the Irish National Framework of QualificationsChina: Bachelor’s degree (学士学位) with a minimum final mark/GPA of 60%Data analytics and architecturesoftware engineeringmachine learning engineeringcomputer vision specialistlanguage and speech AI specialistAI architecture developerapplied machine learning engineerdeep learning engineerdata scientistAI consultantAI systems developerAI project managerresearch and development specialisttechnology solutions architectintelligent systems designer
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