SETU welcomes funding to support new veterinary school in Waterford
Photograph: Patrick Browne
South East Technological University (SETU) has welcomed the approval of a capital programme to support the establishment of two new veterinary schools.
SETU in Waterford will establish one of the schools, while Atlantic Technological University (ATU) will have the other.
The establishment of the schools will be supported by the Veterinary Places Activation Programme (VPAP) and the capital programme announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless.
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, described the decision as a “landmark development” for the University and the South East.
“The new school will attract fresh talent to the region, foster stronger collaboration across industries, and drive growth in the vital One Health domain, while ensuring Ireland can meet the pressing demand for highly skilled veterinary professionals.”
“I would like to acknowledge the dedication of the Veterinary Medicine team at SETU and to thank the HEA, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for their support,” said Prof Campbell.
The announcement of the capital programme allows SETU and ATU to appoint design teams and to progress plans for their facilities to the planning stage.
The veterinary school will be the first major development on the Glassworks site in Waterford City by the University.
The facility will house state-of-the-art laboratories, teaching spaces and specialist resources to support the delivery of SETU’s new Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (MVB) programme and other health-related disciplines.
Head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at SETU, Dr Mary-Kate Burke, emphasised the importance of the new facilities for future students.
“At SETU’s Glassworks campus, clinical skills labs will incorporate simulated surgical and consultation suites, allowing students to gain practical experience supported by the latest technology.
"The use of clinical tools such as ultrasound and X-ray, as well as 3D printing, throughout all aspects of the programme will also enhance students’ learning experience.
“Purpose-built anatomy facilities will complement the existing animal handling resources at Teagasc Kildalton College.
"Both campuses will have technology enhanced teaching spaces to enable students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, while also developing team work and communication skills essential for the industry, said Dr Burke.
The school is set to take in 40 students in September 2026.
The five-year MVB programme will provide students with focused scientific, clinical and professional training in the practice of veterinary medicine.
Waterford TD, Government Chief Whip and Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler, welcomed the announcement of capital funding.
She thanked her colleagues in Government, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD in collaboration with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Martin Heydon, for their work in bringing this to fruition.
“This approval marks a significant milestone in the expansion of Ireland’s veterinary education capacity and will facilitate the creation of 80 additional student places annually from 2026.
“This announcement is a game-changer for the expansion of Ireland’s veterinary education footprint and in addressing a national need for skilled veterinary professionals.
“This expansion will provide students in Waterford and the South East with more opportunities to pursue veterinary studies without having to seek their education in Dublin or abroad.
"This is an exciting step forward for animal health and welfare, rural development and Irish agriculture.
"It is a huge vote of confidence by the government in the South East and SETU, which is an ideal location for an important initiative to help respond to an established and growing need for veterinary practitioners, said Minister Butler.
