The part-time, blended Level 7 Bachelor of Business in Hospitality and Tourism Management is designed to equip graduates with the skills needed for the sector
A new Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) degree from SETU is set to transform career pathways into Ireland’s hospitality and tourism sector, enabling students to learn while they earn.
Developed in partnership with County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, the part-time, blended Level 7 Bachelor of Business in Hospitality and Tourism Management is designed to equip graduates with the leadership, creativity, technological awareness and interpersonal skills needed to meet changing visitor expectations and support the continued growth of the sector.
Applications are open until Friday, 31 July for the programme, which combines academic study with practical workplace learning, providing an accessible pathway for those currently working in one of Ireland’s most important sectors.
The programme has been informed by priorities outlined in Ireland's National Tourism Policy, ‘A New Era for Irish Tourism 2026- 2031’, as well as recent research commissioned by Fáilte Ireland, which highlights the growing importance of “hyperlocal” tourism experiences.
Strong demand
Industry demand for the programme is strong. Market research commissioned by the South East Regional Skills Forum found that 81% of the 42 hospitality businesses surveyed expressed interest in participating, while 62% said they were very or extremely interested.
The degree has been developed through extensive consultation with national and international leaders across the hospitality, tourism and education sectors.
External Advisory Board
To ensure the curriculum remains relevant and future-focused, an External Advisory Board (EAB) was established. The board is co-chaired by Mark Dunne, General Manager of Mount Juliet Estate, and includes representatives from Fáilte Ireland, Waterford City and County Council, Carlow County Council, County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, the South East Regional Skills Forum, Irish Tourism Industry Confederation, the Irish Hotels Federation, the Irish Hospitality Institute, the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation, the Restaurant Association of Ireland, Hotel & Restaurant Times, and SETU.
Welcoming the launch, Sarah Dolly, Head of Tourism Careers, Fáilte Ireland, said:
“The launch of this programme at SETU is a significant and positive development for the tourism and hospitality sector. It reflects the ambition of SETU, alongside the many local tourism leaders who have supported its development, to further elevate the industry as a professional, dynamic and future-focused career choice. Through its work-integrated model, the programme creates accessible and compelling pathways into the sector, while building the practical expertise, managerial capability and leadership potential that will drive its continued growth and long-term success.”
Jacinta Greene-Beatty, Bachelor of Business in Hospitality and Tourism Management Programme Leader at SETU and a member of WACE, added:
“This programme is a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration. It demonstrates the impact of our SETU alumni, stakeholders, representative bodies, academics, and trade writers coming together as committed partners to shape, promote, and deliver a pathway that enables talented individuals to earn a degree. I am immensely grateful to everyone who assisted in bringing this initiative to fruition.”
This programme is a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration. It demonstrates the impact of our SETU alumni, stakeholders, representative bodies, academics, and trade writers coming together as committed partners to shape, promote, and deliver a pathway that enables talented individuals to earn a degree.
Jacinta Greene-Beatty, Bachelor of Business in Hospitality and Tourism Management Programme Leader at SETU
Future of education
Highlighting the importance of accessible, work-based learning, Aisling O'Connor, Network Manager, County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, said:
“We are delighted to partner with SETU on this innovative programme. As a strong advocate for lifelong and work-based learning, I believe programmes like this are the future, giving people the opportunity to earn a recognised degree while continuing to work. County Wexford Chamber Skillnet is pleased to offer up to 40% funding for eligible participants and businesses, making this an affordable pathway to developing future hospitality and tourism leaders across the South East region.”
The programme has also been welcomed by employers, who see it as an important investment in developing future talent for the sector.
Sarah Millea, Director of Human Resources at Mount Juliet Estate, said:
“This programme provides a valuable pathway for colleagues across the hospitality and tourism sector to advance their education and career while continuing to work and gain practical experience. It is a fantastic opportunity to develop future talent and strengthen hospitality and tourism across the South East and beyond. We are proud to support initiatives that invest in the growth, development and long-term success of our remarkable profession.”
For more information and to apply, visit SETU’s website by clicking here.
