A unique television and media production course delivered entirely through the Irish language has marked its 20th anniversary in County Waterford this week.
The Higher Diploma in Arts in Television and Media Production delivered by SETU and run in partnership with Nemeton TV in An Rinn Gaeltacht, is the only course at South East Technological University delivered 100% through Irish.
Milestone Celebrated at Nemeton Studios
A special event was held on April 20th at the Nemeton TV studios to celebrate the milestone, bringing together graduates, current students, and industry partners.
The event was also streamed online, allowing alumni and media professionals from across Ireland and internationally to join the celebrations.
The SETU television and media production course has been supported by Údarás na Gaeltachta since its launch in 2006 and has developed a strong reputation for producing industry-ready graduates.
Strong Industry Links and Career Pathways
Delivered annually from September to May, the Level 8 programme is widely regarded as one of the most practical and industry-focused media courses in Ireland.
President of SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell, highlighted the course’s long-term impact:
“There are now bilingual directors, producers, editors, and camera operators working across Ireland in leading production companies thanks to this course at Nemeton. We look forward to another 20 years of collaboration.”
The television and media production course works closely with key partners including Nemeton TV, TG4, Gréasán na Meán, and Údarás na Gaeltachta, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in professional environments.
Preparing Students for the Industry
CEO of Nemeton TV, Irial Mac Murchú, said the course has always focused on practical training:
“We started out 20 years ago with the support of Údarás na Gaeltachta and a unique partnership with South East Technological University. What stands out in our rigorous training is that we prepare students to be industry-ready.”
Students on the course gain experience across a wide range of disciplines, including directing, editing, camera operation, and live broadcast production.
Expanding Skills and Embracing New Technology
In addition to the flagship diploma, the programme also offers specialised short courses covering:
- Sports broadcasting camera work
- Outside broadcast directing and sound
- VT operations in OB trucks
- Transition Year filmmaking programmes
A new course exploring the ethical use of artificial intelligence in media production highlights the programme’s commitment to innovation.
Chair of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Siobhán Ní Ghadhra, praised the initiative:
“We are very proud to be associated with this project and to support it as it continues to grow from strength to strength.”
20 Years of Creative Impact
Over the past two decades, the television and media production course has produced graduates who now work across Ireland and internationally in television and media.
Many have also achieved recognition at the SMEDIA Awards, underlining the quality of training and creative output from the programme.
Looking Ahead
The next intake of the television and media production course will begin this September, continuing its mission to equip students with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving media industry.
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