Top 3 Universities in Latvia
Latvia's higher education system is divided into academic and professional study programs. Academic programs emphasize independent research and theoretical knowledge, preparing students for careers in research, teaching, and specialized fields. In contrast, professional programs focus on practical skills, equipping students for careers in system design, product development, technology, and other vocational sectors.
Latvian universities follow the Bologna system, offering three levels of study: bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs. Bachelor's degrees typically take three to four years to complete, while master's programs last one to two years. The academic year runs from September to June, with exams held in May and June. Although the primary language of instruction is Latvian, several universities offer English-taught programs, particularly for international students.
Top Universities in Latvia
Several Latvian universities are recognized in the QS University Rankings: Emerging Europe and Central Asia (EECA), which evaluates the best-performing institutions in the region. Here are three of the country's leading universities:
University of Latvia
Ranked 47th in the QS EECA Rankings 2016 and within the 651-700 range in the QS World University Rankings 2016/17, the University of Latvia is one of the largest and most prestigious institutions in the Baltic region. Located in Riga, it serves approximately 15,000 students and has been awarded four out of five stars in the QS Stars rating system. The university excels in areas such as internationalization, teaching, facilities, and innovation, earning five-star ratings in these categories. It offers several internationally recognized programs, including medicine and dentistry, taught either partially or entirely in English.
Riga Technical University
Riga Technical University (RTU) is ranked joint 64th in the QS EECA Rankings and is the oldest technical university in the Baltic States, originally established as Riga Polytechnicum in 1862. It became an independent institution in 1958 after separating from the University of Latvia. RTU is a hub for research and innovation, playing a vital role in Latvia’s economy. The university has earned three QS Stars overall, with a five-star rating in employability, highlighting its strong focus on career readiness.
Riga Stradins University
Ranked in the 111-120 range in the QS EECA Rankings, Riga Stradins University (RSU) is a public institution known for its excellence in health sciences. Originally founded as Riga Medical Institute in 1950, RSU has a long-standing integration with Latvia’s healthcare system. The university currently enrolls 7,875 students, including 1,775 international students from 50 different countries. Its strong international presence places it among the top 10 EECA universities for the proportion of international students.
Studying in Latvia
Latvia offers a dynamic higher education environment with institutions that emphasize both academic excellence and practical skills. With internationally recognized programs and a growing number of English-taught courses, Latvian universities provide excellent opportunities for students seeking quality education in the heart of Europe.
