Programme level: Bachelor's Degree Programme
Language of instruction: English
Study form and duration: full-time - 6 semesters
Credits: 180 ECTS
Obtainable degree or qualification: Bachelor of Natural Sciences in Biotechnology and Bioengineering
Number of students accepted (ac. year 2025/2026): State-funded study places - 2, study places for tuition fee - 38
Tuition fee per year (ac. year 2025/2026): 3600 EUR for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, permanent residence permit holders and their family members. 4200 EUR for citizens of other countries
Study location: Riga

If you are looking for a field of study where science meets innovation and theory is closely linked to practice, the joint study programme “Biotechnology and Bioengineering”, offered by the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University, may be the right choice for you. This interdisciplinary, modern, and future-oriented programme provides the opportunity to study in English at two leading universities simultaneously, alongside fellow students from around the world.

The programme combines knowledge of the functioning of living organisms with an engineering perspective. Students gain insights into molecular processes, gene engineering, biochemical mechanisms, and cell biology, while also developing skills in bioprocess modelling and analysis. Practical training, laboratory work, and research are integral parts of the programme – more than 50% of the courses include laboratory work in state-of-the-art facilities using the latest technologies. Elective courses allow students to deepen their knowledge in medical biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, and agrobiotechnology.

Studies take place in a modern and inspiring environment where research, innovation, and academic development are closely integrated. Students have extensive opportunities to engage in research projects, collaborate with leading industry experts, and participate in international exchange programmes.

Graduates of the programme are competitive both in Latvia and internationally. They pursue careers in biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, food technology, environmental sciences, and other biotechnology-related fields, develop innovative products and start-ups, or continue their studies at the master’s level.

   

As part of the programme students study such study courses as biological systems design, information technology, chemistry, biophysics, genetics, genomics, material learning, microbiology, entrepreneurship, cell and genetic engineering, biotechnology, bioengineering.

Graduates of the program have the opportunity to work in scientific laboratories of universities and institutes, in existing companies (in the fields of food, agriculture, medicine, waste processing, etc.) or to create their own startups. Biotechnology and bioengineering is an interesting and dynamically growing field that continues to create new job opportunities.

Perspectives for pursuing further studies

Graduates of the study program "Biotechnology and Bioengineering" are awarded a Natural Sciences Bachelor's degree in Biology, which allows for pursuing studies in natural science master's programs in Latvia and abroad. Several substantive follow-up master's study programs are offered by universities in Latvia, enabling the in-depth and specialized enhancement of the knowledge gained during bachelor's studies, such as the University of Latvia's master's program in "Biology" and "Chemistry," Riga Technical University's master's program in "Materials Science and Nanotechnology," "Chemistry and Chemical Technology," as well as related study programs offered by other universities.

General conditions

Admission Requirements for the Biotechnology and Bioengineering Program

Previous education: secondary education