CONFERENCEEconomics and Business: Economics and Management
Program level: academic doctorate
Language of study: English
Form and duration of studies: full-time attendance - 6 semesters or 3 years, part-time attendance - 8 semesters or 4 years
Amount in credit points: 216 ECTS
Degree awarded: Doctoral Degree of Science Doctor of Science (Ph.D.) in Social Sciences
Number of places for admission in the 2026/2027 academic year: follow the information
Tuition fee in the 2026/2027 academic year: 3 300 EUR for EU/EEA/Swiss Confederation citizens, permanent residents and their family members; 3 600 EUR for citizens of other countries.
Study location: Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, Riga, 5 Aspazijas boulevard
Accreditation until: 30.09.2027.
The doctoral study programme "Economics and Business" is the only programme of its kind in Latvia, which will cover the sub-branches of the economy and entrepreneurship sector. The purpose of the doctoral programme is to prepare highly qualified researchers, industry and organization leaders, as well as academics capable of developing independent research in the field of economics and business, obtaining scientifically original and proven results, thereby demonstrating their competence in research, organization and management in economics, addressing business and educational development and innovation challenges; to prepare highly qualified professionals with internationally comparable competencies in the field of economics and business and an internationally comparable Doctor of Science degree, providing the global economy with highly qualified professionals.
Programme director
Prof. Ērika Šumilo
The doctoral study programme aims to ensure in-depth mastery of research methodology, theoretical concepts, and the latest research methods in economics and business. Throughout the studies, doctoral students develop independent and original research in their field, applying state-of-the-art methods of analysis and data processing. This work results in scientifically original and verifiable outcomes that meet the standards of internationally cited publications. In doing so, doctoral students demonstrate their competence in conducting high-level research and introducing innovative solutions, as well as their ability to present research findings at scientific conferences and seminars and to prepare and publish scholarly articles based on their research results.
The programme places strong emphasis on the development of critical and analytical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills. Doctoral students are encouraged to independently formulate research ideas and to plan, structure, and manage large-scale scientific projects, including in an international context. They acquire the capacity to carry out research and development tasks in companies, institutions, and organisations that require extensive research knowledge and advanced analytical skills, while also strengthening their ability to work effectively in teams and collaborate with professionals from diverse sectors.
In parallel, the programme supports the development of pedagogical competences, enabling doctoral students to independently carry out and supervise teaching and academic work in higher education institutions. Particular attention is also given to fostering the ability to continuously improve one’s scientific qualification.
The study programme is structured over three years. During this period, doctoral students participate in seminars, research colloquia, doctoral workshops, and targeted training activities. Active engagement in the academic community is an integral part of the programme and includes participation in scientific conferences, the preparation of scientific publications, and the development of the doctoral thesis.
The third year of studies is primarily dedicated to the completion of the doctoral dissertation and is accompanied by doctoral colloquia that support the final stages of research. The defence of the dissertation takes place after all programme requirements have been fulfilled and all required credit points have been successfully obtained.
Previous academic education: second cycle higher education (master`s degree) or equivalent higher education in social sciences or humanities; or second cycle higher education (master`s degree) or equivalent higher education in other educational thematic groups, and work experience (at least 1 year) in the fields of socio-economic processes and market analysis, communication, information management, diplomatic duties, policy planning, policy implementation or administration.
Additional requirements: doctoral thesis proposal (.docx) agreed with a potential scientific supervisor, proof of English language proficiency at least at B2 level, CV, motivation letter, proof of scientific research activities and other documents. More information about the documents to be submitted.
Required English language proficiency (except if previous education is in English), attested by following tests:
- TOEFL Internet-based - at least score 80
- TOEFL Paper-based - at least score 550
- IELTS - at least scor 6
- CPE Proficiency - at least C level
- CAE Advanced - at least B level
Entrance examinations: motivation assessment interview with a representative of the Doctoral School, as well as an oral presentation of the doctoral thesis topic and planned research at the Doctoral Council. The Council evaluates the applicant's knowledge, the quality and relevance of the doctoral thesis proposal, as well as the results of previous scientific research.