CONFERENCEEuropean Studies and Economic Diplomacy - Master's Degree Programme
Programme level: Master's Programme
Language of instruction: English
Study form and duration: full-time - 4 semesters
Credits: 120 ECTS
Obtainable degree or qualification: Master of Social Sciences in Economics
Number of study places for admission in 2026/2027: State-funded study places - 0, study places for tuition fee - 20
Tuition fee per year: 2800 EUR for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, EU Long-term resident permit holders and their family members. 3200 EUR for citizens of other countries
Study location: Riga, city centre
Study programme offers in-depth studies of international economic relations, paying special attention to the theoretical and applied problems of international economics and economic diplomacy.
Graduates’ comprehensive interdisciplinary knowledge of the European Union, diplomatic skills, analytical skills, and in-depth economic skills will provide solid basis for their work in different institutions of
European Union, international organizations, as well as in national public and private sectors. Students gain knowledge for analytical and managerial positions in economic, political, and social fields, for diplomatic service, for economic lobbying activities at
European Union level, and for further education in doctoral studies programmes leading to an academic career.
The programme provides studies in international environment of lingual and cultural diversity by attracting both international students, lecturers, and experts. Studies are conducted in English. The highlight of the program is a study trip to EU and NATO institutions in Brussels, Luxembourg and Frankfurt which helps to master the environment of international institutions in practice.
Study program director
Assoc. prof. Inese Āboliņa
The programme provides studies in international environment of lingual and cultural diversity by attracting both international students, lecturers, and experts. Studies are conducted in English. The highlight of the program is a study trip to EU and NATO institutions in Brussels, Luxembourg and Frankfurt which helps to master the environment of international institutions in practice. Study trip is subject to an epidemiological situation in the region.
Competitive employment and excellent career - economics, international law, and international politics studies are the opportunity for graduates to become senior executives, civil servants, employees of EU institutions, diplomats, journalists, consultants, analysts, lobbyists, entrepreneurs, as well as to work as lecturers and researchers.
- Previous education:
- Academic or professional bachelor’s degree in economics or management science.
or
- Academic or professional bachelor’s degree in other fields of social sciences, or natural sciences, or the humanities, and considerable work experience in the field of economics that includes appropriate preliminary knowledge; - Language proficiency:
- English language proficiency (for foreigners);
*Latvian nationals are required to demonstrate English language proficiency. This may be confirmed through internationally recognised English language test results, other evidence of English proficiency at a minimum of B2 level, or a grade in English on a previous educational certificate (the grade must be no lower than 6 on a 10-point scale), except where previous education was obtained in English. - Other requirements:
- Quality of CV. Curriculum vitae (CV) must be submitted, which indicates the life course and experience, including experience in various European integration issues, international and intercultural communication experience, participation in public activities and organisations.
- Quality of Motivation letter.Motivation letter must be submitted stating the motivation to study in the study program "European Studies and Economic Diplomacy" and the rationale for the possible topic of the master's thesis. - Passed entrance test
*Applicants whose previous education was completed outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or the Swiss Confederation must submit one of the following recognised standardised test results issued within the past five years:
- SAT: minimum score of 1200
- GMAT: minimum score of 595
- GRE: minimum score of 320
If applicants submit SAT and GMAT or GRE results with equivalent scores, and the number of study places is limited, preference will be given to applicants with GMAT or GRE scores.
*Additional admission requirements for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and non-EU long-term residents
The average grade in study courses must be 60% of the maximum;
All grades must be passing (at least 4 in a 10 point grading system);
All non-EU/EEA/Swiss applicants, except University of Latvia graduates, will be required to take part in an online interview as part of the admissions process.
*Information on 10 points grading scale
Admissions open: 1 December 2025 (Foreign applicants)
During a single cycle of studies, students have the opportunity to spend up to 12 months abroad for studies or internships. Currently, the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences has over 320 Erasmus+ cooperation agreements with universities across Europe and beyond. Students can participate in exchange studies in countries such as Austria, Germany, Spain, Italy, Finland, Sweden, Turkey, Portugal, Slovakia, Malta, and many others.
In addition, students may take part in exchange programmes based on bilateral agreements, which allow for study opportunities in 53 countries worldwide — including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and more.
Short-term mobility options are also available through the FORTHEM Alliance, offering students the chance to gain new knowledge and skills in Germany, Poland, Norway, Romania, Italy, France, Finland, and Spain.
Additional information and study plan
The classes take place on weekday evenings from 18:15 to 21:30.
Contact the UL Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences: eszf@lu.lv
Information about admission:
Email: studies@lu.lv
Information about studies:
Methodologist Inese Ranka
Email: inese.ranka@lu.lv
Phone: +371 67034986