Mathematics and data science (EN)

The programme comprises three specialisations: Data Science, Technology Mathematics and Pure Mathematics, which provide unique knowledge in mathematics, statistics, industrial mathematics and data science. The common compulsory courses provide the necessary theoretical knowledge, including courses in applied algebra, non-linear optimisation, graphs, network optimisation algorithms in modern statistics and mathematical methods with the programming languages Python, R and Matlab. Academic internships are foreseen which will allow students to solve mathematical, modelling or data science problems, mostly related to interdisciplinary projects. 

The Data Science specialisation courses cover statistical and deep learning, statistical modelling, Bayesian statistics, as well as various courses from the data analyst and statistical methods modules. 

In addition, the Technology Mathematics covers industrial and engineering modelling principles, modern and emerging technologies based on data-driven systems, neural networks and numerical methods. 

The Pure Mathematics sub-programme is the only programme in Latvia that produces mathematician-scientists and high-level lecturers. This specialisation offers mathematical courses in topology, non-strict sets, abstract algebra, analytical methods, quantum computing and computer science.

In the spring semester of the 2025/2026 academic year, students will be admitted to only one sub-programme: Data Science.

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Graduates of the Master's programme have a wide range of employment opportunities in business, industry, research institutes, universities: as data scientists, data analysts, programmers, developing information technologies, performing engineering tasks related to mathematical modelling and scientific computing (e.g. in electrical/electronic engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering), biology, medicine (data processing, epidemiological modelling). Some graduates will also find jobs in universities and research institutes, continuing their research and doctoral studies in Latvia or abroad.

Admission requirements Winter Intake:

• First-cycle higher education (Bachelor’s degree or second-level professional higher education, or an equivalent qualification) in Mathematics; 
  or
• First-cycle higher education (Bachelor’s degree or second-level professional higher education, or an equivalent qualification) in Natural Sciences, Engineering and Technology, or Social Sciences, with successfully completed Mathematics courses in amount of at least 8 Latvian credit points (12 ECTS).
• 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).
• English language proficiency.

Admission requirements September Intake:

• First-cycle higher education (Bachelor’s degree or second-level professional higher education, or an equivalent qualification) in Mathematics
  or
• First-cycle higher education (Bachelor’s degree or second-level professional higher education, or an equivalent qualification) in Natural Sciences, Engineering and Technology, or Social Sciences, with successfully completed Mathematics courses in amount of at least 8 Latvian credit points (12 ECTS).

• English language proficiency (applicable to foreign applicants)
  *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.

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 candidates 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 January 2026

Department of Mathematics has Erasmus+ cooperation agreements with universities across the Europe. Students are encouraged to engage in exchange programs with numerous Erasmus+ partner universities, broadening their academic horizons. Students can participate in exchange studies in countries such as  Poland, Germany, Czech Republic, Estonia, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Turkey and Sweden.

More information:

ERASMUS + study mobility 
ERASMUS + traineeship moblity  

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

Contact the UL Faculty of Science and Technology: eztf@lu.lv 

Information about studies:
Methodologist Elīna Buliņa
Email: elina.bulina@lu.lv