The Higher Education Review

Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) has been contributing towards the enhancement of the quality of economics education by updating the study content and methodology, keeping strong relationships between scientific research, studies and development for practical skills of students.

The Faculty of Economics and Social Development at LBTU has been accredited by the International Accreditation of Science Directions in Latvia for their highest level performance, receiving 4 points out of 4, which is the highest result in Latvia when compared to other universities. Moreover, LBTU has been awarded the status of the science university in 2021, making it one of the only four universities in Latvia to receive this status.

The foundations of LBTU can be traced back to 1863, and this year marks the 160th anniversary of the university. The Faculty of Economics and Social Development, however, is 65 years old. Therefore, LBTU is a unique opportunity to combine modern studies and historical traditions. The university is located in Jelgava palace and has three study and research directions in faculty: Economics, Entrepreneurship and Management, and Sociology.

Uniqueness Courses backed by Expert Faculty Members
Preparing students for the industry is a challenge for higher education institutes across the globe. LBTU is addressing this issue by focusing not so much on theory but by using a practical approach of approximately 75 percent.

Students are involved in case studies and business game simulations during their studies, and they can also take part in entrepreneurship hackathons, competitions for small business grants, or develop their activities in non-governmental organizations.

“As full-time students, international students in Latvia can use EU Erasmus+ funding for mobility to other EU universities for studies or business enterprises for traineeship, which would help them gain new knowledge, practical experience, global insight, and cross-communication skills. Additionally, the mobility grant is of a solid amount, usually covering living expenses in another country”, says Irina Pilvere, Rector.


Irina Pilvere, Rector

LBTU offers unique courses in Bioeconomy, Circular Economy, and Agri-food Business. Studies are conducted in small groups, with possibilities of individual approaches to every student. These courses help students build a successful professional career by providing them with practical knowledge and skills that are relevant to the industry.

”The foundations of LBTU can be traced back to 1863, & this year marks the 160th anniversary of the university

LBTU ensures consistent quality of its faculty members by having 75 percent of all teaching staff being doctors of sciences, which means they have a PhD. Additionally, a quality management system has been introduced, which helps to monitor the quality of all university processes, including studies. Every year, student surveys are carried out to assess the quality of each study course, study, and living environment, communication, and more. If weak sides or gaps are identified, responsible persons take actions for improvement.

Offerings that Give an Edge
The infrastructure of a college plays a crucial role in ensuring hands-on training to the students. LBTU offers modern, well-equipped laboratories and digital tools everywhere, as well as an improved e-study system. The university has a rich library fund and electronic resource basis. Comfortable dormitories are provided for all students, and

there is a sports center with a swimming pool. All sport activities are free for students. Scholarships are important in helping more students experience world-class higher education. LBTU offers friendly study fees, Erasmus+ mobility grants for international students, Latvia State grants, and lower prices for food and services. Supplementary to the study process, LBTU also offers short intensive courses (1 week), such as BOVA courses, hackathons, English and Latvian language studies, and events organized by student union and Erasmus Students Network (ESN).

Industry-Academia Partnership
To align its pedagogy with industry requirements, LBTU has established advisory boards that include representatives of the industry at both university and faculty levels. LBTU's Faculty of Economics and Social Development organizes a Graduates' Week each semester where former graduates of the faculty lecture for current students on current state-of-affairs in the field and actual challenges. Compulsory traineeships for students are included in the study plans starting from the second study year.

Future Roadmap
LBTU's future roadmap includes improving online studies, adopting an open-university approach, and forming an EU university alliance. The institution aims to prepare new dual diploma programs and increase internationalization to achieve better results. LBTU has renewed its international standard ‘Investors in Excellence' certificate, a globallyrecognized performance improvement, organizational development, and sustainable growth standard.

In conclusion, Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies is a leading institution in Latvia that is committed to offering quality education to its students. LBTU's dedication to science-based education, practical approach, and industry-academia partnerships ensures that students are well-equipped for their future careers. The institution's unique courses, modern infrastructure, and extracurricular activities make LBTU an ideal choice for students who want to excel in their chosen field.