English Philology

The English Philology program at the University of Latvia offers a comprehensive and in-depth study of the English language, literature, and cultural studies. Designed for students passionate about language, literature, and intercultural communication, this programme provides a solid foundation in linguistic theory, historical development of English, and literary analysis from various periods and genres. Students will explore advanced language skills, including speaking, writing, reading, and listening, tailored to professional and academic contexts. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical abilities, and intercultural competence, preparing graduates for diverse careers related to translation, interpretation, teaching, publishing, media, and international relations. Courses include English syntax and semantics, phonetics and phonology, British and American literature, sociolinguistics, and translation theory. The programme incorporates practical training through seminars, workshops, internships, and collaborative projects, ensuring students gain valuable hands-on experience. Additionally, students have access to modern language laboratories, digital learning resources, and participation in academic conferences. The university's strong ties with cultural and educational institutions abroad facilitate student exchanges and international collaborations, enriching students' global perspective. Graduates of the English Philology programme will possess excellent language proficiency, a broad understanding of linguistic and literary subjects, and the skills necessary to operate effectively in multilingual and multicultural environments. They will be well-prepared for professional paths in education, research, translation, content creation, and cultural management. Overall, the programme aims to cultivate highly qualified specialists who are capable of engaging critically with English language and literature, contributing to the promotion of cultural understanding and effective communication across borders.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 1707 Year (EEA)
• EUR 4553 Year (Non-EEA)

Course Content

Programme modules:

Bachelor’s degree programme „English Philology” module „English-English”curriculum:

• English-English module students acquire: British, USA, Celtic, or Canadian Cultural Studies, Modernism and Postmodernism, English Language Learning and Teaching Methodologies, Contrastive Studies: German, French, Spanish, Italian or a Scandinavian language (2nd foreign language from the beginner's level) or a third foreign language, incl. the Russian language starting in the 5th semester.

Bachelor’s degree programme „English Philology” module „English-Scandinavian”curriculum:

• In the academic year 2013/2014, English-Scandinavian module students acquire Norwegian language courses: Contrastive Studies: Norwegian (2nd foreign language from the beginner's level), Realism in Norwegian Literature, Norwegian Literature till 1860, Scandinavian Culture Studies: Norwegian Society and Culture, Skandinavian Stylistics: Norwegian, etc.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 4.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 480 TOEFL iBT® test : 53

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

1.General secondary education diploma is required to be admitted for studies at the University of Latvia;
2. English language knowledge, which must be proved with a grade in English recorded in the secondary education transcript (the grade can be replaced with the results of one of the internationally recognized language tests).

Enrollment criteria (for students competing for the state-financed study place)

1. Satisfactory grade in English (60%);
2. Grade point average (20%);
3. A certificate of the Latvian language (20%).

Please note! Only EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and EU long-term resident status holders can compete for a state-financed study place.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Latvia.

Funding

Latvian Scholarships for studies in Latvian Higher Education Institutions

In accordance with bilateral agreements on co-operation in education and science, the State Education Development Agency (Valsts izglitibas attistibas agentura – VIAA) offers scholarships to students, researchers and teaching staff of several countries for studies in Latvian higher education institutions (HEIs).

Applications will be accepted from students who have successfully completed at least one academic year of studies at their home HEI. (Students already studying in a Latvian HEI may apply for the Latvian scholarship as well.) If a student wants to continue her/his studies in Latvia for one extra year, she/he has to apply for the Latvian scholarship again. The Latvian scholarship can be awarded twice. Scholarships for studies are granted for a period of up to 10 months. They are applicable only towards full-time studies in Latvia. On-the-job studies, part-time studies and correspondence courses are not eligible for scholarship funding.

The following documents are necessary to apply for the Latvian scholarship for studies:

1) Application form;

2) Curriculum Vitae;

3) Motivation letter;

4) Certified photocopies of HEI-Diploma, including transcripts, or transcript of records, if studies are not finished yet;

5) One recommendation letter (written within the past six months) from the HEI lecturer/professor;

6) Invitation letter from the proposed Latvian HEI (please contact the International Relations Department/Unit or Foreign Students Department/unit of the Latvian HEI directly); List of contact persons in the Latvian HEIs.

7) Certificate (or other document) of language proficiency required for studies.

8) Copy of passport or identity card.

All applications will be evaluated and the final decision on granting scholarships will be made by the evaluation committee of State Education Development Agency.

Financial provisions

The amount of the Latvian scholarship for studies is:

a) for bachelor and master students – LVL 350 per month;

b) for PhD students – LVL 470 per month.

The Bachelor's degree program in English Philology at the University of Latvia offers students a comprehensive education in the English language, literature, linguistics, and cultural studies. The programme is designed to provide students with advanced language skills, a deep understanding of English-speaking cultures, and the analytical tools necessary to explore literary and linguistic phenomena. Students will engage with a diverse curriculum, including courses on English grammar, syntax, semantics, phonetics, and pragmatics, as well as literature from various periods, from medieval to contemporary works. Emphasis is placed on developing both theoretical knowledge and practical language skills through classroom instruction, seminars, and language practice classes.

The program also aims to prepare graduates for a variety of careers, including translation, interpretation, teaching, publishing, media, and international business. Students will have opportunities to participate in language laboratories, internships, and exchange programs, enhancing their real-world experience and intercultural competence. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, research skills, and independent learning, with options to specialize in areas such as linguistics or English literature. The faculty comprises highly qualified researchers and practitioners who are actively involved in linguistic and literary research, bringing current and practical insights into their teaching.

Graduates of this program will receive a Bachelor's degree in Philology, with a specialization in English, which recognizes their expertise in language and cultural analysis. The programme's accreditation ensures it meets high standards of academic quality, preparing students for further studies or professional paths related to the English language. The University of Latvia emphasizes an international outlook, and the English Philology programme encourages participation in international projects, conferences, and collaborations, fostering a global perspective among students. Overall, this degree offers a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical skills and intercultural understanding necessary for success in a wide range of fields connected to the English language and culture.