Information technologies for sustainable development

The Bachelor's degree program in Information Technologies for Sustainable Development at Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies is designed to equip students with vital skills and knowledge to address contemporary challenges related to environmental sustainability, resource management, and technological innovation. In this program, students will explore the intersection of information technology and sustainable development, gaining expertise in the deployment of digital solutions to promote ecological balance, efficient resource utilization, and social responsibility. The curriculum combines fundamental courses in computer science, data analysis, and information systems with specialized subjects focused on sustainable practices, environmental monitoring, and green technologies. Students will learn to develop software applications, manage information infrastructure, and analyze data to support decision-making processes in ecological and sustainable contexts. The program emphasizes practical skills through laboratory work, project-based learning, and internships, fostering the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Graduates will be capable of contributing to sectors such as environmental protection agencies, renewable energy companies, smart city initiatives, and agricultural innovation, utilizing cutting-edge information technologies to promote sustainable development goals. The program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking, ensuring that students are prepared to work in dynamic, technology-driven environments that require innovative solutions for sustainability challenges. Upon completion, graduates will receive a recognized academic qualification, opening pathways to employment in public administration, private industry, research institutions, and international organizations dedicated to sustainable development. This program reflects Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies’ commitment to fostering environmentally conscious professionals equipped to solve pressing global issues through the strategic application of information technology.

Information technologies for sustainable development are an area within the discipline of information technologies. Solutions for sustainable development are important component for future development of societies that comes hand in hand with smart management of resources, preserving environment, etc. This study programme provides knowledge of information technologies with focus on sustainability of software and hardware solutions created.

In this programme students learn to design interdisciplinary software solutions with quality aspect in mind throughout the design process.

Courses are carried out in specially designed laboratories that focus on software development and quality assurance as well students spend one year internship in large worldwide known IT companies, such as Accenture, Tele2, Exigen Services, with options to join and establish IT start-ups or join emerging companies.

• Applicants with completed secondary education are approved for admission to the programme; 
• Applicants must have at least "satisfactory" grade in Mathematics;
• must be able to present good English knowledge (minimum - CEFR level B2, IELTS score 5.5, TOEFL score 520, TOEFL-iBT score 68 );
•  need to pass an online entrance test in computer sciences.

The financing of the "Information Technologies for Sustainable Development" master's program at Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies is primarily supported through a combination of state-funded, self-funded, and occasionally scholarship-based sources. The Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia allocates funding to ensure the accessibility and quality of higher education, including programs like this. Domestic students may benefit from state-funded places based on competitive entrance exams and academic merit, with the possibility of scholarships for excellent performance or financial need. International students often have to pay tuition fees, which vary depending on nationality and program specifics. The university also offers a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities aimed at supporting students academically and financially during their studies. These may include university-specific scholarships, national grants, and international funding options, aimed at promoting access to sustainable development education and fostering international cooperation. Students are encouraged to explore external funding options such as international organizations, research grants, and Erasmus+ mobility programs, which can provide additional financial support and exchange opportunities. The overall funding landscape aims to promote equitable access to advanced education in information technologies that contribute to sustainable development, supporting students through a mixture of governmental support, institutional scholarships, and external funding channels. The university's commitment is to ensure that financial considerations do not impede capable students' ability to pursue their academic and professional goals in this field.

Most commonly graduates of this programme work as software developers, system analysts, ICT project managers and testers in international and domestic ICT companies and state authority establishments. Graduates may work also as IoT hardware programmers, e-commerce solutions developers, computer graphic designers, etc.

Bachelor’s degree entitles graduates to continue studies in the Master’s study programme according to the programme requirements in Latvia or worldwide.