Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration

The Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration at Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies offers students a comprehensive understanding of the social structures, organizational processes, and administrative mechanisms that shape public institutions and societal interactions. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to analyze and improve organizational efficiency, public policies, and governance structures within both public and private sectors. Throughout the course of study, students explore key topics such as organizational behavior, public administration, policy analysis, social research methods, and strategic management. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, international institutions, and private enterprises. Students will have opportunities for internships and real-world projects, enabling them to apply their learning in practical settings and gain valuable professional experience. The program also fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, political science, management, and law to provide a well-rounded perspective on organizational and administrative challenges. Upon graduation, students will be capable of conducting independent research, influencing organizational development, and contributing to effective public administration reforms. The Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies ensures that graduates are ready to meet the complex demands of modern society’s institutional frameworks and public sector innovations.

The programme aims to educate highly qualified specialists for managerial posts in organizations of public and private sectors as well as for research institutions. The study programme ensures the student-centred approach to the study process which allows students to develop their theoretical and empirical knowledge, skills and competence for the in-depth analysis of the contemporary social processes, organizational performance and issues of public administration. The programme covers two academic years. In the 1st semester students extend their knowledge and skills in sociological theory, research methodology and techniques, organizational behaviour, and public administration. Study courses of the 2nd semester specifically focus on organizational studies, the public and nongovernmental sector, social welfare, research of the quality of life, rural studies, and development programmes. During the research practice in the 3rd semester students are offered to visit organizations of the public sector and are required to demonstrate their practical skills in one of the organizations; a few compulsory and elective courses are also delivered such as Project Management, Policy Analysis, Human Development, Time Management, and Innovations and Creativity. In the 4th semester the programme is completed with the elaboration and defence of a Master’s thesis.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in social sciences or humanities.
• Applicants with Bachelor’s degree or professional Bachelor’s degree in other specialities are expected to have basic knowledge in social theory and research methodology.
• English requirements: IELTS score 6.0, TOEFL score 547, TOEFL-iBT score 76.

The financing of the Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration program at Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies is primarily supported through a combination of state budget funding, student tuition fees, and possibly international or project-based grants. State budget financing is allocated based on national higher education policies, enrollment numbers, and program accreditation status, ensuring that the program maintains its quality standards while offering affordable education to domestic students. Tuition fees for international students are structured according to university policies, which aim to balance financial sustainability with accessibility. The program may also benefit from partnerships with governmental institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private sector companies interested in society, organizational behavior, and public administration research, potentially providing additional funding through collaborative projects, research grants, and internships. Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies actively seeks to diversify its funding sources to enhance the quality of education, support research activities, and improve infrastructure. Students may have access to scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs offered at the national level, which are aimed at supporting students from various socio-economic backgrounds. The university also encourages students to participate in research projects that may be funded by European Union funds or other international bodies. Overall, the financing structure of the Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration program ensures sustainable development while broadening access to higher education and fostering research excellence.

The graduates work and have successful careers in a wide variety of areas, such as teaching, research, politics, public administration, municipalities,  social and health services, the media, personnel management, NGO and trade unions, insurance companies, police and Probation Service. A number of graduates have pursued their careers also in scientific and research institutions. The graduates are eligible to continue studies in the respective doctoral programmes in Latvia or abroad.