Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences
Valmiera, 🇱🇻 Latvia Public
#9 National
#9 National
850 students Urban €3k - €6k/yr
About Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA) is a state-founded higher education institution in Valmiera, Latvia, established in 1996. It is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, experienced academic staff, and commitment to scientific research and evidence-based practices at regional, national, and international levels. ViA aims to be an international, regional, and sustainable driver of knowledge, research, and innovation for the future of society.
ViA offers a diverse range of study programs across its Faculty of Society and Science and Faculty of Engineering, with a strong emphasis on balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application. Notable programs include Information Technologies, Cybersecurity Engineering, Media and Information Literacy, Strategic Communication and Governance, Business Environment Administration, and Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies. The university's research activities are interdisciplinary, focusing on digital solutions for social challenges, including virtual reality technologies, eco-buildings, and socio-technical systems modeling.
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences actively supports international students, having received a "Best Practice University" certificate in 2023 for its management in attracting foreign students and ensuring quality education. The university participates in Erasmus and Nordplus exchange programs, and exchange students may be eligible for Latvian Government scholarships. Several programs are taught in English, including Master's degrees in Media and Information Literacy, Strategic Communication and Governance, Cybersecurity Engineering, Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies, and Business Environment Administration. ViA also organizes the Baltic International Summer School, offering foreign students insights into Baltic issues.
Located in Valmiera, a vibrant town in Latvia with a population of around 25,000, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences benefits from an urban campus setting. Valmiera has been recognized by the Financial Times fDi intelligence as one of the "TOP 3 Micro European Cities of the Future," highlighting its dynamic business community and regional importance for sports, culture, and education. The university provides on-campus and off-campus accommodation options, and students can benefit from discounts on public transportation, with biking and walking being popular commuting choices in the bike-friendly city.
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences boasts a high employment rate for its graduates, with many securing jobs within six months of graduation. The Career Center offers comprehensive support, including career counseling, job search assistance, resume workshops, and interview preparation, and facilitates internships and placements. Graduates find employment across diverse sectors such as technology, engineering, business, education, and government. The university also fosters industry connections, exemplified by its cooperation agreement with Latvijas Finieris for the development of robotics and mechatronics education, and its role in the Vidzeme Open Innovation Hub, which strengthens collaboration between entrepreneurs, researchers, and public sector institutions.
Academics
ViA offers a diverse range of study programs across its Faculty of Society and Science and Faculty of Engineering, with a strong emphasis on balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application. Notable programs include Information Technologies, Cybersecurity Engineering, Media and Information Literacy, Strategic Communication and Governance, Business Environment Administration, and Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies. The university's research activities are interdisciplinary, focusing on digital solutions for social challenges, including virtual reality technologies, eco-buildings, and socio-technical systems modeling.
International Students
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences actively supports international students, having received a "Best Practice University" certificate in 2023 for its management in attracting foreign students and ensuring quality education. The university participates in Erasmus and Nordplus exchange programs, and exchange students may be eligible for Latvian Government scholarships. Several programs are taught in English, including Master's degrees in Media and Information Literacy, Strategic Communication and Governance, Cybersecurity Engineering, Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies, and Business Environment Administration. ViA also organizes the Baltic International Summer School, offering foreign students insights into Baltic issues.
Campus & Location
Located in Valmiera, a vibrant town in Latvia with a population of around 25,000, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences benefits from an urban campus setting. Valmiera has been recognized by the Financial Times fDi intelligence as one of the "TOP 3 Micro European Cities of the Future," highlighting its dynamic business community and regional importance for sports, culture, and education. The university provides on-campus and off-campus accommodation options, and students can benefit from discounts on public transportation, with biking and walking being popular commuting choices in the bike-friendly city.
Career Outcomes
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences boasts a high employment rate for its graduates, with many securing jobs within six months of graduation. The Career Center offers comprehensive support, including career counseling, job search assistance, resume workshops, and interview preparation, and facilitates internships and placements. Graduates find employment across diverse sectors such as technology, engineering, business, education, and government. The university also fosters industry connections, exemplified by its cooperation agreement with Latvijas Finieris for the development of robotics and mechatronics education, and its role in the Vidzeme Open Innovation Hub, which strengthens collaboration between entrepreneurs, researchers, and public sector institutions.
Highlights
- Focus on practical professional studies
- Strong emphasis on sustainable tourism
- High-tech virtual reality research labs
- Close partnerships with regional industries
- International exchange and mobility opportunities
- Modern campus in Valmiera city
Subject Areas
ITCommunicationBusinessTourismMedia
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Scholarships Available
Photos
Programs Offered at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (12)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (5)
Business Administration
Business Administration
Business Administration
administrationbachelorbusinessbusiness administrationlatvia
48 months English Full-time
€2,500/yr
Communication and Public Relations
Communication
Communication
bsc communicationcommunication program in valmieracommunication and public relationsundergraduate communication programpublic relations degree
48 months English Full-time
€2,500/yr
Multimedia Design and Communication
Design
Design
bachelor in designbachelor designstudy design in latviabachelor in design in latviabachelor design valmiera
48 months English Full-time
€2,500/yr
Information Technology
STEM
Information Technology
Information Technology
information technologyIT managementnetworkingsystemsdatabase
48 months English Full-time
€2,500/yr
Tourism Organization and Management
Tourism
Tourism
bachelor in tourismstudy tourism in latviabachelor tourism in valmieraba tourismtourism management degree
48 months English Full-time
€2,500/yr
Master Programs (6)
Strategic Communication and Public Relations
Communication
Communication
andbroadcastingcommunicationlatviamaster
24 months English Full-time
€3,000/yr
Cybersecurity Engineering
STEM
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity
cybersecurity engineering master LatviaVidzeme University cybersecurityinformation security master Balticcyber defense master Latvianetwork security master Europe
24 months English Full-time
€3,000/yr
Social Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship
english-taught master entrepreneurship in latviaentrepreneurship at vidzeme university of applied sciencesmaster entrepreneurshipmaster entrepreneurship valmieramaster in entrepreneurship
24 months English Full-time
€3,000/yr
IT Project Management
STEM
Information Technology
Information Technology
appliedinformationinformation technologyit project managementlatvia
24 months English Full-time
€3,000/yr
Digital Marketing and Analytics
Marketing
Marketing
ms in marketingstudy abroad valmieramarketing at vidzeme university of applied sciencesmsc marketingmasters in marketing
24 months English Full-time
€3,000/yr
Tourism Strategic Management
Tourism
Tourism
appliedgraduatelatviamamanagement
24 months English Full-time
€3,000/yr
PhD Programs (1)
Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
computer science careercomputer science phddoctorate in computer scienceenglish-taught phd computer sciencephd computer science
36 months English Full-time
€4,000/yr
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
5.5+ IELTS
69+ TOEFL
2.5+ GPA
Intakes Fall
Application Deadline July 31, 2026 (EU/EEA citizens, non-EU/EEA visa-free countries); June 21, 2026 (non-EU/EEA countries requiring a visa); May 1, 2026 (countries requiring additional assessment)
Tuition (per year) €3k - €6k/yr
Application Fee $150
Teaching Language Latvian, English
Accreditation
Izglitibas un zinatnes ministrija (Ministry of Education and Science)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences
Common questions from international students considering Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences.
How much does Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences cost for international students?
Tuition at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences ranges from €3k - €6k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.
What is Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences ranked globally?
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences holds the following rankings: #9 in Latvia. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences have?
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences typically requires IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 69+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences?
Yes, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences start its semesters?
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences has intakes starting in Fall. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences offer?
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences offers 12+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences located?
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences is located in Valmiera, Latvia 🇱🇻. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences?
For specific details about Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences offer?
For specific details about Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
How does Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences compare to other universities?
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences is a strong choice that compares favorably to peer institutions. Each university has different strengths — we recommend comparing specific programs, location, cost, and graduate outcomes for your field rather than overall rankings alone.
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