Latvian Academy of Culture

The Latvian Academy of Culture (LAC) is an interdisciplinary higher education institution in Riga, Latvia, dedicated to culture and arts. Established in 1990, it fosters cultural research, artistic work, and creative entrepreneurship. The Academy offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral programs, contributing significantly to Latvia's cultural and artistic development both nationally and internationally.

Academics

The LAC offers a diverse range of programs across cultural subjects, performing arts, film, and audiovisual arts. Its teaching approach emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and practical experience, with programs like "Creative Industries and Growth Management" developed in cooperation with other universities. The Academy has established traditions in Audiovisual Culture, Cinematography, and Contemporary Dance Studies, alongside strong programs in Culture Management, Art Production, Drama, and Text Studies. The Institute of Arts and Cultural Studies (IACS) within the LAC is a dynamic research institution fostering an interdisciplinary approach to cultural processes, arts, and the creative sector.

International Students

The Latvian Academy of Culture provides support services for international students, including a "buddy" network where local students assist newcomers with integration, public transport, and ISIC student cards. While many programs are taught in Latvian, the international Master's program "Creative Industries and Growth Management" is offered in English. The Academy actively participates in Erasmus+ mobility programs, offering opportunities for international exchange and collaboration. International students can also apply for Latvian state scholarships and scholarships granted by the Academy itself.

Campus & Location

The LAC's study process takes place across three buildings in Riga, including the main building and National Film School in the historic Moscow District, and the Department of Performing Arts in the city center at "Zirgu Pasts". Riga offers a vibrant city life with diverse cultural experiences. Public transportation in Riga is efficient, with buses, trams, trolley-buses, and minibuses operating from early morning until late at night. The Academy also provides options for student accommodation within walking distance.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from the Latvian Academy of Culture are well-prepared for careers in the cultural and creative sectors. The curriculum focuses on developing skills in cultural and arts management, entrepreneurship, and project management, with compulsory work placements in cultural organizations. The Academy aims to produce strategically-minded leaders capable of driving growth in the creative industries. Notable alumni include actors, playwrights, choreographers, and cultural managers, indicating strong career prospects in various artistic and cultural fields.