Latvian Maritime Academy

Charting your future across the world’s oceans.

📍 Riga, Latvia 🇱🇻

🏆 #24 in Latvia

Quick Facts about Latvian Maritime Academy

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 500
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $4,000 – $7,000/year
  • Language: Latvian, English
  • Intakes: September, February

About Latvian Maritime Academy

The Latvian Maritime Academy (LMA), now a structural unit of Riga Technical University (RTU), is Latvia's leading institution for professional maritime education and training. Established in 1993, with roots tracing back to the Riga Navigation School founded in 1789, LMA plays a crucial role in preparing highly qualified officers and specialists for the international merchant fleet. The academy emphasizes practical training, integrating state-of-the-art simulators and mandatory shipboard practice to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the maritime industry.

Academics

LMA offers professional bachelor's and master's programs in key maritime disciplines. Notable programs include "Maritime Transport – Navigation," "Maritime Transport – Marine Engineering," "Port Management," and "Maritime Transport – Marine Electrical Automation." The curriculum aligns with international standards, such as the STCW-78 Convention and the Bologna Process, ensuring a globally recognized education. The teaching approach heavily emphasizes practical skills through the use of advanced simulators for navigation, engineering, and safety training, alongside mandatory shipboard practice.

International Students

LMA provides support for international students, including assistance with visa processes and accommodation in its dormitory or hostel. While many programs are taught in Latvian, several bachelor's and master's programs are available in English, such as "Maritime Transport – Navigation," "Maritime Transport – Marine Engineering," "Maritime Transport – Marine Electrical Automation," and the Master's in "Maritime Transport." The academy participates in the Erasmus+ mobility program, offering courses in English for incoming exchange students. Latvia also offers government scholarships for international students from eligible countries, which can cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Campus & Location

The LMA campus is located in Riga, Latvia, a city with a rich maritime heritage. As of September 2024, LMA and its Maritime School relocated to RTU's student campus in Kipsala. The campus features modern facilities including a comprehensive maritime library, mechanical and welding workshops, and advanced simulators. Riga offers a vibrant city life and is a hub for maritime activities, providing a dynamic environment for students.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Latvian Maritime Academy benefit from high employment rates, with 93.5% finding employment, which is significantly higher than the national average. The maritime industry consistently demands highly qualified ship officers, ensuring guaranteed job prospects for LMA graduates. The academy maintains strong industry connections with shipping companies, crewing agencies, and other maritime-related businesses, facilitating internships and job opportunities. Career services include regular meetings with crewing companies to inform students about available shipboard practice and employment. Graduates pursue diverse roles such as watch engineer, chief officer, master, and positions in port management and maritime engineering firms.

Information for International Students at Latvian Maritime Academy

Latvian Maritime Academy in Riga, Latvia welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Latvian, English

Admissions Requirements for Latvian Maritime Academy

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Latvian Maritime Academy:

  • IELTS minimum: 5.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 61
  • Duolingo minimum: 100
  • Application fee: $150
  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)
  • Application deadline: August 29

Apply to Latvian Maritime Academy →

Programs at Latvian Maritime Academy (13 programs)

Latvian Maritime Academy offers 13 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (8)

  • Maritime Transport - Marine Engineering — 51 months · English · €6,180/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the engineering aspects of marine vessels, leading to a Professional Bachelor's degree in Maritime Transport and a Marine Engineer, 6th level professional qualification.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Marine Engineer, maritime transport specialist
  • Maritime Transport - Navigation (Professional Bachelor) (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This professional bachelor's program offers practical training and theoretical knowledge in navigation, ship handling, and maritime safety, leading to a professional qualification.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Deck Officer, Captain, Pilot
  • Port and Shipping Management (BSc) — 48 months · Latvian
    This program focuses on the business and logistical aspects of port operations and shipping companies, preparing students for management roles in the maritime industry.
    Field: Logistics and Management
    Career outcomes: Port Manager, Shipping Agent, Logistics Coordinator
  • Maritime Transport - Navigation — 51 months · English · €6,180/yr · STEM
    This program prepares students for careers in maritime navigation, leading to a Professional Bachelor's degree in Maritime Transport and a Navigator, 6th level professional qualification.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Navigator, maritime transport specialist
  • Maritime Transport - Marine Engineering (Professional Bachelor) (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    A professional bachelor's program focusing on the practical aspects of marine engineering, including engine operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, for aspiring marine engineers.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Marine Engineer, Chief Engineer, Technical Superintendent
  • Marine Electrical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Latvian · STEM
    The program provides comprehensive knowledge in electrical systems on board ships, including power generation, distribution, and automation, for future marine electricians and engineers.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Marine Electrician, Electrical Engineer (Marine), Automation Specialist
  • Maritime Transport - Marine Electrical Automation — 51 months · English · €6,180/yr · STEM
    This program trains students in the electrical and automation systems of marine vessels, leading to a Professional Bachelor's degree in Maritime Transport and a Marine Electromechanical Engineer, 6th level professional qualification.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Marine Electromechanical Engineer, maritime transport specialist
  • Port Management — 51 months · English · €6,180/yr
    This program focuses on the management and administration of ports and shipping, leading to a Professional Bachelor's degree in management and administration.
    Field: Port Management
    Career outcomes: Port management specialist

Master Programs (4)

  • Maritime Transport - Navigation (Master) (MSc) — 24 months · Latvian · STEM
    This master's program deepens knowledge in advanced navigation techniques, maritime law, and leadership, preparing graduates for senior management and command positions.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Captain, Port Authority Manager, Maritime Consultant
  • Maritime Transport - Marine Engineering (Master) (MSc) — 24 months · Latvian · STEM
    The master's program in marine engineering focuses on advanced topics in ship propulsion, energy efficiency, and marine systems design, for leadership in engineering roles.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Chief Engineer, Technical Manager, Marine Surveyor
  • Logistics and Maritime Business Management (MSc) — 24 months · Latvian
    This program provides advanced knowledge in logistics, supply chain management, and maritime business strategies, preparing graduates for senior management positions in the maritime sector.
    Field: Logistics and Management
    Career outcomes: Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Director, Maritime Business Consultant
  • Maritime Transport — 18 months · English · €7,160/yr · STEM
    This program prepares high-level specialists in maritime transport management and operation, leading to a Professional Master's degree in Maritime Transport with specializations available.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Managers in maritime transport companies, chief and senior technical specialists in maritime transport companies, scientific research and higher education institutions

PhD Programs (1)

  • Maritime Transport (PhD) (PhD) — 36 months · Latvian · STEM
    The doctoral program in Maritime Transport offers advanced research opportunities in areas such as maritime safety, environmental protection, and transport logistics, contributing to academic and industry innovation.
    Field: Maritime Transport
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Policy Advisor

Scholarships & Tuition at Latvian Maritime Academy

Annual tuition for international students: $4,000 – $7,000/year

✅ Latvian Maritime Academy offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Latvian Maritime Academy

  • National Ranking: #24 in Latvia
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: Medium

Campus & Facilities at Latvian Maritime Academy

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

  • Part of Riga Technical University
  • Accredited professional maritime education programs
  • Modern bridge and engine room simulators
  • Training according to STCW international standards
  • Strong links with global shipping companies
  • Located in the capital city Riga

Accreditation

  • Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia

Fields of Study at Latvian Maritime Academy

  • Maritime Transport
  • Logistics
  • Engineering
  • Navigation
  • Port Management

Notable Alumni

  • Captain Jānis Bērziņš
  • Aiga Ozoliņa
  • Roberts Kalniņš
  • Guntis Liepiņš

Frequently Asked Questions about Latvian Maritime Academy

What is Latvian Maritime Academy?

Latvian Maritime Academy is a public university located in Riga, Latvia. It has approximately 500 students.

How much does it cost to study at Latvian Maritime Academy?

Tuition fees at Latvian Maritime Academy for international students range from $4,000 – $7,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Latvian Maritime Academy?

IELTS minimum: 5.5. TOEFL minimum: 61. Duolingo minimum: 100. Application fee: $150. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: August 29.

What language are courses taught in at Latvian Maritime Academy?

Courses at Latvian Maritime Academy are taught in Latvian and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.

How many programs does Latvian Maritime Academy offer?

Latvian Maritime Academy offers 13 programs: 8 Bachelor's, 4 Master's, and 1 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Latvian Maritime Academy ranked?

#24 in Latvia.

Does Latvian Maritime Academy offer scholarships?

Yes, Latvian Maritime Academy offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Latvian Maritime Academy provide visa support?

Yes, Latvian Maritime Academy provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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