DoctoratePolitical Science
| Study location | Latvia, Riga |
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| Type | Doctoral, part-time |
| Nominal duration | 4 years (216 ECTS) |
| Study language | English |
| Awards | Doctorate (Doctor of science (PhD) in Political Science) |
| Accreditation | Study programme is accredited (to be revised in 2024) |
| Tuition fee | €3,417 per year |
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| Application fee | €141 one-time The application fee consists of a 100 € registration fee and a 41 € payment for the recognition of education documents by the Academic Information centre of Latvia. The application fee is non-refundable. Payment of the application fee and the diploma recognition fee should be paid only after the receipt of the invoice and must be paid BY the deadline of the invoice, if for any reason you have failed to pay the fees by the said deadline please contact the admission coordinator. |
| Deposit | €500 one-time A one-time payment for students coming from third countries outside the EU/EEA is to be paid in full together with the full-year tuition fee payable upon arrival. The deposit is intended for coverage of possible immigration expenses and paid back upon request after graduation. |
| Entry qualification | Postgraduate diploma (or higher) Master’s Degree in Social Sciences or comparable degree. The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English / Latvian. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original. Diplomas and transcripts issued outside EU must be legalized with legalization stamps or Apostille. More information available HERE You must take the original entry qualification documents with you when you finally go to the university. |
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| Language requirements | English Applicants must prove their English language knowledge. University accepts the following international language tests: If your previous studies have been obtained in English but in the country where English is not native language, then you have to present an official letter from your previous educational institution (secondary school, etc.) where is stated that all your studies were in English (medium of instruction is English), and you have to pass interview where the University of Latvia will evaluate your language skills. If you do not have any chance to take the English language test, the University of Latvia offers the option of taking an online English test. If you would like to take the test please write to gunita.eke@lu.lv Applicants who have obtained previous education in English in one of the bellow listed countries do not need to provide separate language proficiency: |
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| Other requirements | Successful pass of entrance examination where applicants will be invited to an interview via Skype. Applicants are obligated to upload: 2) Filled out Curriculum Vitae in Europass format |
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| More information |
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Overview
The doctoral programme in political science is the highest-level study programme which allows students to gain independent experience with research and studies, as well as an internationally comparable doctorate in political science. Its necessity from the perspective of Latvia’s state interests is closely linked to the further existence and development of political science as a discipline of science in the country. Doctoral studies in political science have become significant institution for creating highly qualified cadres in Latvia, and in certain fields – international relations, ethnic relations – in the Baltic region as a whole. The aim of the doctoral programme in political science is to train highly qualified specialists who can engage in scholarly work and teach political science. The degree is intended to be fully internationally comparable, allowing graduates to participate in and contribute to international debates and academic fora. Currently doctoral programme offers specialization and thus students elaborate their doctoral thesis in one of the sub-disciplines – comparative politics, international politics, political theory or public government and administration. The study programme allows each doctoral student to develop as an individual, taking into account the student’s interests, education, experience and achievements. The doctoral study programme involves the studies as such, as well as independent and original research work. The doctoral study program in political science programme at the University of Latvia envisages 76 credit points (114 ECTS) for completion of the PhD thesis out of 144 credit points (216 ECTS), which should be gathered also in other related activities, e.g. theoretical courses, courses on the relevant sub-field, publications, pedagogical work, internships in foreign universities and research institutions, participation in summer schools etc.