Biotechnology and Bioengineering

Degree to be achieved: Bachelor of Natural Sciences
Duration of studies: full-time 6 semesters (3 years)
Amount of credits: 120 credit points or 180 ECTS
European Qualifications Framework (EQF) level: Level 6
International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) level: Level 6
Language of instruction: English
Accreditation: the program is accredited until 20.12.2029.
Director and coordinator of the Programme: doc. Anete Borodušķe (anete.boroduske@lu.lv, daba@lu.lv)

Tuition fee 
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and their family members; Long Term Resident EU - 3550 EUR per Year
Other сountry citizens - 4000 EUR per Year

Please note that the tuition fee may change in 2025. 

The joint academic bachelor’s “Biotechnology and bioengineering” programme of the University of Latvia (UL) and Riga Technical University (RTU) enables students to acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills in the field of biotechnology and bioengineering, acquire skills in the design of equipment and processes, and product development. The studies take place in modern auditoriums and laboratories in UL and RTU, and in the study process there is an opportunity to familiarise themselves with work organisation of enterprises.
The programme covers such study courses as the design of biological systems, information technologies, chemistry, biophysics, genetics, genomics, material science, microbiology, business, cell and gene engineering, biotechnology, bioengineering.  

Aim of the study program is to prepare highly qualified specialists and scientists able to compete on both the local and international scientific labour markets in the various sectors of biotechnology and bioengineering.
 
Tasks of the study programme:
1. Ensure the possibility of learning the theoretical and practical courses of biology, as well as basic courses of mathematics, physics and chemistry,
2. Ensure that in-depth courses can be learned in a relatively specialised direction of molecular or organism biology,
3. Develop capabilities related to critical thinking, analysis and reasoning,
4. Develop skills in the design of biotechnology equipment and processes and product development,
5. Develop skills to carry out independent research in a selected biology sub-field and to bring results into bachelor’s thesis and to obtain Bachelor of natural sciences in biotechnology and bioengineering degree.

Career prospects

It is possible for graduates to work in the scientific laboratories of universities and institutes, in existing businesses (in the fields of food, agriculture, medicine, waste recycling, etc.) or to create their own start-ups. Biotechnology and bioengineering is an interesting and dynamically evolving area that continues to create ever-new job opportunities. 

More information about study programme and Study plan

ERASMUS+ exchange possibilities

UL full-time students, regardless of their citizenship, have the opportunity to apply for the ERASMUS + exchange program for studies or/and traineeship.  

More information:

ERASMUS + study mobility 
ERASMUS + traineeship moblity  

Admission requirements

1. General secondary high school diploma;
2. English language proficiency.
3. Grades in Biology or Naturescience, Mathematics or Physics or Chemistry must be no less than 8 in a 10 point grading system.
4. All grades must be passing (at least 4 on a 10-point scale).
5. As a part of the admission process applicants will be asked to participate in an online interview.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and EU long-term resident status holders can compete for a state-financed study place.
 

Admission competition criteria:

1. The grade in English (20%);
2. The grade in Biology or Naturescience (30%);
3. The grade in Mathematics or Physics or Chemistry (30%)
4. Grade point average (20%).

Autumn Intake (application start: 19 Nov 2024; studies start in Sept 2025)

Full-time

The programme has been developed within the framework of the project "Design of Internationally Competitive Study Programmes Promoting the Development of the National Economy of Latvia at the University of Latvia" (project No. 8.2.1.0 / 18 / A / 015).