Master in Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration
The current economic trends in Latvia and Europe highlight the necessity of highly qualified specialists and researchers in economics, management and sociological research who can work in innovative enterprises and institutions. The masters program "Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration" is offered by the Faculty of Economics and Social Development.
Academic profile
The programme aims to educate highly qualified specialists for managerial posts in organizations of public and private sectors as well as for research institutions. The study programme ensures the student-centred approach to the study process which allows students to develop their theoretical and empirical knowledge, skills and competence for the in-depth analysis of the contemporary social processes, organizational performance and issues of public administration. The programme covers two academic years. In the 1st semester students extend their knowledge and skills in sociological theory, research methodology and techniques, organizational behaviour, and public administration. Study courses of the 2nd semester specifically focus on organizational studies, the public and nongovernmental sector, social welfare, research of the quality of life, rural studies, and development programmes. During the research practice in the 3rd semester students are offered to visit organizations of the public sector and are required to demonstrate their practical skills in one of the organizations; a few compulsory and elective courses are also delivered such as Project Management, Policy Analysis, Human Development, Time Management, and Innovations and Creativity. In the 4th semester the programme is completed with the elaboration and defence of a Master’s thesis.
Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in social sciences or humanities. Applicants with Bachelor’s degree or professional Bachelor’s degree in other specialities are expected to have basic knowledge in social theory and research methodology. English requirements: CEFR B2, IELTS score 5.5, TOEFL score 520, TOEFL-iBT score 65.
Career prospects and further studies
The graduates work and have successful careers in a wide variety of areas, such as teaching, research, politics, public administration, municipalities, social and health services, the media, personnel management, NGO and trade unions, insurance companies, police and Probation Service. A number of graduates have pursued their careers also in scientific and research institutions. The graduates are eligible to continue studies in the respective doctoral programmes in Latvia or abroad.
Why study Sociology of Organisations and Public Administration at the Latvia University of Agriculture?
- You will develop a deeper and multidisciplinary understanding about management of organizations and people in the public, private and nongovernmental sectors as well as how to improve their performance.
- You will acquire knowledge and practical skills in: (1) researching social structures and issues, organizational behaviour and performance, (2) developing proposals and solutions, and (3) their practical implementation.
- You will be equipped with knowledge and skills on contemporary trends in social life, public policies, and organizations, which form strong foundation for your future career in any field or job highly related to social responsibility.
- We offer you an interactive study process: organized field trips, opportunities of e-learning, problem solving seminars and discussions, guest lectures, and research practice.
- We ensure the student-centred approach to the study process and focus on your needs and interests in every study course.
- Organisation of Research
- Sociological Theory
- History of Sociology
- Methods of Social Research
- Topical Problems of Management
- Contemporary Sociological Theories
- Social Policy
- Social Psychology
- Organizational Theory
- Development Programmes
- Rural Sociology
- Social Work in Municipalities
- Sociology in Latvia
- Methodological Problems of Research
- Public Administration
- Organization of Local Municipalities
- Urban Sociology
- Nongovernmental Organizations
- Policy Analysis
- Human Development
- Philosophy of Science
- Applications of Mathematical Methods
- Management Psychology
- Project Management
- Processing of Sociological Information
- European Union Anti- Discrimination Policy
- Time Management
- Business Etiquette and Protocol
- Organizational Culture
- SociP005 Study of Organizations [research practice]
- Soci6010 Master Thesis I
- Soci6008 Master thesis II
Study plan
Compulsory courses (60 ECTS)This school offers programs in:
- English
Last updated December 15, 2016
