Master in Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration

If you look for a deep and multidisciplinary understanding about social world, organizations and people in the public and non-governmental sectors as well as how to improve their performance, sociology is the right subject to study.

Abstract

Our study programme “Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration” ensures the student-centred approach to the study process which allows you to develop your theoretical and empirical knowledge, skills and competence for the in-depth analysis of the contemporary social processes, organizational performance and issues of public administration. We offer you an interactive study process: organized field trips, opportunities of e-learning, problem solving seminars and discussions, and guest lectures. 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.

Aim of the study program

The programme aims to educate highly qualified specialists for managerial posts in organizations of public and private sectors as well as for research institutions.

Program director Līga Paula says:

"Sociology is for those who want to understand the social world and are ready to change it for a much better future. If you are one of those, this study programme is for you!"

Study plan and structure

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 3rd semester 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.

Examination procedure

In every subject course, student performance is measured according to the 10-point assessment scale. During the studies, master students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by completing individual tasks and group works such as essays, discussions, short reports, reviews, data collection and analysis, and presentations. Each subject course ends with an examination or a formal test with a grade. Integrated knowledge, skills and competence is tested during the Master’s thesis.

Our graduates have knowledge about:

• social theory, the structure of society and changing social processes,
• development trends and performance of public and non-governmental organizations,
• sustainable development,
• methodology and organizing principles of social research.

Our graduates are able:

• to identify problems in the field of organizations and public administration, to choose relevant sociological concepts and methodologies for their study;
• to find solutions in order to manage social change in the context of sustainable social development;
• to organize and conduct sociological research, evaluate research results according to the theoretical concepts;
• to apply results in policy development and planning in the sphere of organizations and public administration.

Our 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. 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.