PhD in Social Sciences

The Social Sciences doctoral programme is taught in English in person and full time, over six semesters or three years, and carries 216 ECTS credits. Classes are held at the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences in Riga, at Lauvas iela 4, and graduates receive a Doctor of Science (Ph.D.) degree in the social sciences. The programme aims to prepare highly qualified specialists for independent work in science, in higher education and in the economy. It also consolidates the University of Latvia's existing doctoral programmes in the field, such as Communication Science and Political Science. For 2026/2027 the university lists six state-funded and two fee-paying places. The state-funded places are awarded in one competition for local and international applicants and are open only to EU/EEA and Swiss citizens, permanent residents and their family members.