Academic Master Study Programme
CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
From resources to responsibility – become a leader in circular thinking. From idea to sustainability – become a driver of change with a positive impact on society and the environment.
This is the only master′s program in Latvia that combines the principles of the circular economy with the values of social entrepreneurship, preparing professionals who are able to create sustainable, innovative, and socially significant initiatives.
The program is particularly suitable for young professionals, graduates, and socially responsible entrepreneurs who want to combine business thinking with environmental and social sustainability goals.
Here, management meets the circular economy and social responsibility. You will learn how to create and develop businesses that address real-world problems, from climate change to social inequality. The program content is based on the latest trends and strategic thinking, complemented by design thinking, research, and innovation.
You will develop the ability to:
- create new business ideas in the field of circular and social economy;
- apply analytical and creative approaches to solving complex problems;
- work with impact – both locally and globally.
Graduates of the program implement changes in areas of importance to society, both in Latvia and internationally, and work as:
- social entrepreneurs,
- sustainability and innovation managers,
- project managers in the non-governmental sector,
- or policymakers in the field of sustainable development.
Degree to be achieved: Academic Master of Social Sciences in Management and Administration
Period of studies: 2 years
Language: English / Latvian
Accreditation: Study direction is accredited till August 26, 2027.
Admission requirements
Previous education:
- Social Science Bachelor degree or second level professional higher education in economics or management
- Social Science Bachelor degree in other fields and at least 2 years experience in company or its department management
- English level B2 or International English language certificate:
TOEFL iBT – 72+
TOEFL PBT (paper-based test) - 513+
IELTS - 5.5 - 6.0
TOEIC – 605+
FCE (First Certificate in English) – 160+
CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English) – 160+
CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English) - 160+
Cambridge English: Business Vantage (BEC Vantage) – 160+
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE A) – 59+
Cambridge English Linguaskill – 160+
Admission reguirements for foreign students are available HERE.
Computer and software requirements
To successfully complete the study programme, students are required to have a laptop suitable for data analysis, project management, research, and presentation development. Appropriate technical equipment enables students to analyze sustainable development processes, develop social entrepreneurship initiatives, conduct research and carry out study projects throughout the entire study period.
1. Technical requirements for a laptop
- Screen size: not less than 14"
- Processor: Intel Core i5 (13th generation) or AMD Ryzen 5/7, or equivalent
- Graphics card: integrated Intel UHD Graphics or AMD Radeon Graphics
- Memory (RAM): at least 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Network: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- Connectivity: at least one USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) port or newer
- Battery life: minimum 6 hours according to the manufacturer′s specifications
- Alternatively, an Apple MacBook with an Apple Silicon M-series processor and at least 16 GB RAM
2. Required software
Software to be installed before the start of studies:
- MS Windows 11 or later (recommended) / Linux / macOS
- Microsoft Office (online version available free of charge)
- VOSviewer
- Mendeley
- JAMOVI 2.3.28
- Dedoose (to be installed at the beginning of the first semester)
Special Offer for EKA students from Capital
EKA students can take advantage of a partnership offer with Capital, purchasing laptop equipment suitable for their studies at student prices. The offer includes laptop models recommended for specific study programmes and discounts of up to 15% on other devices and accessories.
To receive a personalized offer or consultation regarding the most suitable technical equipment for your studies, please contact Capital specialists at eka@capital.lv. They will help you choose the equipment that best meets the requirements of your study programme and individual needs.
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Period of studies
Full-time studies - 2 years
Study schedule is designed for employed students and those who have other important tasks during the day:
- on-line video lectures according to study schedule from 18:30 to 20:30 twice a week (IMPORTANT: those are online lectures not records, thus professors and students can communicate, show different documents, answer questions etc.);
- all lectures later could be watched as records until the end of the study course (very important to those who cannot attend lectures due to objective reasons or are late to lectures);
- seminars, teamwork, discussions, consultations - according to study schedule from 09:00 to 17:00
Study courses
MANDATORY STUDY COURSES
- Introduction in studies
- Environmental policy
- Sustainable development
- Corporate social responsibility
- Circular economy
- Research methods and organization of academic work
- Legal framework for circular economy and social entrepreneurship
- Design thinking
- Startup entrepreneurship
- Social entrepreneurship
COMPULSORY ELECTIVE STUDY COURSES
- Strategic and change management
- Academic English
- Financial Management of Companies
- Intellectual capital management
- Intercultural communication
- Integrated management systems
- Labor, environmental and civil protection (if not completed at previous education levels)
FINAL EXAM
- Master Thesis
