Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) – Experience Latvia, discover technology and innovation
Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) was founded in 1997 and is a modern, internationally oriented university of applied sciences in the port city of Ventspils on the Latvian Baltic coast. The university combines academic excellence with practice-oriented education and specifically prepares its students for the demands of a global labour market.
The university’s core values – excellence, collegiality, creativity, flexibility and academic integrity – shape teaching, research and international university life. Through its open and digital approach, VUAS is continually strengthening its international presence and its contribution to science, technology and economic development.
A university that’s right for you
Ventspils University of Applied Sciences combines practice-oriented teaching with innovative research in an international environment. The university is particularly renowned for its expertise in the fields of information technology, linguistics and translation studies, as well as space and communications technologies.
A significant milestone was the integration of the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC) in 2004. As a result, the university became home to the largest radio telescope antenna in Northern Europe and developed into a major research centre for radio astronomy, satellite communications and space technology.
Through its close collaboration with European research networks, the European Space Agency (ESA) and international universities, the university offers unique opportunities for research and international experience.
Life on campus
VUAS has a modern and compact campus, which allows for short distances and a personalised learning environment. Students benefit from close contact with teaching staff and a strong international community.
The university offers:
- Modern learning and research facilities
- IT and technology laboratories
- International student programmes
- Cultural and social events
- Support for international students
- Practical projects in collaboration with companies and research organisations
The friendly atmosphere makes it particularly easy for international students to settle in.
Ventspils – Studying by the Baltic Sea
Ventspils is situated in north-western Latvia, right on the Baltic Sea, and is one of the country’s most modern and liveable cities. The city is known for its well-maintained surroundings, its beaches, its harbour and its wide range of leisure activities.
Students benefit from a safe and relaxed atmosphere, short distances and a wide range of opportunities for sport, culture and outdoor activities. Its location on the Baltic Sea offers ideal conditions for anyone wishing to combine their studies with a high quality of life.
COLOURS at the VUAS
As a member of the COLOURS Alliance, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences is actively committed to European cooperation, innovation and interdisziplinär learning. Students can take part in international workshops, CoLabs and project-based learning formats, and work on real-world challenges alongside students from other European universities.
The university’s international focus and its strong research base in the fields of technology, digitalisation and space research make it a key partner within the COLOURS Alliance.
Workshops & CoLabs
VUAS plays an active role in the COLOURS CoLabs on digitalisation, innovation, sustainability and social development. As part of international teams, you’ll work alongside students from across Europe on practical projects and develop creative solutions to current challenges.
Language courses & learning Latvian
Don’t speak Latvian yet? No problem. Many programmes are on offer for international students and are delivered in English. In addition, the university offers opportunities to learn about the Latvian language and culture, allowing you to experience your time as a student even more fully.
Key facts at a glance
| Location | Ventspils, Latvia |
| Transport links | Good bus connections to Riga and other regions of Latvia; international connections via Riga Airport |
| Accommodation | Student halls of residence and private accommodation available near the campus |
| Cost of living | Relatively moderate and cheaper than in many Western European countries |
| Language of instruction | Latvian and English (depending on the study programme) |
| Application deadlines | Via the International Office at Paderborn University (spring for the winter semester, autumn for the summer semester) |
| Website: | www.venta.lv |
