OVERVIEW
The study programme provides extensive knowledge about Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) technologies, their usage and role in innovation.
A vital part of the programme is the opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience whilst working on live projects alongside various tech businesses, start-ups and industry professionals to solve current problems and create new solutions.
Participating in the annual AR/VR Hackathon is an integral part of the Master's study program in Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences.
More information: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
CAREER
Graduates can use the skills gained through studies to plan, implement and manage VR/AR projects as well as apply their knowledge to innovating new products/solutions and ensuring the advancement of VR/AR through scientific research.
Plausible career paths
A graduate of the Master’s in Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies from Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences could pursue various career paths in industries that leverage immersive technologies. Some potential roles include:
1. Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR) Development
- VR/AR Developer – Creating immersive applications for gaming, training, and simulations.
- XR (Extended Reality) Engineer – Developing cross-platform experiences integrating VR, AR, and MR (Mixed Reality).
- 3D Artist/Modeler – Designing assets for virtual environments in entertainment, education, or industrial applications.
2. Industry-Specific Applications
- Simulation & Training Specialist – Designing VR simulations for healthcare, aviation, military, or manufacturing – safety training.
- EdTech & E-learning Developer – Creating immersive educational experiences for students and professionals
- Digital Health Technology Specialist – Developing VR/AR applications for rehabilitation, therapy, or medical training.
3. Digital Transformation & Innovation
- AR/VR Technology Consultant – Advising companies on implementing smart technologies and VR/AR solutions.
- Product Manager (AR/VR) – Leading the development of innovative AR/VR technology products.
- Research & Development (R&D) Assistant – Exploring new possibilities in VR/AR and smart technologies.
4. Entrepreneurship & Startups
- Startup Founder (VR/Smart Tech) – Creating new products in immersive technology fields.
FAST FACTS
Language: English
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters) full time
ECTS: 120
Degree title: PROFESSIONAL MASTER’S DEGREE IN VIRTUAL REALITY AND SMART TECHNOLOGIES
EQF: Level 7
Exchange opportunities: Available through Erasmus+ and E3UDRES2.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor's degree in Information Technologies or Computer Science
- Evidence of English language competence (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS).
STATE FULLY FUNDED STUDY PLACES IN 2025/2026
10 study places on state budget resources are available for intake 2025 (for EU, EEA, Swiss Confederation students)
TUITION FEES 2025/2026
5043 EUR per year (EU, EEA, Swiss Confederation)
4400 EUR per year (non-EU)
APPLICATION DEADLINES 2025:
Non-EU, Non-EEA applicants: March 1 - May 31 (Scholarships that cover tuition fees are available to non-EU, non-EEA students for this program).
EU/ EEA/ Swiss Confederation applicants: March 1 - August 17 (students are eligible to apply for Latvian state-funded study placements).
All the eligible students are invited to apply for the Latvian State Scholarship. The application deadline for the academic year 2025/2026 is 1st of April, 2024.
For further information, get in touch with International Office at [email protected].
Apply through Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies - Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (dreamapply.com)
VR/AR project planning and implementation
VR/AR innovations and actuality in various industries, VR/AR hardware and physical structure, elements of IoT, Interactivity, scenarios composition and serious games.
VR/AR authoring
Mobile technology solutions, Programming advanced 3D graphics, 3D modeling approaches, and scripting, Development of advanced 3D interactive environments.
User experience design and implementation
UX strategy framework, Human factors and human-computer interaction, Motion graphics and environmental effects.
Recognition services and intellectual environments
Geometry processing and visualization, Augmented reality and computer vision algorithms, Introduction in machine - learning and neural networks.
VR/AR project sustainability and transformation
Innovations and project management, Research methodologies and scientific publications, Hackathon and teamwork, Simulation modeling and data 3D visualization.
Internship, Master’s thesis.
ECTS GUIDE
|
Course title |
ECTS |
|
Module "VR/AR project planning and implementation" |
|
|
VR/AR innovations and actuality in various industries |
3 |
|
VR/AR hardware and physical structure, elements of IoT |
3 |
|
Interractivity, scenarios composition and serious games |
3 |
|
Module "VR/AR authoring" |
|
|
Mobile technology solutions |
3 |
|
Programming advanced 3D graphics |
3 |
|
3D modelling approaches and scripting |
3 |
|
Developement of advanced 3D interractive environments |
3 |
|
Module "User experience design and implemetation" |
|
|
UX strategy framework |
3 |
|
Human factors and human-computer interaction |
3 |
|
Motion graphics and environmental effects |
3 |
|
Module "Recognition services and intellectual environments" |
|
|
Geometry processing and visualization |
3 |
|
Augmented reality and computer vision algorythms |
3 |
|
Introduction in machine - learning and neural networks |
3 |
|
Module "VR/AR project sustainability and transformation" |
|
|
Innovations and project managment |
3 |
|
Research methodologies and scientific publications |
3 |
|
Hackathon and teamwork |
3 |
|
Simulation modelling and data 3D visualization |
3 |
|
Internship |
9 |
|
Master's thesis |
30 |
|
TOTAL: |
90 |
1) Deep understanding of the principles of augmented reality, including spatial geometry, computer vision algorithms, machine learning and neural networks
2) Ability to apply AR/VR knowledge in research and be able to develop innovative solutions related to augmented reality
3. Ability to perform programming tasks and authoring activities involving three-dimensional content management on websites and independent platforms using high-level programming languages, game engines, special libraries and standards
4 Ability to implement different approaches to three-dimensional computer modelling, including animation description and process automation, as well as synthesis and interaction of different content
5) Ability to plan and implement virtual and augmented reality projects, developing new ideas that go beyond standard solutions
6. Ability to design the physical structure of new systems based on an in-depth knowledge of specific virtual and augmented reality equipment technologies, technical parameters, performance characteristics, interoperability issues and supported platforms
7. Ability to develop the content of a software solution by integrating self-developed scenarios in interactive modes based on intelligent game approaches and game mechanics
8) Graduates take into account and respect aspects of the user experience and integrate them into the platforms and applications developed for virtual and augmented reality
9) Ability to explain and discuss the principles and technologies of virtual and augmented reality in a reasoned way with both AR/VR specialists and non-professionals
10) Ability to ensure the sustainable development and use of virtual and augmented reality solutions through successful and state-of-the-art project mana
The tuition fee is outlined in the individual agreement between the student and the university. The student receives the agreement together with the admission letter. Accepted students must pay the tuition fee in advance for the full academic year.
| Citizenship | Per year EUR |
Full programme cost EUR |
| Tuition Fees for the citizens of the EU, EEA, Swiss Confederation 2025/2026 | 4400 |
8800 |
| Tuition Fees for other Citizens 2025/2026 | 5043 |
10 086 |
Registration fee (non-refundable) must be paid before the application is submitted (confirmation of payment must be included in the application):
|
Citizenship |
Application fee amount EUR |
| Estonia, Lithuania, Georgia and Moldova | 50 |
|
EU, EEA countries, Swiss Confederation, USA, Australia, Azerbaijan, Japan, Canada, Kazakhstan, Macedonia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Vietnam |
100 |
|
International applicants from other countries |
250 |
Applicants from Ukraine are exempt from Registration fee
Registration fee must be paid to one of the following bank accounts:
Bank: AS Swedbank
Bank code: HABALV22
Bank account number: LV78HABA0551027191593
Bank payments should be marked: “Study registration fee: your name”
Bank: AS Citadele banka
Bank code: PARXLV22
Bank account number: LV74PARX0006876240003
Bank payments should be marked: “Study registration fee: your name”
Bank: AS Luminor banka
Bank code: RIKOLV2X
Bank account number: LV90RIKO0002013197983
Bank payments should be marked: “Study registration fee: your name”
OTHER COSTS
To have and overview of the costs involved in studying in Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, please see the indicative list of costs:
|
Costs per month |
EUR |
|
Housing: |
From 150 eur |
|
Local transportation costs |
From 30 eur (monthly bus ticket) |
|
Groceries |
From 300 eur |
|
Household goods and other costs |
From 300 eur |
The cost of living in Valmiera can seem rather inexpensive for students from some other countries.
MASTER'S IN VIRTUAL REALITY AND SMART TECHNOLOGIES
MASTER'S IN BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT ADMINISTRATION
Mg.sc.comp. Edmunds Jansons
Head of study programme “Virtual Reality and Smart Technologies”
e-mail: [email protected]
Dr.sc.ing. Arnis Cīrulis
Leading researcher in the sub-field of Virtual Reality Technologies and Visualization and Head of the Virtual Reality Technology Laboratory (ViA VR-Lab)
e-mail: [email protected]
Mg.sc.comp. Lauris Taube
Virtual reality and mobile technologies laboratory assistant
e-mail: [email protected]
Dr.sc.ing. Linda Lancere
Researcher
e-mail: [email protected]
Mg.sc.comp. Zintis Erics
Research assistant in the Virtual Reality Technology and Visualization sub-direction
e-mail: [email protected]
Mg.sc.comp.Toms Amsons
Visiting research assistant in the field of Virtual Reality Technologies and Visualization
e-mail: [email protected]
Mg.sc.comp. Laura Ozoliņa
Visiting research assistant in the field of Virtual Reality Technologies and Visualization
e-mail: [email protected]
Mg.sc.comp. Dāvis Ābols
Visiting research assistant in the field of Virtual Reality Technologies and Visualization
e-mail: [email protected]
