Latvian Academy of Culture (LAC)
1200 Students | 200 Staff | 36 Research groups | 5 Faculties
Cross-Cultural Communication and Foreign Languages, Theory and History of Culture, Sociology and Management of Culture, Performing Arts, Audiovisual Art
The Latvian Academy of Culture (LAC) is a public institution of higher education, research, and culture, created in 1990 to offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral study programmes in the thematic field of education “Arts”, as well as to carry out research activities and further education programmes. In 2024, LAC will start the consolidation process with the Latvian College of Culture which is implementing first-level higher professional education programmes. LAC is a unique education institution with a focussed orientation towards a specific niche of education, research, and artistic creativity. However, our footprint is based on the blending of arts/cultural and entrepreneurial education and research, preparing specialists for the cultural and creative sector as a special part of the economy (e.g. as joint study programmes). Its structure is formed by the cultural and creative ecosystem, centred on film, theatre, and dance art, as well as intangible cultural heritage, cultural management, and creative industries. LAC is a well-positioned institution with more than 115 cooperation agreements signed with universities in Europe and elsewhere in the world, and almost half of LAC students and teachers are involved in various international mobility activities every year. LAC also prioritizes research activities, promoting excellence and opportunities for the real integration of research, education, and artistic work, thus increasing the social and economic value of new knowledge and research, especially in the creative industry sector.
The Latvian Academy of Culture (LAC) is a prominent higher education and research institution dedicated to advancing studies in arts, culture and creative industries. Established in Riga, LAC offers interdisciplinary programs focusing on cultural heritage, theater, contemporary dance, film, creative industries, intercultural relations, cultural sociology and arts management. Its commitment to innovation and excellence has positioned it as a leader in cultural and creative sector research.
The Academy provides academic programs in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, always giving great importance to collaboration with international universities and cultural organisations. LAC actively participates in Erasmus+ mobility programs and the European University alliance ACE2EU, enabling students and researchers to engage in international academic and cultural exchanges.
The institution also hosts the National Film School and National Performing Arts School which integrates advanced infrastructure and practical training in audiovisual and performing arts. These schools support student projects, organizes film and performing arts events as well as festivals for national and international audiences.
In research, LAC is known for its Institute of Arts and Cultural Studies, which conducts interdisciplinary projects, publishes scholarly works, and participates in international networks. Its UNESCO Chair further enriches the focus on cultural diversity and sustainability, fostering international cooperation in the arts.
Participation in the European University alliance ACE2-EU is a unique growth opportunity for the Academy, fulfilling its strategic goals and aspirations in the sphere of internationalisation, enhanced responsiveness to industry and societal challenges and the integration of research and its academic study programs. Participation in the ACE2-EU will firmly situate the Academy in the dedicated network of select universities in Europe.
