Master’s program MERIT: Management of Smart, Resilient, and Interconnected Systems
Shape the Future of Digital Leadership with MERIT
Offered by Riga Technical University (RTU), the MERIT Master’s program is a forward-thinking collaboration between Riga Business School and RTU’s Faculty of Computer Science, Information Technology and Energy. Designed for the innovators of tomorrow, this unique interdisciplinary program empowers students to thrive at the intersection of technology and business. Whether you’re launching a startup, leading digital transformation in established companies, or shaping future tech policies – MERIT gives you the tools to lead this change.
Through MERIT, you’ll gain hands-on knowledge from leading experts in AI, cybersecurity, digital healthcare, and e-services, while developing critical leadership and innovation skills.
After graduating from MERIT, you will be ready to:
- Bridge the gap between tech and business.
- Drive meaningful innovation in complex digital ecosystems.
- Lead smart, resilient, and interconnected organizations.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, organizations need leaders who don’t just understand emerging technologies – they know how to use them strategically. That’s why MERIT combines the technical rigor of an IT degree with the strategic mindset of an MBA, preparing graduates to drive digital transformation across industries. Join the next generation of tech-savvy business leaders and build a future where you set the direction!
We are currently accepting applications for the Fall 2026 Semester!
Main Focuses of the Program:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Innovation Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Data Security
- Private and Public Sector Leadership
- Healthcare Data
- Business Processes
- Robotics
- Software Automatization
- Decision Making
- Strategy
- IT Governance
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Explore the Future of Technology and Business at the MERIT Open Door Day
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Want to learn more?
Join our Open Door Day on August 6 to meet the team, learn about the programme, and get your questions answered.
Register by filling out the form below.
Program Format
CLASSES HELD
Weekday Evenings
Fall and Spring Semesters
REGISTER FOR COURSES
based on the semester course offer
Duration of the program:
2 years
Program language:
English
Customize your degree:
by choosing a specialization to fit your future career:
- Professional Services
- Non-IT Manufacturing
- Healthcare
One program, three specializations
Professional Services
This specialization equips professionals with a data-driven mindset and the strategic skills to optimize business operations in a digital-first world. By blending data analytics, process management, and platform innovation, it prepares graduates to turn complex data into clear insights, streamline operations, and accelerate growth.
You will gain the tools to:
- Extract valuable insights from data.
- Design and improve efficient business processes.
- Leverage digital platforms to drive innovation and scalability.
Graduates of this specialization become key drivers of operational excellence, informed decision-making, and strategic transformation within organizations.
Healthcare
This specialization empowers healthcare professionals and IT experts to harness the full potential of data and technology to improve patient care and health system performance. By combining knowledge in artificial intelligence, data management, and cybersecurity, students gain the skills to develop and implement innovative digital solutions in healthcare settings.
You will learn to:
- Design technology-driven tools that enhance patient outcomes.
- Ensure secure and efficient health data management.
- Navigate the complexities of healthcare systems through digital innovation.
This specialization provides a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, equipping graduates to tackle pressing industry challenges and lead digital transformation in a highly regulated and mission-critical sector.
Non-IT Manufacturing
This specialization prepares professionals to transform traditional manufacturing through data and technology. Designed for those working in non-IT manufacturing environments, it equips graduates with the skills to optimize operations, enhance productivity, and drive innovation on the factory floor.
By integrating data analytics, process management, and automation technologies, students will learn how to:
- Improve efficiency and product quality.
- Implement smart manufacturing systems.
- Leverage real-time data for agile decision-making.
With a strong foundation in IT systems architecture and control systems, graduates are ready to lead the digital transformation of manufacturing, unlocking new levels of competitiveness and sustainable growth.
“MERIT stood out to me as the ideal program where technology and business management come together, allowing me to apply what I learn directly in my work. It was important to me that the program brings together professionals with real-world experience, making the learning process more meaningful and relatable.
My classmates have been an incredible source of support. Being able to share experiences and learn how others tackle similar challenges has genuinely helped me manage the workload and stay motivated throughout the program.”
Madara Klotiņa, IT Manager and MERIT Student“What sets MERIT apart is its balanced approach, with an equal focus on technology and business. It helps you understand not only how IT works, but also how technology influences business decisions and outcomes.
MERIT recognizes that its students are already experienced professionals with full-time jobs and families. There is very little homework because the program is designed with the understanding that weekdays are for work and weekends are for family. That approach was a decisive factor for me, allowing me to maintain a healthy balance between work, studies, and my personal life.”
Ņikita Kazakevičs, Ecosystem Partnerships Manager at LMT“While working in a professional environment and helping develop an IT product with my team, I realized I needed a stronger foundation in technology. MERIT felt like the perfect combination, bringing together technical IT studies and business in a balanced, integrated way rather than treating them as separate disciplines.
Having previously studied at Riga Business School, I already knew what to expect. I’ve always appreciated the learning environment, the faculty, and the high standard of education that RBS provides.”
Marta Rudzīte, Co-Head of the Capital Markets Practice at Eversheds Sutherland Bitāns
A Pioneering Program for a Digital Future
Co-funded by the European Union’s Digital Europe program, this forward-thinking master’s degree is designed for the next generation of digital leaders. The two-year program responds to the growing need for professionals who can navigate complex technological landscapes while driving innovation and strategic growth.
Students gain a deep understanding of cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Cybersecurity (CS) – equipping them with the tools to lead in today’s fast-evolving digital world.
Unlike traditional MBA programs, this master’s offers a unique combination of technical depth and strategic management. Graduates emerge ready to take on high-level roles like Chief Information Officer (CIO), where both business acumen and technological expertise are essential.
You’ll be prepared to:
- Lead and inspire IT and innovation teams
- Develop and implement forward-looking digital strategies
- Align technology investments with overall business goals
Shape the future of tech-driven leadership – start your journey today!
Key Program Features:
- Flexible Learning Model: Balancing flexibility with academic excellence, the program offers evening classes on weekdays, catering to working professionals pursuing career advancement.
- In-Depth Specialization: Students tailor their educational journey by selecting focused courses in areas of specific interest including:
- Professional Services (audit, accounting, IT audit/planning, Insurance, Healthcare)
- Non-IT Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- International Collaboration: The program fosters a vibrant learning environment by connecting students with peers and experts from across Europe, facilitating knowledge exchange, and fostering a global perspective.
For more information on the larger Digital Merit EU Project in which this program was developed, please visit digitalmerit.eu
Develop the skills for digital leadership.
Rise to the challenge of the future.
Elective Courses *
This list of elective courses is meant to be illustrative. The course offerings are subject to change.
Humanities and Social Science Study Courses
Master Thesis
To complete the program students must finish all of the “Core Courses”, choose one of the two “Humanities and Science Studies Courses”, complete a Master’s Thesis, as well as choose their elective courses. For the specialty, students must complete at least three courses within that specialty and in total have 120 ECT credits to graduate.
Elective Courses *
This list of elective courses is meant to be illustrative. The course offerings are subject to change.
Humanities and Social Science Study Courses
Master Thesis
To complete the program students must finish all of the “Core Courses”, choose one of the two “Humanities and Science Studies Courses”, complete a Master’s Thesis, as well as choose their elective courses. For the specialty, students must complete at least three courses within that specialty and in total have 120 ECT credits to graduate.
For more information, or if you have specific questions feel free to get in touch with our team by emailing [email protected] directly or get in touch with our program leaders:
Agris Ņikitenko
[email protected]
Darja Bubnova
[email protected]
This master’s degree program is organized within the framework of the European MERIT project, through the funding of the Digital Europe program, in collaboration with three European universities, various SMEs, digital innovation hubs, and research centers. The European project provides funding such as student grants. Through MERIT students have the opportunity to connect—and work with—academics and industry professionals across Europe. Placement opportunities and short-term visits will be made available.
This project has received funding from the European Union under grant agreement No 101083531 Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the HADEA can be held responsible for them.
For more information on the financing of this program, please click here.
For more information, or if you have specific questions feel free to get in touch with our team by emailing [email protected] directly or get in touch with our program leaders:
Agris Ņikitenko
[email protected]
Darja Bubnova
[email protected]
This master’s degree program is organized within the framework of the European MERIT project, through the funding of the Digital Europe program, in collaboration with three European universities, various SMEs, digital innovation hubs, and research centers. The European project provides funding such as student grants. Through MERIT students have the opportunity to connect—and work with—academics and industry professionals across Europe. Placement opportunities and short-term visits will be made available.
This project has received funding from the European Union under grant agreement No 101083531 Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the HADEA can be held responsible for them.