Maritime education in Latvia has a long history. The first Nautical School was opened in Riga in 1789. Latvian Maritime Academy was founded in 1989 as a constituent part of Riga Technical University, but as an independent educational establishment it was founded on 8 January 1993. Latvian Maritime Academy (LMA) is the first and only marine-oriented institution of the higher education in Latvia. And as a state-funded higher educational establishment, LMA has promoted Latvia’s inclusion in the IMO White List in December 2000.

The quality of maritime studies at LMA is recognized at the national and international levels. It is constantly being upgraded as well. In June 2001, LMA was accredited for the whole period of its activity.
Since 2005 the quality management system of LMA is certified in compliance with standard ISO 9001 by the company DNV GL.

Population in the city of Riga: 632 614

Total number of students: 740 (2019/20)

Number of international students: 6 (2019/20)

Number of academic staff: 40 (2019/20)

Accommodation possibilities and costs: LMA can offer accommodation at its student dormitories; costs are around 120 EUR per month.