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 Spring 2026 Semester!

1 program, 3 specializations

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.

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.

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.

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!

• EU-Funded Tuition for the Inaugural Cohort: The third cohort of program participants, starting in January 2026, will benefit from partial tuition coverage thanks to EU grant agreement No 101083531. Those who begin after September 2026 will have to pay in full for all of the tuition. For more details, please see Financing Studies.
• 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