Field of Humanities

Scientists at the Faculty of Translation Studies (FoTS) of VUAS conduct research in the field of Humanities in accordance with VUAS’s strategic goals and study directions. 


The main fields and foci of research at the FoTS are:

  • Translation studies and translation theory and practice;
  • Terminology, lexicography, and terminography;
  • Digitalization solutions in the humanities

Main areas of research

Translation Studies and translation theory and practice

Research on the theoretical and practical aspects of translation processes, including the use of technology in translation.

Terminology, lexicography, and terminography

Research on terminology, including the diachronic and synchronic development, scientific practical projects involving work on the development of new terms, the creation of dictionaries, and the development of special terminology needed for both industry and academic purposes.

Digitalization solutions in the humanities

digitalization solutions and the use of technologies in the humanities, such as machine translation and post-editing, digital databases, computer-assisted translation tools, and digital learning platforms.

The main research directions of FoTS are of a pronouncedly applied nature, although each direction is also closely related to specific theoretical issues of comparative and contrastive linguistics, incl. translation theory, as well as to theoretical and practical aspects of applied linguistics. Importantly, research areas are closely related to the study programmes of the FoTS, thus ensuring dissemination of competences and inclusion of the research results in the study courses.


The number of FTS researchers’ publications indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, and Erih Plus databases has increased in recent years, exceeding 20 publications. This is a significant number considering the small size of the faculty involved in the study field.


The research projects implemented by VUAS FoTS align with VUAS’s strategic goals, such as the modernization and digitalization of study offerings, as well as scientific excellence and the transfer of knowledge to the economy.

Student Involvement in Research

The research work and activities are organized through the full study cycle (bachelor-master-doctoral studies) and through the University-level research framework and national and international research projects which also define the research priorities. The doctoral programme “Language and Literature Studies”, the implementation of the new doctoral model and the presence of a Doctoral School also have a significant impact on the development of science at the FoTS.


FoTS students are involved in diverse scientific research focused on translatological, terminological, localization, literature/culture/cultural history etc. aspects, as well as modern language/translation technologies thus providing background for up-to-date research. Students participate in scientific conferences and are involved in international projects, including European Language Resource Initiatives and ERASMUS+, which promote exchange and understanding of cultural diversity.


A successful tradition is the interdisciplinary scientific conference ViA Scientiarum (2019 and 2021) organised by the FoTS (together with Liepaja University) and bringing together students, researchers, and faculty members to share their research results.


In 2019, FoTS also organized the international conference Bridging Languages and Cultures which also had another scientific product – a volume of papers published with a foreign publisher (Frank & Timme).


Students participate in the project Terminology without Borders. This is a project led by the Terminology Coordination Unit (TermCoord) of the Directorate-General for Translation of the European Parliament and involves several European universities with the engagement of both students and experts.

Events and Highlights

By Rota Rulle April 23, 2025
On April 9th, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences hosted Career Day 2025 , uniting high schoolers , university students , educators , and employers for a dynamic day of networking and hands-on experiences .
By Rota Rulle April 15, 2025
Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the international Erasmus+ project "Enhancing development of entrepreneurial strategies at university locations affected by brain drain" (ENDORSE). The project focused on the pressing issue of "brain drain" in university cities by offering innovative solutions to strengthen the entrepreneurial environment and retain young talent in the regions. The main goal of the ENDORSE project was to develop and implement new strategies and teaching approaches to foster entrepreneurship development in university cities facing the emigration of qualified specialists. Through international cooperation, existing challenges were analysed, and effective ways were sought to enhance students' entrepreneurial skills and motivate them to develop their business ideas within their home region. One of the most significant and practically applicable outcomes of the project is the development of guidelines for teachers and a comprehensive set of teaching materials for entrepreneurship study courses . These resources are designed for easy integration into existing study program or for use in creating new courses. For example, one of the learning materials includes video interviews with local entrepreneurs from different countries to learn about their experiences. Elviss Brauns and Āris Birze, VUAS colleagues and mentors of the ‘Startup Management’ bachelor study program, also share their start-up experiences. The materials are freely available to anyone interested, particularly university lecturers seeking to modernise and practically enrich their teaching content in the field of entrepreneurship. All final project results, including these materials and experience stories, are compiled and accessible on the final project website – click the button below.
By Rota Rulle March 31, 2025
On Wednesday, May 28, everyone is invited to the Kurzeme Business Forum “Artificial Intelligence – The 4th Industrial Revolution”, which will take place at the Latvija concert hall. The forum will bring together entrepreneurs, municipal representatives, university staff and students, as well as technology experts to discuss the significance of education and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on business. The first part of the forum will focus on the role of higher education in the AI era. The development of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences will be examined in this context, addressing key questions: How will the education system adapt to new requirements? Which professions will remain relevant, and which will change? The discussion will also explore the synergy between AI and cybersecurity in academic studies. The second part of the forum will address the question—do businesses need AI? The legal framework and state support mechanisms for such innovations will be introduced. Entrepreneurs will share their experiences, and participants will gain insights into common myths and the real situation regarding AI in Latvia’s economy. The discussion will conclude with an exploration of the opportunities for port development in the AI era. Participants will have the chance to engage in valuable discussions and networking sessions. Although the forum will be held in Latvian, the company SIA Tilde will provide real-time translation into any language using AI technology. Register for the forum now: https://www.kurzemesbiznesaforums.lv/ The forum is organized by Ventspils University of Applied Sciences within the European University Alliance COLOURS, in collaboration with the Ventspils State City Municipality, the Freeport of Ventspils Authority, and the Green and Smart Technology Cluster.
By Rota Rulle March 10, 2025
On March 7th, the COLOURS Student Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center was opened in the MOOMENTUM coworking space. This center offers students a place to develop their business ideas and create innovations. To understand how the Student Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center should operate and what services and opportunities it should provide, it was essential to ask the students themselves – what do YOU need to start your own business? Based on the collected information, the mission, vision, goals, and desired activities of the Student Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center were developed.
By Rota Rulle February 26, 2025
The Kurzeme regional branch of the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), in collaboration with the European Business Support Network, the Latvian Digital Accelerator, the Ventspils City Municipality Council, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, the Kurzeme Planning Region, Ventspils High Technology Park, and SIA “EnterDigital,” is organizing a Business Club event titled “Digitalization and Funding Opportunities” on February 26, from 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM in Ventspils. Kristiāna Balode will present information about Ventspils University of Applied Sciences and the COLOURS European University Alliance. She will deliver a presentation titled "Opportunities Provided by European Universities for the Business Environment in Kurzeme." Nowadays, digitalization is not just a technological trend—it is a necessity for businesses aiming to be competitive, efficient, and innovative. In response to the interest expressed by entrepreneurs, the LCCI Kurzeme regional branch is organizing the Business Club event focusing on the development of digitalization and the available funding opportunities for businesses. At the LTRK Kurzeme Business Club event, experts will discuss the importance of digital transformation in business, its impact on competitiveness, and the available support mechanisms for companies. There will also be a discussion on the significance of digitalization for business development, highlighting both opportunities and challenges related to digital transformation. Participants will share their experiences, provide practical advice and recommendations on how businesses can successfully leverage available support mechanisms and solutions to overcome digital transformation challenges and enhance their operations. As part of the Business Club event, participants will also have the opportunity to join a study visit organized by the European Business Support Network to the company SIA “Bio-Venta”. They will learn about the company's operations and experience in international markets, including its export and development strategies. Additionally, participants will explore the digital solutions implemented by the company to improve efficiency and competitiveness. Special attention will be given to innovative solutions and technologies used in daily operations, as well as sustainable development principles and initiatives that help reduce environmental impact and promote efficient resource utilization. Participation in the Business Club event is free of charge with prior registration by February 24, 2025. Registration and the event program are available here: https://ej.uz/KurzemesBiznesaKlubs_februaris This event is co-financed by the European Union project "Latvian Digital Accelerator" DAoL, ID No. 101083718, and the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility ID No. 2.2.1.1.i.0/1/23/I/CFLA/002. Funded by the European Union and the European Union - NextGenerationEU. However, the views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission is responsible for them.
By Rota Rulle December 16, 2024
As part of the COLOURS project, an IMAGINE/IDEATE workshop was organized at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, where students applied design thinking principles to address equality, diversity, and inclusion issues within the university environment. This two-day workshop provided an opportunity for participants to analyze existing challenges and develop practical solutions they could implement themselves. During the workshop, students worked in groups, first identifying the challenges they face in their daily lives. They then focused on creating solutions using creative methods. Importantly, the proposed solutions had to be realistically implementable by the students themselves, fostering their responsibility for shaping the environment and driving positive changes. At the end of the workshop, students presented their ideas, and the best proposals were recognized. The winning group, composed of first-year students from the professional bachelor’s program in Intercultural Communication, proposed organizing events to help students integrate into their new environment and find like-minded peers. These events aim to provide practical support to young people facing challenges in adapting to a new social and academic setting. The authors emphasized that such events would foster a positive and inclusive experience, promoting mutual support among students. The workshop’s outcomes demonstrate that by encouraging active student participation and creative approaches, sustainable changes can be achieved in their daily lives. This workshop is part of the COLOURS project, which aims to promote the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in educational institutions.
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Collaboration and networks

FEM is engaged in various forms of academic cooperation at national and international levels:

  • FEM participates in the ERASMUS+ program, offering mobility opportunities for both students and academic staff.
  • VUAS is a member of the European University Alliance COLOURS, contributing to joint activities and academic initiatives. FEM has a significant role in coordination COLOURS activities in VUAS.
  • FEM is involved in international and national research and partnership projects.
  • In cooperation with Rezekne Academy of Technologies and Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, FEM implements the joint doctoral study program “Economics and business” and is represented in Promotion Council.
  • VUAS is a member of several professional and academic associations, supporting institutional collaboration.
  • Students have the opportunity to complete internships at the national level through cooperation with several enterprises and institutions.

National collaboration

UNIVERSITIES

Organisation Type of collaboration
Daugavpils University Project " Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI)
Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) Project " Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI)
Liepaja University (LiepU) [from 01.03.2024 RTU Liepaja Academy] Project “Elaboration of evidence-based solutions for effective professional competence development of adults and assessment of the transfer of its results into practice in Latvia” (VPP4) (2023 - 2026)
Rezekne Academy of Technologies (RTA) • The joint doctoral study program "Economics and business". • Activity in the Promotion Council. • Project "Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI)
Turība University Project " Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI)
University of Latvia (UL) • Agreement on student exchange at all levels of study (from 2018); • Project " Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI) • Project “Elaboration of evidence-based solutions for effective professional competence development of adults and assessment of the transfer of its results into practice in Latvia” (VPP4) (2023 - 2026)
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA) • The joint doctoral study program "Economics and business". • Activity in the Promotion Council.

PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS

Organisation Type of collaboration
Association of Latvian Large Cities Cooperation with associations
Green Tech Cluster • Cooperation with associations • Internship opportunities for students
Kuldīga Municipal Government Internship opportunities for students
Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Cooperation with associations
The Confederation of Latvian Employers (LDDK) Cooperation with associations
Talsi Municipal Government Internship opportunities for students
Valmiera Development Agency • Project " Vidzeme Innovation Program for Students" (VIPs) • Project "Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe”
Valmiera Municipality Project "Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe"
Valmiera Vocational Education and Training Centre Project "Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe"
Ventspils City Municipality Cooperation agreement
Ventspils County Municipality Internship opportunities for students
Ventspils City Education Board • Internship opportunities for students • Cooperation in education issues
Ventspils Vocational Technical school Project "Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe"
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences Foundation Project " Vidzeme Innovation Program for Students" (VIPs)

ENTERPRISES

Organisation Type of collaboration
JSC Development Finance Institution ALTUM department of Kurzeme region Participation in the State Examinations Commission
“Aspired” Ltd Project “Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe"
Baltijas Datoru Akadēmija (BDA), Ltd Project " Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI)
Baltic Logistic Solutions Ltd Internship opportunities for students
“Bio Venta” Ltd Internship opportunities for students
Business Support Centre Internship opportunities for students
“Bucher Municipal” Ltd • Cooperation agreement about internships for FEM students. • Participation in the State Examinations Commission. • Scholarship for students.
“Diana Sveces” Ltd Internship opportunities for studentS
Freeport of Ventspils Internship opportunities for students
"Hansamatrix Ventspils" Ltd • Internships for students • Scholarship for students
“IntelliTech” Ltd Project "Next Generation Micro Cities of Europe"
“Kurekss” Ltd Internship opportunities for students
“Kurzemes Biznesa inkubators” Ltd Project “Kurzeme Innovation Grants for Students” (KInGS)
Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Center Ltd department of Ventspils Participation in the State Examinations Commission
LIAA Ventspils business incubator Participation in the State Examinations Commission
“Malmar Sheet Metal” Ltd Internship opportunities for students
“PricewaterhouseCoopers” Ltd Internship opportunities for students
“StenaLine” Ltd Internship opportunities for students
JSC “Swedbank” Internship opportunities for students
"TechGym" Ltd Internship opportunities for students
VHTP (Ventspils High Technology Park) • Internship opportunities for students. • Participation in the State Examinations Commission. • Cooperation in projects.
“Ventspils siltums”, Municipal limited liability company Internship opportunities for students
Olympic Centre “Ventspils” Ltd Internship opportunities for students
Vitol Terminal Latvia (VTL) Ltd • Internship opportunities for students • Guest lectures.
"VNK serviss" Ltd Internship opportunities for students
JSC “Wasserkabel Baltic” Internship opportunities for students
“WeAreDots” Ltd Project " Digitalization Initiatives for Improving the Quality of Studies in the field of Strategic Specialization of Higher Education Institution" (DIGI)

International Collaboration

UNIVERSITIES

Organisation Type of collaboration
Hochschule Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences (Germany) Project “Enhancing development of entrepreneurial strategies at university locations affected by brain drain” (ENDORSE) (2022 - 2024)
IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems (Austria) 1.Cooperation agreement - ERASMUS + 2. Project “Enhancing development of entrepreneurial strategies at university locations affected by brain drain” (ENDORSE) (2022 - 2024)
Jan Dlugosz University in Czestochowa (Poland) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
Josip Juraj Strossmayer University in Osijek (Croatia) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
Kristianstad University (Sweden) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
Mittuniversitetet MID SWEDEN UNIVERSITY (Sweden) Project “Enhancing development of entrepreneurial strategies at university locations affected by brain drain” (ENDORSE) (2022 - 2024)
Paderborn University (Germany) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences (Greece) Project “Enhancing development of entrepreneurial strategies at university locations affected by brain drain” (ENDORSE) (2022 - 2024)
University of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
University of Ferrara (Italy) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
University of LeMans (France) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)
University of LODZ (Poland) Project “Enhancing development of entrepreneurial strategies at university locations affected by brain drain” (ENDORSE) (2022 - 2024)
University St Kliment Ohridski Bitola (North Macedonia) Project “COLLaborative innOvative sUstainable Regional univerSities” (COLOURS)