In response to growing demand, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA) has launched the master's program Gamified Reality Applications For Real-World Challenges And Experiences, in collaboration with universities from the European Universities - E³UDRES² network, including St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences in Austria and Saxion University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. This program invites participants to gain expertise in developing and implementing advanced augmented reality (XR) solutions, incorporating gamification elements.
This unique program integrates creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship, preparing professionals for careers across various industries, such as medicine, education, and more.
“The goal of the program is to prepare future professionals in fields like creative industries, smart industries, and digital healthcare, equipping them with practical skills such as developing innovative technologies, conducting user research, and mastering industry-specific business skills,” says Dr. sc. ing. Linda Lancere.
The program spans two years or four semesters. Each semester offers both practical and theoretical knowledge, starting with problem research and customer needs analysis and progressing to the development of fully realized XR solution prototypes tailored to industry needs.
Through the GRACE integrated mobility concept, students will gain experience in three European Union member states, expanding their global perspective while leveraging the unique strengths of each participating partner university:
- Semester 1 (St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, Austria): Basics of XR, gamification, and user-centered design principles.
- Semester 2 (Saxony University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands): Development of innovative, low-fidelity prototypes in practical collaboration with industry partners.
- Semester 3 (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia): Implementation and preparation of advanced, high-fidelity XR prototypes for market applications.
- Semester 4 (Partner university of the student's choice): Creation of a market-ready product, with a focus on professional growth.
Program Details:
- Language: English
- Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
- Degree: Master's degree
- Number of places: 25 funded places
- Application deadline: April 30, 2025
- Admission requirements: See the partner university website for details on admissions – Joint Master Grace
During the program, students will have the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners from the Netherlands, Austria, and Latvia. Partnerships have been established with several leading companies and institutions in Latvia, including SIA EXONICUS R&D, SIA "Overly Creator", SIA "BirgerMind", BIMSynch, Studio Perspective, Strenči Psychoneurological Hospital, High Hill (Fungo App), Latvian Construction Companies Association, RIGA STRADIŅA UNIVERSITY, and VREACH. Students will work closely with these partners and, upon successful collaboration, develop real, usable products with high technical readiness levels (TRL6-7).
XR technologies are increasingly applied across industries such as education, entertainment, and medicine, offering extensive career opportunities for program graduates. Possible career paths include XR developer, game specialist, innovation/innovative technology project manager, technology engineer, CTO, educational technologist, interactive media designer, and XR application researcher, among others.
