In 2023, Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) proudly celebrated its 20th anniversary. Over two decades, KSU has built a strong reputation for offering forward-thinking, market-relevant study programmes. Among the university’s most recognized offerings are the Aviation Management and Fashion Industry programmes—both designed to prepare students for dynamic and international careers. According to the 2024 rankings by Reitingai magazine, KSU holds second place among the strongest private universities in Lithuania. 

One of the key strengths of KSU lies in its flexible and student-centered approach to learning. Recognizing the needs of modern learners, the university offers various study formats in addition to the traditional full-time model. Lectures are held in the evenings, on weekends, or delivered remotely and in hybrid formats, allowing students to successfully balance their studies with work, family life, and personal pursuits. 

Associate Professor Dr. Lidija Kraujalienė, Vice-Rector for Studies, emphasizes that KSU attracts ambitious and active students. The university is committed to helping each student find an individual path, enabling them to integrate their academic goals with career development and lifestyle needs. 

Lada Oleškevičienė, a Master’s student in Aviation Management and currently Head of Commercial Operations at Nordic Aircraft Systems, highlights how KSU’s flexibility supports working professionals. She notes that lectures usually begin after 6 PM, making it easy to attend after work. Moreover, all sessions are recorded, providing the option to revisit or catch up on material at a convenient time. According to her, the supportive atmosphere created by both lecturers and university staff ensures a smooth and enriching study experience. 

Aviation Management at KSU has become an increasingly popular field of study, attracting students interested in the global aviation industry and its long-term career prospects. Although aviation is sometimes seen as a niche sector in Lithuania, it plays a vital role in the country’s economy and international presence. Lithuanian-owned aviation companies contribute approximately 1.3 billion euros to the national GDP annually and operate across 25 countries worldwide. The industry employs between 6,000 and 7,000 professionals in areas such as marketing, sales, finance, IT, engineering, project management, law, and human resources. 

The Bachelor’s programme in Aviation Management at KSU is one of the most sought-after in Europe and was developed in close collaboration with industry partners and aviation associations. In 2024, the university introduced a Master’s programme in the same field, with a strong emphasis on developing leadership and strategic management competencies. Visiting lecturer Dr. Anil Padhra, an aviation expert from the United Kingdom, praises the programme for aligning with international standards and preparing graduates to lead in the dynamic global aviation sector. 

Equally distinctive is KSU’s Fashion Industry programme—currently the only undergraduate programme of its kind in Lithuania. Launched a decade ago, the programme was recently accredited for seven years by the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education, a testament to its quality and maturity on the international stage. The curriculum includes unique subjects rarely offered even at European universities, such as fashion psychology, culture of appearance, and costume history. Professor Dr. Eugenijus Skerstonas notes that even students who return from study exchanges in Italy or other countries often speak highly of the programme’s originality and depth. 

The global fashion industry has been expanding rapidly, growing by 25 percent since 2020 and reaching over two trillion US dollars in 2023. Projections suggest this figure could rise to three trillion by 2027. As issues like sustainability, transparency, ethics, and digital transformation become more important, there is a growing demand for well-rounded professionals who understand both the creative and strategic sides of fashion. 

In addition to its academic offerings, KSU also hosts the Fashion Academy—a creative platform for young people and fashion enthusiasts. Launched in collaboration with KSU alumna and fashion journalist Greta Kukštaitė, the Academy has already seen its second graduating class and continues to attract emerging talent. Starting in September, the university will expand its portfolio with a new Master’s programme in Fashion Management, designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in this fast-evolving industry. 

For more information about study programmes at KSU please visit: Kazimiero Simonavičiaus universitetas – ksu.lt