Dual Degree Program Established between Illinois Institute of Technology and Kazakh Narxoz University
Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) and Narxoz University in Almaty have recently signed a partnership agreement to offer a dual degree program in IT specialties. This collaboration, established on Jan. 13, will enable students to earn two bachelor’s degrees, one from each university, in the field of Information Technology.
The partnership is aligned with Narxoz University’s strategic initiative, Narxoz Global-2030, which aims to enhance the training of IT specialists according to international standards. Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to the United States, Yerzhan Ashikbayev, highlighted the agreement as a significant opportunity for Kazakh students to access world-class education.
Under the 4+0 format of the dual degree program, students will complete their entire four-year education at Narxoz University in Kazakhstan and receive two diplomas upon graduation. Optionally, students can also spend a period ranging from one month to a year at Illinois Tech in Chicago.
Kazakh Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek emphasized the importance of providing students with knowledge and skills that meet global standards. The program at Narxoz University will focus on preparing computer and data engineering specialists in English, with the opportunity to transition to Illinois Tech for further studies and post-work opportunities through Optional Practical Training.
Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Illinois Tech, Mallik Sundharam, emphasized the partnership’s goal to shape the next generation of IT professionals and equip them for success on the global stage. An official visit by a delegation from Illinois Tech to Kazakhstan is planned for March, and students can begin studying under the new dual degree program in September.
Overall, this collaboration between Illinois Tech and Narxoz University represents a significant step towards providing Kazakh students with world-class education and opportunities for a successful career in the high-tech industry.
