Illinois Tech and Narxoz University in Almaty, Kazakhstan, have formalized a partnership to offer a dual-degree program. This initiative allows students to earn bachelor's degrees in information technology from both institutions.
The collaboration is part of the Narxoz Global-2030 strategy, which seeks to enhance IT training through international partnerships. These include alliances with Illinois Tech, Queen’s University Belfast, and Pennsylvania State University.
“The partnership between Kazakhstani universities and top U.S. universities like Penn State, the University of Arizona, and the University of Minnesota allows for strengthening the training of Kazakhstani specialists through dual-degree programs based on the best international standards,” stated Kazakhstan’s ambassador to the United States, Yerzhan Ashikbayev. He added that this agreement with Illinois Tech would provide Kazakhstanis access to world-class education.
Students will complete their four-year education at Narxoz University but have options to study at Illinois Tech in Chicago for up to a year. “The dual-degree program with Illinois Institute of Technology is an important step in providing students from Kazakhstan with knowledge and skills that meet international standards,” noted Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek.
The program focuses on computer and data engineering education in English. It also offers opportunities for Optional Practical Training post-graduation. “Narxoz University is reaching a new global level in training IT professionals,” said Narxoz President Kanat Kozhakhmet.
“This agreement expands our global educational mission of meeting learners where they are," commented Mallik Sundharam from Illinois Tech. The first cohort under this program will begin studies in September 2025 following an official visit by an Illinois Tech delegation scheduled for March 2025. Catalina Global supports this educational initiative.