Illinois Tech to Launch Dual-Degree Program with Kazakhstani University
Illinois Tech and Narxoz University in Almaty, Kazakhstan, have signed an institutional partnership agreement establishing a dual-degree program, allowing students to earn two bachelor’s degrees in information technology specialties from both Kazakhstani and American universities.
This cooperation is part of the strategic initiative Narxoz Global-2030, aimed at enhancing the training of IT specialists according to international standards. The strategy involves establishing sustainable relationships with leading global universities, such as Narxoz’s partnerships with Illinois Tech, Queen’s University Belfast, Pennsylvania State University, and others.
“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,” says Kazakhstan’s ambassador to the United States, Yerzhan Ashikbayev. “Today, Narxoz University is signing an institutional agreement to prepare IT professionals with one of the leading universities, Illinois Institute of Technology. This will create new opportunities for Kazakhstanis to access world-class education. The Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the United States consistently supports and assists in the implementation of such programs.”
The dual degree will be offered through a 4+0 format, meaning students will complete their entire four-year education in Kazakhstan at Narxoz University and receive two diplomas upon graduation. However, if desired, they can also spend from one month to a year at Illinois Tech in Chicago.
“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,” emphasizes Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek. “Narxoz University offers unique opportunities that pave the way for a global career in high-tech fields and contribute to the development of this sector in our country.”
The program is focused on preparing specialists in computer and data engineering in English. It also provides the opportunity to transition to Illinois Tech in Chicago to complete the degree program and access post-work study opportunities through Optional Practical Training with employers.
“Narxoz University is reaching a new global level in training IT professionals,” says Narxoz University President Kanat Kozhakhmet. “We carefully selected a partner for the School of Digital Technologies, and Illinois Institute of Technology is a perfect fit for realizing our plans. We are confident that the dual degree will equip students with global skills and open new prospects in the international arena.”
“This agreement expands our global educational mission of meeting learners where they are and further reinforces Illinois Tech’s reputation as a global leader in delivering career-focused, cutting-edge education and serving as a catalyst for opportunity,” says Mallik Sundharam, vice president for international affairs and enrollment management at Illinois Tech. “Through our partnership with Narxoz University, we are broadening our international impact by bringing our rigorous, innovation-driven pedagogy and curriculum to ambitious future leaders in Kazakhstan. Together, we aim to shape the next generation of IT professionals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel on the global stage.”
An official visit by a delegation from Illinois Tech to Kazakhstan is scheduled for March 2025. Students can begin studying under the new dual-degree program in September 2025. This initiative is facilitated by Catalina Global, whose mission is to support global education.
