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Illinois Institute of Technology Announces Dual Degree Program with Narxoz University in Kazakhstan

On January, 13 Illinois Institute of Technology (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 IT 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 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. 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,” said Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to the U.S., Yerzhan Ashikbayev.
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, located in Chicago, U.S.
“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. 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,” emphasized Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek.
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. 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,” said Narxoz University President Kanat Kozhakhmet.
“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,” said 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 will be able to begin studying under the new dual degree program in September 2025.
Illinois Tech, located in Chicago, is a prestigious university renowned for its high-quality STEM degree programs and innovative approach to education. Through its unique Elevate Program, students gain real-world professional experiences, ensuring they graduate career-ready and equipped to excel in their chosen fields. According to a New York Times rankings tool (2023), Illinois Tech is ranked #1 in the state of Illinois and #20 in the U.S. for high earnings and economic mobility. It also holds the top position in Illinois for the high starting salaries of its graduates (Wall Street Journal 2025). Additionally, Illinois Tech is ranked as the #29 Best Value School in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report (2025), reflecting a balance between an affordable cost of tuition and exceptional career outcomes for its graduates.