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CHICAGO—January 21, 2025—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 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, Penn 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 U.S., 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 �糵����.

“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 �糵���� 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.

Illinois Tech, located in �糵����, is a prestigious university renowned for its high-quality STEM degree programs and innovative approach to education. Through its unique Elevate Program, students gain access to real-world professional experiences, ensuring they graduate career-ready and are 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/College Pulse 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.

The School of Digital Technologies at Narxoz University offers a practice-oriented education based on the study of advanced technologies and skills. The curricula are developed in collaboration with employers, and courses are taught by industry professionals and experts. Educational programs at the School of Digital Technologies are ranked among the top 10 in the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs “Atameken” ranking for graduate demand, have accreditations from international agencies such as FIBAA and NAOKO, and meet the current needs of the labor market in the IT sector.

Illinois Institute of Technology

Based in the global metropolis of �糵����, Illinois Tech was born to liberate the power of collective difference to advance technology and innovation for all. It is the only tech-focused university in the city, and it stands at the crossroads of exploration and invention, advancing the future of �糵���� and the world. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, computing, , business, , science and human sciences, and . Illinois Tech students are guaranteed access to hands-on experiences, personalized mentorship, and job readiness through the �ܲԾ�����������ٲ�’s one-of-a-kind Elevate program. Its graduates lead the state and much of the nation in economic prosperity. Its faculty and alumni built the �糵���� skyline. And every day in the city’s living lab, Illinois Tech fuels breakthroughs that change lives. Visit iit.edu.

Media contacts

Petra Kelly
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Illinois Institute of Technology
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pkelly6@iit.edu

Kevin Dollear
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Illinois Institute of Technology
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