The STEM Landscape in Kazakhstan
The Kazakhstani government has made STEM education a national priority, funding new laboratories, research centers, and industry partnerships. As a result, several universities now offer internationally competitive programs in engineering, IT, and applied sciences.
Leading STEM Institutions
Nazarbayev University (NU)
Nazarbayev University consistently ranks as Kazakhstan's top research institution. Its School of Engineering and Digital Sciences offers programs in civil, electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering, as well as computer science and robotics. Instruction is in English.
Satbayev University
Formerly the Kazakh National Technical University, Satbayev is the country's oldest technical university. It specializes in mining, oil and gas engineering, metallurgy, and information technology.
AITU – Astana IT University
Founded in 2019, AITU is a young but rapidly growing university focused entirely on IT and digital technologies. It has partnerships with global tech companies and offers modern curricula in software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity.
ATU – Almaty Technological University
ATU focuses on applied sciences, food technology, and light industry engineering. It has strong ties with industrial partners and offers practical hands-on training.
Choosing the Right Fit
When selecting a STEM program, consider:
- Language of instruction (English vs. Russian/Kazakh)
- Industry connections and internship opportunities
- Research output and lab facilities
- Grant availability for your specialty
Compare STEM programs from all major universities on Q App.