Nazarbayev University in Astana was founded only six years ago. During this short period of time, the university has established itself as an elite institution that combines original traditions with a modern education system and the best educational model. This is confirmed both by the ever-increasing number of applicants and students, and by the high level of knowledge of graduates. Compliance with all international standards of education contributes to the exit of the educational system of Kazakhstan to the world level. To date, Nazarbayev University has managed to become the center of research activities of the republic.
History of the University
The chronicle of the university began six years ago, when the first meeting of the Board of Directors of the educational institution took place in the fall of 2009. It approved a strategy for its development for the next three years. Then the university was called "New University of Astana". However, in the summer of 2010 it was changed. Since then, the university has been called Nazarbayev University.
In the same autumn, the institution opened its doors to the first students. The number of students has been growing rapidly every year, and today they receive higher education at the university.education of more than two and a half thousand people. And in 2015, the institution presented diplomas to its first graduates.
Goals and Mission of the University
Nazarbayev University pursues a high mission: to create a reference educational model that serves as a model for all higher educational institutions of the country. This is the first university in Kazakhstan that operates on the principles of academic freedom and autonomy.
The main goal of the university is to train specialists who will subsequently contribute to the development and prosperity of the state. This becomes possible thanks to following the world standards of education quality, careful study of international experience and the introduction of innovative developments in the educational process.
University structure
Today Nazarbayev University includes seven schools and one center. They provide training in various areas, including: engineering, technology, humanities and social sciences, business, politics, education and medicine. Each of the faculties has several speci alties.
Training lasts for 5-9 years, depending on the chosen field of study. This allows us to assert that Nazarbayev University, whose faculties and speci alties enable each applicant to choose the most attractive profession, is a real symbol of higher education in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Various training programs
Education in the institution is conducted on four programs. Firstof which - Foundation. This is a preparatory course for high school graduates. It is followed by a bachelor's degree, where you can get an education in 16 speci alties, and a master's degree (doctoral studies). The fourth (and last) step is the professional development programs. They allow you to significantly supplement the knowledge and skills in the preparation of both civil servants and top managers of medium and small businesses.
Research activities
Nazarbayev University was conceived as a research institution, so the closest attention is paid to scientific work. There are currently three centers operating at the university.
The first of these, Nazarbayev University's innovative research system, is developing energy technology projects and studying their impact on the environment and climate. His mission is of particular importance, as Kazakhstan is rich in mineral resources. Thus, the work of the Center contributes to the growth of the energy sector.
An important area of activity of the university is developments in the field of medicine and he alth care. This is the so-called Center for Life Sciences. The purpose of his work is the development of knowledge in the field of nature and medicine, as well as the use of the information obtained for the prevention of various diseases and the extension of people's lives.
The center for educational policy of the university is engaged in all kinds of scientific research in the relevant field. Its main goal is to createinnovative projects in this area, studying the experience of foreign systems, drawing up recommendations for reforming activities.
Today, the university has about 45 research laboratories, more than 80 projects are being worked on. Numerous scientific works published in state and international publications, as well as patents issued to specialists of the centers testify to the highest level of activity.
International Relations
Another argument that positively characterizes Nazarbayev University is baylanystars, or international relations. The university is famous for its close contacts with the leading educational institutions of the world. The strategic partners of the university are the largest American and British higher education institutions. The university supports a student exchange program, and also accepts foreign citizens for study. In addition, the best students of the university are given the opportunity of internships in major foreign partner educational institutions.
It is worth noting that most of the university teachers are foreigners who came here from the USA, Great Britain, Australia and other countries. Professors from partner universities are invited. There is also a teacher exchange program and joint scientific research.
International cooperation is one of the priorities of the university. This, no doubt, contributes to the exit of the education system of Kazakhstan to the world level.
How to get into university?
All of the above allows you to see for yourself how many opportunities for quality education and a successful career Nazarbayev University gives. How to enter this university? This question is very relevant and is of interest to a large number of applicants. However, it should be borne in mind that the university makes the highest demands on applicants. Therefore, it is not so easy to become his student.
As already mentioned, there are the following education programs at an educational institution called Nazarbayev University: undergraduate, graduate (doctoral) and postgraduate advanced training courses. There is also the possibility of pre-university preparation - Foundation. Accordingly, each of the programs has its own conditions for admission.
So, in order to become a student of the Foundation course, an applicant needs to apply and go through online registration. After that, you must pass the entrance exams. Undergraduate education is possible both for graduates of the basic course, and directly after secondary schools. The highest requirements are set for those entering the magistracy or doctoral studies. This is both work experience and recommendations, including a description of the professional qualities of candidates.
Cost and conditions of study
Many applicants are interested in whether Nazarbayev University uses grants, or grants that allow you to study at the expense of state and sponsorship investments? Yes it is possible. The state allocatesgrants that cover all tuition costs, so applicants who successfully pass the entrance exams get the opportunity to study for free.
Thus, in 2013-2014, education was provided at the Preparatory Center for five hundred students. In addition, Nazarbayev University grants provide free accommodation in a hostel, and those studying under the pre-university training program are also offered three meals a day at the expense of the state. There is also a paid tuition option. First of all, this applies to master's and doctoral studies, but it is also possible for undergraduate students. In this case, the cost would be about $21,500 per year.
Teaching at the university is conducted in English.
Student Life
Nazarbayev University cares about the comprehensive development of its students. Therefore, in addition to professional training in the speci alty, students have the opportunity to engage in various clubs and organizations of the university. Everyone can choose an occupation to their liking: culture and art, various types of creativity.
Great attention is paid to the he alth and physical fitness of students, so sports are an integral part of university life. In his free time, any young person can study at the university center with experienced trainers. And these are not only recreational activities, but also prestigious inter-university competitions at the local, state and international levels.
Thus, Nazarbayev University is a truly high-class university, the center of education and research activities of the country, serving the prosperity and successful future of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
