History of the university
“Shymkent University,” established in 2001, positions itself as one of the major multidisciplinary higher education institutions providing training for specialists in higher and postgraduate education through 29 undergraduate and 9 graduate educational programs.
The formation and development of Shymkent University are based on the concept of classical university education and the recognition of the intellectual unity of educational, upbringing, and research processes. Commitment to these ideals allows the university to maintain a high reputation in the academic community, supported by highly qualified teaching staff, the implementation of new educational programs, and scientific research projects.
For more than 20 years, the university has been successfully operating within the system of higher and postgraduate education. The educational process is supported by a well-equipped academic and laboratory base, a strong material and technical infrastructure, and a developed campus environment.
The university’s achievements are directly determined by its highly qualified scientific and pedagogical staff: 52% of the faculty hold academic degrees and titles. The teaching staff also includes representatives of employers and experienced specialists from leading industrial enterprises and educational institutions.
The university has created favorable conditions for scientific and research activities, hosting two research institutes: the Research Institute of “Ecology and Biology” and “Pedagogy and Psychology.” The priority areas of the university’s research include biology and biotechnology, ecology, cosmetology, chemical technology and petrochemistry, agro-industrial complex development (including beekeeping), and the scientific and pedagogical foundations of future teachers’ training.
Expanding international cooperation is an important direction of the university’s development. Memorandums of cooperation have been signed with 26 foreign universities from countries such as Poland, Turkey, Lithuania, Russia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, among others. Based on these memorandums, agreements have been concluded, and programs for academic mobility of faculty and students are being implemented, along with joint research projects that promote scientific collaboration. Academic mobility of teachers and students is funded by the university.
Foreign scholars from partner universities are invited to deliver lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and training workshops. Within the framework of international cooperation, the university’s faculty and staff participate in international internships, professional development programs, and international scientific symposia and conferences.
Since the beginning of its educational activity, Shymkent University has trained more than 50,000 specialists who are successfully working both in Kazakhstan and abroad.





