Overview

The Robotics Engineering programme at Nazarbayev University focuses on the development of an in-depth understanding of the nature, implementation, and evaluation of robotics principles and applications together with the growth of research skills. The current areas of research interest for the PhD in Robotics Engineering encompass a wide spectrum, with specific focus on priority areas for Kazakhstan, such as intelligent systems, industrial automation, human-robot interaction, and medical & rehabilitation robotics.

By the completion of the PhD program, students will be capable of designing and conducting independent, innovative, original and high-quality research in robotics engineering. In addition, the program will prepare graduates for careers in industrial and academic environments, e.g., as university faculty members, senior researchers, engineers, and product developers.

Aims and Objectives

The overarching aim of the program is to develop high-quality doctoral researchers who are ready and able to make a lasting contribution to addressing scientific, technological, economic, societal and environmental challenges of global significance. It is closely associated with the aim of Kazakhstan to increase its global competitiveness and join the top 30 most developed countries in the world by 2050.

The program aims to prepare:

specialists for advanced careers in (national and multinational) industry and academia in Kazakhstan, in neighboring countries and internationally;
future policy and decision-makers for careers in governmental agencies, public service, and the social economy, in Kazakhstan, and globally;
entrepreneurs who will be able to promote advanced and innovative science-rich technologies anywhere in the world;
a new generation of commercially aware and technologically advanced scientists and technologists to lead future developments in robotics;
future academics and researchers in robotics engineering for careers as specialists in universities of Kazakhstan and other parts of the world.

Programme Structure

On successful completion of the program, the students will be able to:

Review, analyse, and evaluate the body of scientific literature in their field of study in Robotics Engineering;

Develop and implement research methodologies in the field of Robotics Engineering;

Plan, develop, analyse and communicate research in writing and verbally independently;

Generate original knowledge and understanding in their area of specialization within Robotics Engineering;

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-02 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-31 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

46

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

5.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Astana, Kazakhstan

Disciplines

Robotics

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.75

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

46

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

5.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent)

A Master’s degree or equivalent
A competitive CGPA in applicant’s Master’s (or equivalent) degree.

High level of English proficiency
Strong reading, analytical, and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE test (recommended);
High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a statement of purpose;

Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal;
Resume;
Two letters of recommendation (one from academic source).

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Nazarbayev University and/or in Kazakhstan, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

23500 USD / year

≈ 23500 USD / year

Living costs

Astana

Kazakhstan

151250 - 222349 KZT / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.