Study program: Biology / Alpine and High Mountain Ecology
The cooperation between Zhetysu University (KZ) and the University of Žilina (SK) began in 2014 in the field of education and has gradually expanded to include student internships, academic lectures and research activities. This has resulted in joint scientific publications in the field of research on water resources and ecotoxicology of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The need for a cooperative program arose from the long-term cooperation of partner institutions in the aforementioned research area with the aim of producing highly qualified new experts in the field of water management in high mountains.
The essence of the "double degree" is that after successful completion of the program, the student receives two diplomas (from the home and partner universities), in a shorter time than if he/she completed both study programs in a time line one after the other. This allows for mutual recognition of subjects for both study programs.
The purpose of this type of study is to acquire a wider range of knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of science and education on the processes of high mountain ecology, better language skills and better intercultural communication. The compatibility of both study programs below allows the issuing of a Double Degree, which provides students with more opportunities for further education as well as competitive advantages in finding employment in the Asian, European and global labor market.
The collaborating institutions will have equal responsibility for the coordination of the master's program.
The current study programs are duly accredited in accordance with national legislation, requirements and quality assurance systems of the countries where the universities are located.

Admission of students:
Students are subject to the standard rules and regulations regarding admission to study at their home institution and are registered at both institutions. Each student admitted to the program is enrolled at both universities.

Mobility:
During their stay at the host institution (ZHETYSU UNIVERSITY students in Slovakia or UNIZA students in Kazakhstan), students will have access to all student services provided by the host institution.

Funding:
Students will be financially responsible for travel to the institutions they attend during the program, but the institutions will seek potential sources (projects, grants) to support students, travel documents, visas, etc., insurance coverage related to their stay in the country.
Student mobility, as well as online learning, is a necessary and integral part of the master's program. Travel costs may be covered by the Erasmus+ program.