Doctoral studies

About the programme

Doctoral Studies (PhD) represent the highest level of postgraduate education, aimed at training a new generation of scientific and academic personnel.

At the Kazakh National University of Water Resources and Irrigation, PhD is offered in the fields of water management, water resources and water use, hydrology, irrigation, engineering, and sustainable development. The duration of doctoral studies is 3 years.

Doctoral training is carried out in the following formats: Scientific and pedagogical doctoral program (PhD); Industrial doctoral program (Industrial PhD); Professional doctoral program (Doctor by Profile); International Split PhD programs.

Doctoral candidates participate in the implementation of the university's research projects and conduct studies within scientific and engineering schools. Priority areas include water security, climate change, digitalization of water management, hydroinformatics, artificial intelligence, satellite monitoring, water resource management, and environmental sustainability.

At the final stage of study, doctoral candidates defend their doctoral dissertation. Graduates are awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Study tracks

PhD (scientific and pedagogical) — Threshold score: 75

8D07 Engineering, processing and construction industries

D129 Hydraulic engineering

  • 8D07415 — Hydraulic structures

D429 Hydraulic engineering and water resources management

  • 8D07416 — Water resources management
8D08 Agriculture and bioresources

D137 Water resources and water use

  • 8D08613 — Land reclamation and irrigated farming

PhD (professional) — Threshold score: 50

8D07 Engineering, processing and construction industries

D129 Hydraulic engineering

  • 8D07411 — Hydraulic engineering and structures
  • 8D07415 — Hydraulic structures

D429 Hydraulic engineering and water resources management

  • 8D07413 — Hydraulic engineering and water resources management
  • 8D07416 — Water resources management

D329 Water supply and sanitation

  • 8D07412 — Water supply and sanitation

D229 Hydraulic land reclamation

  • 8D07401 — Hydraulic land reclamation

Applicant timeline

Required documents

  1. 1. Application in free form
  2. 2. Education documents – bachelor's and master's diplomas with appendices (originals)
  3. 3. Identity document
  4. 4. State language examination certificate (KAZTEST), except for foreign citizens
  5. 5. Foreign language certificate (IELTS Academic at least 5.0, TOEFL IBT at least 35, etc.)
  6. 6. Medical certificate form 075/U
  7. 7. Photographs – 6 pcs., 3×4 cm
  8. 8. Document confirming employment (except for foreign citizens)
  9. 9. List of scientific publications for the last 3 calendar years (if any), research plan and essay

Note