Tanzania has a growing higher education sector, with public universities, private universities and specialised institutions across the country. This guide lists universities in Tanzania by town with links to their official websites. Use it to begin your search, then confirm programmes, fees and entry requirements directly with each institution.
Checking accreditation
Higher education in Tanzania is regulated by the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU). The TCU publishes lists of recognised universities and accredited programmes. Before applying or paying any fee, confirm that both the institution and your specific programme are recognised.
How admission works
For many undergraduate programmes, applications go through a central admission system run by the TCU, where applicants can select programmes at multiple universities using their ACSEE results, or equivalent qualifications. Some institutions also accept direct applications, especially for postgraduate and diploma-level programmes. Check the admission page of the university for current details and dates. International applicants should also ask about foreign qualification recognition.
Universities by town
Dar es Salaam
- University of Dar es Salaam (public): the country’s oldest and largest university, with wide programmes in science, engineering, law, business, humanities and social sciences.
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (public): specialises in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing and other health sciences.
- Ardhi University (public): focuses on land, architecture, urban planning, real estate and environmental studies.
- Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (public): technical and engineering education.
- Institute of Finance Management (public): finance, accounting, banking, insurance and information technology.
- Hubert Kairuki Memorial University (private): known for medical and health sciences programmes.
- Open University of Tanzania (public): open and distance learning with regional centres across the country.
Dodoma
- University of Dodoma (public): one of the largest universities by enrolment, offering education, health, informatics, natural sciences and social sciences.
Morogoro
- Sokoine University of Agriculture (public): agriculture, veterinary medicine, forestry, food science and related fields.
- Mzumbe University (public): public administration, business, law and development studies.
- Muslim University of Morogoro (private): education, business, law and social sciences.
Arusha and Kilimanjaro
- Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (public): postgraduate-focused institution in science, engineering and technology in Arusha.
- University of Arusha (private): education, business and theology programmes.
- Tumaini University Makumira (private): theology, education, business and other programmes near Arusha.
- Moshi Co-operative University (public): cooperatives, business and rural development programmes in Moshi.
- Mwenge Catholic University (private): education, business and law programmes in Moshi.
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (private): health sciences, associated with the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre.
Mwanza
- Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (private): health sciences education and research in Mwanza.
- St. Augustine University of Tanzania (private): multiple faculties including law, business, education and social sciences.
Mbeya and Iringa
- Mbeya University of Science and Technology (public): engineering, technology and applied sciences.
- Ruaha Catholic University (private): education, business and social sciences in Iringa.
Zanzibar
- State University of Zanzibar (public): education, agriculture, tourism, Islamic studies and other programmes.
How to choose the right university
- Match the programme to your career goal and to your ACSEE subjects.
- Check that the programme is accredited by the TCU and recognised by the relevant professional body.
- Compare tuition, accommodation and living costs, which are lower in some regions.
- Ask about student support, laboratories and internships.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreign students study in Tanzania?
Yes. Contact the university international office and check immigration and student permit requirements.
Is Kiswahili required?
Many programmes are taught in English, but Kiswahili is useful for daily life and internships.
This list is for guidance only, and is not an endorsement or ranking. Confirm all information on official websites. See our Disclaimer.