Kenya has one of the largest higher education systems in East Africa, with public universities, private universities and many specialised institutions across the country. This guide lists universities in Kenya by town with links to their official websites, along with practical advice on accreditation and admission. Use it to shortlist universities, then confirm programmes, fees and entry requirements on each official site.
Check accreditation first
Universities in Kenya are regulated by the Commission for University Education (CUE), which publishes lists of chartered universities and accredited programmes. Confirm that the university and your programme are recognised before you pay any fees. Professional courses such as medicine, law, engineering, nursing, pharmacy and accountancy may also need approval from a professional regulatory body.
How admission works
Government-sponsored students who sit the KCSE are placed in public universities and colleges through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), based on results and their course choices. Students can also apply directly to universities as self-sponsored or private students, including at private universities. Postgraduate students apply directly to the university or school. International students should check the foreign qualification and fee policies on each university website.
Universities by town
Nairobi and surroundings
- University of Nairobi (public): Kenya’s oldest university, with strong programmes in medicine, law, engineering, business and sciences.
- Kenyatta University (public): known for education, health, business, and science programmes, based near Nairobi.
- Technical University of Kenya (public): engineering, applied sciences and technology.
- Multimedia University of Kenya (public): media, engineering, and technology programmes.
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (public): engineering, agriculture, computing and technology at Juja.
- The Co-operative University of Kenya (public): cooperative management, business and development.
- Strathmore University (private): business, IT, law and finance.
- United States International University Africa (private): American-style degrees in business, communication, and sciences.
- Daystar University (private): communication, education, business and theology.
- Catholic University of Eastern Africa (private): education, law, business and social sciences.
- Africa Nazarene University (private): business, education and theology near Ongata Rongai.
- Riara University (private): law, business, and social sciences.
- Zetech University (private): business and ICT programmes at Ruiru and Nairobi.
- Mount Kenya University (private): health sciences, business, engineering and other programmes, headquartered in Thika.
Nakuru, Eldoret and the Rift Valley
- Egerton University (public): agriculture, veterinary medicine, natural resources and engineering at Njoro.
- Moi University (public): medicine, engineering, education and social sciences in Eldoret.
- University of Eldoret (public): agriculture, natural resources and education.
- Kabarak University (private): law, medicine, business and education near Nakuru.
- Laikipia University (public): education, science and business.
- Maasai Mara University (public): hospitality, tourism, education and science in Narok.
Kisumu, Kakamega, Bungoma and the western region
- Maseno University (public): medicine, education, science and social sciences near Kisumu.
- Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (public): science, technology and health sciences in Bondo.
- Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (public): science, technology, health and education in Kakamega.
- Kibabii University (public): education, science and business in Bungoma.
- Rongo University (public): education, science and technology in Rongo.
- Kisii University (public): education, health sciences and business in Kisii.
Nyeri, Central Kenya and Eastern Kenya
- Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (public): engineering and technology in Nyeri.
- Karatina University (public): agriculture, education and business.
- Chuka University (public): education, science and agriculture.
- University of Embu (public): agriculture, health and science programmes.
- Machakos University (public): education, engineering, business and health programmes.
- South Eastern Kenya University (public): multi-campus university based in Kitui.
Mombasa and the Coast
- Technical University of Mombasa (public): engineering, applied sciences and business.
- Pwani University (public): science, education and business at Kilifi.
- Taita Taveta University (public): mining, engineering and technology programmes.
Tips for choosing
- Check that your chosen programme is accredited by the CUE and any professional body.
- Compare KUCCPS cluster points with the course you want.
- Look at campus location and the cost of living in that town.
- Consider whether you want a public or private university experience and what you can afford.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change my KUCCPS course?
KUCCPS has a revision window each year where you can change your choices, so watch the announcement dates.
Do private universities offer scholarships?
Many do, so check their financial aid pages.
Can I transfer between universities?
Sometimes. Each university has its own policy on credit transfer.
This list is for guidance only and is not an endorsement or ranking. Confirm all information on official websites. See our Disclaimer.