Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city, hosts the highest concentration of universities in the country, offering students diverse academic opportunities across all fields of study. As East Africa’s education hub, universities in Nairobi County provide access to quality higher education, modern facilities, extensive networking opportunities, and direct connections to Kenya’s job market. This comprehensive guide covers all accredited universities in Nairobi Kenya, including both public universities Nairobi and private universities Nairobi, with details on programmes offered, fees, admission requirements, and locations across the county.
Universities in Nairobi Overview
Nairobi County hosts over 30 accredited universities, making it Kenya’s premier education destination:
- Public Universities: 8+ main campuses and constituent colleges
- Private Universities: 25+ chartered institutions
- Programme Diversity: All fields from medicine to engineering, business to arts
- Student Population: Over 200,000 university students
- Fee Range: KES 16,000 – KES 800,000+ per year depending on institution and programme
- Study Modes: Full-time, part-time, evening, weekend, online options
- Locations: Spread across Nairobi County including CBD, Westlands, Karen, Ruaraka, and more
Why Study at Universities in Nairobi County
Career Opportunities: Nairobi’s position as East Africa’s commercial hub provides unmatched internship and employment opportunities across industries including finance, technology, manufacturing, NGOs, and government.
Networking Advantages: Access to industry professionals, guest lecturers from leading companies, career fairs, and professional networks that enhance job prospects after graduation.
Modern Infrastructure: Most Nairobi universities list feature contemporary facilities including digital libraries, computer labs, science laboratories, and innovation hubs with latest technology.
Cultural Diversity: Study alongside students from all Kenyan communities and over 50 countries, creating rich multicultural learning experiences.
Accessibility: Well-developed public transport network (matatus, buses, trains) makes commuting convenient from any part of the city or neighboring counties.
Quality Education: Home to Kenya’s top-ranked universities with experienced faculty, research opportunities, and international collaborations.
Public Universities in Nairobi
Public universities receive government funding and typically offer lower tuition fees, especially for government-sponsored students placed through KUCCPS.
1. University of Nairobi
Location: Multiple campuses – Main Campus (CBD), Chiromo Campus, Parklands Campus, Lower Kabete Campus, Upper Kabete Campus
Overview: Kenya’s oldest and most prestigious university, established in 1970. Consistently ranked as East Africa’s top university.
Popular Programmes:
- Medicine and Surgery (6 years)
- Law (4 years)
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical) (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Economics (4 years)
- Computer Science (4 years)
- Architecture (5 years)
- Veterinary Medicine (5 years)
- Journalism and Mass Communication (4 years)
Student Population: 70,000+
Fees Range:
- Government-sponsored: KES 16,000 – KES 48,000 per year
- Self-sponsored undergraduate: KES 120,000 – KES 400,000 per year
- Medicine (self-sponsored): KES 600,000 – KES 800,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend, distance learning
Intakes: September (main), January, May
Contact: P.O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi | Website: uonbi.ac.ke
2. Kenyatta University (Main Campus)
Location: Ruaraka, along Thika Road (approximately 20km from Nairobi CBD)
Overview: One of Kenya’s largest universities with extensive programme offerings, particularly strong in education and teacher training.
Popular Programmes:
- Education (various specializations) (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Environmental Studies (4 years)
- Hospitality and Tourism Management (4 years)
- Health Sciences (4 years)
- Economics (4 years)
- Public Health (4 years)
Student Population: 70,000+
Fees Range:
- Government-sponsored: KES 16,000 – KES 48,000 per year
- Self-sponsored undergraduate: KES 100,000 – KES 350,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, part-time, distance learning, online
Intakes: January, May, September
Contact: P.O. Box 43844-00100, Nairobi | Website: ku.ac.ke
3. Technical University of Kenya
Location: Haile Selassie Avenue, Nairobi CBD (formerly Kenya Polytechnic)
Overview: Specialized in engineering, technology, and applied sciences, upgraded to university status in 2013.
Popular Programmes:
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering (4 years)
- Mechanical Engineering (4 years)
- Civil Engineering (4 years)
- Information Technology (4 years)
- Quantity Surveying (4 years)
- Geospatial Engineering (4 years)
Student Population: 20,000+
Fees Range:
- Government-sponsored: KES 16,000 – KES 48,000 per year
- Self-sponsored: KES 100,000 – KES 300,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend
Intakes: September, January, May
Contact: P.O. Box 52428-00200, Nairobi | Website: tukenya.ac.ke
4. Multimedia University of Kenya
Location: Magadi Road, Rongai (outskirts of Nairobi County)
Overview: Kenya’s ICT university specializing in media, communication, and information technology.
Popular Programmes:
- Film and Animation (4 years)
- Journalism and Media Studies (4 years)
- Software Engineering (4 years)
- Information Technology (4 years)
- Business Information Technology (4 years)
Student Population: 8,000+
Fees Range:
- Government-sponsored: KES 16,000 – KES 48,000 per year
- Self-sponsored: KES 120,000 – KES 280,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening
Intakes: September, January, May
Contact: P.O. Box 30305-00100, Nairobi | Website: mmu.ac.ke
5. Cooperative University of Kenya
Location: Karen, Nairobi (along Karen-Langata Road)
Overview: Specialized in cooperative management, business, and development studies.
Popular Programmes:
- Cooperative Management (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Accounting and Finance (4 years)
- Economics (4 years)
- Community Development (4 years)
Student Population: 5,000+
Fees Range:
- Government-sponsored: KES 16,000 – KES 48,000 per year
- Self-sponsored: KES 100,000 – KES 250,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, weekend
Intakes: September, January, May
Contact: P.O. Box 24814-00502, Karen | Website: cuk.ac.ke
6. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (Nairobi Campus)
Location: CBD Campus – Murang’a Road
Overview: JKUAT’s Nairobi campus offers selected programmes for working professionals.
Popular Programmes:
- Engineering (various fields)
- Business programmes
- IT courses
Study Modes: Evening, weekend, online
Intakes: September, January, May
7. Moi University (Nairobi Campus)
Location: Mombasa Road
Overview: Nairobi campus offering selected programmes from the main Eldoret-based university.
Study Modes: Evening, weekend programmes
8. Egerton University (Nairobi Campus)
Location: City Campus – various locations for different schools
Overview: Selected programmes especially in business and continuing education.
Study Modes: Evening, weekend
Private Universities In Nairobi
Private universities are self-funded institutions often offering specialized programmes with smaller class sizes and flexible study schedules.
1. Strathmore University
Location: Ole Sangale Road, Madaraka Estate
Overview: Kenya’s premier private university, consistently ranked among Africa’s top institutions with AACSB-accredited business school.
Popular Programmes:
- Bachelor of Business and Information Technology (4 years)
- Actuarial Science (4 years)
- Finance and Accounting (4 years)
- Law (4 years)
- Information Technology (4 years)
- Commerce (4 years)
- Business Data Analytics (4 years)
Student Population: 5,000+
Fees Range:
- Undergraduate: KES 350,000 – KES 600,000 per year
- Postgraduate: KES 400,000 – KES 800,000 per year
- MBA: KES 1,200,000 (total programme)
Study Modes: Full-time, executive (for postgraduate)
Intakes: January, September
Contact: P.O. Box 59857-00200, Nairobi | Website: strathmore.edu
2. United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa)
Location: Kasarani, along Thika Road
Overview: American-style university with students from over 70 countries, offering US curriculum.
Popular Programmes:
- International Relations (4 years)
- Psychology (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Communication Studies (4 years)
- Hospitality Management (4 years)
- Clinical Psychology (postgraduate)
Student Population: 6,000+
Fees Range:
- Undergraduate: KES 550,000 – KES 700,000 per year
- Postgraduate: KES 600,000 – KES 900,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, some evening options
Intakes: January, May, September
Contact: P.O. Box 14634-00800, Nairobi | Website: usiu.ac.ke
3. Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA)
Location: Bogani East Road, Karen
Overview: Chartered in 1992, CUEA attracts students from across East and Central Africa with values-based education.
Popular Programmes:
- Law (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Mass Communication (4 years)
- Education (4 years)
- Theology and Religious Studies (4 years)
- Peace and Conflict Studies (4 years)
Student Population: 5,000+
Fees Range:
- Undergraduate: KES 180,000 – KES 350,000 per year
- Postgraduate: KES 200,000 – KES 400,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend
Intakes: September, January, May
Contact: P.O. Box 62157-00200, Nairobi | Website: cuea.edu
4. Daystar University
Location: Athi River Campus (main), Valley Road Campus (Nairobi CBD)
Overview: Christian university established in 1974, strong in communication and development studies.
Popular Programmes:
- Communication Studies (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Community Development (4 years)
- Education (4 years)
- International Relations (4 years)
Student Population: 4,000+
Fees Range:
- Undergraduate: KES 200,000 – KES 400,000 per year
- Postgraduate: KES 250,000 – KES 450,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening
Intakes: January, May, September
Contact: P.O. Box 44400-00100, Nairobi | Website: daystar.ac.ke
5. Kenya Methodist University (KeMU) Nairobi Campus
Location: South C, Nairobi
Overview: Methodist-affiliated university offering diverse programmes in Nairobi.
Popular Programmes:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Theology
- Public Health
Fees Range: KES 150,000 – KES 300,000 per year
Study Modes: Evening, weekend
Intakes: January, May, September
6. St. Paul’s University
Location: Nairobi Campus – various locations
Overview: Anglican Church-affiliated university with focus on development studies.
Popular Programmes:
- Development Studies
- Business Administration
- Education
- Theology
Fees Range: KES 140,000 – KES 280,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend
7. Africa Nazarene University (ANU)
Location: Ongata Rongai (outskirts of Nairobi County)
Overview: Christian university affiliated with Church of the Nazarene.
Popular Programmes:
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Education (4 years)
- Computer Science (4 years)
- Mass Communication (4 years)
Fees Range: KES 180,000 – KES 350,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend
Contact: P.O. Box 53067-00200, Nairobi | Website: anu.ac.ke
8. Aga Khan University
Location: Parklands, Third Parklands Avenue
Overview: Premium international university focusing on health sciences with world-class facilities.
Popular Programmes:
- Medicine (5 years)
- Nursing (4 years)
- Advanced Nursing Practice (postgraduate)
- Public Health (postgraduate)
Student Population: 1,500+
Fees Range:
- Medicine: KES 1,500,000 – KES 2,000,000 per year
- Nursing: KES 800,000 – KES 1,200,000 per year
- Postgraduate: KES 1,000,000 – KES 1,500,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time
Intakes: September (main)
Contact: P.O. Box 30270-00100, Nairobi | Website: aku.edu
9. KCA University
Location: Ruaraka, Thika Road (near Kenyatta University)
Overview: Former professional training institute chartered as university in 2013, strong in business and accounting.
Popular Programmes:
- Accounting and Finance (4 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Economics (4 years)
- Information Technology (4 years)
Student Population: 12,000+
Fees Range: KES 150,000 – KES 300,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend
Intakes: January, May, September
Contact: P.O. Box 56808-00200, Nairobi | Website: kca.ac.ke
10. Mount Kenya University (Nairobi Campus)
Location: General Kago Road, off Thika Road
Overview: Fast-growing private university with multiple campuses, offering diverse programmes.
Popular Programmes:
- Nursing (4 years)
- Clinical Medicine (3 years)
- Business Administration (4 years)
- Education (4 years)
- Information Technology (4 years)
Fees Range: KES 120,000 – KES 350,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend, online
Intakes: January, May, September
Contact: P.O. Box 342-01000, Thika | Website: mku.ac.ke
11. The Presbyterian University of East Africa (PUEA)
Location: Kikuyu (outskirts of Nairobi County)
Overview: Presbyterian Church-affiliated university established in 2012.
Popular Programmes:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Theology
- Public Health
Fees Range: KES 130,000 – KES 270,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, weekend
12. Pan Africa Christian University (PAC)
Location: Nairobi West
Overview: Pentecostal church-affiliated university with focus on holistic Christian education.
Popular Programmes:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Theology
- Social Work
Fees Range: KES 140,000 – KES 280,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening
13. Adventist University of Africa
Location: Masai Lodge Road, Karen
Overview: Seventh-day Adventist Church-affiliated university focusing on postgraduate education.
Popular Programmes:
- MBA
- Public Health
- Education Leadership
- Chaplaincy
Fees Range: KES 200,000 – KES 400,000 per year (mainly postgraduate)
Study Modes: Full-time, modular
14. Inoorero University
Location: Karen, Nairobi
Overview: Private university with strong health sciences programmes.
Popular Programmes:
- Nursing
- Clinical Medicine
- Public Health
- Business Administration
Fees Range: KES 150,000 – KES 400,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, weekend
15. Riara University
Location: Mbagathi Way, off Lang’ata Road
Overview: Focus on business, technology, and professional programmes.
Popular Programmes:
- Business Administration
- Information Technology
- Accounting and Finance
Fees Range: KES 180,000 – KES 350,000 per year
Study Modes: Full-time, evening, weekend
Complete Nairobi Universities List (Summary)
Public Universities Nairobi:
- University of Nairobi
- Kenyatta University
- Technical University of Kenya
- Multimedia University of Kenya
- Cooperative University of Kenya
- JKUAT Nairobi Campus
- Moi University Nairobi Campus
- Egerton University Nairobi Campus
Private Universities Nairobi (Main Institutions):
- Strathmore University
- USIU-Africa
- Catholic University of Eastern Africa
- Aga Khan University
- Daystar University
- KCA University
- Mount Kenya University
- Africa Nazarene University
- Kenya Methodist University
- St. Paul’s University
- Presbyterian University of East Africa
- Pan Africa Christian University
- Adventist University of Africa
- Inoorero University
- Riara University
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Creative Arts (JKUAT-CAT)
- Pioneer International University
- East Africa University
- Gretsa University
- Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology
(Note: This list includes main accredited universities. Always verify current CUE accreditation status)
Comparison: Public vs Private Universities in Nairobi County
| Factor | Public Universities Nairobi | Private Universities Nairobi |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | KES 16,000 – 400,000/year | KES 120,000 – 800,000/year |
| KUCCPS Placement | Yes (government sponsorship) | No (self-sponsored only) |
| Class Size | Larger (100-500 students) | Smaller (30-100 students) |
| Flexibility | Limited evening/weekend | More flexible schedules |
| Religious Affiliation | Secular | Many church-affiliated |
| Infrastructure | Varies by campus | Generally modern |
| Student Support | Large support systems | More personalized attention |
| Popular For | Traditional degrees, research | Professional programmes, working students |
Choosing the Right University in Nairobi
Consider Your Budget: Public universities offer lower fees, especially for government-sponsored students. Private universities cost more but may offer smaller classes and flexible schedules.
Programme Availability: Verify your desired course is offered and accredited. Some programmes are unique to certain universities.
Location and Commute: Consider transport costs and time. Universities along Thika Road (Kenyatta, USIU, KCA) are accessible via superhighway. CBD universities (UoN, TUK) may face traffic challenges.
Study Mode: If working, evening/weekend programmes at private universities might suit better than full-time public university programmes.
Career Goals: Research graduate outcomes and industry connections. Some universities have stronger links to specific sectors.
Campus Facilities: Visit campuses to assess libraries, labs, accommodation, and recreational facilities.
Accreditation: Always verify CUE accreditation status for both the university and specific programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many universities are in Nairobi County?
Nairobi County hosts over 30 accredited universities including both public and private institutions. This includes main campuses and satellite campuses of universities based elsewhere. The exact number changes as new universities receive charters and others expand to Nairobi. Always verify current accreditation with the Commission for University Education.
What is the cheapest university in Nairobi?
For government-sponsored students, public universities like University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, and Technical University of Kenya charge subsidized fees of KES 16,000 – 48,000 per year. For self-sponsored students, some private universities like Kenya Methodist University and certain Mount Kenya University programmes offer fees from around KES 120,000 per year, though public universities generally remain more affordable.
Which private university in Nairobi has the best reputation?
Strathmore University consistently ranks as Nairobi’s and Kenya’s top private university, with international accreditation and strong graduate employability. USIU-Africa is also highly regarded, especially for American-style education. Aga Khan University leads in health sciences. Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) maintains strong regional reputation. Reputation varies by field, so research universities strong in your specific area of interest.
Can I study in Nairobi and live outside the city?
Yes, many students commute from neighboring counties like Kiambu, Machakos, and Kajiado. Universities along Thika Road are accessible from Kiambu, while those on Mombasa Road suit Machakos residents. However, consider transport costs (KES 200-500 daily) and commute time (1-3 hours daily) when deciding. Evening and weekend programmes also accommodate students from outside Nairobi.
Do Nairobi universities offer accommodation?
Most public universities in Nairobi provide limited on-campus accommodation (hostels) at KES 20,000 – 80,000 per semester, though demand far exceeds availability. Some private universities like Strathmore and USIU-Africa offer better accommodation options. Many students opt for off-campus housing in nearby estates, with shared apartments costing KES 15,000 – 40,000 per month.
Which university in Nairobi is best for part-time studies?
Universities offering extensive evening and weekend programmes include KCA University, Mount Kenya University, Kenya Methodist University, Catholic University, and public university evening programmes at University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University. These institutions understand working students’ needs and structure classes accordingly, typically starting after 5 PM on weekdays or running all day Saturday and Sunday.
Tips for Prospective Students
Visit Multiple Campuses: Don’t choose based only on reputation. Visit campuses to experience the environment, talk to current students, and assess facilities firsthand.
Check Programme Accreditation: Beyond university accreditation, verify your specific programme is CUE-approved and recognized by professional bodies if applicable (e.g., Engineers Board, Nursing Council).
Research Faculty Qualifications: Quality universities employ qualified lecturers with advanced degrees and industry experience. This information is often on university websites.
Consider Total Costs: Beyond tuition, budget for transport, meals, books, accommodation (if needed), and other expenses. Nairobi’s cost of living is higher than other Kenyan cities.
Explore Scholarship Options: Both public and private universities offer merit and need-based scholarships. Apply early and maintain good academic performance.
Check Library and Online Resources: Modern universities provide extensive digital libraries and online resources essential for quality research and learning.
Verify Intakes and Deadlines: Different universities have different intake schedules. Plan ahead and apply early to secure admission and accommodation.
Network With Alumni: Connect with graduates from your target universities through LinkedIn or social media to get honest insights about the institution and job prospects.
Conclusion
Universities in Nairobi Kenya offer unparalleled access to quality higher education with diverse options across all fields of study. Whether you choose public universities Nairobi for affordable government-subsidized education or private universities Nairobi for specialized programmes and flexible schedules, the capital city provides excellent opportunities for academic and professional development.
This comprehensive Nairobi universities list demonstrates the wealth of options available, from prestigious institutions like University of Nairobi and Strathmore University to specialized universities focusing on technology, health sciences, or theology. Universities in Nairobi County benefit from the city’s position as East Africa’s commercial and cultural hub, providing students with networking opportunities, internships, and direct access to Kenya’s job market.
When choosing among universities in Nairobi, consider factors beyond fees and reputation, including programme quality, location, study modes, campus facilities, and alignment with your career goals. Verify CUE accreditation, visit campuses, and make informed decisions that position you for success in Kenya’s competitive education landscape and job market.
Nairobi’s universities continue evolving to meet modern education demands, incorporating technology, research, and industry partnerships that prepare graduates for success in 2026 and beyond. Your university choice is a significant investment in your future, so take time to research thoroughly and select the institution that best fits your academic aspirations, financial capacity, and professional ambitions.
