The Top Public and Private Universities in Kenya 2023

Kenya is now the number one country in the whole of East Africa when it comes to providing quality education to students. It is home to some of the best universities in East Africa and even Africa as a whole. For this reason, there is a great increase in the influx of international students into Kenya just to get the opportunity to access the top-notch services provided by these universities. 

The decision of which institution to attend is the first step in the university experience for both Kenyan and international students. It is a decision of the utmost importance that requires careful consideration. Furthermore, there is no shortage of options making it a far more difficult task. These universities are ranked on many factors, which is why you must know what you want in an institution when making a choice. 

Kenyan scholars or international students hoping to continue their education in a prestigious university can greatly benefit from this guide. We are going to give you a few of the top Universities to get quality education and have a perfect university experience. 

University of Nairobi 

Located in the Capital, the University of Nairobi has been ranked as one of the best public universities in Kenya. This prestigious university has been ranked as the best in Kenya for quite a while now, which is why it attracts a lot of foreign students. The university is focused on both art and sciences, making it open to all students. No matter what field you wish to pursue, you can find a course at the University of Nairobi. There are over 200 programmes offered with many sports-related courses and activities taking place. Therefore, applying this knowledge in sports betting is possible with the Bet22 platform.

The University of Nairobi (UON) became functional in 1956, and today it is standing as one of the focal points of higher learning in Africa. Furthermore, it is also ranked among the top 5 percent of universities in the world, which is no small feat. All degrees of learning are possible at UON. Apart from the Bachelor’s program, there is also the Masters programme which is available for students aged 21 and above. Undergraduate students make up a vast percentage of the students in the school, which is over 70 percent. 

Its infrastructures are nothing short but breathtaking as beautiful and well-designed structures surround the campus. There are seven campuses located in the capital city and its environs making it easily accessible for students, and staff. Hence, because it is located in the capital, it has a very good social life, combining fun with quality learning. 

Kenyatta University 

Since its establishment in 1985, Kenyatta University has been playing second fiddle to the University of Nairobi. However, it is home to some of the brightest minds in Kenya, making it a perfect choice for knowledge-hungry students. The university aims to produce thinkers who will have something valuable to contribute to the Kenyan labor market. Also, with its ties to the industrial sector, they are able to provide the much-needed knowledge that would help guide its students after graduation. 

The university is split across thirteen campuses, the main campus is in Nairobi County, located outside the city. Therefore, it provides a serene and peaceful environment for learning. It also offers undergraduate courses, master’s degree programmes, and Ph.D. programmes for anyone willing to enrol. Furthermore, there are a vast range of courses subjects offered, cutting across numerous fields. It is also a sports-oriented institution, boasting two swimming pools, five football fields, and two track and athletic centers. 

There are over 70,000 plus students enrolled in its various courses and programmes, with well-trained and highly intellectual educators to go with it. There is also the option of online learning through videos and E classes with over 10,000 plus students believed to be registered.

Strathmore University 

For students who are not fans of public universities, there are also top private institutions in the country from which they can choose. Strathmore University which was founded in 1961 is one of the top private universities in the country. It is the perfect university for both local and international students, with over 72 nationalities represented. Furthermore, they offer various programmes like Diploma, Bachelors, Masters, and MBA programs, including some professional courses. These programmes are taught in English, making them open to overseas students. 

It is one of the best universities to pursue a business course as attested by many alumni. Hence, the Strathmore School of Business is ranked number one in East Africa. However, it is worth knowing that Strathmore University is quite expensive, but for the quality of service offered, it is worth it. For example, some undergraduate programs fees go as high as shs.250000/- per year, with selected masters courses costing even more. Moreover, the university has provided help in this aspect by providing financial aid options for prospective students. 

United States International University Africa

Another private university worth pointing out is USIU-A, which is also located in the capital, Nairobi. It has a well-designed campus in the Roysambu neighborhood. The campus contains amenities like an aesthetically designed cafeteria, sports facilities, libraries, and a research center. In addition, the university has received accreditation from Kenya’s Commission for Higher Education (CUE). Additionally, it has Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation in the US. 

The University offers 13-course programmes for undergraduates and 11 graduate and doctoral course programmes. Furthermore, it is a very ethnically diverse and welcoming institution with students from over 130 countries represented. Furthermore, it also has ties with other renowned global research institutions. For example, it has a partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Additionally, the United States International University Africa’s population of over 70,000 students has the opportunity to get financial aid while pursuing a superior education.

Conclusion

Kenya is home to some of the best public and private universities in Africa. As a nation that values quality education and serene and comfortable learning, its universities have been able to attract a lot of foreign students. So, students who are looking to start their university journey can take a pick of the lot from the numerous top-notch institutions present in the country.