18 Best Private Universities in Nairobi for International Students
There are a lot of great countries and cities that need to be visited and discovered in your lifetime, and one of the main locations that need to be visited for your studies is Nairobi, which is one of the cities in Kenya. When visiting Nairobi, in addition to developing your skills and academic knowledge, you will become part of a new system and society that will open and enrich your cultural horizons.
Private institutions are a great way to reach your academic goals and get that well-deserved degree. To help you out, check out the list below if you’re looking to study in a private university in Nairobi. Each university page provides you with specific details on tuition, admission, language requirements, available courses, and more. So, make sure to check the university pages! Let’s dig in!
| Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Strathmore University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 2 | United States International University Africa | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 3 | The Catholic University of Eastern Africa | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 4 | Daystar University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 5 | KCA University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 6 | Africa Nazarene University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 7 | Africa International University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 8 | Adventist University of Africa | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 9 | Amref International University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 10 | Riara University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 11 | Zetech University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 12 | International Leadership University, Kenya | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 13 | Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 14 | Pan Africa Christian University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 15 | Pioneer International University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 16 | East African University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 17 | Islamic University of Kenya | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 18 | KAG East University | Nairobi, Kenya |
Private Universities in Nairobi
1. Strathmore University
Strathmore University is a well-known institution located in Nairobi, Kenya. The university originated in 1961 as Strathmore College, established by a team of professionals aiming to create a diverse educational institution offering a wide variety of subjects. Over the years, Strathmore University has gained recognition for its outstanding accounting program, which has produced numerous CPA finalists in Kenya. In 2002, Strathmore achieved university status, with a Faculty of Commerce, and a Faculty of Information Technology. The university received its official charter in 2007, solidifying its position as a respected institution of higher education. Today, Strathmore University is celebrated for its exceptional education in commerce and information technology.
2. United States International University Africa
Established in 1969, the United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa) is a well-regarded private university located in Nairobi, Kenya. It was originally founded in 1927 as Balboa Law College and has since evolved into a prominent global university. USIU-Africa is dedicated to providing an international educational experience and has campuses in Mexico City, London, Tokyo, and Nairobi. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs and is committed to delivering high-quality education through global research partnerships and collaborations, preparing students for success in an interconnected world.
3. The Catholic University of Eastern Africa
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) is located in Kenya and is a prominent global university with nearly 40 years of history. It was initially established as the Catholic Higher Institute of Eastern Africa (CHIEA) on 3 September 1984, focusing on graduate-level theology studies. In 1992, the institution was granted a Civil Charter and was renamed the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. The university is known for providing comprehensive value-based education and producing innovative and employable graduates. It is accredited by the Commission for University Education and offers flexible study options, outstanding learning resources, and a supportive environment that prioritizes student well-being. Emphasizing both moral and intellectual growth, CUEA aims to cultivate influential leaders for both the church and society.
4. Daystar University
Daystar University, established in 1994, is a prestigious Christian institution located in Nairobi, Kenya. Its primary mission is to nurture and equip Christian servant leaders who are committed to making a positive impact on both the church and society. Daystar University places great importance on the seamless integration of faith and education, aiming to develop graduates who possess transformative leadership qualities. The university’s academic programs, teaching methodologies, and research endeavors are all deeply rooted in Christian principles and values, providing students with a holistic and values-based education.
5. KCA University
KCA University, previously known as Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA), was established in 1989 by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK). It is a private, non-profit institution located in Nairobi, Kenya, with the objective of providing specialized training for accountants in the nation. In 2007, KCA University received a Charter from the Kenyan government, officially transitioning into a comprehensive university. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs including accounting, business, information technology, law, and social sciences. KCA University is accredited by the Commission for University Education and is recognized for its academic excellence, research, and community engagement.
6. Africa Nazarene University
Africa Nazarene University (ANU) is a Christian university in Kenya that is privately owned and affiliated with The Church of the Nazarene Colleges and Universities around the world. Guided by the principles of the Wesleyan holiness tradition, ANU offers a tranquil campus nestled in the Maasai savannah, near the renowned Nairobi National Park. ANU holds full accreditation from the Commission for University Education and the International Board of Education, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education within a Christian-focused atmosphere. The university offers 36 programs in different fields and aims to prepare leaders for the Church while providing a holistic education focused on character, competence, and community.Â
7. Africa International University
The Africa International University is a Christian higher education institution in Karen, a quiet and peaceful suburb of Nairobi, Kenya. The Association of Evangelicals in Africa founded it in 1983 as the Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology. It was upgraded to a chartered university in March 2011 and offers programs in business, ICT, development studies, and counselling psychology.
Guided by its motto, “Education with Passion and Integrity,” this institution offers a holistic approach to learning. It aims to train and educate Christ-centered leaders through innovative teaching, relevant and up-to-date curriculums, research, and partnerships with other institutions.
8. Adventist University of Africa
The Adventist University of Africa is guided by its motto, “Developing Leaders for Service.” This higher education institution is a Seventh-day Adventist university offering postgraduate studies. Its establishment was to heed the growing demand for committed leaders due to the increasing membership of the Church in Africa. University graduates receive a quality education from a Biblical foundation, preparing them for service to the Church and society. It aims to become a leading institution that provides postgraduate and professional education in the fields of theology, business management, sciences, and technology.
9. Amref International University
Amref International University is a private higher education institution in Kenya run by Amref Health Africa, the largest health NGO in Africa. This accredited institution provides health sciences education, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, diploma, and professional short programs. Guided by its motto, “Inspiring Lasting Change,” the university has nurtured leaders and significantly shaped the future of public health practice in Africa. It remains committed to contributing to the advancement of health sciences in the country through developing relevant and up-to-date programs and research.
10. Riara University
Since its establishment in 2012, Riara University has continued to abide by its motto, “Nurturing Innovators,” and has become one of the top private institutions of higher education in Kenya. It is committed to providing its students with an enriching educational experience through relevant curriculums, top-notch educators, and state-of-the-art amenities. Aside from its expansive academic offerings, this university looks after its students’ well-being by providing them with various sports and recreational facilities on campus.
11. Zetech University
Zetech University was established in 1999 as Zetech College by Engineer Ken Mbiuki. In 2014, this education institution received its Letter of Interim Authority, allowing it to operate as a university with flagship programs that include Bachelor of Information Technology, Bachelor of Business Information Technology, and Bachelor of Business Administration and Management. An important milestone was achieved in 2022 when the Commission for University Education granted the university a fully-fledged university status.
Guided by its motto, “Invent Your Future,” this institution believes in harnessing and nurturing the intellectually curious minds of its students. In addition to providing them with an enriching education experience, the university encourages its students to participate in extracurricular activities. There are 25 active clubs and societies on campus, giving students opportunities to hone their social skills and explore their interests.
12. International Leadership University, Kenya
International Leadership University, Kenya, is a Christian university committed to raising future leaders of Kenya who possess not only the knowledge and skills but also the values and morals aligned with the teachings of Christianity. It offers academic programs designed to provide a transformative education experience to all of its students. Many of the university’s alumni currently hold prominent positions in various organizations in Kenya and beyond.
13. Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology
Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology is a women’s only higher education institution in Nairobi, Kenya. The establishment of this university was a response to bridging the gap in gender representation in higher education and for these women to create a positive impact in their communities and chosen fields. Its campus sits on a fifty-acre land, providing its students with a serene and conducive environment for learning. In addition to delivering academic excellence, this institution is committed to advancing science and technology through its research initiatives.
14. Pan Africa Christian University
The Pan Africa Christian University has a long and rich history that can be traced back to 1978, when it was first established as a Bible College by the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC). It was chartered as a university in 2008, which marked a significant milestone as the first PAOC university in the world. Through the years, the institution has significantly grown from holding classes with only six students to having 56 academic programs, four schools, and over 3,000 students.
15. Pioneer International University
The Pioneer International University was established in 2006 as the Pioneer International College. It was founded by Dr. Peter Munga, who had a vision of creating an educational establishment that offers quality programs with flexible modes of teaching and learning. The university continues to pursue academic excellence and envisions becoming one of the top higher education institutions in Kenya. To achieve these goals, it provides its students with highly qualified lecturers, well-equipped and updated academic facilities, and a conducive learning environment.
16. East African University
The East African University is a fully accredited institution of higher learning located in Nairobi, Kenya. Its vision was formed in 2005 by professionals and business people who aspired to meet the growing demands for quality education in the East African region.
Fostering a nurturing environment for its students, this institution aims to continue producing well-rounded graduates who can make a positive impact in their chosen fields. One vision of the university is to become a modern research-driven establishment and be a center of professional excellence.
17. Islamic University of Kenya
The Islamic University of Kenya opened its doors in 2016 through the International Trust for Education as an institution for Islamic and Arabic language diploma courses. However, its founders saw the demand for affordable, quality higher education. They heeded this call by expanding its course offerings to include business management, technology, and education degrees. The university continues its mission of producing competent graduates who can contribute to advancing their fields and become advocates for the well-being of society.
18. KAG East University
KAG East University is a renowned Pentecostal university in Nairobi, Kenya. It emphasizes collaboration and partnerships, enhancing its academic and community engagements. In addition to providing top-quality education, the university encourages its students to pursue extracurricular activities by fostering clubs and societies on campus and providing various sports grounds and amenities. Events like cultural days, chapel services, charity, and concerts are also held to create a tight-knit community, celebrate diversity, and allow students to grow spiritually, socially, and creatively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does Private Universities in Nairobi Cost?
There are 18 private universities in Nairobi, out of which, we have tuition fee of 13 private universities available.
As you plan your studies abroad, we hope that this article will help you in choosing a good private university.
We know that attending a private university can be expensive, given its benefits and added perks. But remember that public universities are always an option, too, as they're affordable and can provide you with the same high-quality education. With that, feel free to check out our list of public universities in Nairobi to learn more about your options for your next academic destination.