6 Best Public Universities in Nairobi for International Students
Nairobi is one of the cities in Kenya you should look into if you want to study in a public university. Besides providing a path towards your academic goals, studying in Nairobi can give you valuable insights into its people and the local culture. You can also enjoy various activities here to make your studies abroad all worth it.
There are 24 universities you can find in Nairobi, and 6 of them are public universities. Having these many choices makes Nairobi a great place for international students.
In this article, you’ll find out the public universities in Nairobi, with some added information on programs, tuition, and how many international students you’ll be studying with. Let’s get started!
| Rank | University | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Nairobi | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 2 | Kenyatta University | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 3 | Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 4 | Technical University of Kenya | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 5 | Multimedia University of Kenya | Nairobi, Kenya |
| 6 | The Co-operative University of Kenya | Nairobi, Kenya |
Public Universities in Nairobi
1. University of Nairobi
Considered the largest university in Kenya, the University of Nairobi is a leading public university dedicated to serving the needs of Kenyan society as well as the entire African region. It currently has seven campuses in the nation’s capital city and offers over 300 academic programs tailored to impart students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for them to thrive in the professional world. The university also takes pride in its strong research culture and vast network of industry connections.
2. Kenyatta University
Founded in 1965, Kenyatta University is a prominent institution in Kenya that operates across 13 locations, with its main campus situated in Nairobi County. The primary campus, which covers over 1,000 acres, offers a peaceful and well-equipped environment conducive to educational growth. The university is widely respected for its outstanding programs and esteemed faculty, earning global acclaim. It emphasizes hands-on learning and skill development, fostering strong partnerships with industries to provide real-world experience. The university is accredited by reputable organizations and is committed to providing high-quality education, promoting academic excellence, and instilling ethical principles for sustainable personal and societal progress.
3. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is a public university located in Juja, Nairobi, Kenya. It was established in 1981 as Jomo Kenyatta College of Agriculture and Technology (JKCAT) and has since evolved into a well-regarded university. With a strong focus on education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, JKUAT equips students for success in diverse fields such as Agriculture, Engineering, Technology, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences. The university aspires to be a global hub of excellence in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, making significant contributions to both national and global development.
4. Technical University of Kenya
The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) has a rich legacy and played a key role in establishing the first three higher education institutions in East Africa. Its history dates back to the 1920s when leaders in the East African Territories advocated for improved access to higher education. Their efforts led to the upgrading of Makerere Institute to Makerere University College in 1949, as well as the founding of the Royal Technical College of East Africa (RTCEA) in Nairobi in 1952. Today, TU-K is committed to providing high-quality technological education and training and strives to make significant contributions to society through research and innovation. The university’s motto, “Education and training for the real world,” reflects its dedication to preparing students for practical success.
5. Multimedia University of Kenya
The Multimedia University of Kenya opened its doors in 1948 as the Central Training School. This public institution of higher education underwent several upgrades and transformations before it became a fully-fledged university in 2013. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across several disciplines, including mass media, information technology, business management, and social sciences.
In 2019, the university established the National Institute for Optics and Lasers through an infrastructure grant from the National Research Fund. This specialized and cutting-edge field adds to the university’s prestige, opening further opportunities for its students, faculties, and stakeholders.
6. The Co-operative University of Kenya
The Co-operative University of Kenya (CUK) is a public university located in Karen, Nairobi. It was established by the Kenyan government under the Universities Act 2012. CUK is committed to providing excellent teaching, research, consultancy, and community outreach services. Its mission is to produce highly skilled individuals and empower communities for socio-economic transformation. CUK strives to become a globally competitive cooperative university that excels in education, training, research, innovation, and outreach.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can International Students Study in Public Universities in Nairobi?
Absolutely! International students in public universities in Nairobi can pursue different program levels, but the most popular ones are bachelor’s and master’s programs.
As for tuition fees, note that these vary across specific disciplines and program levels, with some charging significantly more than others. Specifically, public universities in Nairobi charge up to 535,500 KES for bachelor’s and 408,800 KES for master’s studies.
I hope this article can help you in your search for public universities in Nairobi. Feel free to check out the Available Programs for International Students to learn more about studying abroad.