MUST 2026/2027 Academic Intake| Programmes and Admission Criteria

Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) is a leading Kenyan public university recognised for innovation, practical training, and a dynamic campus environment. The 2026/2027 academic intake is expected to attract a large pool of applicants seeking market-oriented programmes in science, engineering, computing, business, education, health, agriculture, and the built environment.

Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) Intake 2026 Application Form, Courses Offered, Admission Entry Requirements, Eligibility, How to Apply, Application Closing Date, Admission List, Student Portal, FAQs, and Fees Structure for Government (KUCCPS) Sponsored and Self-sponsored Students for the 2026/2027 Academic Year Intake.

The MUST 2026/2027 academic intake presents a significant opportunity for students seeking career-aligned education grounded in science, technology, and applied disciplines. Successful applicants are those who understand programme requirements, prepare thoroughly, submit accurate applications, and apply early.

Prospective students are encouraged to plan, choose suitable programmes, and approach the admission process with clarity and confidence. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the MUST 2026/2027 intake. It is intended to help prospective applicants apply confidently and avoid last-minute challenges.

Why Choose MUST for the 2026/2027 Intake

MUST is distinguished by technology-driven teaching, modern laboratories, problem-based learning, and a strong research and innovation culture. The university also offers a supportive student environment, active co-curricular life, and strong links to industry and community needs.

Key reasons applicants prioritise MUST include:

Career-focused training

Programmes emphasise hands-on learning through laboratory work, fieldwork, design projects, industrial attachment, teaching practice, and applied clinical exposure where relevant.

Strong science and technology orientation

MUST is well-suited for students interested in engineering, computing, mathematics, physical sciences, and applied technology, with a growing focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Wide programme range

The university typically offers certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate diploma, master’s, and doctoral programmes, enabling academic progression at different entry points.

Clear progression pathways

Certificate and diploma holders can upgrade to higher qualifications through bridging and credit transfer options, subject to policy and eligibility.

MUST 2026/2027 intake overview

Universities in Kenya commonly organise admissions around major intakes. The most popular is often the September intake, with additional intakes in January or May for selected programmes. For the MUST 2026/2027 academic year, you should expect intake opportunities that may include.

• September 2026 intake for a wide range of programmes

• January 2027 intake for selected programmes and continuing admissions

• May 2027 intake, sometimes available for specific schools, certificates, and diplomas

Programme availability, deadlines, and study modes may vary by school and department.

Modes of study you may find at MUST

Understanding the study mode helps you choose realistically based on your schedule, finances, and learning preferences.

Regular full-time

Best for students coming directly from high school, or those who want a full campus experience.

Part-time, evening, or weekend options

Often suitable for working professionals, business owners, teachers, and anyone balancing work and study.

Open, distance, and blended learning

Some programmes may support flexible delivery, especially for courses that can be taught through a mix of online and periodic physical sessions.

Categories of applicants for MUST 2026/2027

Before you look at programmes, identify the category you fall under. This shapes the criteria you must meet and the documents you need.

• KCSE applicants seeking certificates, diplomas, or degrees

• Diploma holders upgrading to degree level

• Degree holders seeking postgraduate diplomas or masters

• Master’s holders seeking doctoral programmes

• Applicants with international qualifications

• Transfer students from other universities and colleges

MUST programmes for the 2026/2027 intake

Because universities may adjust programme lists, specialisations, and capacity, the most helpful approach is to understand the programme clusters and the typical options within each school. Below is a comprehensive view of programmes that applicants commonly look for at MUST and related science and technology universities in Kenya.

School of Engineering and Architecture, or built environment-related disciplines

This category appeals to applicants interested in design, construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, and emerging engineering fields.

Typical degree programmes may include,

• Civil Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Electrical and Electronics Engineering

• Mechatronic Engineering, where available

• Architecture or architecture-related programmes, where available

• Construction Management or Quantity Surveying related programmes

• Building Science, Building Technology, or Built Environment programmes

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Civil Engineering

• Diploma in Electrical Engineering

• Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

• Certificate in Plumbing, Welding, or Artisan programmes, where available

• Diploma in Construction, Surveying, or related fields

Who should consider these programmes?
Students who enjoy mathematics, physics, design thinking, and practical projects. If you are excited by building systems, machines, electronics, and problem-solving, engineering and built environment programmes can fit you well.

School of Computing, Informatics, and Information Technology

This category remains among the most competitive because it aligns with digital transformation and job growth.

Typical degree programmes may include,

• Computer Science

• Information Technology

• Software Engineering or software development-related programmes

• Computer Security and Forensics, cybersecurity-related options, where available

• Data Science, applied computing, or informatics-related programmes

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Information Technology

• Diploma in Computer Science

• Certificate in Information Technology

• Certificate in Computer Applications

• Short professional courses in networking, programming, and digital skills were offered

Who should consider these programmes?
Students who like logic, creativity, and building solutions. If you enjoy coding, networks, digital systems, databases, and creating products, this path offers strong prospects.

School of Business and Economics

Business programmes remain relevant, especially when blended with technology and entrepreneurship.

Typical degree programmes may include,

• Commerce, with options such as accounting, finance, marketing, procurement, and human resource management

• Business Administration

• Economics, where offered

• Entrepreneurship and innovation-related programmes

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Business Management

• Diploma in Accounting

• Diploma in Procurement and Logistics

• Certificate in Business Management

• Certificate in Human Resource-related areas

Who should consider these programmes?
Students who like leadership, planning, finance, customer insights, operations, and building businesses. It is also a good option for those who want versatility across many industries.

School of Education

For applicants who want to become teachers, trainers, curriculum specialists, or education leaders, education programmes provide a stable professional pathway.

Typical degree programmes may include,

• Bachelor of Education, Arts

• Bachelor of Education, Science

• Bachelor of Education in Technology-related areas, where available

• Postgraduate Diploma in Education for graduates seeking a teaching qualification, where offered

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Education, where available

• Certificate in Early Childhood Development related areas, where offered

Who should consider these programmes?
Applicants with strong communication skills, patience, and an interest in mentoring. If you like explaining concepts and working with learners, education is a strong choice.

School of Health Sciences, nursing, and public health-related programmes

Health programmes are often regulated and may have stricter criteria due to professional requirements.

Typical degree programmes may include,

• Public Health

• Nursing, where offered

• Health Systems Management related programmes, where offered

• Biomedical Science-related programmes, where available

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Community Health

• Diploma in Public Health

• Certificate in Health Records and Information, where available

• Certificate in Nutrition and Dietetics related programmes, where offered

Who should consider these programmes?
Students passionate about community wellbeing, preventive care, health education, and systems improvement. This category often requires strong performance in biology and related sciences.

School of Agriculture, food science, and environmental related disciplines

MUST is located in a region where agriculture and environmental sustainability are important, making these programmes particularly practical.

Typical degree programmes may include,

• Agriculture

• Agribusiness Management

• Food Science and Technology

• Environmental Science

• Natural Resource Management

• Climate change and sustainability-related programmes, where available

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Agriculture

• Diploma in Agribusiness

• Diploma in Food Science-related fields

• Certificate in Agriculture or agribusiness-related fields

Who should consider these programmes?
Applicants who enjoy field work, biology, innovation in food systems, sustainability, and enterprise development.

School of Pure and Applied Sciences

This category supports many professional pathways, including research, industry labs, education, and technology.

Typical degree programmes may include

• Mathematics

• Statistics

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Biological Sciences

• Applied Sciences related programmes

Typical diploma and certificate options may include,

• Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or laboratory-related areas, where available

• Certificate in laboratory technology-related areas, where offered

Who should consider these programmes?
Students who love scientific investigation, experiments, analysis, and structured thinking.

Postgraduate programmes, postgraduate diplomas, master’s, and PhD

Postgraduate study at MUST generally suits professionals seeking specialisation, research skills, career progression, or academic careers.

Typical postgraduate pathways include,

• Postgraduate diplomas for professional bridging

• Master’s by coursework, master’s by research, or blended options

• Doctoral programmes focused on research and innovation

General Admission Criteria for 2026/2027

Admission criteria may differ slightly between programmes. However, Kenya’s higher education system often follows patterns depending on whether you are applying for a certificate, diploma, degree, or postgraduate level. Below are the general criteria you should understand.

• Certificate programmes: KCSE mean grade D or D+, with relevant subject requirements

• Diploma programmes: KCSE mean grade C-, C, or D+, or a relevant certificate qualification

• Undergraduate degrees: KCSE mean grade C+ with specified cluster subject requirements

• Postgraduate diplomas: Recognised bachelor’s degree

• Master’s degrees: Relevant bachelor’s degree, usually at least second class honours (lower division)

• PhD programmes: Relevant master’s degree and a strong research proposal

Understanding cluster subjects and programme fit

Many applicants lose chances not because they are unqualified, but because they misunderstand cluster subject requirements. Cluster subjects refer to specific KCSE subjects and grades that align with a programme.

To increase your chances.

• Choose a programme that matches your strengths, not just what your friends choose

• Compare your subject grades to typical expectations in your field

• If your grades are close but not perfect, consider related programmes that still lead to similar careers

• If you are missing a key subject grade, consider diploma entry, then upgrade, or take bridging where applicable

Application Routes

Applicants may join MUST through:

Government placement

This route is typically coordinated through national placement processes. Students placed through this route often join regular full-time programmes.

Self-sponsored or parallel programmes

This route may allow more flexibility in application and may include additional study modes. It is common for working students, diploma holders, and applicants who want earlier intake opportunities.

Application process for MUST 2026/2027

While steps can vary slightly, the application process usually follows a clear pattern.

• Identify your preferred programme and confirm the minimum requirements

• Prepare your documents, including certificates and identification

• Complete the application form carefully and submit it within the deadlines

• Follow up on admission status and respond quickly to any additional requirements

• Once admitted, complete registration, fee payment, and orientation steps

MUST Application Link: (https://www.must.ac.ke/)

Documents you should prepare

Having your documents ready early helps you avoid rushed mistakes.

For KCSE applicants

• KCSE result slip or certificate

• National ID or birth certificate

• Passport-size photos

• Any relevant certificates for special programmes

For diploma and degree holders

• Academic transcripts

• Certificate copies

• Professional registration evidence, where applicable

• A detailed CV for postgraduate applicants

For international applicants

• Equivalent qualification documents

• Any required recognition or equation documents, depending on the Kenyan policy

• Passport identification page

Fees and other costs to plan for

Fees can vary by programme and mode. Beyond tuition, you should plan for.

• Registration fees

• Accommodation costs if you stay on campus or nearby

• Meals and personal upkeep

• Learning materials, lab gear, field work costs, and protective clothing were required

• Internet and device costs, especially for computing programmes

• Attachment or teaching practice-related costs, such as transport

Accommodation and campus life

A good academic journey includes a stable living plan. If on-campus accommodation is available, apply early. If you plan to live off campus.

• Choose a safe area with reliable transport

• Confirm water and electricity reliability

• Consider the distance to lecture halls and labs

• Budget realistically for rent and meals

Campus life is more than classes. Participating in clubs, innovation hubs, sports, peer mentorship, and student leadership can strengthen your soft skills and networks.

Competitive programmes and how to increase your chances

Some programmes often attract higher demand, such as computing, engineering, health, and business. To strengthen your application.

• Apply early, avoid last-day submissions

• Use accurate details that match your academic documents

• Choose one strong primary programme and a realistic second option

• If your grades are borderline, consider a diploma route or a related programme

• For postgraduate study, prepare a clear statement of purpose and a focused research interest

Common mistakes applicants should avoid

These errors can delay admission or lead to rejection.

• Choosing a programme without meeting cluster subject expectations

• Uploading unclear documents or incomplete pages

• Using different names across documents without explanation

• Missing deadlines and assuming extensions will happen

• Ignoring communication after submission

• Paying fees before fully understanding what they cover

Programme pathways and career outcomes

Choosing a programme should be connected to what you want to do after graduation. Below are realistic pathways.

Engineering and built environment careers

Construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, maintenance, design, project management

Computing and IT careers

Software development, network administration, cyber security, data analysis, systems support, product design

Business careers

Accounting, finance, procurement, marketing, entrepreneurship, operations management, banking and microfinance

Education careers

Teaching, curriculum development, school administration, education technology, training and facilitation

Health and public health careers

Community health, health promotion, programme management, health records, public health research

Agriculture and environmental careers

Agribusiness, extension services, food processing, environmental management, and sustainability consultancy

Frequently asked questions about MUST 2026/2027 intake

When should I apply for the MUST 2026/2027 intake?

Apply as early as possible once the intake window opens. Early application improves your chances and gives you time to handle any corrections.

Can I apply with a diploma for a degree programme?

Yes, many degree programmes accept relevant diploma holders, subject to departmental evaluation and minimum diploma grade requirements.

What if I do not meet the direct degree requirements?

Consider certificates or diplomas in the same field, then upgrade. This pathway is practical and widely used.

Do all programmes require interviews?

Not all. Interviews are more common for postgraduate research programmes and selected specialised courses.

Can I change my programme after admission?

Programme changes may be possible depending on university policy, capacity, and your qualifications. It is best to choose carefully from the start.

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