University of Nairobi| Courses, Faculties & How to Get In

University of Nairobi (UoN), List of courses, faculties, study options, admission requirements, learning modes, and what prospective students should know before applying

The University of Nairobi offers one of the most diverse and comprehensive course portfolios in the region. From certificate programmes to doctoral research, students can find academic pathways suited to almost every career ambition.

A strong research culture, professional training, and flexible learning options make the university attractive to both local and international students.

Overview of the University of Nairobi Academic Structure

The University of Nairobi operates through multiple colleges, faculties, and schools, each focusing on specialised disciplines. The academic structure has evolved to support interdisciplinary learning and modern professional needs.

The university originally operated through six colleges, including agriculture, engineering, health sciences, education, biological sciences, and humanities. These have since been reorganised into faculties and schools to improve academic coordination and programme delivery.

Major academic areas include:

• Architecture and Engineering
• Arts and Social Sciences
• Business and Management Sciences
• Law
• Education
• Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences
• Health Sciences
• Science and Technology
• Computing and Informatics
• Open and Distance Learning

This structure allows students to choose from a large variety of market-oriented courses aligned with modern labour demands.

Undergraduate Courses at the University of Nairobi

Undergraduate education forms a large portion of academic activity at UoN. Programmes are designed to equip students with foundational knowledge, professional competencies, and practical experience.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Admission into bachelor’s degree programmes typically follows Kenyan education standards and equivalent international systems.

Common entry routes include:

• KCSE mean grade C+ or equivalent

• A Level qualifications with two principal passes

• Diploma plus relevant KCSE grades

• Professional certifications for selected programmes

• Recognized international qualifications

These criteria vary slightly depending on the course and faculty.

Popular Undergraduate Programme Categories

Engineering and Built Environment Courses

The engineering faculty offers programmes aimed at technical innovation and infrastructure development.

Examples include:

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

• Electrical and Electronic Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Environmental Engineering

• Architecture and Design disciplines

Engineering programmes emphasise mathematics and science performance during admission, with required grades in subjects like physics and chemistry.

Science and Technology Courses

Science-based programmes are available across multiple campuses, especially those specialising in laboratory and research-intensive learning.

Examples include:

• BSc in Computer Science

• BSc in Biology

• BSc in Chemistry

• BSc in Mathematics

• BSc in Statistics

• BSc in Microbiology and Biotechnology

• Astronomy and Astrophysics

Arts and Humanities Courses

The Faculty of Arts provides a broad spectrum of social science and humanities programmes focused on policy, communication, and culture.

Common programmes include:

• Bachelor of Arts

• International Studies

• Political Science

• Sociology

• Psychology

• Anthropology and Gender Studies

These programmes often offer flexible subject combinations, allowing students to tailor their academic interests.

Business and Management Courses

Business programmes are among the most sought-after due to strong links with industry.

Examples:

• Bachelor of Commerce

• BSc Finance and Accounting

• Business Information Systems

• Project Planning and Management

Students gain skills in entrepreneurship, finance, management, and strategy. Many programmes combine coursework with internship experience.

Law Courses

The School of Law offers professional legal training preparing students for advocacy, policy roles, and judicial careers.

Key programme:

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Education Courses

Teacher training and educational leadership programmes prepare graduates for roles in schools, curriculum development, and education policy.

Programmes include:

• Bachelor of Education Arts

• Bachelor of Education Science

• Educational Leadership studies

Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences

These programmes focus on food production, sustainability, and animal health, areas critical for regional economic growth.

Examples:

• Agriculture

• Veterinary Medicine

• Fisheries and Aquaculture

• Wildlife Management

Health Sciences Programmes

Health-related courses are highly specialised and often linked to clinical facilities.

Examples include:

• Medicine and Surgery

• Dentistry

• Pharmacy

• Nursing

• Public Health

Diploma and Certificate Courses

Beyond degree programmes, UoN offers certificate and diploma qualifications designed for skills development, professional advancement, or progression into degree courses.

Certificate Courses

Entry often requires:

• KCSE mean grade C minus

• Equivalent qualifications

These short programmes help learners gain focused skills or bridge into higher studies.

Diploma Courses

Typical entry includes:

• KCSE mean grade C

• Certificate plus relevant qualifications

Diplomas are popular among students seeking practical career training before pursuing a full degree.

Postgraduate Courses at the University of Nairobi

Postgraduate education at the university is extensive and research-oriented, attracting students across Africa and beyond.

Masters Programmes

The university offers numerous master’s degrees across medicine, business, engineering, social sciences, and sciences.

Examples include:

• Master of Medicine specialisations

• Master of Business Administration

• Master of Science disciplines

• Master’s in Education

• Master’s in Law

These programmes combine advanced coursework with research and thesis components.

Doctoral Programmes

Doctor of Philosophy programmes focus on independent research, innovation, and academic leadership. Fields range from technology and engineering to social sciences and health.

Doctoral candidates typically work closely with faculty supervisors and contribute to academic publications.

Modes of Learning at UoN

The University of Nairobi supports flexible learning approaches to cater for different categories of learners.

Full-Time Learning

Traditional classroom-based study for regular students.

Part-Time Programmes

Designed for working professionals who attend evening or weekend classes.

Open and Distance Learning

Digital platforms and blended learning options allow students to study remotely while maintaining employment or personal commitments.

These options increase access to education and make higher learning more inclusive.

Campus Locations and Learning Environment

The university operates across several campuses spread throughout Nairobi and other regions, allowing specialisation by field.

Major campuses include:

• Main Campus in the city centre

• Chiromo Campus for science programmes

• Parklands Campus for law and health sciences

• Upper and Lower Kabete for agriculture and business

• Kikuyu Campus for education

• Additional campuses in Mombasa and Kisumu

Course Structure and Academic Progression

Most undergraduate programmes follow a four-year structure divided into semesters. Students complete a mix of common and core units, progressing from foundational knowledge to advanced specialisation.

For example, business and finance programmes include structured course units spread across four levels, ensuring steady academic progression.

Practical learning components often include:

• Laboratory work

• Research projects

• Industrial attachments

• Fieldwork

• Capstone projects

Research and Innovation Opportunities

The University of Nairobi is recognised as a research-intensive institution. Students benefit from active research centres, laboratories, and innovation initiatives.

Research areas include:

• Health and medical innovation

• Climate and environmental studies

• Engineering solutions

• Social policy research

• Technology and AI development

Student Life and Academic Experience

Studying at UoN offers more than classroom learning. Students participate in clubs, associations, leadership activities, and community outreach programmes.

The university supports:

• Sports and recreation

• Career services

• Professional organizations

• International student support

• Academic counseling

International Student Opportunities

The university welcomes students from many countries and offers structured support through international offices. Programmes are designed to accommodate diverse educational backgrounds and qualifications.

International students benefit from:

• Orientation services

• Academic advising

• Cultural integration activities

• Wide programme choice

Why Choose University of Nairobi Courses

Students choose UoN for several reasons:

• Wide selection of programmes across disciplines

• Strong academic reputation in the region

• Experienced faculty and research opportunities

• Flexible study options for working professionals

• Comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate pathways

• Strategic campus locations and facilities

Graduates often find opportunities in government, business, academia, healthcare, and international organisations.

Tips for Choosing the Right UoN Course

When selecting a course, prospective students should consider:

• Personal interests and strengths

• Career goals and industry demand

• Subject requirements and qualifications

• Length and structure of the programme

• Internship or practical components

• Further study opportunities after graduation

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