Public universities offering nursing courses in Kenya

The demand for nursing courses in Kenya continues to rise, with public universities playing a central role in training qualified healthcare professionals. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN), regulated by the Nursing Council of Kenya, is among the most competitive programmes offered through the KUCCPS.

Here is a breakdown of leading public universities offering nursing courses and what prospective students should know about each:

University of Nairobi

Location: Kenyatta National Hospital Campus, Nairobi
The University of Nairobi offers one of the most prestigious nursing programmes in the country. Its proximity to Kenyatta National Hospital provides students with extensive clinical exposure.

Requirements: Minimum KCSE mean grade of C+ with strong cluster points (often above 41).
Fees: Government-sponsored students pay approximately KSh 26,000–28,500 annually, while self-sponsored programmes can exceed KSh 300,000 per year.

The programme is highly competitive and is often the first choice for top-performing students.

Kenyatta University

Location: Main Campus, Thika Road, Nairobi
Kenyatta University is known for its strong focus on both academic and practical training in nursing. It also offers upgrading programmes for diploma holders.

Requirements: KCSE mean grade of C+; diploma nurses with relevant experience can apply for upgrading.
Fees: Government-sponsored fees are relatively affordable, while self-sponsored students pay around KSh 120,000 plus statutory charges.

The university’s modern facilities and teaching hospitals make it a top choice.

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)

Location: Juja, Kiambu County
JKUAT offers a competitive nursing programme that combines technology and healthcare training.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with high cluster points (cut-off often above 41).
Fees: Government-sponsored students pay between KSh 16,000 and KSh 50,000 annually.

The institution is popular among students seeking a science-oriented learning environment.

Moi University

Location: College of Health Sciences, Eldoret
Moi University has a long-standing reputation in medical training, including nursing.

Requirements: KCSE mean grade of C+; cut-off points vary yearly depending on demand.
Fees: Self-sponsored programmes can cost approximately KSh 250,000 annually.

Its affiliation with major referral hospitals enhances practical training opportunities.

Egerton University

Location: Njoro, Nakuru County
Egerton University offers a competitive nursing programme with a strong academic foundation.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with cluster points around 42.
The university is known for its structured training and consistent performance in national rankings.

Maseno University

Location: Kisumu County
Maseno University has built a solid reputation in health sciences, including nursing.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with cluster points around 41.8.
Its proximity to healthcare facilities in western Kenya enhances clinical exposure.

Kisii University

Location: Kisii County
Kisii University offers an accredited nursing programme that attracts students from across the region.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with cluster points around 41.1.
The university continues to expand its medical training infrastructure.

Chuka University

Location: Tharaka Nithi County
Chuka University provides a growing nursing programme focused on quality training and research.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with cluster points around 41.0.
It is gaining popularity due to improved facilities and academic performance.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST)

Location: Kakamega County
MMUST offers a well-regarded nursing course with a strong emphasis on community health.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with cluster points around 40.3.
The university is known for producing graduates ready for both clinical and public health roles.

Meru University of Science and Technology

Location: Meru County
Meru University offers an accessible nursing programme with slightly lower cut-off points compared to top-tier institutions.

Requirements: KCSE C+ with cluster points around 38.6.
It provides an opportunity for more students to pursue nursing while maintaining accredited standards.

Growing demand for nursing in Kenya

The increasing need for healthcare professionals, driven by Kenya’s push for Universal Health Coverage, has made nursing one of the most competitive courses in the country. Public universities remain the preferred choice due to affordability and accreditation.

Additionally, upgrading programmes offered by these institutions provide diploma nurses with a pathway to advance their careers and meet evolving healthcare demands.