Mount Kenya University
Nurturing futures, transforming communities.
📍 Thika, Kenya 🇰🇪
🏆 #7 in Kenya · THE World #9
Quick Facts about Mount Kenya University
- Type: Private
- Students: 50,000
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $1,800 – $3,500/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Mount Kenya University
Academics
MKU offers a wide array of programs from certificate to doctorate levels across 14 schools and over 160 degree programs. Key faculties include the Medical School, College of Health Sciences, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, School of Business and Economics, and the School of Law. The university emphasizes innovative and market-driven programs responsive to national and international scientific and technological needs, with a focus on practical skills and research. MKU also provides flexible learning options, including digital classes with online lecturer support and self-paced study.
International Students
While specific diversity statistics are not readily available, MKU is a practitioner of the internationalization of higher education, with campuses and centers across Kenya and in Uganda, Somaliland, and Burundi. The university offers English-taught programs and has a dedicated International Students Coordinator located within its modern Student Center. Support services for international students are integrated into student welfare offices, and the university promotes cultural integration through various student clubs and associations.
Campus & Location
The main campus is situated in Thika, an industrial town approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Nairobi, often called the "Birmingham of Kenya." The campus features modern infrastructure including a library, hostels, lecture halls, laboratories, and sporting amenities. Public transportation, primarily buses, provides easy access to and from Nairobi and within Thika. Nearby attractions include Fourteen Falls and Chania Falls, offering opportunities for leisure and exploration.
Career Outcomes
MKU boasts a strong record of graduate employability, with a study by CPS International ranking its graduates among the most preferred by employers in Kenya, placing seventh overall among all universities. The university actively fosters entrepreneurship through its MKU Hub for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, which has incubated over 100 student-led startups and provides mentorship and funding. MKU also has strong industry connections, evidenced by collaborations with various companies in financial, manufacturing, and transport sectors to enhance graduate employability and align curricula with market needs. Career services include advisory programs, training of peer counselors, and mentorship initiatives to support students' professional development.
Information for International Students at Mount Kenya University
Mount Kenya University in Thika, Kenya welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Mount Kenya University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Mount Kenya University:
- Application fee: $50
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: 2025-03-31
Programs at Mount Kenya University (32 programs)
Mount Kenya University offers 32 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (21)
- Bachelor of Commerce — English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of commercial practices, finance, and business operations, preparing students for various roles in commerce and industry.
Field: Business and Economics - Bachelor of Clinical Medicine — English · STEM
This program trains students in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases, equipping them with the clinical skills necessary for medical practice.
Field: Health Sciences - Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences — English · STEM
This program trains students in laboratory techniques for diagnosing diseases, analyzing samples, and conducting medical research, essential for healthcare and scientific advancement.
Field: Health Sciences - Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of technology to solve business and organizational problems, covering areas like network administration, database management, and cybersecurity.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Bachelor of Human Resource Management — English
This program trains students in managing human capital, including recruitment, training, compensation, and employee relations, for effective organizational performance.
Field: Business and Economics - Bachelor of Pharmacy — English · STEM
This program focuses on pharmaceutical sciences, drug discovery, development, and patient medication management, preparing students for roles in pharmacies, hospitals, and research.
Field: Health Sciences - Bachelor of Education (Science) — English
This program is designed to train qualified teachers for various levels of education, specializing in science subjects and effective teaching methodologies.
Field: Education - Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science — English · STEM
This program examines environmental issues, ecological principles, and sustainable solutions, preparing students for careers in environmental management, conservation, and policy.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management — English
This program prepares students for careers in the hospitality industry, covering hotel operations, food and beverage management, and customer service excellence.
Field: Hospitality and Tourism - Bachelor of Marketing — English
This program focuses on marketing strategies, consumer behavior, and brand management, preparing students for careers in advertising, sales, and market research.
Field: Business and Economics - Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education) — English
This program focuses on the development and education of young children, preparing educators for roles in preschools and early learning centers.
Field: Education - Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies — English
This program explores the causes of crime, criminal justice systems, and security management, preparing students for roles in law enforcement, security, and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences and Humanities - Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management — English
This program focuses on the planning, development, and marketing of tourism destinations and services, preparing students for roles in the travel and tourism sector.
Field: Hospitality and Tourism - Bachelor of Business Management — English
This program equips students with skills in management, finance, accounting, and entrepreneurship, preparing them for diverse roles in the business sector.
Field: Business and Economics - Bachelor of Science in Nursing — English · STEM
This program prepares students for careers in healthcare, focusing on theoretical knowledge and practical skills in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.
Field: Health Sciences - Bachelor of Public Health — English · STEM
This program addresses community health issues, disease prevention, and health promotion strategies, preparing students for roles in public health organizations and policy-making.
Field: Health Sciences - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — English · STEM
This program involves rigorous scientific and mathematical training in computing principles, software development, and algorithmic thinking, preparing students for tech careers.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Bachelor of Arts in Community Development — English
This program focuses on empowering communities, facilitating social change, and implementing development projects, preparing students for roles in NGOs, government, and social work.
Field: Social Sciences and Humanities - Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics — English · STEM
This program applies mathematical theories and techniques to solve problems in science, engineering, and business, providing strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Bachelor of Social Work — English
This program prepares students to support individuals, families, and communities facing social challenges, focusing on intervention, advocacy, and social welfare.
Field: Social Sciences and Humanities - Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication — English
This program trains students in media production, reporting, public relations, and communication strategies, preparing them for careers in journalism, broadcasting, and corporate communications.
Field: Social Sciences and Humanities
Master Programs (7)
- Master of Science (Environmental Science) (MSc) — 18 months · English · STEM
This program offers in-depth study of environmental issues, research methodologies, and sustainable development, preparing students for advanced roles in environmental management and policy.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Master of Arts (Communication) (MA) — 18 months · English
This program explores advanced theories and practices in communication, including media studies, public relations, and strategic communication, for leadership roles in various sectors.
Field: Social Sciences and Humanities - Master of Business Administration (MBA) — 18 months · English
This program focuses on advanced business and management principles, equipping students with leadership skills and strategic thinking for executive roles.
Field: Business and Economics - Master of Arts (Sociology) (MA) — 18 months · English
This program offers advanced study in sociological theories, research methods, and social issues, preparing students for careers in research, policy analysis, and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences and Humanities - Master of Science (Public Health) (MSc) — 18 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in public health, focusing on epidemiology, health policy, and global health challenges, preparing students for leadership in public health initiatives.
Field: Health Sciences - Master of Science (Computer Science) (MSc) — 18 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study in computer science, focusing on specialized areas like artificial intelligence, data science, or software engineering, for research and industry leadership.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Master of Education (M.Ed.) — 18 months · English
This program is for educators seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in educational leadership, curriculum development, and pedagogical innovation.
Field: Education
PhD Programs (4)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Education) (PhD) — 36 months · English
This research-intensive program allows students to conduct original research in educational theories, policies, and practices, contributing new knowledge and preparing them for academic or leadership roles in education.
Field: Education - Doctor of Philosophy (Health Sciences) (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This research-intensive program allows students to conduct original research in various health science disciplines, contributing new knowledge and preparing them for academic or advanced research careers in healthcare.
Field: Health Sciences - Doctor of Philosophy (Pure and Applied Sciences) (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This research-intensive program allows students to conduct original research in various pure and applied science disciplines, contributing new knowledge and preparing them for academic or advanced scientific research careers.
Field: Pure and Applied Sciences - Doctor of Philosophy (Business) (PhD) — 36 months · English
This research-intensive program allows students to conduct original research in various business disciplines, contributing new knowledge and preparing them for academic or high-level research careers.
Field: Business and Economics
Scholarships & Tuition at Mount Kenya University
Annual tuition for international students: $1,800 – $3,500/year
✅ Mount Kenya University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Mount Kenya University
- National Ranking: #7 in Kenya
- Times Higher Education (THE): #9
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Mount Kenya University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Chartered, ISO 9001:2015 certified
- Broad, holistic education
- Diverse programs, certificate to doctorate
- Multi-campus, international presence
- Flexible learning, digital options
- Thika main campus, modern facilities
Accreditation
- Commission for University Education (CUE)
- ISO 9001:2015 Certified
- Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB)
- The Kenya Nutritionists & Dieticians Institute (KNDI)
- Clinical Officers Council (COC)
- Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentist Board (KMPDB)
- Public Health Officers and Technicians Council (PHOTC)
- Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK)
- Commission for Legal Education (CLE)
- Kenya Medical Laboratory Technologist and Technicians Board (KMLTTB)
- Kenya National Qualification Authority (KNQA)
- Health Records and Information Managers Board
Fields of Study at Mount Kenya University
- Business
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
Notable Alumni
- Mutahi Kagwe
- Lee Kinyanjui
- Dennis Kiunga
- Alice Wahome
- Hon. Lawrence Lorunyei Ekiru
Frequently Asked Questions about Mount Kenya University
What is Mount Kenya University?
Mount Kenya University is a private university located in Thika, Kenya. It has approximately 50,000 students.
How much does it cost to study at Mount Kenya University?
Tuition fees at Mount Kenya University for international students range from $1,800 – $3,500/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Mount Kenya University?
Application fee: $50. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: 2025-03-31.
What language are courses taught in at Mount Kenya University?
Courses at Mount Kenya University are taught in English.
How many programs does Mount Kenya University offer?
Mount Kenya University offers 32 programs: 21 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Mount Kenya University ranked?
#7 in Kenya · THE World #9.
Does Mount Kenya University offer scholarships?
Yes, Mount Kenya University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Mount Kenya University provide visa support?
Yes, Mount Kenya University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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