Top 10 Universities in Kenya for Studying Education in 2024
Choosing the right university for your educational journey is crucial. This is particularly true in Kenya, where the education sector is rapidly evolving to meet the demands of a growing, youthful population and an increasingly competitive job market.
When it comes to ranking universities, several key metrics are universally recognized. These include:
Academic reputation
Student employment rate (typically measured 6-12 months after graduation)
Staff-to-student ratio
International faculty ratio
International student ratio
Faculty research involvement
These factors provide a holistic view of an institution's quality, from the classroom experience to post-graduation outcomes.
As such, I will present to you Kenya's top 10 universities and colleges for studying education in 2024. Our list has been meticulously compiled based on three primary factors:
Academic reputation in the field of education
Consistency of ranking across various web sources
Performance in national and international university rankings
It's important to note that our ranking relies on independent web intelligence sources, utilizing valid, unbiased, and non-influenceable web metrics. This approach ensures a fair and accurate representation of each institution's standing in the education sector.
1. University of Nairobi (UoN)
The University of Nairobi, established in 1970, is Kenya's oldest and most prestigious university. Its School of Education offers a wide range of programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
The Bachelor of Education programs at UoN are designed to prepare students for teaching careers in secondary schools and colleges. The Arts program focuses on humanities and social sciences, while the Science program emphasizes mathematics and natural sciences.
The Master of Education program offers various specializations, including:
Educational Administration and Planning
Curriculum Studies
Educational Foundations
Educational Psychology
The Ph.D. program allows students to conduct advanced research in their chosen area of educational studies, contributing to the field's knowledge base.
2. Kenyatta University (KU)
Kenyatta University, founded in 1985, has a strong reputation for teacher education and educational research.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Primary Option)
Bachelor of Education (Secondary Option)
Bachelor of Education (Special Needs Education)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
KU's Bachelor of Education (Primary Option) is unique in Kenya, focusing specifically on preparing teachers for primary schools. The Secondary Option covers various teaching subjects, while the Special Needs Education program addresses the growing demand for specialized educators.
The Master's program at KU offers specializations such as:
Early Childhood Education
Educational Technology
Guidance and Counseling
Mathematics Education
KU's doctoral program is known for its rigorous research component and diverse areas of specialization.
3. Moi University
Located in Eldoret, Moi University's School of Education is recognized for its innovative approach to teacher training.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Technology Education)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Moi University's Technology Education program is particularly noteworthy, preparing teachers to integrate technology effectively in the classroom. This program covers areas such as:
Educational software development
E-learning systems
Digital content creation for education
The Master's program offers unique specializations like:
Educational Media and Technology
Educational Psychology
Curriculum and Instruction
4. Egerton University
Egerton University, originally an agricultural college, has expanded its offerings to include a robust education faculty.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Agriculture)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Egerton's Bachelor of Education (Agriculture) program is also unique in Kenya, combining pedagogical training with agricultural sciences. This program prepares teachers to:
Teach agricultural subjects in secondary schools
Promote sustainable farming practices through education
Integrate agricultural education into the broader curriculum
The university's Master's program includes specializations in:
Agricultural Education
Educational Foundations
Curriculum and Instruction
5. Maseno University
Maseno University, located in Kisumu County, is known for its strong emphasis on educational technology and innovation.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Special Needs)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Maseno's Special Needs Education program is comprehensive, covering areas such as:
Visual impairment education
Hearing impairment education
Learning disabilities
Gifted and talented education
The university's Master's program offers unique specializations like:
Educational Communication and Technology
Educational Measurement and Evaluation
Educational Psychology
6. Strathmore University
While primarily known for its business programs, Strathmore University has been developing its education offerings, with a focus on educational leadership and management.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Secondary Education)
Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Management
Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Management
Strathmore's programs emphasize:
Data-driven decision making in education
Innovation and entrepreneurship in educational settings
Ethical leadership in educational institutions
The Master's and Doctoral programs are designed for working professionals, offering flexible scheduling and a blend of online and in-person learning.
7. Kisii University
Kisii University, located in Kisii County, has been growing its education programs, with a focus on rural education and community development.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Development and Education)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Kisii University's Early Childhood Development and Education program is particularly noteworthy, addressing the growing need for qualified early childhood educators. The program covers:
Child development theories
Early literacy and numeracy
Play-based learning approaches
Child psychology and counseling
The Master's program offers specializations such as:
Educational Planning and Management
Curriculum Studies
Educational Psychology
8. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST)
JOOUST, formerly a constituent college of Maseno University, has developed a strong education faculty with a focus on science and technology education.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Technology)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
JOOUST's Technology Education program prepares teachers to:
Integrate STEM subjects effectively
Develop and implement technology-enhanced curricula
Promote innovation and problem-solving skills in students
The university's Master's program includes unique specializations like:
Science Education
Mathematics Education
Educational Technology
9. Mount Kenya University (MKU)
Mount Kenya University, a private institution, has been expanding its education programs, with a focus on distance and online learning options.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
MKU's distance learning programs in education are particularly popular, offering flexibility for working professionals and those in remote areas. These programs include:
Online coursework and virtual classrooms
Periodic face-to-face sessions for practical components
Robust online resources and support systems
The university's Master's program offers specializations such as:
Educational Administration and Planning
Curriculum Development
Guidance and Counseling
10. Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA)
CUEA, while a private Catholic institution, offers comprehensive education programs open to students of all backgrounds.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Bachelor of Education (Science)
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)
Master of Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
CUEA's education programs emphasize:
Ethical and moral dimensions of education
Community engagement and social responsibility
Holistic development of educators
The university's Master's program includes unique specializations like:
Religious Education
Values Education
Peace Education
To wrap it up, Kenya offers a diverse range of universities and programs for those interested in studying education. From traditional teacher training programs to specialized courses in educational technology and leadership, these top 10 universities provide numerous opportunities for aspiring educators and educational researchers. These institutions play a crucial role in shaping the future of education in the country and beyond.
When considering any of these programs, prospective students should:
Research the most current program offerings and admission requirements
Consider their career goals and choose a program that aligns with their aspirations
Look into internship and practical training opportunities offered by each university
Explore scholarship and funding options available for education students
Engage with alumni or current students to get firsthand insights into the programs