Comprehensive List of Kenya’s Public Universities

Kenya’s public university system has grown significantly over the past two decades, transforming from just a handful of institutions to a robust network of more than 40 chattered public universities. These institutions are funded, sponsored, or overseen by the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Education and are accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). They offer globally recognized degrees across a wide range of disciplines including medicine, engineering, agriculture, business, education, law, social sciences, and technology.

The following is a comprehensive, county-by-county list of all public universities in Kenya as of 2026.

Complete List of Public Universities in Kenya

The official government data (KUCCPS and Universities Fund) indicates there are 42 public universities across Kenya. The table below includes the university name, the county where it is located, and its official website.

Note: Some institutions are still operating as university colleges but are recognized under the public university umbrella. The exact count may vary slightly depending on whether colleges in transition are counted separately.

Key Public Universities by Region

Nairobi Metropolitan Region

• University of Nairobi – Kenya’s oldest and largest university, established in 1970

• Kenyatta University – Major public university focused on education, business, and social sciences

• Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology (JKUAT) – Leading institution in engineering, technology, and agriculture

• Technical University of Kenya – Specializes in technical and vocational education

• Multimedia University of Kenya – Focused on ICT, media, and digital technologies

• Co-operative University of Kenya – Specializes in co-operative development, business, and finance

• Open University of Kenya – Kenya’s first open and distance learning public university

• National Defence University – Military and defence studies

• Mama Ngina University College – Emerging institution focused on women’s education

• Kabarnet University College – Public university college in Baringo

Rural & Regional Public Universities

Emerging Public Universities (Newer Institutions)

• Garissa University

• Kibabii University

• Kirinyaga University

• Kisii University

• Laikipia University

• Maasai Mara University

• Machakos University

• Murang’a University of Technology

• Rongo University

• South Eastern Kenya University

• Taita Taveta University

• Tharaka University

• University of Embu

• University of Kabianga

• Alupe University College

• Bomet University College

• Kaimosi Friends University College

• Koitalel Samoei University College

Historical Context

Kenya’s public university sector began with just three institutions:

1. University of Nairobi (1970) – First fully-fledged university

2. Kenyatta University (1985) – Emerged as a constituent college

3. Egerton University (1987) – Specialized in agriculture

In the 2000s, the government began elevating constituent colleges to full university status to address increased demand for university education. This expansion accelerated in the 2010s, leading to the current network of over 40 public universities across all 47 counties.

Why Choose a Public University in Kenya?

How to Apply

Prospective students can apply to public universities through:

1. KUCCPS (Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service) – For Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) graduates

2. Direct University Application – For degree holders, diploma holders, and mature age entry

3. HEL B Application – For student loans to cover tuition and maintenance

This comprehensive list of Kenya’s public universities represents the country’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education. With at least one public university in every region and growing specializations in technology, agriculture, medicine, and innovation, Kenya’s public university system continues to shape the nation’s future workforce and drive economic development.