Top 8 Best Private Universities in Kenya

When it comes to higher education in Kenya, private universities have carved out a reputation for innovation, flexibility, and academic excellence. In a country where competition is fierce and education is a gateway to opportunity, private universities are stepping up with state-of-the-art facilities, industry-aligned courses, and a strong focus on employability. From business and tech to medicine and the arts, here are the top private universities in Kenya that are redefining what it means to learn, lead, and succeed.

Best Private Universities in Kenya

• Strathmore University (SU)
• United States International University - Africa (USIU-Africa)
• Mount Kenya University (MKU)
• Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA)
• KCA University
• Daystar University
• Kenya Methodist University (KeMU)
• Kabarak University

1. Strathmore University (SU)

Strathmore University, located in Nairobi, was established in 1961 as the first multi-racial and multi-religious advanced-level sixth form college in Kenya. Today, it's a leading institution known for its strong programs in business, IT, and law.

• Accreditation: Commission for University Education (CUE)
• Main Campus: Ole Sangale Road, Madaraka, Nairobi
• Other Campuses: Keri Campus (Microsoft Policy Innovation Centre)

Website: strathmore.edu

2. United States International University - Africa (USIU-Africa)

Founded in 1969, USIU-Africa is renowned for its international curriculum and diverse student body. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

• Accreditation: CUE and WASC (USA)
• Location: USIU Road, Kasarani, Nairobi
• Campus: Main campus only

Website: usiu.ac.ke

3. Mount Kenya University (MKU)

Established in 1996, MKU has rapidly expanded to become one of the largest private universities in Kenya, offering numerous programs across various campuses.

• Accreditation: CUE
• Main Campus: General Kago Road, Thika
• Other Campuses: Nairobi, Parklands Law Campus, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret, Meru, Rwanda

Website: mku.ac.ke

4. Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA)

Established in 1984, CUEA is well-known for its humanities and social sciences programs. It maintains strong Catholic values in its curriculum.

• Accreditation: CUE
• Main Campus: Lang'ata, Nairobi
• Other Campuses: Gaba Campus in Eldoret

Website: cuea.edu

5. KCA University

Founded in 1989, KCA University specializes in business and IT education. It operates multiple campuses and learning centers.

• Accreditation: CUE
• Main Campus: Ruaraka, Nairobi
• Other Campuses: Nairobi Town Campus, Kitengela, Kisumu

Website: kcau.ac.ke

6. Daystar University

Daystar University, founded in 1974, is a Christian liberal arts university with a strong reputation for communication, media, and development studies.

• Accreditation: CUE
• Main Campus: Athi River, near Nairobi
• Other Campus: Nairobi (Valley Road and Ngong Road junction)

Website: daystar.ac.ke

7. Kenya Methodist University (KeMU)

KeMU was established in 1997 and offers a range of programs grounded in Christian values.

• Accreditation: CUE
• Main Campus: Meru
• Other Campuses: Nairobi, Mombasa

Website: kemu.ac.ke

8. Kabarak University

Founded in 2002 by former President Daniel arap Moi, Kabarak University provides a wide array of programs with a strong emphasis on ethics and moral values.

• Accreditation: CUE
• Main Campus: 20 km from Nakuru City along Nakuru–Eldama Ravine Road
• Other Campus: Nakuru City Campus

Website: kabarak.ac.ke

Conclusion

Private universities in Kenya have emerged as powerful players in the education sector—offering specialized programs, modern facilities, and strong industry connections. They’re shaping future leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators through a blend of academic rigor and practical learning.

As demand for quality higher education continues to rise, these institutions are setting the pace by delivering excellence, relevance, and flexibility. The universities on this list are not just top-ranked—they’re transforming lives and raising the bar for what higher education in Kenya can achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best private universities in Kenya?

The best private universities in Kenya include Strathmore University, USIU-Africa, Mount Kenya University, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Daystar University, Kabarak University, KCA University, and Zetech University.

2. Which private university in Kenya is best for business studies?

Strathmore University is considered the best private university in Kenya for business studies due to its strong programs in accounting, finance, and management.

3. Which private university in Kenya is internationally accredited?

USIU-Africa is the only university in Kenya accredited both locally and in the United States, making it internationally recognized.

4. What is the largest private university in Kenya?

Mount Kenya University is the largest private university in Kenya, with tens of thousands of students across its multiple campuses.

5. Do private universities in Kenya offer online or flexible learning?

Yes, many private universities in Kenya, such as KCA University and Zetech University, offer flexible and online learning options including evening and weekend classes.

6. Are there Christian private universities in Kenya?

Yes, Christian-based private universities in Kenya include Daystar University, Kabarak University, and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

7. Which private university in Kenya has the best IT programs?

KCA University and Strathmore University are highly regarded for their IT and computer science programs in Kenya.

8. How do I choose the right private university in Kenya?

To choose the right private university in Kenya, consider factors like accreditation, course offerings, campus location, learning flexibility, and graduate employability.