Mount Kenya University continues to attract thousands of learners every year due to its wide academic choice, flexible study modes, and competitive fees.
The institution stands out for offering practical, market-driven programmes that match Kenya’s changing job market. Students can choose from certificate, diploma, degree, master’s, and PhD options across many schools.
This detailed guide breaks down Mount Kenya University courses and fee structure for 2026, helping applicants, parents, and sponsors plan well before admission and registration.
Mount Kenya University Courses and Fee Structure in 2026
Mount Kenya University is a fully recognised private university with its main campus in Thika and several campuses across Kenya. The institution offers regular, evening, weekend, blended, and online learning options. Fees vary by school, level of study, and mode of learning. Most programmes charge fees per semester, which allows students to budget easily.
The university structures its courses through specialised schools. Each school focuses on academic depth, practical skills, and professional relevance. Below is a clear breakdown of key schools, popular programmes, and general fee ranges.
School of Education Programmes and Costs
The School of Education remains one of the most popular faculties at Mount Kenya University. The school trains teachers, education managers, and researchers for Kenya and the region.
Undergraduate options include Bachelor of Education Science, Bachelor of Education Arts, Early Childhood Studies, Primary Education, and Special Needs Education. Diploma and certificate programmes cover Early Childhood and Special Needs Education. Postgraduate choices include Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Master of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy in Education.
Master of Education specialisations include educational psychology, counselling, management, leadership, planning, economics, communication technology, and sociology of education.
Fees for education degrees range from about Ksh 52,500 to Ksh 58,850 per semester for regular programmes. Digital and blended learning options cost less. Master’s programmes average around Ksh 59,550 per semester, while PhD programmes range from Ksh 200,000 to Ksh 250,000 per year.
School of Public Health and clinical sciences
Health-related courses at Mount Kenya University attract students interested in stable and rewarding careers. The School of Public Health offers training that combines theory with community engagement.
Key departments include Nutrition and Dietetics, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Community Health, and Environmental Health. Programmes range from certificates and diplomas to bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels. Popular degrees include Bachelor of Science in Public Health, Nutrition and Dietetics, Health Systems Management, and Community Health.
The School of Clinical Medicine offers Health Records and Information Management at certificate, diploma, and degree levels. The School of Nursing provides Bachelor of Science in Nursing for direct entry and upgrading students.
Health-related degree programmes cost between Ksh 54,550 and Ksh 85,550 per semester. Nursing and clinical master’s programmes can reach Ksh 104,550 per semester. Diploma health courses average between Ksh 20,550 and Ksh 34,550 per semester.
School of Computing and Engineering Options
Technology and engineering programmes at Mount Kenya University focus on innovation, digital skills, and applied problem-solving. The School of Computing and Informatics offers Information Technology, Information Science, Cyber Security, and Business Information Technology.
Students can study certificate, diploma, bachelor’s, and master’s programmes. Popular choices include Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Bachelor of Business Information Technology.
The School of Engineering, Energy and Built Environment trains students in energy systems, environmental technology, electrical and electronic engineering, petroleum exploration, and real estate management.
Fees for computing and engineering degrees fall within the general degree range of Ksh 45,550 to Ksh 59,550 per semester. Postgraduate programmes cost more depending on specialisation.
School of Business, Economics, Hospitality, and Tourism
The School of Business and Economics remains a top choice for students interested in management, finance, procurement, and entrepreneurship. Programmes include Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Business Management, Bachelor of Procurement, and Bachelor of Economics.
Master’s options include MBA, Master of Science in Project Planning, Procurement, and Public Administration. Doctoral studies focus on business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, and strategic management.
Business degree fees range from about Ksh 45,550 to Ksh 59,550 per semester. MBA and other master’s programmes cost around Ksh 59,550 per semester.
The School of Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism trains learners for the hotel and tourism industry. Programmes include Hospitality Management, Travel and Tourism Management, Culinary Arts, and Food and Beverage Supervision. Fees follow the standard degree and diploma ranges.
Law Social Sciences and Medical School
The School of Law offers Diploma in Law, Bachelor of Laws, and Master of Laws. Law programmes attract students interested in legal practice, governance, and public service.
The School of Social Sciences covers counselling psychology, development studies, international relations, journalism, mass media, security studies, and governance. Programmes range from certificates to PhD level. Media and counselling courses remain highly marketable.
The Medical School offers Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Dental Sciences, Oral Health, and Medical Laboratory Sciences. The MB ChB programme costs about Ksh 129,550 per semester, making it one of the highest-priced courses due to its intensive training.
Mount Kenya University ODEL Courses and Online Fee Structure
Mount Kenya University runs a strong Open Distance and Electronic Learning programme. Online students enjoy flexible study schedules, digital materials, and access to HELB funding.
Online degree programmes generally cost between Ksh 50,000 and Ksh 90,000 per semester. Master’s online programmes average around Ksh 90,000 per semester. Students can sit exams online or at selected MKU campuses.
ODEL programmes cover Business, Education, Computing, Social Sciences, Nursing, Public Health, Clinical Medicine, Law, and selected medical upgrading courses.
Mount Kenya University Fee Per Semester
Fees depend on level and programme. PhD programmes cost between Ksh 200,000 and Ksh 250,000 per year. Master’s programmes cost about Ksh 59,550 per semester, with health and clinical courses going higher. Undergraduate degrees range from Ksh 45,550 to Ksh 85,550 per semester. Diplomas cost between Ksh 20,550 and Ksh 34,550 per semester. Certificate courses range from Ksh 20,550 to Ksh 33,600.
Entry Requirements and Key Facts for Applicants
Bachelor’s degree applicants need a minimum KCSE grade of C plus or a relevant diploma. Diploma applicants require at least a C minus. Certificate applicants need a D plus. Master’s applicants must hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. PhD applicants need a relevant master’s degree.
The application fee stands at Ksh 1,000 for undergraduate courses and Ksh 2,000 for postgraduate courses. The university offers several intakes every year, including September 2026.
