Legal education in Kenya plays a big role in shaping future lawyers, judges, and leaders. For any aspiring lawyer, choosing the right institution is the first step toward success. However, not every institution has the authority to train law students. The Council of Legal Education (CLE) is the official body responsible for licensing and supervising law schools in Kenya. It ensures that all accredited law schools meet the set standards of quality. In this guide, we will explore the full list of accredited law schools in Kenya, including those offering LL.B, Diploma, and Master of Laws programs. The journey to becoming a lawyer in Kenya starts with choosing a licensed and accredited institution. With the Council of Legal Education monitoring quality, students can be assured that they are receiving proper legal training. [PHOTO//Courtesy] Understanding Accredited Law Schools In Kenya The Council of Legal Education has the mandate to regulate, license , and monitor all legal education providers. This ensures that law students receive proper training and are well-prepared for the legal profession.
A law school must obtain a license from CLE to operate. The license has an expiry date, which ensures continuous monitoring of standards. Once a license expires, the institution must undergo renewal after evaluation. Accredited law schools in Kenya fall into three main categories: Institutions licensed to offer Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) Institutions licensed to offer Diploma in Law Institutions licensed to offer Master of Laws (LL.M.) Below is the detailed breakdown. Law Schools Licensed to Offer Bachelor of Laws The Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) is the foundation program for anyone who wants to become a lawyer in Kenya. The institutions below are currently licensed to offer this program: Institution License Expiry Date UMMA University Valid until 24th Sept 2025 Africa Nazarene University Valid until 10th Dec 2025 Chuka University Valid until 10th Dec 2025 Moi University Valid until 10th Dec 2025 University of Nairobi (Parklands Campus) Valid until 10th Dec 2025 Egerton University Valid until 16th June 2026 Kabarak University Valid until 16th June 2026 Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Valid until 29th Nov 2027 Strathmore University Valid until 29th Nov 2027 Maseno University Valid until 29th Nov 2027 South Eastern Kenya University Valid until 29th Nov 2027 JKUAT Valid until 20th June 2028 Riara University Valid until 21st Sept 2028 Kenyatta University Valid until 21st Sept 2028 Daystar University (Athi River Campus) Valid until 9th Apr 2029 University of Embu Valid until 9th Apr 2029 Kisii University Valid until 9th Apr 2029 Mount Kenya University (Parklands Campus) Valid until 9th Apr 2029 Law Schools Licensed to Offer Diploma in Law For students who may not qualify directly for the LL.B., a Diploma in Law is a good starting point. The diploma also helps those interested in paralegal studies. The following institutions are licensed to offer this program: Institution License Expiry Date Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Valid until 29th Nov 2027 Mount Kenya University (Parklands Campus) Valid until 9th Apr 2029 Kisii University Valid until 9th Apr 2029 Kenya School of Law (Para Legal Studies) Valid until 9th Apr 2029 Law Schools Licensed to Offer Master of Laws The Master of Laws (LL.M.) program allows lawyers to specialize in fields like human rights law, corporate law, and international law. Below is the list of accredited universities offering this program: Institution License Expiry Date Strathmore University Valid until 17th Apr 2030 Mount Kenya University Valid until 23rd Mar 2026 Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Valid until 21st Sept 2028 JKUAT Valid until 20th Jun 2028 Council of Legal Education Contact Information If you need more details about accredited law schools in Kenya, reach out to the Council of Legal Education directly: Phone : 0719 150 000 / 0111 056 130 Email : [email protected] , [email protected] Whether you are planning to pursue a Bachelor of Laws, a Diploma in Law, or a Master of Laws, the above list gives you clear guidance on where to apply. Always check the license validity before enrolling to ensure the program remains recognized.