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 responsibl
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:
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:
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.
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]