Accredited Nursing Schools in Kenya (2027): Universities, KMTC and How to Verify

Nursing is one of the most popular and respected careers in Kenya. Nurses form the backbone of the country’s health system, from county referral hospitals and level 4 and 5 facilities to dispensaries in remote areas, and many Kenyan nurses build careers abroad in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia and the Gulf. But the quality and recognition of your training depend entirely on choosing an approved and accredited institution.

Kenyan authorities have repeatedly warned students and parents about colleges offering nursing courses without approval. This 2027 guide explains how the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) approves and accredits nursing training institutions, the main study routes, the types of institutions, how to verify a school before you pay, entry requirements, costs, licensing after graduation, and how to choose well.

The Nursing Council of Kenya: who approves nursing schools

The Nursing Council of Kenya is the statutory body that regulates nursing and midwifery education and practice in Kenya under the Nurses and Midwives Act. Its responsibilities include:

• Approving and accrediting institutions that train nurses and midwives.
• Setting curricula and training standards.
• Conducting licensing examinations for graduates.
• Registering and licensing nurses and midwives, including annual practising licences.
• Regulating professional conduct and discipline.

The Council’s website states that it has approved more than 120 nursing and midwifery training institutions, run by the government, private organisations, faith-based (mission) bodies, non-governmental organisations and other ministries such as the armed forces. The Council distinguishes between approval, which allows an institution to offer a programme, and accreditation, which confirms that it has met the Council’s full standards. Its lists show programme-by-programme status, so check both.

Universities also need approval from the Commission for University Education (CUE) to run degree programmes, and many technical and vocational institutions are regulated by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA). For nursing, NCK approval of the specific programme is essential in every case.

Routes into nursing in Kenya

Certificate programmes

Some approved institutions offer certificate-level programmes such as Certificate in Community Health Nursing. Check carefully whether a certificate leads to registration as a nurse and what further training is needed to progress.

Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing (KRCHN)

The diploma route is the most common pathway into nursing in Kenya. It is offered by the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) across its many campuses and by a range of approved private and mission colleges. Graduates sit the NCK licensing examination and register as Kenya Registered Community Health Nurses. Many later upgrade to a degree.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN)

The BScN is offered by universities, both as a direct-entry programme for school leavers and as an upgrading programme for diploma nurses. Graduates register as Bachelor of Science nurses and are well placed for leadership, specialist and international roles.

Higher diplomas and specialties

Registered nurses can pursue higher diplomas in areas such as critical care, perioperative nursing, nephrology, oncology, paediatrics, mental health and midwifery, at approved institutions.

Postgraduate study

Master’s and doctoral programmes in nursing are available at several universities for nurses interested in advanced practice, education, research and leadership.

Types of approved institutions

Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC)

KMTC is the largest public trainer of health workers in Kenya, with campuses spread across the country. It offers diploma and higher diploma programmes in nursing and many other health disciplines. Because of its size and public funding, KMTC is a popular and comparatively affordable choice. Admission is competitive and is done through KMTC’s official application process.

Public universities

Several public universities offer BScN programmes, including well-established nursing schools at the University of Nairobi, Moi University, Kenyatta University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, among others. Admission for government-sponsored students is through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), and self-sponsored places are offered directly by universities.

Private universities

Private universities such as Aga Khan University, Mount Kenya University, the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, and Kabarak University and others offer nursing degrees, often including upgrading programmes for working diploma nurses. The Council’s listing shows approval and accreditation status by programme, which can differ, so check each one.

Mission and faith-based colleges

Many of Kenya’s longest-established nursing schools are attached to mission hospitals, offering diploma programmes with strong clinical exposure. Examples on the Council’s listings include AIC Kapsowar and AIC Litein schools of nursing.

Other institutions

Other approved trainers include institutions run by non-governmental organisations, such as AMREF’s e-learning programmes for nurse upgrading, and those run by other government ministries, such as the Armed Forces School of Nursing.

This is not a ranking or a complete list. Always confirm the current status of any institution with the Council.

How to verify a nursing school in Kenya

1. Visit the official Nursing Council of Kenya website (nckenya.com) and find the section on approved or accredited training institutions.
2. Search for the institution by its exact name and location. Many colleges have similar names, and some have several campuses.
3. Check the programme. Approval is for specific programmes and modes of study (for example, full-time or part-time, direct entry or upgrading). Make sure the exact programme you want is listed.
4. Check approval versus accreditation status. Some institutions are approved but not yet fully accredited for a programme.
5. For degrees, check CUE recognition of the university and the programme.
6. Ask the institution for its NCK approval letter for the programme and campus.
7. Contact the Council if you have any doubts. The Council also offers online services through its official portal.

Never rely only on a college’s advertisements, social media pages or agents’ assurances.

Red flags: avoiding fake nursing courses

• The institution or the specific programme is not on the Council’s list.
• Entry grades far below the minimum required by the Council for that programme.
• A much shorter course duration than approved programmes.
• Promises of guaranteed licensing or jobs abroad.
• Pressure to pay quickly in cash or through personal mobile money accounts.
• No visible skills laboratory, library or hospital partnerships for clinical placements.
• Reluctance to show approval documents.

If something feels wrong, verify before you pay.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements are set by the Council and institutions, and can change, so always check the latest requirements for 2027 intakes. They generally include:

• A minimum mean grade in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), with minimum grades in specified subjects such as English or Kiswahili, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics.
• Higher requirements for degree programmes than for diplomas.
• For upgrading programmes, evidence of registration and licensing as a diploma nurse, and sometimes work experience.
• Medical fitness and other institutional requirements.

Costs and funding

Fees vary widely: KMTC and public universities for government-sponsored students are generally more affordable, while private universities and colleges charge more. When comparing costs, include tuition, accommodation, meals, uniforms, books, examination and licensing fees, and transport to clinical placements. Government-sponsored university students can apply to the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) and the Universities Fund under the current higher education funding model, and some counties, faith-based organisations and employers offer bursaries for nursing students.

Licensing after graduation

After completing an approved programme, graduates must:

1. Sit and pass the Nursing Council of Kenya licensing examination.
2. Register with the Council and receive a registration number.
3. Obtain and renew an annual practising licence, linked to continuing professional development.

Our Nursing Council of Kenya licensing and registration guide explains exams, licence renewal, CPD and verification in detail.

Internship

Graduates in Kenya are typically required to complete an internship as part of their preparation for practice, and internship placement has been a subject of national debate in recent years because of funding and posting challenges. Check current arrangements with the Council, the Ministry of Health and your institution.

How to choose the right school

• Licensing exam performance: ask about the institution’s recent NCK examination pass rates.
• Clinical placements: where students train, and how much hands-on experience they get.
• Facilities: skills labs, simulation, library and internet.
• Teaching staff: number and qualifications of nurse educators.
• Cost and funding options.
• Location and accommodation.
• Career goals: a degree may be helpful for leadership roles and some international opportunities.

Thinking of working abroad?

Kenyan nurses are recruited by employers in several countries, including through government-to-government agreements. Regulators abroad will review your training, so attend an approved and accredited institution, keep your transcripts and clinical records, and maintain your NCK registration. Beware of recruitment fraud. Read our guides to nursing abroad registration routes and fake nursing recruitment agency red flags.

Questions to ask a school before you enrol

Approval by the Nursing Council of Kenya is the first test, but a good school offers more than a certificate on the wall. Ask these questions before paying any fees:

1. Which programmes are approved? Approval is programme-specific. A college approved for one certificate course may not be approved for the KRCHN diploma.
2. Where will clinical placements happen? Ask for the names of the hospitals and health centres, and how students travel there.
3. What are recent NCK exam results? Reputable schools are willing to discuss their students’ licensing performance.
4. How many tutors are there, and what are their qualifications? A good student-to-tutor ratio matters for practical skills.
5. What facilities exist? Look for a skills laboratory, a library with current textbooks, internet access and safe accommodation.
6. What are the full costs? Ask for a written breakdown of tuition, examination fees, uniforms, placements, accommodation and indexing fees.
7. What support is offered? Mentoring, counselling, remedial classes and help with internships all improve outcomes.

Student life and clinical placements

Nursing training in Kenya combines classroom teaching with extensive supervised practice. Students rotate through medical, surgical, paediatric, maternity, mental health and community settings. Placements are where you learn to apply theory, develop confidence and build professional relationships. To make the most of them:

• Arrive on time, in correct uniform, with your logbook.
• Ask to perform procedures under supervision and get them signed off promptly.
• Reflect on each shift: what went well, what you would do differently.
• Respect patient privacy and dignity at all times.
• Look after yourself, especially during night shifts and long community visits.

Funding your studies

Nursing education is a significant investment. Options for students include:

• Higher Education Loans Board (HELB): HELB offers loans to eligible students in universities and in technical and vocational institutions, including many medical training colleges. Check eligibility and application windows on HELB’s official website.
• Government university funding model: students placed in universities through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) may be assessed for a mix of scholarships and loans based on need. Rules have changed in recent years, so check the latest guidance.
• County bursaries and Constituency Development Fund (CDF) bursaries: many counties and constituencies support students in health training.
• Faith-based and NGO scholarships: mission colleges and charities sometimes sponsor students, particularly those from underserved areas.

Never pay money to individuals promising guaranteed placements or scholarships. Use official portals and offices.

Specialising after you qualify

Many Kenyan nurses take further training after gaining experience. Higher diplomas and postgraduate programmes are available in areas such as:

• Critical care nursing
• Perioperative (theatre) nursing
• Nephrology nursing
• Oncology and palliative care nursing
• Paediatric and neonatal nursing
• Mental health and psychiatric nursing
• Midwifery and reproductive health
• Emergency and trauma nursing
• Ophthalmic nursing

Specialist qualifications improve career prospects in Kenya and abroad, and help meet the country’s need for skilled nurses in specialised units.

Working in Kenya after licensure

Health services in Kenya are largely devolved to the 47 county governments, which employ many nurses in county hospitals, health centres and dispensaries. National referral hospitals, faith-based facilities, private hospitals and non-governmental organisations also employ large numbers of nurses. Employment opportunities are often advertised by county public service boards, the Ministry of Health and individual hospitals.

Tips for job seekers:

• Keep your NCK licence current and your continuing professional development points up to date.
• Prepare a clear CV listing your training, internship, placements and any specialist skills.
• Follow official recruitment portals rather than unofficial social media adverts.
• Never pay for a job offer; legitimate employers do not charge for appointments.

Common myths about nursing schools in Kenya

• “Any college offering nursing must be approved.” Not true. Always verify on the NCK list.
• “A private college certificate is not recognised.” Approved private institutions produce graduates who sit the same NCK examinations and receive the same licence.
• “You cannot progress from certificate to degree.” There are pathways to upgrade, though requirements vary.
• “Only university graduates can work abroad.” Diploma holders also work internationally, although some countries assess diplomas differently.

Preparing for the NCK licensing examination

Every graduate of an approved programme must pass the Nursing Council of Kenya licensing examination before practising. Schools prepare students throughout the programme, but your own habits matter. Successful candidates usually:

• Keep their clinical logbook complete and signed throughout training, so eligibility is never in doubt.
• Review content steadily during each semester instead of cramming at the end.
• Study in small groups, quizzing each other and explaining topics aloud.
• Pay special attention to high-risk areas such as medication safety, maternal and newborn emergencies, infection prevention and mental health.
• Follow official NCK communication on examination dates, registration and fees.

If you do not pass at first, the council’s rules allow you to resit. Use your results to focus on weaker areas, and ask your school about revision support.

A note for parents choosing a school

Parents often make or share the decision about where a young person trains. Visiting the campus in person, speaking to current students and asking the questions above is worth the effort. A slightly higher fee at a well-resourced, approved school can save years of frustration compared with a cheaper college that is not properly approved or lacks clinical placements. Good training protects not only your child’s career but also the patients they will care for.

Kenya’s nursing workforce in context

Kenya trains thousands of nurses every year, yet many counties still report shortages, especially in rural areas and specialised units. At the same time, Kenya has signed agreements with several countries on ethical international recruitment of health workers, and many Kenyan nurses work in the UK, the Gulf and elsewhere. For students, this means strong long-term demand for well-trained nurses, both at home and abroad. Choosing an approved, high-quality school is the first step in taking advantage of those opportunities.

Your enrolment checklist for 2027

1. Confirm your KCSE results meet the minimum grade and subject requirements for your chosen programme.
2. Check that both the institution and the specific programme appear on the current NCK approved list.
3. Apply through the correct channel: KUCCPS for government-sponsored places, or the college directly for self-sponsored places.
4. Visit the campus or speak to current students before accepting an offer.
5. Ask for a written breakdown of all fees, and pay only into official institutional accounts.
6. Apply early for HELB, county or CDF bursaries.
7. Keep copies of your admission letter, receipts and indexing confirmation in a safe folder.

Taking these steps carefully at the start protects years of study and gives you a clear path to licensure.

Frequently asked questions

How many nursing schools are approved in Kenya?

The Nursing Council of Kenya’s website states that it has approved more than 120 nursing and midwifery training institutions. Check the Council’s current list for up-to-date information.

Is KMTC approved by the Nursing Council of Kenya?

KMTC runs Council-approved nursing programmes across many campuses. As with any institution, confirm that your specific campus and programme are listed.

Which is better, a diploma or a BScN?

Both lead to registration as a nurse. A diploma is shorter and widely available; a BScN takes longer but can open more doors for leadership, specialist and international roles. Many nurses start with a diploma and upgrade later.

Can I study nursing part-time in Kenya?

Part-time study is mainly available for upgrading programmes for working registered nurses. Check the mode of study approved for each programme.

What happens if my college is not approved?

You may not be allowed to sit the licensing examination or register. Contact the Council immediately for advice.

But what if a college says its approval is “in progress”?

Approval in progress is not approval. Until the Council lists the institution and programme as approved, you take a serious risk by enrolling. If you are still interested, ask the college for written confirmation of its status from the Council, verify it directly with the Council, and consider waiting until approval is confirmed or choosing an already approved institution for the 2027 intake.

Related: Nursing Council of Kenya licensing guide · How to choose a nursing school

Sources: Nursing Council of Kenya (approved training institutions and accreditation information), Commission for University Education, Kenya Medical Training College, Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service, Higher Education Loans Board. Approval status changes; always confirm with the Council.