When it comes to accessing higher education in Kenya, the Kenyan government has been at the forefront of ensuring that education reaches all. Besides finishing secondary education and accessing higher levels of knowledge, such as colleges and universities, did you know that you can still access the same places of learning without attending any physical classes? That’s where Kenya’s Open University of Kenya (OUK) comes in. The university follows the African Virtual University, established in 1997, and enables all Kenyans to access education and training from anywhere in Kenya or beyond.
The Open University of Kenya was established on August 3, 2023, when the Kenyan government formally awarded it a charter under President William Ruto’s administration. It is Kenya’s first virtual university, meaning anyone can enroll in this esteemed institution to study a range of courses, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. Since its establishment, the university has experienced remarkable growth, enrolling over 3,500 students from 20 countries, including Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, South Africa, Zambia, Lesotho, Saudi Arabia, Namibia, Qatar, and the United Kingdom.
If you are looking to join OUK in 2026, then understanding the courses on offer is essential. In this article, we have listed them, along with the current fee structure, in accordance with recent government directives.
Which courses are offered in the Open University of Kenya?
The Open University of Kenya (OUK) offers a substantial number of courses for anyone, including bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs, as well as professional courses. The university has expanded significantly since its launch, growing from seven flagship programs to more than 26 academic programs currently available. The courses available at the institution are categorized based on the School, and they are as follows:
School of Science and Technology
- Bachelor of Data Science
- Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Interactive Media Technologies
- Master’s in Data Science
- Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
- Master of Science in Digital Services Management
- Master of Science in Cyber Security
School of Business and Economics
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Business and Entrepreneurship
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Project Planning and Management
- PhD in Business Administration
School of Education
- Bachelor of Education (Arts)
- Bachelor of Education (Science)
- Master of Education in Curriculum Studies
- Master of Education in Educational Administration and Planning
- Master of Education in Early Childhood and Primary Education
- PhD in Education
School of Arts and Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Administration
- Master of Arts in Communication Studies
- PhD in Communication Studies
School of Open and Distance Learning
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management
- Certificate in Counseling
- Certificate in Community Development
How much do Open University courses cost per year?
Following recent government directives on university education funding, OUK has updated its fee structure to make quality virtual education more accessible to Kenyan students. Fees are structured on an academic-year basis and vary by program level and school and they are as follows:
Undergraduate Programs Fee Structure
| Program | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Data Science | Ksh 79,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics | Ksh 79,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing | Ksh 79,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | Ksh 79,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Interactive Media Technologies | Ksh 79,000 |
| Bachelor of Commerce | Ksh 86,000 |
| Bachelor of Business and Entrepreneurship | Ksh 86,000 |
| Bachelor of Education (Arts) | Ksh 86,000 |
| Bachelor of Education (Science) | Ksh 79,000 |
| Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies | Ksh 86,000 |
| Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies | Ksh 86,000 |
| Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Administration | Ksh 86,000 |
Postgraduate Programs Fee Structure
| Program | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Master’s in Data Science | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Science in Digital Services Management | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Science in Cyber Security | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Business Administration | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Science in Project Planning and Management | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Education (all specializations) | Ksh 110,000 |
| Master of Arts in Communication Studies | Ksh 110,000 |
| PhD in Business Administration | Ksh 187,500 |
| PhD in Education | Ksh 187,500 |
| PhD in Communication Studies | Ksh 187,500 |
Important Fee Notes:
- Fees are per academic year and may be paid in installments
- Students can also opt to pay per course unit at Ksh 10,000 each
- Students from outside the East African region pay 10% more
- Fees are subject to review and may change based on government directives
Admission Requirements for OUK
Now that you know the courses offered at the Open University of Kenya, to apply to study for each one of them, it is a requirement that you, as an applicant, must meet the admission criteria for that particular course, which entails having the necessary admission certificates. For undergraduate applicants, a KCSE certificate is required, with a minimum mean grade of C+ for most programs.
For those upgrading their qualifications and working professionals, the University operates under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, which requires you to submit a portfolio demonstrating your workplace experience and professional competencies. A minimum of two years’ professional experience is needed, as well as completion of two relevant short courses lasting three months each in your area of study.
On the other hand, for those seeking to study a postgraduate course at the Master’s or PhD level, applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Additionally, some specialized programs may require specific professional experience or additional qualifications relevant to the field of study.
How Can You Apply to OUK
So long as you are eligible for any courses on offer, OUK encourages all Kenyans and non-Kenyans to apply for the programs available. Fortunately, you don’t have to visit the university physically to join, but instead, you can make your application by following the steps below:
KUCCPS Portal
If you are looking to join OUK as a government-sponsored student, with the government providing financial support through the Higher Education Financing Scheme, using the KUCCPS portal is the recommended option. This method requires you to visit the KUCCPS Students portal at https://ouk.kuccps.net/ and log in with your KCSE index number and exam year. Once you are in, the portal will redirect you to the OUK KUCCPS portal, where you can select the OUK courses that are available as listed. However, while doing so, be aware that KUCCPS charges a one-time application fee of Ksh 1,500 and Ksh 1,000 for any revisions to your application.
OUK Admission Portal
If you are a self-sponsored student looking to join OUK at your own cost, the university allows you to make a direct application through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. This is made possible by the OUK admission portal, available at https://admissions.oukac.ke/login. First, register and activate your account by checking the email address sent to you for verification.
Once you log in, you can directly apply by going to the program sections and selecting “View Program” on your selected program. Next, click the “Apply Now” button to complete the application form with all required information and supporting documents. When you are done, submit your application and await the approval process, which typically takes 2-3 weeks for processing
FAQs
How much does it cost to study at the Open University of Kenya in 2026?
Undergraduate programs at OUK range from Ksh 79,000 to Ksh 86,000 per academic year, depending on the program. Postgraduate Master’s programs cost approximately Ksh 110,000 per year, while PhD programs cost approximately Ksh 187,500 per year. Students can also choose to pay per course unit at Ksh 10,000 each, allowing for flexible payment options.
Is the Open University of Kenya accredited?
Yes, the Open University of Kenya is fully accredited. It was officially chartered by President William Ruto on August 3, 2023, making it a recognized public university in Kenya. The university is regulated by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and its degrees are recognized both locally and internationally.
How long does it take to complete a degree at OUK?
Most undergraduate programs at the Open University of Kenya are designed to be completed in 3-4 years for full-time students, though the virtual nature allows for flexible pacing. Master’s programs typically take 1.5-2 years, while PhD programs require a minimum of 3 years.
