Distance learning is taking the place of traditional classrooms in Kenya fast. Many people prefer the flexibility, not to mention low cost, which comes with distance learning programs. It has become a savior for the many students who don’t live close to major universities in Kenya and can’t afford to travel everyday to attend classes. That’s why we found it important to cover colleges and universities in Kenya that offer distance learning education.

Public and Private Universities in Kenya with Distance Learning Programs

Both public and private universities in Kenya have embraced the distance learning mode. Most of these universities provide distance learning because their resources have become over-stretched and they are unable to cater to the ever increasing demand for higher education in Kenya through traditional classroom learning.

1. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)

JKUAT has a distance learning program that allows students to attend 2 to 3 sessions in campus per semester and do the rest of the learning on their own through the online system. JKUAT distance learning program is only available in 3 campuses- JKUAT Main Campus in Juja, JKUAT Mombasa and JKUAT Eldoret Campuses. Some of the programs available in distance learning mode in JKUAT include:

• Bachelor of Business Information Technology
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Certificate in Information Technology
• Diploma in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Master of Science in ICT
• Master of Science in Statistics
• Master in Business Administration

2. Egerton University

In 2002, Egerton University launched the College of Distance Learning (CODL). Through the distance learning program at Egerton University, learners are able to pursue their degrees in a more flexible and accommodating environment.
The University offers support through their centers in various parts of the country. Distance learners are advised to visit any of the centers in case they need support or communicate with their schools and departments through the online portal.

3. University of Nairobi

UoN was among the first universities in Kenya to embrace the distance learning mode. Today, the University has a Center of open and distance learning that offers a wide range of programs. They include:

• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Education
• B.Ed Science
• Masters of Arts by Project Planning and Management
• Master of Education
• Master of Education in Computer Technology

4. St Paul’s University

In 2012, St Paul’s University launched their distance learning program in order to offer students a more flexible and cost effective learning mode. For those who are unable to attend brick and mortar classes at ST Paul’s University, this program is the perfect alternative.
The distance learning mode in St Paul’s University has not only attracted Kenyan students but also people all over East Africa and beyond. Many Kenyans who work in other countries like Afghanistan have been able to benefit from this distance learning mode.
Programs offered under the distance learning mode in St Paul’s University include:

• Bachelor of Arts in Community Development
• Bachelor of Business Administration and Management
• Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Management

 

5. Kenya Methodist University (KEMU)

KEMU is one of the private universities in Kenya that offers distance learning programs. KEMU offers learners various course materials together with the KEMU DLM Portal where they can access a number of study materials online.

6. Africa Nazarene University

Through the Institute of Open and Distance Learning, Africa Nazarene University allows learners to pursue a more flexible and accommodating mode of study. They utilize technology together with support from various centers to give distance learners a quality learning experience.
This distance learning program has allowed busy individuals to continue with higher education while still pursuing their careers. The University even allows students to pay their tuition fees every month, so this offers a more cost effective method of studying.

Other Universities in Kenya that offer distance learning programs

• Kenyatta University
• Strathmore University
• Daystar University
• Moi University
• KCA University

Is distance learning right for you?

Distance learning is a cheaper and more flexible mode of study. However, it’s not the right method of learning for everyone. Before you apply for distance learning in any of the universities in Kenya mentioned above, consider the following factors:

• Distance learning may be suitable for you if you don’t have adequate finances for a full time, face to face mode of learning at your university of choice.
• You may not have the discipline to study on your own if you are just straight from high school. Distance learning is more suitable for working professionals.
• Don’t consider distance learning if you know you do not have the discipline to study without any supervision. It is likely to be a waste of time and money.
• Find out if the course you want to study in any of the above universities in Kenya is offered under distance learning mode first.
• Look for a suitable environment to conduct your studies at home or in the office/ a public library.

For more information on how distance learning works in any of the universities in Kenya, contact the respective institutions.