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 takes after the African Virtual University established in 1997 and allows all Kenyans today to access education and training from any part of 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 the first virtual university in Kenya, meaning anyone can pay to join this esteemed institution to study various 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 2025, then understanding the courses on offer is essential. In this article, we have listed them along with the most current fee structure following recent government directives. So, read the article’s end to gain more insights.
What Courses Does the Open University of Kenya Offer?
The Open University of Kenya (OUK) offers quite a substantial number of courses suited to anyone, whether it’s a bachelor’s program, Master’s, PhD, or even 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 Education
- Bachelor of Technology Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Learning Design and Technology
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education
- Master’s in Learning Design and Technology
School of Business and Economics
- Bachelor of Business and Entrepreneurship
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Economics and Statistics
- Bachelor of Economics and Data Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Accountability
- Master of Business Administration
- Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
School of Agriculture
- Bachelor of Agri-Technology and Food Systems
Professional Development Courses
- Accountability Fundamentals
- Business Modelling for Entrepreneurs
- Corporate Governance
- E-Learning Essentials for Online Engagement
- Emotional Intelligence
- Gender and Diversity
- Mental Health Awareness
- Online Assessment
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 you having the necessary admission certificates. For undergraduate applicants, a KCSE certificate is needed, with the minimum requirement being a mean grade of C+ or higher for most programs.
For those upgrading their qualifications and for working professionals, the University operates under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, which requires that you 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 looking to study any postgraduate level course from Master’s to PhD, applicants must have 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 where the government provides financial support through the Higher Education Financing scheme, then using the KUCCPS portal is the recommended option. This method will require that you directly visit the KUCCPS Students portal at https://ouk.kuccps.net/ and log in using 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.ouk.ac.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.
Revised Fee Structure for OUK Programs in 2025
Each course at the Open University of Kenya requires that all students enrolled pay their course fees to be fully registered for the particular semester and sit for examinations. Following the Ministry of Education’s directive on July 31, 2025, regarding fee reductions across all public universities, OUK has significantly revised its fee structure to make education more accessible and affordable for Kenyan students.
The new fee structure represents a substantial reduction from previous years, with most undergraduate programs now costing significantly less than before. Students from outside East Africa pay an additional 10% on top of the standard fees. The revised annual fees for undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs are as follows:
Undergraduate Programs (Annual Fees – 2025/2026)
| Course | Annual Fees (Ksh) | Previous Fees (Ksh) | Savings (Ksh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Data Science | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Science in Interactive Media Technologies | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Commerce | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Business and Entrepreneurship | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Economics and Statistics | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Economics and Data Science | 79,000 | 105,000 | 26,000 |
| Bachelor of Technology Education | 86,000 | 115,000 | 29,000 |
| Bachelor of Agri-Technology and Food Systems | 86,000 | 115,000 | 29,000 |
Postgraduate Programs (Full Program Duration Fees)
| Course | Full Program Fees (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate Diploma in Learning Design and Technology | 110,000 |
| Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Accountability | 110,000 |
| Master of Business Administration | 187,500 |
| Master’s in Data Science | 187,500 |
| Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence | 187,500 |
| Master of Science in Digital Services Management | 187,500 |
| Master of Science in Cyber Security | 187,500 |
| Master’s in Learning Design and Technology | 187,500 |
| Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration | 337,500 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to study at the Open University of Kenya?
The cost varies depending on your program and sponsorship status. With the 2025 fee reductions, most undergraduate programs now cost between Ksh 79,000 and Ksh 86,000 annually. Master’s programs cost Ksh 187,500 for the entire duration, while PhD programs cost Ksh 337,500. Students can also pay for individual course units at Ksh 10,000 each for maximum flexibility.
What new courses has OUK introduced recently?
Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Bachelor of Science in Interactive Media Technologies, and enhanced postgraduate offerings in artificial intelligence and digital services management.
How can I apply for admission to OUK?
You can apply through two main portals: the KUCCPS portal at https://ouk.kuccps.net/ for government-sponsored students, or the OUK admissions portal at https://admissions.ouk.ac.ke/login for self-sponsored students.
Are OUK degrees recognized and credible?
Yes, all OUK programs are accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and recognized by Kenya’s Ministry of Education.
Conclusion
And there you have it. We hope you now have a clear picture of all the courses offered at the Open University in 2025 and their respective fee structures. Open University, the first virtual university in Kenya, has made it easier for all to access higher education. We have also guided you through the application process, but if you need any clarification, please let us know in the comment section, and we will guide you throughout.
