Are you looking to become a nurse or midwife in Kenya? Nursing is a respected and highly sought-after profession in the country, and with the growing demand for quality healthcare, choosing the right nursing training institution is crucial to your career success. Kenya boasts over 150 accredited nursing schools, offering diploma and degree programs in various specialties.
This guide provides comprehensive information about accredited nursing schools in Kenya—where to study, the programs available, and how to get started on your nursing career.
This Is a List of All Accredited Nursing Schools in Kenya
As of 2025, the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) has accredited 151 nursing and midwifery training institutions across the country. These institutions offer programs at degree, basic diploma, and post-basic diploma levels, catering to both fresh high school graduates and working nurses looking to advance their skills.
The NCK ensures that every accredited institution adheres to strict standards in education, infrastructure, and training quality. Graduates from these schools are eligible for registration and licensing, opening doors to both local and international employment opportunities.
Some of the popular programs offered at these institutions include:
- KRCHN (Kenya Registered Community Health Nurse)
- KRCCN (Kenya Registered Critical Care Nurse)
- KRNA (Kenya Registered Nurse Anesthetist)
- KRPON (Kenya Registered Perioperative Nurse)
- BScN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
- BScM (Bachelor of Science in Midwifery)
Training is available for both pre-service students and in-service professionals, with options for full-time, part-time, and distance e-learning.
Top Accredited Nursing Schools Offering Diverse Programs
Here are some of the leading institutions in Kenya recognized for their comprehensive and accredited nursing programs:
AMREF International University
AMREF is a prominent leader in health education and offers flexible learning options for both students and working professionals. Their programs include:
- KRCHN (Pre-Service and Upgrading through DE E-learning)
- KRCCN, KRON, and KRNN (In-Service, Full Time)
- BScN and BScM (Pre-Service)
- BScN Upgrading (DE E-learning)
AMREF is ideal for students who prefer remote learning or for healthcare professionals looking to upgrade their qualifications without leaving their jobs.
AIC Kijabe College of Health Sciences
Located in central Kenya, AIC Kijabe is one of the most respected nursing colleges in the country. It offers:
- KRCHN (Pre-Service)
- KRCCN, KRNA, KRPON (In-Service, Full Time)
AIC Kijabe stands out for its specialized programs in anesthesia and perioperative nursing, making it a top choice for nurses pursuing advanced practice.
Other Institutions with Notable Programs
- Baraton University: Offers full-time and part-time BScN programs.
- Catherine McAuley Nursing School: Provides a wide range of in-service programs, ideal for practicing nurses.
- Chuka University: Offers both pre-service and part-time BScN programs.
What You Need to Know Before Applying
Before applying to a nursing school in Kenya, there are a few important details to consider:
Entry Requirements and Program Durations
Entry requirements for nursing programs vary depending on the level of study. For most diploma programs, the general requirement is a minimum KCSE mean grade of C plain, with specific grades in English, Biology, and Chemistry. For degree programs like BScN, the minimum requirement is a C+ mean grade, with at least a C+ in Biology, Chemistry, and English/Kiswahili.
Program durations are as follows:
- Diploma: Typically takes 3 years.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Generally 4 years.
- Post-basic diploma/specialty programs: Last 1–2 years.
Some schools may also require interviews or entrance exams, especially for highly competitive programs like anesthesia or critical care.
How to Choose the Right School
Choosing the right nursing school is a crucial step in your journey. Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the institution is accredited by the Nursing Council of Kenya. This guarantees that the program meets the necessary standards.
- Program Variety: Choose a school that offers the specific nursing program you want to pursue.
- Location and Learning Mode: Consider whether you prefer on-site, full-time learning or remote learning (such as e-learning options).
- Facilities and Internships: Look for schools that have strong hospital affiliations, allowing you to gain hands-on experience through internships.
- Graduation and Licensing Rates: Research the school’s graduation rate and the number of students who successfully pass the NCK licensing exams.
Becoming a nurse in Kenya requires enrolling in an accredited nursing school, completing the required training, passing the licensure exams, and meeting all professional standards set by the Nursing Council of Kenya. With over 150 accredited schools offering various programs, you have many options for your nursing education, whether you’re looking to specialize in community health, critical care, anesthesia, or midwifery.
By selecting the right nursing school and program, you’ll be well on your way to starting a fulfilling career in the healthcare sector, helping to improve the lives of many people in Kenya and beyond.
