Strathmore University is widely recognized as one of Kenya’s premier institutions of higher learning, blending academic excellence with professional training. Over the decades, it has grown from a small college into a fully-fledged university offering a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral programs. This article explores everything you need to know about Strathmore University, including its courses, fee structure, campuses, and history.
The Origins of Strathmore University
Strathmore University traces its origins back to 1961 when it was founded as Strathmore College, an advanced-level sixth-form college offering both Science and Arts subjects. It was established under the Strathmore Educational Trust by a group of professionals committed to creating an inclusive and quality educational environment. Notably, Strathmore was the first institution in pre-independence Kenya to welcome students of all races, religions, and social backgrounds, a revolutionary concept at the time.
The vision of Saint Josemaría Escrivá, the founder of Opus Dei, played a significant role in inspiring and guiding the establishment of the college. By March 1966, Strathmore College had admitted its first cohort of 25 accountancy students who trained alongside sixth-form students to prepare for the UK-based Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) examinations. These students were sponsored by prominent companies such as Shell East Africa, BAT (East Africa), and East African Breweries.
Growth and Expansion: Strathmore’s Journey to University Status
The demand for professional training increased steadily, and in 1982, Strathmore introduced evening accountancy classes for 60 students, supported by various corporate sponsors. By 1986, the Kenyan government granted five acres of land along Ole Sangale Road in Madaraka Estate, which paved the way for the establishment of a fully equipped campus. Funding from the European Union and the Italian government supported the construction of the new co-educational campus, focusing on management and accountancy courses.
A significant partnership with Kianda College, managed by the Kianda Foundation, allowed the institutions to collaborate on professional courses at the Madaraka campus. Construction began in September 1989, and by January 1991, Strathmore had launched an Information Technology Centre at its Lavington campus, offering diploma-level IT courses recognized by the Institute for the Management of Information Systems.
The following year, the college initiated a Distance Learning Centre to accommodate students who could not attend in-person classes. By January 1993, Strathmore College officially merged with Kianda College, consolidating its operations at the current Madaraka Estate campus.
In August 2002, Strathmore received a Letter of Interim Authority from the Commission for Higher Education, authorizing it to operate as a university with faculties in Commerce and Information Technology. The first batch of undergraduate students graduated in August 2005, and by June 2007, Strathmore University was granted a full charter, cementing its status as a leading Kenyan university.
Campuses and Locations
Strathmore University operates multiple campuses to cater to diverse programs and student needs:
- Madaraka Campus: The main campus hosting undergraduate and postgraduate programs in business, law, IT, and engineering.
- Lavington Campus: Focused on Information Technology and specialized computer courses.
- Other Outreach Centers: Include facilities for distance learning, professional development, and executive education programs.
The university’s campuses are strategically located in Nairobi, providing students easy access to urban amenities, internship opportunities, and corporate networks.
Undergraduate Programs at Strathmore University
Strathmore University offers a wide range of undergraduate courses designed to combine theoretical knowledge with professional skills. Popular undergraduate programs include:
- Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BTM)
- Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BHM)
- Bachelor of Business Science in Financial Engineering (BBSFENG)
- Bachelor of Business Science in Financial Economics (BBSFE)
- Bachelor of Business Science in Actuarial Science (BBSACT)
- Bachelor of Science in Informatics and Computer Science (BICS)
- Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT)
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Networks and Cyber Security (BCNS)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BAC)
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies and Philosophy (BDP)
- Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Operations Management (BSCM)
- Bachelor of Financial Services (BFS)
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (BSEEE)
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics and Data Science (BScSDS)
Intakes for full-time undergraduate programs are typically in April and June, while evening programs begin in May and September.
Postgraduate Programs
Strathmore University provides extensive postgraduate options for students seeking advanced knowledge and professional growth. Some of the key postgraduate programs include:
- Master of Science in Computing and Information Systems (MSc CIS)
- Master of Science in Information Technology (MSc IT)
- Master of Science in Statistical Science (MSc SS)
- Master of Science in Mathematical Finance and Risk Analytics (MSc MFRA)
- Master of Applied Philosophy and Ethics (MAPE)
- Master of Science in Education Management (MEM)
- Master of Laws (LLM)
- Master of Science in Information Systems Security (MSc ISS)
- Master of Management in Agribusiness (MMA)
- Master of Public Policy and Management (MPPM)
- Master of Science in Development Finance (MDF)
- Master of Business Administration – Healthcare Management (MBA-HCM)
- Executive MBA for Professionals
- Master in Hospitality Business Management (MHBM)
- Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSc DSA)
- Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Transitions (MSc SET)
- Master of Arts in Diplomacy, Intelligence and Security (MDIS)
- Master’s in Spectrum Management
- Master of Commerce (MCom)
- Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR)
Diploma, Certificate, and Professional Programs
Strathmore also offers diplomas, certificates, and professional courses to equip learners with practical, industry-recognized skills:
Diplomas:
- Diploma in Business Creation and Entrepreneurship (DE)
- Diploma in International Relations (DIR)
- Diploma in Business Management (DBM)
- Diploma in Business Information Technology (DBIT)
Certificates and Professional Programs:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountants)
- ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analysts)
- CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditors)
- CISM (Certified Information Security Managers)
- CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing)
- Teacher Enhancement Programme (TEP)
- Certificate in Data Science (ICDS)
- Certificate in Computer Applications (CCA)
- International Computer Driving License (ICDL)
- Creative programs like Film-making and Life Skills (FLS)
- Culinary Arts
- Cybersecurity courses including CHFI, ICPT, and CEH
Doctoral Programs:
- PhD in Computer Science
- PhD in Mathematical Sciences
- PhD in Healthcare Management
- PhD in Business and Management
- Doctor of Laws (LLD)
Strathmore University Fees Structure
Undergraduate Fees:
- Business Administration: Ksh 450,000 per year
- Law (LLB): Ksh 600,000 per year
- Information Technology: Ksh 500,000 per year
- Hospitality and Hotel Management: Ksh 565,775 per year
Additional fees include:
- Registration: Ksh 5,000 (one-time)
- Library: Ksh 3,000 per year
- Examination: Ksh 10,000 per semester
Overall, annual costs for undergraduate students range from Ksh 460,000 to Ksh 620,000, depending on the program and additional charges.
Postgraduate Fees:
- MBA: Ksh 350,000 per semester
- Master of Finance: Ksh 300,000 per semester
- Master of Public Policy: Ksh 330,000 per semester
Diplomas and Certificates:
- Diploma in Business Management: Ksh 250,000 per year
- Certificate in Project Management: Ksh 180,000 per year
Postgraduate students may also incur extra expenses for research, academic materials, and professional certifications.
Why Choose Strathmore University?
Strathmore University is not only a hub of academic excellence but also a center for professional development and leadership training. The university’s strong industry partnerships, emphasis on ethics, and integration of practical experience with academic knowledge make it a preferred choice for students across Kenya and East Africa. From world-class faculty to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant student community, Strathmore ensures a holistic education experience that prepares graduates for the global workforce.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings as a sixth-form college to becoming a fully-fledged university, Strathmore has remained committed to its vision of providing high-quality education for students from diverse backgrounds. With comprehensive programs ranging from undergraduate degrees to doctoral studies, as well as professional certifications, Strathmore University continues to shape leaders, innovators, and professionals poised for success in Kenya and beyond.
