14 Great Nursing Colleges in Kenya

Kenya’s burgeoning healthcare industry requires skilled professionals to rise to the occasion. With the country’s growing focus on medical education, the number of nursing schools has notably increased. 

This article reviews the top 20 nursing colleges in Kenya. We aim to provide aspiring nurses with the necessary insights to choose the right institution for their career journey in nursing. 

Looking for the best nursing school to fulfill your nursing dream? Read on to know the best nursing schools around you

1. Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC)

The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) is a State Corporation established in 1972 to offer various medical courses at different levels. They aim to produce highly skilled healthcare professionals who can effectively respond to the country’s healthcare needs. The institution is located in almost every county in Kenya and is well-equipped to offer quality training to individuals. KMTC also participates in conducting research and developing health solutions all to improve the health and well-being of individuals. KMTC has been the pride of Kenya as the leading institution in medical training in Africa, and that has produced thousands of skilled healthcare professionals.

Courses Offered: They include

• Certificate in Nursing (pre-service)
• Diploma in Pre-service Clinical Medicine
• Diploma in Community Health Nursing
• Diploma in Community Health Nursing (Basic)

Program structure: The programs vary with the course being taken and the college location. Consult the institution for more information on the school schedule.

Fees: The Government sponsored students pay Ksh. 15,000.00 per semester as tuition fee. This tuition fee plus other items, including examination fees, transport, maintenance, and others, sum up to Ksh, 39,000.00. For more information visit check out KMTC fee structure 

Location: The main campus is located at  Mugumoini, Nairobi. There are many branches of KMTC in different counties of Kenya.

Application: Visit KMTC Portal

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0770999657/0737-352543/0706-541869
• Email: [email protected]

2. Kijabe Nursing School

Kijabe Nursing School is a premier nursing institution founded in 1969 to provide quality nursing education to students from Kenya and beyond.  The school offers a range of nursing programs to provide students with practical education. The school prepares its students to become skilled and empathetic nurses who can deliver high-quality care to their patients by providing high-quality nursing education and training. Over the years, patients have come to trust AIC Kijabe Hospital to deliver authentic, Christ-centered, compassionate health care through its highly skilled and Christian medical staff who graduated from Kijabe nursing school.

Courses Offered: They include

• Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing.
• Diploma in Clinical Medicine & Surgery.
• Kenya Registered Perioperative Nursing.
• Kenya Registered Nurse Anaesthetist.
• Kenya Registered Critical Care Nursing.

Program structure: The programs vary with the course, there are two intakes every year; one in January and September, Consult the institution for more information on the school schedule.

Fees: The fees vary with the course, contact the institution for more information.

Location: Located at Kijabe Mission Hospital along Kijabe Road in Lari, Kiambu County.

Application: Visit the college of health science page to make an appointment.

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0709728200
• Email: [email protected]

3. Thika School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Thika School of Medicine and Health Sciences (TSMHS) is a reputable institution of higher learning founded in 2010 to offer quality nursing education and training. The school’s mission is to create a supportive and conducive learning environment that promotes the development of highly skilled healthcare professionals who are capable of delivering excellent healthcare services. Thika School of Medicine and Health Sciences is equipped with highly qualified and experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their careers.

Courses Offered: They include

• Diploma In Nursing
• Diploma In Clinical Medicine & Surgery
• Diploma In Health Records & IT
• Certificate In Nutrition & Dietetics

Program structure: There are three intakes every year that take place every January, May, and September. Consult the institution to access their timetable.

Fees: Fees vary per program, contact the institution for more information.

Location: Located at Thika along Charles Rubia Rd

Application: Contact the school using any of the contacts for more information

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0734005291, 0723991866 
•  Email address: [email protected]

4. Nairobi Hospital School Of Nursing

The Nairobi Hospital School of Nursing is a renowned nursing institution that has been at the forefront of providing high-quality nursing education and training in Kenya since 1954. This institution is well-known for its excellent approach to nursing education since they have qualified professionals and the necessary learning equipment. The school’s curriculum is designed to meet the dynamic needs of the healthcare industry, and it provides students with opportunities to engage in research and innovation in nursing. With the experience of about 70 years, this institution is certain to offer the best nursing education.

Courses Offered: They include

• Critical Care Nursing.
• Peri-Operative Nursing.
• Nephrology Nursing.
• Accident and Emergency Nursing.
• Neonatal Nursing.
• Oncology Nursing.

Program structure: The schedule varies with the course, inquire about the institution about its timetable and schedule

Fees: Fees vary per program, but the average fee of Ksh. 285,000 annually. Contact the institution for more information.

Location:  Located in The Nairobi Hospital in Nairobi.

Application: Fill in the college application form and submit

Contacts: 

• Phone:+254703082000
• Email: [email protected]

5. Outspan Medical College

Outspan Medical College (OMC) is an extension of the Outspan Hospital, which offers its students hospital-based training at the Outspan Hospital which is part of the institution. This institution was founded in 2007 to provide high-quality and affordable medical education to students. OMC’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education has earned it numerous accolades and partnerships with reputable institutions both locally and internationally.OMC aims to impart professional skills to the students to enable them to improve the health sector in Kenya with their skills. With suitable equipment and experienced professional trainers, Outspan Medical College is one of the best institutions to acquire a nursing education.

Courses Offered: They include

• Nursing.

Program structure: OMC offers a 3-year Diploma course in Kenya Registered Nursing inquire the institution for more information on its schedule.

Fees: Fees vary per program, the estimated tuition fee is Ksh. 285, 000 annually, contact the institution for more information.

Location: Rware Off Baden Powel Road, Nyeri

Application: Visit Apply Online to apply 

Contacts: 

• Phone: +254 711 277009 
• Email:  [email protected] 

6. Catherine McAuley Nursing School

Catherine McAuley Nursing School is part of the Mater Misericordiae Hospital, a leading healthcare facility that has been serving the community for a long period. The Catherine McAuley Nursing School offers high-quality nursing education and training programs that prepare students for successful careers in the healthcare industry. The institution offers various nursing programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry and equip students with the competencies required to deliver safe and effective healthcare services. The institution is well-equipped and has professional trainers to provide students with the quality training and skills required to make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare industry.

Courses Offered: They include

• Diploma – Kenya Registered Nurse
• Higher Diploma in Critical Care Nursing

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: Diploma – Kenya Registered Nurse – KSh 540000 Per year and for Higher Diploma in Critical Care Nursing – KSh 71,475 per trimester. For more information, consult the institution.

Location:  located at the Mater Hospital along Mukenia Road in Nairobi. 

Application: Contact the institution for more information on the application

Contacts: 

• Phone:  0719073164, 0732163164
• Email: [email protected] 

7. Ram Training College

Ram Training College is a renowned institution established in 2010, to offer a wide range of courses to cater to the diverse needs of its students by providing quality education and training that is relevant to the current health sector in Kenya.  Ram Training College has been one of the leading choices for students desiring to acquire nursing knowledge and skills because of the available modern facilities and experienced professionals in the institution.  Ram Training College offers you various nursing learning programs with a flexible program to suit your own program.

Courses Offered: They include

• General Nursing.
• Community Health Nursing.

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: Students pay Ksh 116,500 for the first year of study and 115,000 for each of the subsequent 2 years. Visit the institution’s fee structure page for more clarity.

Location: located in Langata Nairobi

Application: Fill in the enrollment form to apply 

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0721332105 
• Email: admin@ramtrainingcollege.

8. Nazareth Medical College

Nazareth Medical College was established in 1954 and has been a pioneer in the field of medical education for over 60 years, and has produced some of the most skilled and dedicated medical professionals in the country. Nazareth Medical College was originally founded to provide nursing education therefore, nursing is the field in which the institution is very specialized in. Nazareth Medical College has a reputation for academic excellence, and its courses are accredited by the relevant regulatory bodies in Kenya. The faculty at Nazareth Medical College comprises experienced and highly qualified professionals who are committed to providing quality education and mentorship to their students, therefore is the best institution to acquire a nursing education.

Courses Offered: They include

• Kenya Registered Community Health Nurse (KRCHN) Diploma in Nursing

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: The full course fee is Kshs. 548,900/= but it is usually paid per semester. 

Location: Located in Kiambu county, 25 km from CBD.

Application: Use the contacts below to inquire about the application process.

Contacts: 

• Phone: 0721450928 
• Email: [email protected]

9. AMREF Nursing School

AMREF International University (AMIU) Nursing School is a prestigious institution that is part of the larger AMREF Health Africa network, which is one of the largest and most respected healthcare organizations on the African continent. This institution is committed to providing quality education and training to students who aspire to become nurses and healthcare professionals. AMREF International University was established in 2010 to bridge the healthcare gap in Africa by producing competent and compassionate nurses. This institution has partnerships with various healthcare organizations and communities in Africa, which provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience and exposure to real-world healthcare scenarios. AMIU might be the best institution to get into the nursing profession.

Courses Offered: They include

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
• Diploma in Nursing
• Higher Diploma in Critical Care Nursing ( CCN )

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: Download the AMREF Fee structure for clarity

Location: AMREF Virtual Nursing Training School Campus is located at the Amref Health Africa International Training Centre Headquarters; along Lang’ata road 

Application: Visit the Application Portal to apply.

Contacts: 

• Phone:  +254 741 743 871
•  Email: [email protected]

10. Ortum School Of Nursing

Ortum Nursing School stands as a beacon of hope and excellence in the field of nursing education by diligently serving the community and beyond for several years and imparting comprehensive knowledge, fostering practical skills, and instilling a strong sense of compassion and dedication. In addition to the core nursing program, Ortum Nursing School offers specialized courses and continuing professional development programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of practicing nurses, therefore might be one of the best nursing institutions to fulfill your nursing dream.

Courses Offered: They include

• Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing: General Nursing, Midwifery, and Community Health

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: The total cost of the 3-year course is Ksh 420,000. To know the specifics, download the fee structure from the course breakdown page.

Location: Located in the Cherangani range of hills in West Pokot County, about 100km from Kitale town along Kitale

Application: Visit the course page and download the application form.

Contacts: 

• Phone: 072879345
• Email:[email protected]

11. AIC Litein School of Nursing

The AIC Litein School of Nursing, an integral part of AIC Litein Hospital, is a distinguished institution in Kenya dedicated to nurturing competent Christian healthcare professionals. Established in 2011, the school is on a mission to glorify God through quality healthcare education. Its broad spectrum of programs includes diplomas in Nursing and Medical Laboratory Sciences, plus an upcoming diploma in Clinical Medicine and Surgery. Today, the college proudly supports 320 students in their healthcare journeys. Recognized for its high-quality curriculum and experienced faculty, the school serves as a training hub for medical students from universities both within and outside Kenya. With a steadfast commitment to compassionate healthcare, AIC Litein School of Nursing exemplifies the role of faith in service to humanity.

Courses Offered: They include

• Diploma in Nursing 

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Visit the course details page for more information.

Fees: Inquire with the institution to get clarification

Location: Located in Uzima Business Centre, Kericho

Application: Use the contacts below to get information on the application process.

Contacts: 

•  Phone: +254 721 730301  or 0726 126 367
•  Email [email protected], [email protected]

12. Consolata Fidenza School of Nursing

The Fidenza School of Nursing, founded in 1965 by the Consolata Missionaries from the Diocese of Fidenza, is a renowned institution fostering nursing excellence in Kenya. Under the management of the Catholic Diocese of Embu and located within Consolata Hospital Kyeni, the school has evolved significantly over the years. Having transitioned from offering Certificates in Nursing to Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing (KRCHN) degrees in 2006, the school has produced over 1,000 certificate holders and 270 KRCHN graduates. Admitting both male and female students with rigorous entry requirements, Fidenza School of Nursing, ranked third nationally in the 2017 Nursing Council of Kenya licensing exam, continuously strives for high standards in nursing education.

Courses Offered: They include

• Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing (KRCHN)

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: The fees vary with each course

Location: is located in Nyeri County along Nyeri-Ihururu road about 7 kilometers from Nyeri town.

Application: Visit the Fidenza course registration page to apply

Contacts: 

• Phone:  +254 722 465997 
• Email: [email protected], [email protected]

13. Defence College of Health Sciences

The Defence College of Health Sciences, a constituent of the National Defence University-Kenya, has a rich history of fostering healthcare knowledge for national security. Founded in 1991 as Armed Forces Medical Training School, it began by providing basic medical training to troops. Evolving over the years, by 2022 it had transformed into the Defence College of Health Sciences, offering degree courses to enhance health security. The college strives to develop professionals armed with robust scientific knowledge, diverse skills, and a positive attitude to operate in challenging security environments. With programs ranging from nursing to clinical medicine, the college focuses on equipping its graduates to handle health issues with a holistic global perspective, preparing them to serve military personnel and allied partners.

Courses Offered: They include

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing with military Health.
• Higher Diploma in Critical Care Nursing.
• Diploma in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing.
• Higher National Diploma in Ultrasonography
• Higher Diploma in Clinical Medicine (Anesthesia)

Program structure: The program varies with the course.

Fees: Contact the institution for clear information about the fees

Location: Lanet, Nakuru

Application: Contact the institution for more information 

Contacts: 

• Phone: (+254) 051- 851141
• Email: [email protected]

14. Joan School of Nursing

Joan School of Nursing is a prominent institution in Kenya, approved by the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA). Since its establishment in 2014, the school has been cultivating Registered Professional Nurses, evident in its excellent track record. Offering a supportive, creative, and professional environment, students acquire practical skills and build networks crucial for their careers. With a rigorous diploma program in General Nursing, the school ensures its students are well-prepared to meet industry demands. Its bi-annual intakes in March and September, coupled with a comprehensive curriculum and professional guidance, make Joan School of Nursing a promising launchpad for aspiring nurses.

Courses Offered: They include

• Diploma program in General Nursing

Program structure: The program varies with the course. Inquire about the institution for more information.

Fees: Fill out the inquiry form for more information

Location: Located right inside Masaba Hospital in Chulaimbo along Kisumu-Busia Highway.

Application: Visit the online application page 

Contacts: 

• Phone: +254 737 025562 
•  Email Address: [email protected].

Conclusion

Picking the right nursing school is a significant step in launching a successful healthcare career. Each institution on this list of the top 14 Nursing Colleges in Kenya offers unique advantages, whether it’s robust academic programs, outstanding facilities, or strong connections to the healthcare industry. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal goals and preferences. No matter where you decide to study, the commitment to your nursing education will undoubtedly open doors to numerous rewarding opportunities in healthcare.