Distance learning has become an increasingly popular mode of study in Kenya, allowing students to pursue higher education without attending regular on-campus classes.


Many universities now offer online and open learning programmes that provide flexibility for working professionals, parents and learners living far from campuses.


Below are some of the leading universities in Kenya offering distance learning programmes.

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Distance learning provides a convenient pathway to earn recognised qualifications while balancing work, family responsibilities, and other personal commitments without compromising education quality.

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

JKUAT offers several undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through distance learning, including:

  • Bachelor of Business Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
  • Certificate and Diploma in Information Technology
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Science in ICT
  • Master of Science in Statistics

2. Egerton University

Egerton University offers flexible distance learning programmes such as:

  • Bachelor of Science in Community Development
  • Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies
  • Master of Science in Community Development and Extension
  • Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice

3. University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi provides one of Kenya's largest selections of distance learning programmes covering:

  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Education
  • Bachelor of Science programmes
  • Master of Arts
  • Master of Science
  • Master of Education
  • Postgraduate Diploma programmes

4. St. Paul's University

The university offers flexible distance learning programmes including:

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

5. Kenya Methodist University (KeMU)

KeMU offers several undergraduate and postgraduate programmes through its distance learning platform supported by online learning resources and virtual study materials.

6. Africa Nazarene University

Africa Nazarene University delivers online and distance learning programmes through its Institute of Open and Distance Learning, enabling students to study while working.

7. Kenyatta University

Kenyatta University offers numerous undergraduate and postgraduate distance learning programmes across:

  • Education
  • Business
  • Humanities
  • Economics
  • Agriculture
  • Information Technology
  • Engineering

8. Strathmore University

Strathmore University provides selected online and distance learning programmes, particularly for business and professional education.

9. Daystar University

Daystar University offers various distance and online learning programmes for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

10. Moi University

Moi University offers flexible distance learning options through its Directorate of Open, Distance and e-Learning.

11. KCA University

KCA University offers distance learning programmes including:

  • Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT)
  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
  • Certificate and Diploma in Business Management

Benefits of Distance Learning

Some advantages of distance learning include:

  • Flexible study schedules.
  • Lower accommodation and transport costs.
  • Ability to study while working.
  • Access to online learning resources.
  • Self-paced learning in many programmes.