The Open University of Kenya (OUK) has introduced a variety of new programs, including free courses, for students enrolling in the 2025 intake.
In a notice issued on February 25, the institution announced the launch of eight bachelor’s degree programs, eight professional development courses, six master’s degree programs, three postgraduate diplomas, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program.
Free Courses and Professional Development Programs
Among the free courses available are Business Modelling for Entrepreneurs, which runs for three weeks, and Mental Health Awareness, which is designed to be completed in two weeks.
Additionally, OUK has rolled out six professional development courses: Accountability Fundamentals, Corporate Governance, E-learning Essentials for Online Engagement, Emotional Intelligence, Gender and Diversity, and Online Assessment. Each of these programs runs for six weeks and requires a tuition fee of Ksh10,000.
New Programs in the School of Science & Technology
The university has expanded its science and technology offerings, adding three bachelor’s degree programs:
- Bachelor of Data Science
- Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computing
Students enrolling in these programs will pay an annual fee of Ksh105,000.
At the postgraduate level, the university has introduced master’s degree programs in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics, and Digital Services Management. These master’s programs span two years and cost Ksh187,500.
New Programs in the School of Business & Economics
Prospective students can now apply for bachelor’s degrees in Business and Entrepreneurship, Economics and Statistics, and Economics and Data Science.
The university has also introduced a Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership and Accountability, a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), and a PhD in Business Management.
The tuition fees for undergraduate and master’s programs in this department match those in the School of Science & Technology. The postgraduate diploma costs Ksh110,000 for one year, while the PhD program is priced at Ksh337,500.
New Programs in the School of Education
The university has added a Bachelor of Technology Education program, with an annual fee of Ksh115,000.
Additionally, students can now pursue a Master’s in Learning Design and Technology, which costs Ksh187,500 over two years.
OUK is also offering a Postgraduate Diploma in Learning and Technology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, both of which last one year and cost Ksh110,000.
Another newly introduced program is a Bachelor’s Degree in Agri-Technology and Food Systems, which costs Ksh115,000 per year.
Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Programs
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- A minimum mean grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or an equivalent qualification.
- A recognized diploma or professional certificate from an accredited institution.
- A Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE) with at least one principal pass and a subsidiary pass.
- A foundational certificate or bridging course from a recognized institution.
Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s, and PhD Programs
- Candidates applying for a postgraduate diploma must hold a bachelor’s degree from a Senate-recognized institution.
- Master’s applicants need:
- A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or
- A bachelor’s degree with a Pass plus a relevant postgraduate diploma.
- PhD candidates must have a master’s degree in a related field from a Senate-recognized institution.
Application Process for OUK Programs
The Open University of Kenya has made applications available throughout the year via its KUCCPS portal (ouk.kuccps.net).
For students who completed their KCSE in 2024, OUK programs will be listed once the general KUCCPS portal (students.kuccps.net) opens for applications.
Applicants for professional development courses, undergraduate programs, and postgraduate studies should submit their applications through admissions.ouk.ac.ke.
Fee Discounts
- International students outside East Africa will incur a 10% surcharge on tuition fees.
- Members of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), their staff, and legal dependents qualify for a 16% discount on tuition fees.
This initiative aims to provide flexible and affordable education options, reinforcing OUK’s commitment to accessible learning for all.
