St. Paul’s University (SPU), a chartered Christian university in Limuru, Kenya, offers flexible distance learning programs through its Open, Distance, and e-Learning (ODeL) mode. The Master of Development Studies (MDS) is a postgraduate program designed for professionals in development, NGOs, policy, community work, and related fields, focusing on sustainable development, research, and practical skills.
The fees below are for the Academic Year (as per SPU/FIN/SOP/03/MDSA4AC reference) for distance learning MDS. The program typically spans two years (four semesters), with 5 units per semester in the standard structure. Students not completing in two years pay KSh 10,000 per semester for registration renewal. Per-unit tuition is available for those taking fewer units (KSh 13,200 per unit).
Key Notes:
- Fees are per semester unless stated as one-off.
- All payments via banker’s cheque or direct deposit (no cash).
- Bank details:
- Family Bank of Kenya, Limuru Branch: 047000017919
- Equity Bank, Limuru Branch: 0690261549404
- National Bank of Kenya, St. Paul’s University Branch: 01021091200100 (Swift: NBKEKENX)
- Paybill: 632333, Account: Student Number
- Verify latest details on the official website (www.spu.ac.ke) under Downloads > Masters’ Programmes’ Fee Structures, as fees may be subject to change.
Per Semester Fees (Standard: 5 Units)
| Fee Item | Amount (KES) | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (5 units @ 13,200 per unit) | 66,000.00 | Per Semester | Core academic fee |
| Examination | 5,000.00 | Per Semester | Covers exams |
| Technology Fee | 5,000.00 | Per Semester | E-learning platform and resources |
| Administration Fee | 4,500.00 | Per Semester | General admin |
| SPUSA (Student Association) | 300.00 | Per Semester | Student union |
| Total Per Semester | 80,800.00 | Per Semester | Standard full load |
Estimated Annual Cost (2 Semesters): KSh 161,600 (excluding one-off fees).
One-Off Fees
| Fee Item | Amount (KES) | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dissertation Fee | 99,000.00 | Once (Final Year) | Research/project component |
| Application Fee | 3,000.00 | Once on Admission | Non-refundable |
| Registration | 3,500.00 | Once on Admission | Initial enrolment |
| Caution Money | 1,500.00 | Once on Admission | Refundable deposit (conditions apply) |
| Student I.D | 500.00 | Once on Admission | ID card issuance |
| Graduation Fee | 11,500.00 | Once (Final Year) | Convocation and certificate |
Total Estimated Program Cost (2 Years, Standard):
- Tuition + recurring fees: ~KSh 323,200 (4 semesters)
- One-off fees: ~KSh 118,500
- Grand Total (approx.): KSh 441,700 (excluding renewal if extended)
Additional Information
- Flexible unit load: Contact admissions for per-unit pricing if taking fewer than 5 units/semester.
- Mode: Distance learning (ODeL) – ideal for working professionals.
- For application forms, full fee PDFs, and program details, download from:
https://www.spu.ac.ke/downloads (Masters’ Programmes section) or ODeL portal.
Contact St. Paul’s University for personalized advice, scholarships, or intake details:
- Tel: +254 (0)20 202 0505 / Mobile: +254 (0)728 669 000 or +254 (0)736 424 440
- Email: pro@spu.ac.ke
- Website: www.spu.ac.ke
- P.O. Private Bag – 00217, Limuru, Kenya
This guide provides a clear overview of the Master of Development Studies distance learning fees at St. Paul’s University, perfect for Kenyan professionals advancing in development careers. Apply early for the next intake and invest in your future today!
