Nursing remains one of Kenya’s most sought-after healthcare professions, with high demand across both public and private sectors. Numerous top-notch institutions provide diploma and specialized nursing programs to equip aspiring nurses with the skills and expertise needed to deliver quality care. Whether for career development or entry into the healthcare field, these nursing schools in Kenya focus on providing practical and affordable education.
Here is a list of some of Kenya’s leading nursing schools known for their comprehensive curricula, specialized training, and hands-on experience.
1. Outspan Medical College
- Overview: Connected to the reputable Outspan Hospital, this college offers practical hospital-based training, emphasizing hands-on experience. The Nursing Council of Kenya has accredited it to train registered and community nurses at the diploma level.
- Contact: +254 702 303 777
- Email: info@omc.ac.ke
2. Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC)
- Overview: With 71 campuses nationwide, KMTC is the largest contributor to Kenya’s health workforce, providing nursing programs at both certificate and diploma levels. KMTC graduates are widely recognized for their comprehensive training and readiness to join the workforce.
- Email: info@kmtc.ac.ke
3. Cicely McDonell College of Health Science
- Overview: Established in 1956 and affiliated with Nairobi Hospital, this college offers various nursing programs, including oncology, critical care, and neonatal care nursing, providing students with the skills to address specialized healthcare needs.
- Specializations: Oncology Nursing, Neonatal Critical Care, and Emergency Nursing
4. Kijabe School of Nursing
- Overview: Founded in 1980, Kijabe School of Nursing offers a Christian-based approach to nursing education. The school focuses on diploma and higher diploma training, preparing students for careers in community and critical healthcare.
- Email: cad@kijabehospital.org
5. Catherine McAuley Nursing School
- Overview: Located within Mater Hospital, this institution is committed to training compassionate and professional nurses. Catherine McAuley Nursing School offers programs emphasizing ethical and spiritual values in nursing practice.
- Contact: +254 719 0703 000, +254 732 163 000
6. Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences
- Overview: Affiliated with Thika Nursing Home, this private technical training institution aims to produce competent nursing professionals. The school holds intakes in October and April for students interested in pursuing a career in nursing.
- Contact: +254 723 991 866
- Email: admissions@tsmhs.ac.ke
7. Nazareth Medical College
- Overview: Founded in 2005, Nazareth Medical College offers a 3-year diploma program in Kenya Registered Community Health Nursing. The school’s mission is to promote excellence in nursing through a curriculum that combines theory with practical experience.
8. PCEA Tumu Tumu Nursing School
- Overview: As part of Tumu Tumu Hospital and operated by the Presbyterian Church, this nursing school provides diploma programs in various nursing specialties. Accredited by the Nursing Council of Kenya, the school has a strong foundation in community health nursing.
- Contact: +254 727 327 044
- Email: tumutumunursing@gmail.com
9. Consolata Nursing School
- Overview: Established in 1946 by missionaries, Consolata Nursing School offers a 3-year diploma program. Known for its values-driven approach, this Catholic institution provides an ethical grounding along with practical training.
- Intake: October and April
10. Kenyatta National Hospital Nursing School
- Overview: This school, established in 1996, offers advanced training in specialized nursing fields, including critical care, nephrology, and neonatal nursing. The Nursing Council of Kenya accredits the programs, making them ideal for healthcare workers seeking professional advancement.
- Specialties: Critical Care, Neonatal Nursing, Oncology, Peri-Operative Nursing
11. The Karen Hospital Medical Training College
- Overview: Accredited by the Nursing Council of Kenya, this college offers a diploma in Kenya Registered Nursing (KRN). Located within The Karen Hospital, students benefit from hands-on experience in a well-established healthcare setting.
- Contact: 0727 254 222
- Email: admin.nursingschool@karenhospital.org
Why Choose a Nursing Career in Kenya?
The demand for skilled nurses in Kenya continues to grow with the expansion of healthcare services across urban and rural areas. Nursing is a stable, marketable career path with numerous opportunities for specialization, making it attractive for those seeking a meaningful and impactful profession. Additionally, many of the listed institutions offer pathways for further specialization, such as oncology, emergency care, and neonatal nursing, meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the country.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional looking to advance your skills, these nursing schools provide quality training with a blend of theory and clinical practice, preparing graduates to excel in Kenya’s healthcare sector and beyond.
