Garissa University, one of Kenya’s 35 accredited public universities, is known for its commitment to quality education and accessibility for students in the northeastern region. Located on University Way, off Kismayu Road in Garissa Town, the university has positioned itself as a center of academic excellence, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Garissa University’s fee structure for the academic year, key details about the courses offered, and additional information about the university’s strategic position in Kenya’s higher education landscape. We’ll also provide insights into why Garissa University remains a popular choice for students seeking affordable, accredited, and quality education.
Overview of Garissa University
Garissa University was established to meet the increasing demand for higher education in the northeastern region of Kenya. Since its establishment, the university has grown rapidly in terms of infrastructure, programs, and student enrollment. The institution is dedicated to enhancing academic standards and building a strong academic community.
Being strategically located in Garissa Town, the university serves as an education hub for northeastern Kenya, offering affordable tuition fees and an accessible campus for students from Garissa and surrounding counties.
Garissa University Fee Structure
Garissa University’s fee structure is designed to be affordable and accessible, particularly for students from the northeastern region. The fees vary depending on the course and level of study. Below is a breakdown of the fee structure for the academic year for various undergraduate programs:
Bachelor’s Programs and Fees
- Bachelor of Science (Actuarial Science)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Science
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Education (Arts)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Education (Science)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Business Management
- 1st Semester: Ksh 54,825
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 54,825
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 109,650
- Bachelor of Science (Applied Statistics With Computing)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 59,925
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 59,925
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 119,850
- Bachelor of Arts Community Development
- 1st Semester: Ksh 54,825
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 54,825
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 109,650
- Bachelor of Science (Human Resource Management)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 54,825
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 54,825
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 109,650
- Bachelor of Arts (Political Science and Public Administration)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 54,825
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 54,825
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 109,650
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics
- 1st Semester: Ksh 54,825
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 54,825
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 109,650
- Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary Education)
- 1st Semester: Ksh 54,825
- 2nd Semester: Ksh 54,825
- Total Fees Per Year: Ksh 109,650
Payment of Fees
Garissa University’s administration encourages students to pay their fees at the beginning of each semester. While the university provides flexible fee payment options to accommodate students from varying financial backgrounds, it is advisable to consult the university’s finance office for specific payment plans and policies.
Students and parents should note that the fees listed above are subject to change. Therefore, it’s crucial to confirm the fees and any other additional charges with the university through the official communication channels provided.
Why Choose Garissa University?
Garissa University is not just about affordable tuition fees; the institution offers a lot more to students seeking quality education. Here’s why Garissa University could be the right choice for your higher education journey:
1. Strategic Location in Northeastern Kenya
Garissa University is strategically located in the heart of Garissa Town, providing access to higher education for students from the northeastern region, a region that has historically been underserved in terms of higher education opportunities. The university aims to bridge this gap by offering accredited programs and facilities.
2. Affordable and Accredited Programs
One of the most appealing aspects of Garissa University is its affordability. The university’s fee structure is among the most competitive among public universities in Kenya. Additionally, all programs are accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE), ensuring that the courses meet the required national standards.
3. Experienced Faculty and Diverse Course Offerings
Garissa University boasts a qualified and experienced faculty team dedicated to delivering quality education. The university offers a wide range of programs, catering to diverse academic and professional interests. From science and business courses to education and social sciences, the university covers a broad spectrum of disciplines.
4. Emphasis on Community Development
As a public university in northeastern Kenya, Garissa University plays a key role in the socio-economic development of the region. It aims to empower communities through education, research, and community outreach initiatives. The university’s focus on community-oriented programs, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Community Development, underscores this commitment.
Admission Requirements for Garissa University
The admission requirements for Garissa University vary depending on the level of study and specific courses. However, the general guidelines are as follows:
Undergraduate Programs
- Minimum Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a minimum mean grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or its equivalent.
- Subject-Specific Requirements: Some programs may have additional subject-specific requirements. For example, science-related programs like Computer Science may require good grades in mathematics and science subjects.
Postgraduate Programs
- Master’s Programs: Applicants must have a relevant bachelor’s degree with at least a Second Class Honors (Upper Division) or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Candidates with Second Class Honors (Lower Division) and relevant work experience may also be considered.
- Doctoral Programs: For doctoral programs, applicants must have a relevant master’s degree and must present a detailed research proposal for evaluation.
Application Process for Garissa University
Students interested in applying to Garissa University can follow these steps:
- Obtain the Application Form: Prospective students can download the application form from the university’s website or obtain it from the admissions office.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the application form accurately, ensuring that all required fields are completed.
- Submit the Form: Submit the application form along with the necessary academic documents, identification documents, and payment of the application fee.
- Wait for Confirmation: After submitting the application, the admissions office will review it and communicate the outcome via email or phone.
For more information on the application process, prospective students can contact the university using the details provided below.
Contact Information for Garissa University
To obtain more information on fee policies, admissions, or other inquiries, you can reach Garissa University using the following contact details:
- Phone: 0721966418
- Email: info@gau.ac.ke
Comparison with Other Universities
Garissa University is among the growing number of universities serving Kenya’s underserved regions. It compares favorably with other public universities such as Maasai Mara University and Turkana University College, which also serve as educational hubs in their respective regions. While Garissa University may not yet have the extensive facilities and programs offered by larger institutions like the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, or Moi University, it remains a viable choice for students in northeastern Kenya.
The university’s competitive fees and accredited programs provide students with the opportunity to pursue quality education without the financial burden that may be associated with other institutions. Moreover, Garissa University’s role in regional development positions it as an essential part of the higher education landscape in Kenya.
