The Presbyterian University of East Africa (PUEA), located in Kiambu County, is a cornerstone of faith-based higher education in Kenya, blending academic rigor with Christian values. As a chartered private university, PUEA offers a diverse array of courses at Presbyterian University of East Africa that cater to students seeking practical skills and transformative learning experiences. With the 2025/2026 academic cycle approaching, understanding the PUEA courses offered, their cutoff points, and the PUEA application process is essential for prospective students aiming to join this esteemed institution. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about undergraduate programs at PUEA, including a full list of courses, admission requirements, and detailed application steps. Whether you’re drawn to nursing, education, or theology, PUEA provides a pathway to your future.
Why Choose Presbyterian University of East Africa?
Established in 2007 and chartered by the Commission for University Education (CUE) in 2008, PUEA is sponsored by the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA). Located in Thogoto, Kikuyu, Kiambu County—just 20 km from Nairobi—PUEA is guided by its motto, “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). It ranks 47th in Kenya and 11,258th globally (EduRank, 2025), reflecting its growing reputation.
What makes PUEA stand out?
- Faith-Based Education: Integrates Christian principles into all PUEA undergraduate courses.
- Diverse Offerings: Over 10 accredited bachelor’s programs, plus diplomas and certificates.
- Flexible Intakes: Trimester system with January, May, and September entries.
- Strategic Location: Proximity to Nairobi enhances accessibility and industry connections.
- Affordability: Competitive PUEA fee structures compared to other private universities.
For the 2025/2026 cycle, PUEA continues to align its programs with Kenya’s demand for skilled professionals in education, health, and business.
Full List of Undergraduate Courses at Presbyterian University of East Africa for 2025/2026
Below is the complete list of Presbyterian University of East Africa courses available for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, as per the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) data. Each program includes its programme code, name, and historical cutoff points to inform your application.
| # | Programme Code | Programme Name | 2024 Cutoff | 2023 Cutoff | 2022 Cutoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1196115 | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | – | 18.814 | 18.638 |
| 2 | 1196132 | Bachelor of Science in Nursing | – | 35.386 | 27.250 |
| 3 | 1196135 | Bachelor of Education (Arts) | – | 21.858 | 22.358 |
| 4 | 1196137 | Bachelor of Education (Science) | – | 21.858 | 22.358 |
| 5 | 1196153 | Bachelor of Business Administration | – | 21.375 | 21.444 |
| 6 | 1196180 | Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education) | – | 21.858 | 22.358 |
| 7 | 1196196 | Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy | – | 15.864 | 17.043 |
| 8 | 1196221 | Bachelor of Science (Hospitality & Tourism Management) | – | 21.375 | 21.444 |
| 9 | 1196242 | Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication | – | 22.449 | 22.916 |
| 10 | 1196446 | Bachelor of Theology | – | 20.930 | 19.670 |
Note: The 2024 cutoff points are not yet available as of April 2, 2025. Historical cutoffs (2022, 2023) provide a benchmark, but 2025/2026 cutoffs may vary based on applicant performance and KUCCPS trends. Additional programs are offered via direct application—see below.
Beyond KUCCPS: Additional PUEA Undergraduate Programs
While the KUCCPS list covers 10 programs, PUEA’s offerings extend beyond this, with over 15 undergraduate programs at PUEA accredited by CUE. Here are some additional courses available through direct application:
- Health Sciences:
- Bachelor of Science in Clinical Medicine, Surgery, and Community Health
- Business and Technology:
- Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT)
- Communication and Arts:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Journalism
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations
- Security and Social Sciences:
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Fraud Management
- Bachelor of Arts in Safety and Security Management
- Hospitality:
- Bachelor of Hotel and Tourism Management
These programs reflect PUEA’s holistic approach, blending practical training with Christian ethics. Check the PUEA prospectus 2025/2026 at www.puea.ac.ke for the full list.
Understanding Cutoff Points at PUEA
Cutoff points are the minimum KCSE cluster points required for KUCCPS placement. As a private university, PUEA’s cutoffs are typically lower than public institutions, offering flexibility. Here’s the scoop:
- Cluster Points: Based on four subjects relevant to the course, plus English/Kiswahili and Mathematics/Physics.
- 2023 Highlights:
- Nursing: 35.386 (highest due to demand and rigor).
- Occupational Therapy: 15.864 (lowest, reflecting broader access).
- Education Programs: ~21.858 (consistent with teaching demand).
- Direct Entry: PUEA often accepts C+ or equivalent for self-sponsored students, even below KUCCPS cutoffs.
For 2025/2026, expect cutoffs to range from 15–36, with health sciences likely seeing the highest thresholds.
Admission Requirements for PUEA Courses
To join Presbyterian University of East Africa programs, you’ll need to meet these criteria:
General Requirements
- KCSE Minimum: C+ (plus) mean grade or equivalent (e.g., IGCSE with 5 credits).
- Alternative Qualifications: Diploma or certificate holders can apply for credit transfers.
- Faith Alignment: Commitment to Christian values is encouraged, though not mandatory.
Program-Specific Examples
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing:
- C+ overall, with C+ in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Physics.
- Bachelor of Education (Arts):
- C+ overall, with C+ in two teaching subjects (e.g., English, History).
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science:
- C+ overall, with C in Mathematics and Physics.
- Bachelor of Theology:
- C+ overall, with C in English or Kiswahili.
Detailed PUEA admission requirements are available on their website or KUCCPS portal.
How to Apply to Presbyterian University of East Africa for 2025/2026
The PUEA application process offers two pathways: KUCCPS and direct application. Here’s how to navigate both:
Via KUCCPS
- Log In: Access students.kuccps.net with your KCSE index number and year (e.g., 2024).
- Select Programs: Use the programme code (e.g., 1196132 for Nursing).
- Rank Choices: List up to six options, prioritizing PUEA courses.
- Pay Fee: KES 1,500 via M-Pesa, due by May/June 2025.
- Submit: Await placement results, typically mid-2025.
- Get Letter: Download your admission letter from KUCCPS if placed.
Direct Application to PUEA
- Download Form: Available at www.puea.ac.ke under “Admissions.”
- Fill Details: Include personal info, KCSE results, and course preferences.
- Attach Documents:
- Certified KCSE certificate
- National ID or birth certificate
- Two passport photos
- Pay Application Fee: KES 1,000 via Mpesa
- Submit: Email to admissions@puea.ac.ke or deliver to PUEA Main Campus, Thogoto.
- Confirmation: Receive an admission letter within weeks.
Intake Dates: January, May, September 2025—apply early for your preferred trimester.
