Garissa University, situated on 85 acres along the Tana River, 365 kilometers from Nairobi, is a public institution established through Legal Notice No. 116 of 2011 under the Moi University Act. It became a fully-fledged university on October 23, 2017, with a charter awarded by President Uhuru Kenyatta. Initially operating from the facilities of the former Garissa Teachers Training College, GU has grown into a hub of technological processes and development, offering 49 academic programs, 29 of which are currently available, with 20 in the approval stages.
GU’s vision is to be a world-class university of technological processes and development, while its mission focuses on nurturing talent through research, innovation, consultancy, and community outreach. The university operates under the Commission for University Education (CUE) and is accredited to offer programs across three schools—Education, Arts & Social Sciences; Business & Economics; and Pure & Applied Sciences—and the Institute for Peace & Security Studies. This article focuses on the undergraduate programs listed for the 2025/2026 cycle, as provided by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).
Why Choose Garissa University?
Garissa University stands out as a premier institution in Kenya’s North Eastern Region, offering unique benefits:
- Innovative Curriculum: Programs are designed to meet global and local industry demands, emphasizing technology, education, and business.
- Cultural Diversity: GU’s vibrant community fosters inclusivity, preparing students for global workplaces.
- Strategic Location: Located in Garissa town, the university provides opportunities for community engagement and practical learning.
- Flexible Study Modes: Offers full-time, school-based, and part-time programs to accommodate diverse student needs.
- Affordable Education: As a public university, GU offers competitive fees, with funding options through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) and scholarships.
Full List of Undergraduate Courses Offered at Garissa University for 2025/2026
Below is the complete list of undergraduate programs offered at Garissa University for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, as provided by KUCCPS. These programs are all bachelor’s degrees, requiring a minimum KCSE mean grade of C+ or equivalent.
- Bachelor of Science (Actuarial Science) (Programme Code: 1096107)
- Focus: Equips students with skills in risk assessment, financial modeling, and insurance analytics.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 18.831
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 19.914
- Career Paths: Actuary, financial analyst, risk manager.
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Programme Code: 1096115)
- Focus: Covers programming, software development, and cybersecurity.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 18.814
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 18.638
- Career Paths: Software engineer, IT consultant, data scientist.
- Bachelor of Science (Programme Code: 1096120)
- Focus: A general science degree with emphasis on physics, chemistry, and biology.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 15.683
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 16.974
- Career Paths: Research scientist, laboratory technician, quality control analyst.
- Bachelor of Education (Science) (Programme Code: 1096137)
- Focus: Prepares students to teach science subjects (e.g., physics, chemistry, biology) in secondary schools.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 23.419
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 22.358
- Career Paths: Science teacher, curriculum developer, education consultant.
- Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences (Programme Code: 1096150)
- Focus: Focuses on information management, library science, and IT applications.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 21.375
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 21.444
- Career Paths: Information manager, librarian, records officer.
- Bachelor of Business Management (Programme Code: 1096151)
- Focus: Covers business administration, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 21.375
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 21.444
- Career Paths: Business manager, entrepreneur, marketing executive.
- Bachelor of Science (Applied Statistics with Computing) (Programme Code: 1096164)
- Focus: Combines statistical analysis with computational techniques for data-driven decision-making.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 18.814
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 18.638
- Career Paths: Statistician, data analyst, research consultant.
- Bachelor of Arts in Community Development (Programme Code: 1096171)
- Focus: Trains students in community engagement, project management, and development strategies.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 22.449
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 22.916
- Career Paths: Community development officer, NGO coordinator, social worker.
- Bachelor of Science (Human Resource Management) (Programme Code: 1096189)
- Focus: Focuses on HR practices, employee relations, and organizational management.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 21.375
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 21.444
- Career Paths: HR manager, recruitment specialist, labor relations officer.
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration (Programme Code: 1096550)
- Focus: Explores governance, policy analysis, and public sector management.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 22.449
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 22.916
- Career Paths: Policy analyst, public administrator, diplomat.
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics (Programme Code: 1096646)
- Focus: Covers economic theory, policy analysis, and quantitative methods.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 18.831
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 19.914
- Career Paths: Economist, financial planner, policy advisor.
- Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary Education) (Programme Code: 1096680)
- Focus: Prepares students to teach young learners in early childhood and primary settings.
- KCSE 2023 Cutoff: 21.858
- KCSE 2022 Cutoff: 22.358
- Career Paths: ECDE teacher, education coordinator, curriculum designer.
Additional Programs at Garissa University
In addition to the undergraduate programs listed above, Garissa University offers a range of postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses across its academic schools and the Institute for Peace & Security Studies. Below is an overview based on available data.
Postgraduate Programs
- Master of Education in Curriculum Studies
- Master of Education in Educational Administration
- Master of Arts in Geography
- Master of Arts in Community Development
- Master of Arts in Kiswahili
- Master of Arts in Literature
- Master of Business Management
- Master in Peace, Security, and Conflict Management
- Master in Refugee and Migration Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management
- Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management
- Doctor of Philosophy in Peace, Security, and Conflict Management
- Doctor of Philosophy in Refugee and Migration Studies
Diploma Programs
- Diploma in Education (Early Childhood and Primary Education): Requires a KCSE mean grade of C- or equivalent.
- Diploma in Community Development
- Diploma in Business Management: Requires a KCSE mean grade of C- with C- in English/Kiswahili and D+ in Mathematics or related subjects.
- Diploma in Procurement & Supplies Management
- Diploma in Information Science
- Diploma in Medical Laboratory
- Diploma in Community Health
- Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics
- Diploma in Medical Records
- Diploma in Electronics
- Diploma in Public Health
- Diploma in Peace, Security, and Conflict Management
Certificate Programs
- Certificate in Business Management: Requires a KCSE mean grade of D+ or equivalent; duration is six months.
- Certificate in Information Science
- Certificate in Peace, Security, and Conflict Management
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Programs
- Minimum Entry: KCSE mean grade of C+ (plus) or equivalent, with specific subject requirements:
- Education Programs: C+ in two teaching subjects.
- Economics: B plain in Mathematics and B plain in Economics, Accounts, or Commerce.
- Business Management/Human Resource Management: C- in English/Kiswahili, D+ in Mathematics or related subjects.
- Actuarial Science/Applied Statistics: Strong performance in Mathematics (typically C+ or higher).
- Alternative Qualifications: Diploma holders from recognized institutions or CPA/CPS for business-related courses may qualify.
Postgraduate Programs
- Master’s Degrees: Second-class honors (upper division) or second-class honors (lower division) with at least two years of relevant experience.
- Doctoral Programs: Relevant master’s degree from a recognized institution.
Diploma and Certificate Programs
- Diploma: KCSE mean grade of C- or equivalent.
- Certificate: KCSE mean grade of D+ or equivalent.
Application Process
Students can apply to Garissa University through two primary channels:
- KUCCPS Application:
- Visit the KUCCPS Student Portal at students.kuccps.net.
- Check program availability, cut-off points, and application deadlines.
- Submit applications during the KUCCPS intake window (typically February–March for the September intake).
- KUCCPS handles placements for government-sponsored students.
- Direct Application:
- Obtain application forms from the Garissa University website (www.gau.ac.ke) or the admissions office.
- Submit completed forms to the Registrar’s Office at P.O. Box 1801 – 70100, Garissa, or via email (admissions@gau.ac.ke).
- Contact the admissions office at +254721966418 or +254713680988 for assistance.
Funding Options
- HELB Loans and Scholarships: Available for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Apply via the HELB portal (www.helf.co.ke).
- Government Scholarships: KUCCPS-sponsored students may access government funding.
- County Bursaries: Students from Garissa County and other regions can apply for local bursaries.
- NGO and Private Scholarships: Limited opportunities are available through partner organizations.
Why Garissa University Stands Out
Garissa University’s unique position in the North Eastern Region and its commitment to innovation make it a top choice for students. Key highlights include:
- Regional Impact: As the first university in the region, GU addresses local educational and developmental needs.
- Research and Innovation: The university emphasizes research in fields like peace studies, dryland environment, and technology.
- Community Engagement: Programs like Community Development and Peace Studies align with regional challenges, fostering sustainable solutions.
- Resilience: Despite a tragic attack in 2015, GU has strengthened its security measures and continues to thrive as a safe learning environment.
Career Opportunities for Garissa University Graduates
GU’s programs are designed to produce graduates who are competitive in various industries. Below are potential career paths for each program category:
- Education: Teachers, curriculum developers, education consultants.
- Business and Economics: Business managers, HR specialists, economists, procurement officers.
- Sciences and Technology: Data analysts, software engineers, actuaries, information managers.
- Arts and Social Sciences: Community development officers, policy analysts, public administrators.
- Peace and Security Studies: Conflict resolution specialists, NGO coordinators, migration experts.
Challenges and Resilience: The Garissa University Story
In April 2015, Garissa University faced a tragic terrorist attack by Al-Shabaab, resulting in the loss of 148 lives. Despite this setback, the university reopened with enhanced security measures and has since grown stronger, absorbing surviving students into its programs and expanding its offerings. The institution’s resilience underscores its commitment to education and community development in a challenging region.
How to Contact Garissa University
For inquiries or applications, reach out to GU through:
- Physical Address: Garissa University Main Campus, P.O. Box 1801 – 70100, University Way, off Kismayu Road, Garissa, Kenya.
- Phone: +254721966418 (Admissions), +254713680988 (Registrar).
- Email: admissions@gau.ac.ke, registrar_asa@gau.ac.ke.
- Website: www.gau.ac.ke.
Garissa University is a dynamic institution offering a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programs for the 2025/2026 academic cycle. With a focus on innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence, GU prepares students for rewarding careers in education, business, sciences, and social sciences. Its strategic location, flexible study modes, and affordable fees make it an attractive choice for students across Kenya and beyond. Whether you’re applying through KUCCPS or directly, Garissa University provides a pathway to success in a supportive and culturally rich environment. Start your journey today by exploring GU’s programs and applying for the 2025/2026 intake.
