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Best Umma University Courses 2025: All You Need to Know

  • BY Norah Waceke
  • July 6, 2025
Umma university

Umma University (UU), Kenya’s first Islamic institution of higher education, is a beacon of academic excellence, blending Islamic moral and ethical values with practical training in business, technology, and health sciences. Established in 1997 as Thika College for Sharia and Islamic Studies and chartered in 2019 by President Uhuru Kenyatta, UU operates two campuses in Kajiado and Thika, with learning centers in Garissa and Mombasa. Known as “the University of the People,” UU offers a diverse range of programs through traditional classroom learning, distance learning, online courses, and modern technology platforms. With a 77% acceptance rate and tuition fees ranging from KShs 30,000 to KShs 70,000 per semester, UU is accessible to diverse students seeking quality education. This comprehensive guide explores the best courses at Umma University, their entry requirements, career prospects, and why they are among Kenya’s most marketable programs in 2025.

Why Choose Umma University?

Umma University stands out for its unique integration of Islamic values with contemporary education, fostering holistic graduates with ethical leadership skills. Its strategic locations in Kajiado (along Kajiado-Namanga Road) and Thika (Makongeni) provide serene learning environments with modern facilities. Here’s why UU is a top choice:

  • Islamic Ethical Framework: Programs combine moral orientation with practical skills, producing ethical professionals.
  • Flexible Learning Modes: Offers full-time, part-time, distance, and online learning to suit diverse student needs.
  • Affordable Fees: Competitive tuition (KShs 30,000–70,000/semester) with financial aid via HELB loans and scholarships.
  • Industry-Relevant Programs: Courses align with Kenya’s job market demands in health, technology, and business.
  • Research and Innovation: Partnerships with organizations like Direct Aid International enhance research opportunities.
  • Vibrant Student Life: Clubs, societies, and sports foster personal growth and community engagement.

Top Undergraduate Courses at Umma University

Umma University offers a range of undergraduate programs accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). Below, we highlight the most marketable courses, organized by their approval year and relevance to Kenya’s 2025 job market

1. Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Sharia

Approval Year: 2012
This program, a cornerstone of UU’s School of Sharia and Islamic Studies, equips students with expertise in Islamic law, preparing them for roles in religious and legal sectors. It’s equivalent to a law degree with a focus on Islamic jurisprudence.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s diverse religious landscape demands experts in Islamic law for judicial, educational, and community roles.
  • Core Units:
    • Islamic Jurisprudence (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Sharia Law Principles (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Islamic Banking and Finance (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Research Project (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ or a Diploma in Islamic Studies/Sharia.
  • Career Prospects: Sharia legal advisor, Islamic scholar, judicial officer.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 50,000 per semester.
  • Unique Feature: UU is the only Kenyan university accredited by CUE for Islamic Sharia courses.

2. Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies

Approval Year: 2012
This program provides in-depth knowledge of Islamic theology, history, and culture, fostering spiritual and intellectual development.

  • Why It’s Marketable: The demand for Islamic scholars in education, religious institutions, and community leadership is growing.
  • Core Units:
    • Islamic Theology (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Quranic Studies (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Intellectual History of the Caliphs (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Field Research (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ or a Diploma in Islamic Studies.
  • Career Prospects: Islamic educator, religious counselor, community leader.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 50,000 per semester.
  • Unique Feature: Emphasizes interaction with holy texts and multicultural society dynamics.

3. Bachelor of Business Management

Approval Year: 2012
This program offers specializations in Accounting, Banking and Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Procurement, and Islamic Banking and Finance, preparing students for Kenya’s dynamic business sector.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s private sector, including banking and entrepreneurship, seeks versatile business professionals.
  • Core Units:
    • Principles of Management (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Financial Management (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Strategic Management (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Internship (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C in Mathematics and English.
  • Career Prospects: Business manager, accountant, financial analyst, entrepreneur.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 63,000 per semester.
  • Specializations: Accounting, Banking & Finance, HR, Marketing, Procurement, Islamic Banking & Finance.

Courses Approved in 2014

4. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Approval Year: 2014
This program equips students with skills in software development, networking, and security, addressing Kenya’s digital economy needs.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Nairobi’s Silicon Savannah and global tech trends drive demand for computer science graduates.
  • Core Units:
    • Programming Fundamentals (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Data Structures and Algorithms (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Network Security (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Software Development Project (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C+ in Mathematics and Physics.
  • Career Prospects: Software developer, network engineer, cybersecurity analyst.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 70,000 per semester.
  • Specializations: Networking & Security, Software Engineering.

Courses Approved in 2017–2018

5. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Upgrading)

Approval Year: 2017
Designed for practicing nurses with a diploma, this program upgrades skills to meet modern healthcare demands.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s healthcare sector faces a shortage of qualified nurses, especially in rural areas.
  • Core Units:
    • Advanced Nursing Practice (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Community Health Nursing (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Nursing Research (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Clinical Placement (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: Diploma in Nursing, registered with the Nursing Council of Kenya, and 2 years’ work experience.
  • Career Prospects: Registered nurse, clinical instructor, health administrator.
  • Duration: 2.5 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 50,000 per semester + KShs 22,000 Nursing Council fees.
  • Unique Feature: Tailored for professional nurses seeking career advancement.

6. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Direct Entry)

Approval Year: 2018
This program trains students from high school to become registered nurses, addressing Kenya’s healthcare needs.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Nurses are in high demand in public and private healthcare facilities.
  • Core Units:
    • Fundamentals of Nursing (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Medical-Surgical Nursing (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Pediatric Nursing (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Clinical Practicum (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C+ in Biology, Chemistry, and English/Kiswahili.
  • Career Prospects: Registered nurse, midwife, public health officer.
  • Duration: 4 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 70,000 per semester + KShs 22,000 Nursing Council fees.
  • Unique Feature: Includes hands-on clinical training in accredited hospitals.

Courses Approved in 2019

7. Bachelor of Education (Arts)

Approval Year: 2019
This program trains teachers for secondary schools, with options like Islamic Religious Education, English, and Business Studies.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) requires skilled arts teachers.
  • Core Units:
    • Educational Psychology (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Teaching Methods (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Curriculum Development (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Teaching Practice (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C+ in two teaching subjects or a Diploma in Education.
  • Career Prospects: Secondary school teacher, curriculum developer, education officer.
  • Duration: 4 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 50,000 per semester.
  • Subject Combinations: Islamic Religious Education, English, Business Studies, History.

Courses Approved in 2021–2022

8. Bachelor of Commerce

Approval Year: 2021
This program offers specializations in Finance and Procurement, integrating IT skills for modern business environments.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s commercial sector, including banking and retail, seeks versatile graduates.
  • Core Units:
    • Financial Accounting (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Business Information Systems (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Procurement Management (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Internship (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C in Mathematics and English.
  • Career Prospects: Accountant, procurement officer, financial analyst.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 63,000 per semester (estimated based on similar programs).
  • Unique Feature: Includes IT units for tech-driven business decisions.

9. Bachelor of Business Information Technology

Approval Year: 2021
This program blends business management with IT, preparing students for tech-driven business roles.

  • Why It’s Marketable: The fusion of business and IT skills is highly valued in Kenya’s digital economy.
  • Core Units:
    • Business Information Systems (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Database Management (3 credits, Level 200)
    • IT Project Management (3 credits, Level 300)
    • Industry Attachment (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C+ in Mathematics and English.
  • Career Prospects: IT project manager, business systems analyst, tech entrepreneur.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 65,000 per semester (estimated).
  • Unique Feature: Focuses on IT applications in business operations.

10. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

Approval Year: 2022
This program equips students with skills in IT systems, networking, and software development.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s tech hubs demand IT professionals for innovation and cybersecurity.
  • Core Units:
    • IT Fundamentals (3 credits, Level 100)
    • Network Administration (3 credits, Level 200)
    • Cybersecurity (3 credits, Level 300)
    • IT Project (6 credits, Level 400)
  • Entry Requirements: KCSE mean grade C+ with C+ in Mathematics and Physics.
  • Career Prospects: IT consultant, network administrator, software developer.
  • Duration: 3 years.
  • Tuition Fees: KShs 70,000 per semester (estimated).
  • Unique Feature: Emphasizes practical skills for tech-driven industries.

Postgraduate Programs at Umma University

UU offers postgraduate programs (ISCED Level 7) for advanced professional training. Below are two notable programs:

1. Master of Business Administration

This program offers specializations in Strategic Management, Finance, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Kenya’s corporate sector seeks skilled managers with strategic expertise.
  • Core Units:
    • Strategic Management (3 credits, Semester 1)
    • Financial Management (3 credits, Semester 2)
    • Organizational Behavior (3 credits, Semester 3)
    • Research Project (6 credits, Semester 4)
  • Entry Requirements: Bachelor’s degree with Second Class Honors Upper Division or Lower Division with 2 years’ experience.
  • Career Prospects: Corporate manager, financial consultant, HR director.
  • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters).
  • Tuition Fees: Contact UU for specific fees.
  • Unique Feature: Uses case studies for real-world management training.

2. Master of Arts in Islamic Studies

This program advances knowledge in Islamic theology and leadership.

  • Why It’s Marketable: Demand for Islamic scholars in education and religious institutions is rising.
  • Entry Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies or related field with Second Class Honors.
  • Career Prospects: Islamic scholar, religious educator, community leader.
  • Duration: 2 years.
  • Tuition Fees: Contact UU for specific fees.

Entry Pathways and Exit Points

UU offers flexible entry and exit options to accommodate diverse learners:

  • Certificate Entry: KCSE mean grade D for certificate programs (e.g., Certificate in Business Management, KShs 30,000/semester), leading to diplomas.
  • Diploma Entry: KCSE mean grade C- for diploma programs (e.g., Diploma in Islamic Banking, KShs 30,000/semester), providing pathways to degrees.
  • Undergraduate Entry: KCSE mean grade C+ or a relevant diploma with credit transfers.
  • Postgraduate Entry: Bachelor’s degree with Second Class Honors or equivalent experience.
  • Exit Points: Students can exit with a certificate or diploma if unable to complete a degree, facilitating employment or further studies.

Employment and Higher Education Destinations

UU graduates are well-positioned for diverse careers:

  • Health Sector: Nurses in hospitals, clinics, and NGOs.
  • Education Sector: Teachers and educators in schools and religious institutions.
  • Technology Sector: IT professionals in software development, cybersecurity, and business systems.
  • Business Sector: Managers, accountants, and entrepreneurs in private and public organizations.
  • Religious and Community Roles: Islamic scholars, Sharia advisors, and community leaders.
  • Higher Education: Graduates can pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in Kenya or abroad, particularly in Islamic studies and business.

Why These Courses Are Marketable in Kenya for 2025

Kenya’s job market in 2025 prioritizes skills in healthcare, technology, education, and business:

  • Healthcare: Nursing programs address Kenya’s nurse shortage, with high demand in rural and urban hospitals.
  • Technology: Computer Science and IT programs meet the needs of Kenya’s growing digital economy, including Silicon Savannah.
  • Education: The CBC increases demand for arts teachers, particularly in Islamic Religious Education.
  • Business: Business Management and Commerce programs produce graduates for Kenya’s commercial and banking sectors.
  • Islamic Studies and Sharia: These programs cater to Kenya’s Muslim community and religious institutions, offering unique career paths.

Tuition Fees and Financial Support

UU’s fee structure is competitive:

  • Undergraduate Programs: KShs 50,000–70,000 per semester.
  • Nursing Programs: Additional KShs 22,000 Nursing Council fees.
  • Diploma Programs: KShs 30,000 per semester.
  • Certificate Programs: KShs 30,000 per semester.
  • Additional Fees: Application (KShs 1,000–2,000), accommodation (optional).
  • Payment Methods: Bank payments to designated accounts (e.g., Upperhill Branch, Nairobi); cash, personal cheques, and Mtaani agents not accepted.
  • Financial Support: HELB loans, university scholarships, and bursaries available.

Application Process

Applying to UU is streamlined through its online portal:

  1. Access the Portal: Visit students.umma.ac.ke for applications and admission status.
  2. Submit Documents: Provide KCSE certificates, ID, and professional certificates (e.g., Nursing Council registration for Nursing Upgrading).
  3. Pay Application Fee: KShs 1,000 (undergraduate) or KShs 2,000 (postgraduate) via designated bank accounts.
  4. Contact for Inquiries: Call +254-703-969000 or email registrar@umma.ac.ke.

Campus Facilities and Student Life

UU’s campuses in Kajiado and Thika offer:

  • Academic Resources: Modern libraries, IT labs, and nursing simulation labs.
  • Accommodation: On-campus hostels bookable via the student portal.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Sports (e.g., football, volleyball), cultural clubs, and Islamic societies.
  • Research Opportunities: Collaboration with Direct Aid International and the International University of Africa for Islamic and technological research.

Umma University is a trailblazer in Kenyan higher education, offering market-oriented courses that blend Islamic values with practical skills in nursing, technology, business, and education. With affordable fees, flexible learning modes, and a focus on ethical leadership, UU prepares graduates for success in Kenya’s dynamic job market in 2025. From the unique Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Sharia to cutting-edge programs like Computer Science and Nursing, UU equips students to contribute to national development. Visit www.umma.ac.ke or contact +254-703-969000 for more details on programs and admissions