Umma University, a leading private institution in Kenya, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic education rooted in Islamic values. Located in Kajiado, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs tailored to meet the needs of students pursuing careers in business, technology, education, law, nursing, and Islamic studies. This article provides a detailed overview of the Umma University fee structure for the 2024/2025 academic year, covering key undergraduate programs, payment details, admission requirements, and financial planning tips.
Introduction to Umma University
Founded in 2013, Umma University is a chartered institution accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) in Kenya. With its motto, Knowledge for Development, the university emphasizes quality education, ethical leadership, and community service. Its Kajiado campus provides a conducive learning environment, blending modern facilities with a culturally inclusive atmosphere. Umma University offers undergraduate programs in fields such as nursing, business, computer science, education, and Islamic Sharia, catering to both local and international students.
Understanding the fee structure is critical for students planning to join Umma University. This guide breaks down the costs for various programs, compares them, and provides insights into additional expenses, financial aid options, and career prospects.
Umma University Fee Structure 2024/2025: Program-by-Program Breakdown
The fee structure for the 2024/2025 academic year varies by program, reflecting the differences in course requirements, such as clinical training for nursing or practical attachments for technology and business programs. Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees for key undergraduate programs, based on a trimester system with three semesters per year.
1. Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Sharia/Studies
Total Program Cost: KShs 274,000 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 93,000 (KShs 31,000 per trimester)
- Year 2: KShs 93,000 (KShs 31,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 93,000 (KShs 31,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 119,000 (KShs 31,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 57,000 for trimester 9, including project and graduation fees)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 17,500
- Examination Fees: KShs 5,600
- Administration Fees: KShs 6,900
- UUSA (Umma University Students Association) Fees: KShs 1,000
- Project and Attachment (Year 4): KShs 20,000 (one-time)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Affordable compared to other programs, ideal for students interested in Islamic studies or Sharia law.
- Prepares graduates for roles in religious education, community leadership, and legal advisory positions.
2. Bachelor of Business Information Technology (BBIT)
Total Program Cost: KShs 634,000 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 228,000 (KShs 76,000 per trimester)
- Year 2: KShs 228,000 (KShs 76,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 228,000 (KShs 76,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 254,000 (KShs 76,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 102,000 for trimester 9)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 56,000
- Examination Fees: KShs 5,600
- Administration Fees: KShs 13,400
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Project and Attachment (Year 4): KShs 20,000 (one-time)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Combines business and IT skills, preparing students for roles like systems analysts or IT consultants.
- High demand for IT professionals in Kenya, with salaries ranging from KShs 80,000 to KShs 200,000 per month.
3. Bachelor of Business Management (BBM)
Total Program Cost: KShs 538,000 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 192,000 (KShs 64,000 per trimester)
- Year 2: KShs 192,000 (KShs 64,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 192,000 (KShs 64,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 218,000 (KShs 64,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 90,000 for trimester 9)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 49,000
- Examination Fees: KShs 5,600
- Administration Fees: KShs 8,400
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Project and Attachment (Year 4): KShs 20,000 (one-time)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Offers specializations in finance, marketing, or human resource management.
- Prepares graduates for managerial roles in diverse industries.
4. Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM)
Total Program Cost: KShs 554,000 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 198,000 (KShs 66,000 per trimester)
- Year 2: KShs 198,000 (KShs 66,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 198,000 (KShs 66,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 224,000 (KShs 66,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 92,000 for trimester 9)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 49,000
- Examination Fees: KShs 5,600
- Administration Fees: KShs 10,400
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Project and Attachment (Year 4): KShs 20,000 (one-time)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Ideal for students pursuing careers in accounting, finance, or entrepreneurship.
- Strong industry connections for internships and job placements.
5. Bachelor of Education (Arts)
Total Program Cost: KShs 424,000 over four years (based on 8 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 153,000 (KShs 51,000 per trimester)
- Year 2: KShs 153,000 (KShs 51,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 153,000 (KShs 51,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 169,000 (KShs 51,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 67,000 for trimester 9)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 36,000
- Examination Fees: KShs 6,400
- Administration Fees: KShs 7,600
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Teaching Practice (Year 4): KShs 10,000 (one-time)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Prepares students for teaching careers in secondary schools or educational administration.
- High demand for qualified teachers in Kenya.
6. Bachelor of Law & Sharia (BALS)
Total Program Cost: KShs 611,200 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 230,200 (KShs 88,200 for trimester 1, KShs 71,000 for trimesters 2 and 3)
- Year 2: KShs 213,000 (KShs 71,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 213,000 (KShs 71,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 239,000 (KShs 71,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 97,000 for trimester 9)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 52,500
- Examination Fees: KShs 5,600
- Administration Fees: KShs 11,900
- Registration Fees (Year 1, Trimester 1): KShs 17,200
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Project and Attachment (Year 4): KShs 20,000 (one-time)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Unique blend of secular and Islamic law, preparing graduates for legal practice in diverse settings.
- High earning potential for lawyers in Kenya, with salaries starting at KShs 100,000 per month.
7. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS)
Total Program Cost: KShs 634,000 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Same as BBIT (see above).
Why Choose This Program?
- Focuses on programming, software development, and data science.
- Prepares students for high-demand tech roles in Kenya and beyond.
8. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)
Total Program Cost: KShs 634,000 over four years (based on 7 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Same as BBIT and BSCS (see above).
Why Choose This Program?
- Emphasizes IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and network management.
- Aligns with Kenya’s growing tech industry needs.
9. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Direct Entry)
Total Program Cost: KShs 1,066,200 over four years (based on 9 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 274,200 (KShs 102,200, KShs 86,000, KShs 86,000)
- Year 2: KShs 262,000 (KShs 90,000, KShs 86,000, KShs 86,000)
- Year 3: KShs 262,000 (KShs 90,000, KShs 86,000, KShs 86,000)
- Year 4: KShs 268,000 (KShs 90,000, KShs 86,000, KShs 92,000)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 72,000
- Examination Fees: KShs 7,200
- Administration Fees: KShs 22,000 (Trimester 1), KShs 5,800 (Trimesters 2–3), KShs 9,800 (Trimester 4)
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Clinicals and Assessments: KShs 15,000 per semester (four semesters)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Accredited by the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK).
- Prepares students for high-demand nursing roles with salaries ranging from KShs 70,000 to KShs 150,000 per month.
10. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Upgrading)
Total Program Cost: KShs 507,000 over four years (based on 8 units per semester).
Annual Fee Breakdown:
- Year 1: KShs 196,000 (KShs 74,000, KShs 61,000, KShs 61,000)
- Year 2: KShs 183,000 (KShs 61,000 per trimester)
- Year 3: KShs 183,000 (KShs 61,000 per trimester)
- Year 4: KShs 189,000 (KShs 61,000 for trimesters 7 and 8, KShs 67,000 for trimester 9)
Itemized Costs (Per Trimester):
- Tuition Fees: KShs 47,000
- Examination Fees: KShs 6,400
- Administration Fees: KShs 6,600
- Registration Fees (Year 1, Trimester 1): KShs 13,000
- UUSA Fees: KShs 1,000
- Clinicals and Assessments: KShs 15,000 per semester (four semesters)
- Graduation Fee (Year 4): KShs 6,000 (one-time)
Why Choose This Program?
- Designed for diploma holders upgrading to a bachelor’s degree.
- Flexible for working nurses with clinical experience.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond tuition and program fees, students should budget for:
- Hostel Fees: KShs 9,000 per semester for on-campus accommodation.
- Textbooks and Materials: Approximately KShs 10,000–20,000 per year.
- Transport and Living Expenses: Variable, depending on whether students commute or reside in Kajiado.
- Clinical Placement Costs (Nursing): KShs 15,000 per semester for four semesters, covering uniforms, travel, and assessments.
Payment Details and Policies
Umma University requires all fees to be paid through the following methods:
- Bank Accounts:
- Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB): Account Name: Umma University, Branch: Kajiado, Account Number: 1198158344
- Co-operative Bank of Kenya: Account Name: Umma University, Branch: Kajiado, Account Number: 1129322174900
- M-Pesa Paybill: Paybill Number: 7098491, Account: Student’s Admission Number
- Cash Policy: Cash payments are not accepted.
- Fee Review: Fees may be adjusted based on prevailing circumstances, so students should confirm with the university before payment.
Contact Information:
- Address: P.O. Box 713-01100, Kajiado, Kenya
- Phone: 0703 969000, 0739 969022, 0776 500857
- Email: registrar@umma.ac.ke
- Website: http://www.umma.ac.ke
Admission Requirements
To enroll in undergraduate programs at Umma University, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Qualifications:
- A minimum mean grade of C+ in KCSE or equivalent for direct-entry programs.
- For nursing (upgrading), a diploma in nursing from a recognized institution and a valid NCK license.
- Program-Specific Requirements:
- Nursing: Strong grades in Biology and Chemistry.
- Law & Sharia: Proficiency in English and a background in humanities.
- Application Process:
- Submit an online application via the university’s website.
- Provide certified copies of KCSE certificates, ID, and other relevant documents.
- Pay a non-refundable application fee (typically KShs 2,000).
Applications are accepted for January, May, and September intakes. Early application is recommended due to limited slots.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Umma University offers limited financial aid options, but students can explore:
- Higher Education Loans Board (HELB): Provides loans and bursaries for Kenyan students.
- University Scholarships: Merit-based awards for outstanding academic performance.
- External Funding: Opportunities from NGOs, religious organizations, or government programs supporting education.
Contact the university’s financial aid office for details on eligibility and application processes.
Budgeting Tips for Umma University Students
To manage the cost of studying at Umma University, consider the following:
- Plan Payments by Trimester: Break down fees into manageable installments (e.g., KShs 31,000 per trimester for Islamic Sharia).
- Apply for Financial Aid Early: Secure HELB loans or scholarships before the academic year starts.
- Budget for Additional Costs:
- Accommodation: KShs 9,000 per semester for hostels or KShs 5,000–10,000 for off-campus housing.
- Textbooks: Allocate KShs 10,000–20,000 annually.
- Clinical Costs (Nursing): KShs 15,000 per semester for four semesters.
- Part-Time Work: Nursing and education students can work part-time to offset costs, leveraging their skills in healthcare or tutoring.
Career Prospects for Umma University Graduates
Umma University’s programs are designed to align with Kenya’s job market demands. Here’s a look at potential career paths:
- Islamic Sharia/Studies: Religious educators, community leaders, or Sharia law advisors.
- Business Programs (BBM, BCOM, BBIT): Managers, accountants, financial analysts, or IT consultants.
- Education (Arts): Secondary school teachers or educational administrators.
- Law & Sharia: Lawyers, legal advisors, or mediators in secular and Islamic legal systems.
- Computer Science/IT: Software developers, cybersecurity experts, or network administrators.
- Nursing: Registered nurses, clinical specialists, or nurse educators with competitive salaries.
Why Choose Umma University?
- Affordable Fees: Programs like Islamic Sharia (KShs 274,000) are significantly cheaper than similar programs at other private universities.
- Accredited Programs: Recognized by CUE and professional bodies like NCK.
- Flexible Trimester System: Allows faster completion compared to semester-based systems.
- Holistic Education: Integrates ethical and Islamic values with modern academic training.
- Strategic Location: Kajiado offers a serene learning environment with access to Nairobi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest program at Umma University?
The Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Sharia/Studies is the most affordable, costing KShs 274,000 over four years.
2. Can I pay fees in installments?
Yes, fees are payable per trimester, making it easier to manage costs.
3. Are there scholarships available?
Limited scholarships are available, and students can apply for HELB loans or external funding.
4. What is the total cost of the nursing program?
Direct Entry: KShs 1,066,200; Upgrading: KShs 507,000, excluding clinical costs.
5. How do I apply to Umma University?
Visit http://www.umma.ac.ke, complete the online application, and submit required documents with the application fee.
Umma University offers a range of affordable, high-quality undergraduate programs tailored to diverse career paths. With a clear fee structure, flexible payment options, and a commitment to academic excellence, it is an excellent choice for students in Kenya. By understanding the costs, admission requirements, and career prospects outlined in this guide, prospective students can plan effectively for their academic journey at Umma University.
For more details, visit the university’s website or contact the registrar’s office.
