10 Best Universities & Colleges Offering Journalism and Their Fees in Kenya
Many Kenyans think journalism is all about being a radio presenter or a TV anchor, but it is broader and is one of the most marketable courses in Kenya today, especially with the rapid growth of digital media, blogging, and online news platforms.
Over the years, Kenya has produced some of the top journalists, such as Jeff Koinange, known for his show on Citizen TV, JKL. He has also worked for CNN as the Senior Africa Correspondent. Another is Larry Madowo, who is a world-renowned Kenyan journalist currently serving as an International Correspondent for CNN and was a business reporter at NTV Kenya. These are just a few examples; there are many more.
In journalism, you can choose to become a content creator, like YouTuber Oga Obina or Oduor Jagero, who hosts “Dialogues With Jagero” (DWJ), a podcast focused on raw, honest conversations about life, relationships, and society. You can also become a media influencer and corporate professional like Cebbie Koks Nyasego, a PR expert. She studied a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Public Relations at Moi University, which is in line with journalism.
In this guide, we explore the 10 best universities and colleges offering journalism in Kenya, based on reputation, facilities, course quality, and career opportunities.
What is Journalism?
Journalism is an academic and professional field focused on the collection, verification, and dissemination of news and information to the public. It examines how media shapes public opinion, influence culture, and informs citizens within a society.
What You Learn
Students often focus on specific niches within the field, such as:
- Investigative Journalism: In-depth research into serious topics like political corruption or corporate wrongdoing.
- Data Journalism: Using large datasets and infographics to uncover hidden patterns and explain complex topics.
- Broadcast Journalism: Producing and delivering news specifically for television or radio.
- Digital/Social Media Journalism: Real-time reporting optimized for mobile devices and social platforms.
- Subject-Specific Reporting: This includes sports, politics, environmental, health, and business journalism.
Most journalism degree programs in Kenya take 4 years, while diplomas take 2–3 years. Here is the list of the best universities and colleges offering journalism across Kenya.
Top Universities & Colleges Offering Journalism and Their Fees in Kenya
1. University of Nairobi (UoN)
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is widely considered the premier institution for journalism in Kenya due to its historic reputation, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry ties. Its Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DOJMC) is recognized as the only UNESCO potential Centre of Excellence in communication and media within Kenya.
Its employment reputation is strong; approximately 84% of employers in Kenya prefer graduates from UoN, highlighting the high marketability of its journalism degrees.
Its prime location is an added advantage to students. Being centrally located in Nairobi provides students with easier access to major media houses, government offices, and international organizations for internships and networking.
Fees
Fees vary significantly depending on whether a student is government-sponsored (Module I) or self-sponsored (Module II). Government-sponsored (Module I) students pay Ksh 26,000 – 28,500, while self-sponsored (Module II) students pay Ksh 240,000. A Master of Arts (Communication) costs Ksh 300,000 – 400,000 (total varies).
2. Daystar University
Daystar University is widely regarded as the top private institution for journalism and media studies in Kenya. Its School of Communication is the university’s largest, housing approximately 50% of the total student population and maintaining a high reputation for producing prominent media personalities.
Daystar was the first university in Kenya to offer a degree in Communication, setting the industry standard for media education. It offers diverse niches, including Print & Electronic Journalism, Public Relations, and Digital Content Creation.
Fees
The Bachelor of Arts at Athi River (Main Campus) ranges from Ksh 112,900 to Ksh 127,900 per semester, while at the Nairobi Campus it ranges from Ksh 124,000 to Ksh 139,000 per semester.
Diploma programs across the campuses cost between Ksh 91,850 and Ksh 105,850 per semester.
3. Multimedia University of Kenya (MMU)
The Multimedia University of Kenya (MMU) is a leading public institution specifically geared toward media, communication, and technology. Located along Magadi Road near Ongata Rongai, it is frequently chosen by students who want a highly technical and practice-based approach to journalism.
Its Bachelor of Journalism program is inspired by the UNESCO Model Curricula, designed to meet modern converging media needs. The university operates its own radio station, MMU 99.9 FM, where students produce and broadcast their own programs 24/7 as part of their training.
Students have access to high-end iMac labs, state-of-the-art TV studios, and advanced digital editing suites for audio and video.
Fees
Bachelor of Journalism for government-sponsored (KUCCPS) students is Ksh 20,650 per semester, while self-sponsored students pay Ksh 106,250 per semester. A diploma in Journalism costs Ksh 48,200 per semester, and a certificate in Mass Communication also costs Ksh 48,200.
4. Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC)
The Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC) is the oldest and most respected dedicated media training institution in Kenya. Established in 1961 and operated under the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, it is uniquely designed as a middle-level college focused almost entirely on practical “hands-on” training.
Unlike general universities, KIMC focuses exclusively on communication and cinematic arts. It is equipped with professional-grade film and video studios, radio stations (ECN 99.9 FM), and animation labs.
Fees
The diploma in Journalism at the Nairobi campus costs about KSh 90,000 annually. Diplomas at Nairobi and Eldoret campuses range from Ksh 45,000 to Ksh 50,000. Certificates cost between Ksh 30,000 and Ksh 40,000, while a postgraduate diploma costs about Ksh 100,000.
5. Kenyatta University (KU)
Kenyatta University (KU) is home to one of Kenya’s most established media departments within the School of Law, Arts, and Social Sciences. It is particularly recognized for its Bachelor of Arts (Communication and Media Studies), which balances theoretical research with creative production.
The university features a dedicated Media and Film Centre equipped for radio production, television broadcasting, and film editing.
Learning is flexible, as students can choose between full-time, part-time, or digital learning (DSVOL) modes, making it ideal for those already working in the industry.
Fees
The Bachelor of Arts for self-sponsored students costs KSh 102,200 per semester. Diploma programs cost Ksh 55,000, while a Master of Arts costs Ksh 106,500.
6. Moi University
Moi University is a historic giant in Kenyan media education, known for its School of Information Sciences (SIS). Unlike some universities that treat journalism as purely a social science, Moi University integrates it with information technology and media science, producing graduates with a strong technical edge.
In 2022, the university launched MU-TV, a digital online television platform where students produce live content to sharpen their broadcasting and production skills.
The university boasts a high-profile alumni list, including Alex Chamwada (Chams Media), Sam Githuku, and Willis Raburu.
Fees
BSc Communication & Journalism for self-sponsored students costs Ksh 113,000. BSc Communication & PR costs Ksh 113,000, while BSc Media Science costs Ksh 102,000. Undergraduate degrees for government-sponsored students range from Ksh 21,900 to Ksh 33,750 per semester.
7. Mount Kenya University (MKU)
Mount Kenya University (MKU) is one of the most popular private universities in Kenya for media studies, largely due to its focus on practical industry integration and affordable, flexible fee structures. It is particularly noted for its close relationship with TV47, where students receive extensive hands-on training.
The university operates on a trimester system, allowing dedicated students to complete their 4-year degree programs faster than in many other institutions.
8. United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa)
The United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) is the only university in Sub-Saharan Africa with dual accreditation from Kenya’s Commission for University Education (CUE) and the American WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Its Bachelor of Arts in Journalism is designed for the digital age, focusing on practical multi-channel storytelling.
The degree is recognized globally, providing a major competitive edge for international career paths. With students from over 70 nationalities, you learn in a highly diverse environment that mirrors global media landscapes.
Fees
Kenyan students pay Ksh 184,450 per semester, East African students pay Ksh 190,450 per semester, and non-East African students pay Ksh 239,890 per semester.
9. Riara University
Riara University is highly regarded for its School of Journalism and Multimedia Studies, which focuses on preparing “all-rounder” graduates for the modern digital media landscape. Its curriculum is validated by industry stakeholders from organizations like the United Nations and Nation Media Group to ensure high employability.
The university emphasizes hands-on mastery in photography, film, videography, and digital marketing alongside traditional journalism.
10. East Africa School of Journalism
The East Africa School of Journalism (EASJ) is a private vocational college in Kenya that focuses on practical media training at the certificate and diploma levels. It is recognized for its hands-on approach, often incorporating significant practical sessions into its curriculum to prepare students for real-world media environments.
The main campus is located in the Nairobi CBD, specifically at Union Towers, 9th Floor, on the corner of Moi Avenue and Mama Ngina Street.
The curriculum is tailored toward quick entry into the job market, making it popular for students seeking technical skills rather than broad academic theory.
Fees
Diploma programs in Journalism & Mass Media, Broadcast Journalism, and Public Relations cost Ksh 45,000 – 60,000 annually. Certificate programs in Mass Communication, Media Production, and TV/Radio Production cost KSh 30,000 – 40,000. Short courses like Video Editing, Photography, and Graphic Design cost Ksh 10,000 – 15,000.
Career Opportunities After Studying Journalism
Graduates can work in:
- TV and radio stations
- Newspapers and magazines
- Digital media platforms
- Public relations firms
- Blogging and content creation
You can also become self-employed through YouTube, blogging, or social media influencing.
