Every programme, with the real numbers.
Tuition, duration and study mode as each institution publishes them, next to how the job market is currently treating graduates of the course.
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Psychiatry in the Faculty of Health Sciences. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on psychological disorders, mental health interventions, and clinical psychology practice, contributing to mental health knowledge and services in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced psychopathology, psychotherapy research, psychological assessment, neuropsychology, research methodology, and mental health policy. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent clinical and field research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to clinical psychology. Kenya faces significant mental health challenges with a high burden of psychological disorders and a severe shortage of mental health professionals. The programme addresses national health priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Mental Health Policy by training researchers who can inform mental health interventions, psychological assessment, and clinical practice. Teaching methods include lectures, clinical research at Kenyatta National Hospital's psychiatry department, supervised psychological practice, seminars, and thesis work. Students have access to UoN's psychiatry and psychology resources at the KNH campus and collaborate with Mathari Hospital and community mental health programmes. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, clinical psychology researchers, clinical psychologists, mental health consultants, and policy advisors in universities, hospitals, mental health institutions, and international health organisations. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in clinical psychology, psychology, or related fields who are committed to advancing knowledge in clinical psychology and mental health.
Doctor of Philosophy in Dental Surgery
The Doctor of Philosophy in Dental Surgery is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Dental Sciences, School of Dental Sciences. It is designed to produce specialists who can provide leadership in dental diseases management, with particular focus on periodontal care and dental implantology. Students engage with advanced topics including the scientific basis of periodontal care, the relationship of periodontal care to other dental disciplines, diagnosis and treatment planning for patients with advanced periodontal problems, clinical treatment and management, and research methodology. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops evidence-based approaches to Kenya's oral health challenges. Kenya faces significant oral health burdens, with the 2015 Kenya National Oral Health Survey reporting gingivitis prevalence of 75.7% in children and 98.1% in adults. Chronic periodontitis affects 1-10% of the population. These statistics underscore the need for doctoral-level dental research and specialised clinical leadership in Kenya. Teaching is delivered through coursework, clinical work, practicals, research projects, tutorials, seminars and journal discussions. The programme runs over three parts spanning three to six years of full-time training, with all courses being compulsory. Students progress through coursework, clinical practice and thesis research simultaneously. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, dental researchers, periodontal specialists, oral health policy advisors and clinical consultants. They work in universities, dental schools, hospitals, research institutions and government health agencies. The programme is ideal for dental professionals who hold a Master of Dental Surgery or Master of Medicine degree and wish to advance to the highest level of academic and clinical specialisation in dental surgery.
Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental and Occupational Health
The Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental and Occupational Health is a postgraduate research programme offered at Kenyatta University through the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health in the School of Public Health. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on environmental health hazards, occupational safety, workplace health risks, and public health interventions, contributing to healthier environments and safer workplaces in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced environmental health science, occupational health and safety, exposure assessment, environmental epidemiology, risk assessment, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent field and laboratory research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to environmental and occupational health. Kenya faces significant environmental health challenges including water and air pollution, hazardous waste, workplace injuries, and occupational diseases in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. The programme addresses national health priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Occupational Safety and Health Act by training researchers who can inform environmental health policy, workplace safety regulations, and public health interventions. Teaching methods include lectures, field research in workplaces and communities, laboratory analysis of environmental samples, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to KU's public health laboratories and collaborate with the Ministry of Health, NEMA, and the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, environmental health researchers, occupational health specialists, public health consultants, and policy advisors in universities, the Ministry of Health, NEMA, WHO, ILO, and private sector companies. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in environmental health, public health, occupational safety, or related health sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in environmental and occupational health.
Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology is a postgraduate research programme offered at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and the University of Nairobi (UoN). The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on disease distribution, determinants, and control in populations, contributing to public health knowledge and practice in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced epidemiological methods, biostatistics, disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and research design. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent field or laboratory research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to epidemiological science. Kenya faces significant disease burdens from infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and emerging health threats. The programme addresses national health priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training researchers who can inform disease control strategies, health policy, and public health practice. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, field epidemiology practice, and supervised thesis research. At JKUAT, the programme is delivered over three years with semester fees of KES 162,500. UoN offers the programme through its School of Public Health with a tuition fee of KES 432,000 per year. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, research scientists, epidemiologists, public health consultants, and policy advisors in universities, research institutions, KEMRI, WHO, CDC, and government health agencies. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in epidemiological research and public health. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master’s degree in epidemiology, public health, biostatistics, or related health sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in disease prevention and control.
Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology and Biostatistics
The Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology and Biostatistics is a postgraduate research programme offered at JKUAT and Kenyatta University through their respective Schools of Public Health. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on disease distribution, determinants of health, and statistical methods for health research, contributing to disease prevention, public health surveillance, and evidence-based health policy in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced epidemiological methods, biostatistical modelling, infectious disease epidemiology, chronic disease epidemiology, research methodology, and public health surveillance. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent epidemiological and statistical research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to epidemiology and biostatistics. Kenya faces significant disease burdens from infectious diseases including malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis, as well as emerging non-communicable diseases requiring robust epidemiological research. The programme addresses national health priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training researchers who can conduct disease surveillance, evaluate health interventions, and inform evidence-based health policy. Teaching methods include lectures, statistical computing laboratories, field epidemiology research, analysis of health datasets, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to university computing and public health resources and collaborate with KEMRI, the Ministry of Health, and CDC Kenya. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, epidemiology researchers, biostatisticians, public health consultants, and disease surveillance specialists in universities, KEMRI, the Ministry of Health, CDC, WHO, and international health organisations. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, or related health sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in epidemiology and biostatistics.
Doctor of Philosophy in Family Medicine
The Doctor of Philosophy in Family Medicine is a doctoral programme that builds on family medicine training to produce scholars capable of advancing research in primary care, family health and health systems strengthening. In Kenya, family medicine training is offered at Kabarak University and Moi University, with research opportunities through Kenyatta University's Department of Family Medicine, Community Health and Epidemiology. The programme addresses Kenya's Universal Health Coverage agenda and primary health care strengthening. Students engage with advanced topics in family medicine research, primary health care systems, chronic disease management, maternal and child health, health systems research, community health, epidemiology, health policy, quality improvement in health care and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops primary care innovations for Kenya's health system. Kenya's push for Universal Health Coverage, the devolution of health services and the need for strengthened primary health care create demand for doctoral-level family medicine expertise. The programme supports Kenya's health system strengthening and UHC goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework and supervised research. At Kabarak University, family medicine is offered with a focus on strengthening primary health care. At Kenyatta University, the Department of Family Medicine, Community Health and Epidemiology provides research supervision. Annual fees vary by institution, with Kabarak University charging approximately KSh 155,100/semester for PhD by coursework. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, family medicine researchers, health systems consultants and primary care policy analysts. They work in universities, medical schools, Ministry of Health, county health departments and international health organisations. The programme is ideal for family medicine practitioners and primary care researchers who wish to contribute original research to family medicine and primary health care.
Doctor of Philosophy in General Surgery
The Doctor of Philosophy in General Surgery is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Surgery at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) Campus. The programme trains surgeon-scientists to conduct advanced research in surgical sciences, contributing to evidence-based surgical practice, innovation, and surgical education in Kenya and beyond. Students engage with advanced surgical research methodology, clinical trials, surgical outcomes research, and translational surgical science. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent clinical or laboratory research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to surgical knowledge. Kenya faces a growing burden of surgical conditions including trauma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and congenital anomalies. The programme addresses national health priorities by training surgeon-scientists who can generate evidence to improve surgical care, inform health policy, and address surgical workforce shortages under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework. Teaching methods include supervised research, clinical research at KNH, seminars, and thesis writing. Candidates work with surgical and academic supervisors to develop proposals, conduct clinical or laboratory research, and write their dissertations. The programme is delivered at UoN’s KNH Campus over a minimum of three years. Graduates pursue careers as academic surgeons, surgical researchers, university lecturers, and surgical consultants in teaching hospitals, universities, and research institutions. The programme provides the highest academic qualification for surgeons seeking leadership roles in academic surgery and surgical research. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master of Medicine (MMed) in General Surgery or equivalent surgical qualification who are committed to advancing surgical knowledge through research.
Doctor of Philosophy in Global Health
The Doctor of Philosophy in Global Health is a doctoral programme offered at KEMRI Graduate School in partnership with JKUAT, and at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Public and Global Health. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in global health, international health and public health. The programme addresses Kenya's global health research and health systems development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in global health policy, epidemiology, health systems research, infectious disease epidemiology, global health governance, maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases, health economics, humanitarian health and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops global health insights for Kenya and the East African region. Kenya's disease burden, health system strengthening needs, global health partnerships, pandemic preparedness, SDG 3 agenda and the presence of major global health organisations in Nairobi create demand for doctoral-level global health expertise. The programme supports Kenya's health system development and global health goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework and supervised research. At KEMRI Graduate School, PhD in Global Health is offered in partnership with JKUAT. Minimum entry is MSc in Global Health, International Health, Public Health or Epidemiology. Duration is 3 years full-time, up to 5 years part-time. Application fee KSh 3,500 for PhD. At UoN, the Department of Public and Global Health offers PhD in Public Health (HPG8) by thesis. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, global health researchers, public health consultants, epidemiologists and health policy analysts. They work in universities, KEMRI, WHO, Ministry of Health, CDC Kenya and international health organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Informatics
The Doctor of Philosophy in Health Informatics is a doctoral programme offered by Kenyan universities, designed to provide advanced training and research opportunities in health and biomedical sciences. The programme is accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and delivered through coursework, seminars, and independent research. Students engage with disease mechanisms, clinical research, public health, and healthcare delivery through a structured curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications. The programme emphasises evidence-based practice, health systems strengthening, and disease prevention and prepares scholars to contribute original research to the discipline. Kenya's healthcare system faces challenges including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health workforce shortages. The programme addresses national development priorities and aligns with Kenya's Vision 2030, which emphasises the need for highly trained professionals in healthcare and biomedical research. Graduates are equipped to tackle complex challenges facing the country and the East African region. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions where applicable, fieldwork, and supervised research. Students work closely with faculty supervisors to develop their research proposals, conduct original research, and produce a thesis or dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. Graduates pursue careers as medical researchers, university lecturers, public health specialists, and clinical consultants in universities, research institutions, government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private sector firms. The programme provides a strong foundation for academic careers and leadership roles in healthcare and biomedical research. This programme is ideal for individuals with a strong academic background in medicine, nursing, public health, or a related health science who are passionate about research and advancing knowledge in health and biomedical sciences. It suits those who wish to contribute to policy development, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making in Kenya and beyond.
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Systems Management
The Doctor of Philosophy in Health Systems Management is a doctoral programme offered by Kenyan universities, designed to provide advanced training and research opportunities in health and biomedical sciences. The programme is accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and delivered through coursework, seminars, and independent research. Students engage with disease mechanisms, clinical research, public health, and healthcare delivery through a structured curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications. The programme emphasises evidence-based practice, health systems strengthening, and disease prevention and prepares scholars to contribute original research to the discipline. Kenya's healthcare system faces challenges including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health workforce shortages. The programme addresses national development priorities and aligns with Kenya's Vision 2030, which emphasises the need for highly trained professionals in healthcare and biomedical research. Graduates are equipped to tackle complex challenges facing the country and the East African region. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions where applicable, fieldwork, and supervised research. Students work closely with faculty supervisors to develop their research proposals, conduct original research, and produce a thesis or dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. Graduates pursue careers as medical researchers, university lecturers, public health specialists, and clinical consultants in universities, research institutions, government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private sector firms. The programme provides a strong foundation for academic careers and leadership roles in healthcare and biomedical research. This programme is ideal for individuals with a strong academic background in medicine, nursing, public health, or a related health science who are passionate about research and advancing knowledge in health and biomedical sciences. It suits those who wish to contribute to policy development, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making in Kenya and beyond.
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Systems and Preventive Medicine
The Doctor of Philosophy in Health Systems and Preventive Medicine is a doctoral programme offered at Kenyatta University through the School of Public Health and at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Public and Global Health. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in health systems, preventive medicine and public health. The programme addresses Kenya's health system strengthening and preventive medicine research needs. Students engage with advanced topics in health systems analysis, preventive medicine, epidemiology, health policy, health financing, health workforce development, disease prevention, health promotion, health programme evaluation and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops health systems and preventive medicine insights for Kenya's healthcare challenges. Kenya's health system reform agenda, UHC goals, disease prevention challenges, health workforce shortages, health financing needs and the growing emphasis on preventive care create demand for doctoral-level health systems and preventive medicine expertise. The programme supports Kenya's UHC and health system strengthening goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework and supervised research. At KU, the School of Public Health offers PhD at KSh 367,200/year for East Africans. At UoN, the Department of Public and Global Health offers PhD in Public Health (HPG8) by thesis. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, health systems researchers, preventive medicine specialists, health policy analysts and public health consultants. They work in universities, Ministry of Health, WHO, county health departments and international health organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in Human Anatomy
The Doctor of Philosophy in Human Anatomy is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Human Anatomy and Medical Physiology in the Faculty of Health Sciences. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in human anatomy, anatomical science and medical education. The programme addresses Kenya's anatomical research and medical training development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in gross anatomy, neuroanatomy, embryology and developmental biology, histology and cell biology, comparative anatomy, anatomical imaging, clinical anatomy, anatomical education and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops anatomical science insights for Kenya's medical education and clinical practice. Kenya's medical school expansion, anatomical science research needs, medical education quality improvement, clinical anatomy for surgical training and the growth of anatomical imaging create demand for doctoral-level human anatomy expertise. The programme supports Kenya's medical education and anatomical science development goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research at UoN. The Department of Human Anatomy and Medical Physiology offers PhD in Human Anatomy (H804) with tuition at KSh 396,000/year, total KSh 1,324,000 over 3 years. Applications open in April each year. Programme code H804, duration 3 years. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, anatomy researchers, medical educators and clinical anatomy consultants. They work in universities, medical schools, research institutes and hospitals.
Doctor of Philosophy in Human Nutrition
The Doctor of Philosophy in Human Nutrition is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology, and at Egerton University through the Department of Human Nutrition. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on human nutrition, including nutritional biochemistry, community nutrition, clinical nutrition, and public health nutrition, contributing to improved nutrition outcomes and food security in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced nutritional biochemistry, community nutrition, clinical nutrition, public health nutrition, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent laboratory and field research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to human nutrition. Kenya faces significant nutrition challenges including stunting, wasting, micronutrient deficiencies, and rising non-communicable diseases related to diet. The programme addresses national priorities under Vision 2030 and the National Nutrition and Dietetics Policy by training researchers who can develop evidence-based nutrition interventions and inform nutrition policy. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions on nutritional biochemistry, field research in communities and health facilities, dietary assessment, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to university nutrition laboratories and collaborate with KEMRI, the Ministry of Health, and UNICEF. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, nutrition researchers, public health nutritionists, clinical nutritionists, and nutrition consultants in universities, KEMRI, the Ministry of Health, UNICEF, WHO, and NGOs. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in human nutrition, food science and nutrition, public health nutrition, or related fields who are committed to advancing knowledge in human nutrition.
Doctor of Philosophy in Immunology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Immunology is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on the immune system, host-pathogen interactions, vaccine development, and immunological diseases, contributing to biomedical knowledge and public health in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced immunology, molecular biology, immunopathology, vaccine immunology, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent laboratory research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to immunological science. Kenya faces significant infectious disease burdens including HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and emerging pathogens. The programme addresses national health priorities by training immunologists who can contribute to vaccine development, diagnostic innovation, and understanding of host immune responses to infections prevalent in Kenya and the tropics. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions at the University of Nairobi Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (UNITID), KAVI Institute of Clinical Research, and supervised thesis research. Students train in well-equipped molecular and immunology laboratories at UNITID, Kenyatta National Hospital, and the National Public Health Laboratory. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, research scientists, immunologists, and biomedical researchers in universities, KEMRI, KAVI, international research institutions, and the biotechnology industry. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in immunological research and biomedical innovation. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master’s degree in immunology, medical microbiology, biochemistry, or related biomedical sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in immunology and infectious disease research.
Doctor of Philosophy in Implementation Science
The Doctor of Philosophy in Implementation Science is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology in the Faculty of Health Sciences. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in implementation science, focusing on methods to promote the adoption of evidence-based practices into routine healthcare. The programme addresses Kenya's health systems implementation research needs. Students engage with advanced topics in implementation science theory, evidence-based practice integration, health systems research, quality improvement, health programme evaluation, behaviour change implementation, health policy implementation, implementation frameworks and models, knowledge translation and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops implementation science insights for Kenya's healthcare system. Kenya's evidence-to-practice gap, health system strengthening needs, UHC implementation challenges, quality improvement requirements, scale-up of health interventions and the need for implementation research create demand for doctoral-level implementation science expertise. The programme supports Kenya's health system improvement and UHC goals. Teaching is delivered through thesis research with quarterly progress reports. The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology offers PhD in Implementation Science by thesis with tuition at KSh 432,000/year, total KSh 1,432,000 over 3 years. Minimum duration is 3 years. Applications are in September. Draft proposal of approximately 15 pages required. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, implementation science researchers, health systems consultants, programme evaluation specialists and quality improvement officers. They work in universities, Ministry of Health, WHO, CDC Kenya and international health organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Pharmacy
The Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Pharmacy is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the School of Pharmacy. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on pharmaceutical manufacturing, drug formulation, pharmaceutical technology, and quality control, contributing to pharmaceutical industry development and medicine access in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced pharmaceutical formulation, drug delivery systems, pharmaceutical manufacturing technology, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent laboratory and industrial research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to industrial pharmacy. Kenya is a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing hub with growing local production capacity, but faces challenges including quality control, regulatory compliance, and technology transfer. The programme addresses national priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Pharmaceutical Policy by training researchers who can improve pharmaceutical manufacturing, drug formulation, and regulatory compliance. Teaching methods include lectures, pharmaceutical laboratory sessions, industrial research at manufacturing facilities, quality control analysis, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to UoN's pharmacy laboratories and collaborate with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and pharmaceutical manufacturers. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, pharmaceutical scientists, industrial pharmacists, regulatory affairs specialists, and quality assurance managers in universities, pharmaceutical companies, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, and international pharmaceutical organisations. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, industrial pharmacy, or related fields who are committed to advancing knowledge in industrial pharmacy and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Doctor of Philosophy in Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Infectious Diseases is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology in the Faculty of Health Sciences. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in infectious diseases, tropical medicine and disease control. The programme addresses Kenya's infectious disease research and public health development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in infectious disease epidemiology, tropical medicine, bacteriology, virology, parasitology, immunology of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, vaccine development, outbreak investigation and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops infectious disease insights for Kenya's public health challenges. Kenya's high burden of infectious diseases including malaria, TB, HIV/AIDS, emerging infections, antimicrobial resistance challenges, vaccine development needs and outbreak preparedness create demand for doctoral-level infectious disease expertise. The programme supports Kenya's disease control and public health goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research at UoN. The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology offers PhD in Infectious Diseases (H84) by thesis with tuition at KSh 432,000/year, total KSh 1,432,000 over 3 years. Minimum duration is 3 years. Intake is in September. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, infectious disease researchers, epidemiologists, microbiologists and public health consultants. They work in universities, KEMRI, WHO, CDC Kenya, Ministry of Health and international health organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in International Health
The Doctor of Philosophy in International Health is a postgraduate research programme offered at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in collaboration with the KEMRI Graduate School. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on global health challenges, health systems, and international health policy, contributing to health equity and development in Kenya, Africa, and beyond. Students engage with global health theory, health systems research, epidemiology, health policy analysis, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent field research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to international health knowledge. Kenya faces complex health challenges including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health workforce shortages, and health system inequalities. The programme addresses these challenges under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training researchers who can inform health policy, strengthen health systems, and address global health inequities. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, field research, and supervised thesis work at JKUAT and KEMRI. The programme is delivered over three academic years with coursework, research, and thesis components. Students have access to KEMRI research facilities and international health networks. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, global health researchers, health policy advisors, public health consultants, and programme directors in universities, KEMRI, WHO, Ministry of Health, and international health organisations. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in global health research and policy. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master’s degree in global health, international health, public health, or epidemiology who are committed to advancing knowledge in global health and health equity.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biochemistry (Research)
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biochemistry (RESEARCH) is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Biochemistry and at JKUAT through the College of Health Sciences in collaboration with KEMRI. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medical biochemistry, molecular medicine and clinical biochemistry. The programme addresses Kenya's medical biochemistry research and clinical laboratory development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in medical biochemistry, molecular biology, clinical biochemistry, enzymology, metabolic disorders, molecular medicine, bioinformatics, proteomics, drug discovery biochemistry and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops biochemical insights for Kenya's disease burden and health challenges. Kenya's infectious disease burden, non-communicable disease rise, nutritional disorders, drug discovery needs, clinical laboratory services and the demand for biochemical research create demand for doctoral-level medical biochemistry expertise. The programme supports Kenya's health research and clinical biochemistry goals. Teaching is delivered through research and supervised thesis work. At UoN, the Department of Biochemistry offers PhD by research with links to KEMRI, ICIPE, ILRI and other research institutions. At JKUAT, medical biochemistry research is conducted through the College of Health Sciences with KEMRI collaboration. JKUAT PhD total cost is approximately KSh 510,500 over 3 years. KEMRI Graduate School offers PhD in Medical Microbiology through JKUAT/KEMRI collaborative training. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, medical biochemistry researchers, clinical biochemists, drug discovery scientists and diagnostic specialists. They work in universities, KEMRI, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biotechnology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biotechnology is a doctoral programme offered at JKUAT through the College of Health Sciences in collaboration with KEMRI. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medical biotechnology, biopharmaceutical development and diagnostic technology. The programme addresses Kenya's medical biotechnology research and biotechnology industry development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in medical biotechnology, molecular diagnostics, vaccine development, biopharmaceutical production, gene therapy, regenerative medicine, bioinformatics, immunotechnology, biosensors and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops biotechnology innovations for Kenya's health challenges. Kenya's biotechnology industry growth, vaccine production initiatives, diagnostic technology needs, pharmaceutical manufacturing, regenerative medicine potential and the demand for biotechnology research create demand for doctoral-level medical biotechnology expertise. The programme supports Kenya's biotechnology and health innovation goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research at JKUAT. The College of Health Sciences offers PhD in Medical Biotechnology with Biochemistry (Molecular Medicine option). JKUAT PhD total cost is approximately KSh 510,500 over 3 years. KEMRI collaboration provides research facilities and supervision. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, medical biotechnology researchers, biopharmaceutical scientists, diagnostic technology developers and biotechnology consultants. They work in universities, KEMRI, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Science
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Science is a doctoral programme advancing knowledge in the laboratory diagnosis and investigation of human disease. Students conduct research in clinical microbiology, haematology, clinical chemistry, immunology, parasitology, transfusion science, molecular diagnostics, and laboratory quality management. The programme is offered at Kenyatta University and other accredited Kenyan universities, with accreditation from the Commission for University Education. Admission requires a relevant Master's degree in medical laboratory science, biomedical sciences, or a closely related discipline, along with a research proposal. Students develop advanced skills in molecular diagnostic techniques, laboratory quality assurance, research methodology, biostatistics, and scientific communication. Research areas include diagnostic method development, antimicrobial resistance detection, biomarker discovery, and laboratory systems strengthening in resource-limited settings. Kenya's medical laboratory sector is critical for disease diagnosis, surveillance, and public health monitoring. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), national reference laboratories, and university teaching hospitals provide rich environments for doctoral research in laboratory science. The programme typically involves coursework in advanced laboratory science and research methods, followed by independent research and thesis writing. Duration is three to five years, with full-time and part-time options. Assessment includes coursework, research proposal defence, and thesis examination. Graduates work as university lecturers, research scientists, laboratory directors, diagnostic technology consultants, and public health laboratory specialists. The programme is ideal for medical laboratory scientists seeking to advance diagnostic research and laboratory systems in Kenya.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Sciences (Research)
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Sciences (RESEARCH) is a doctoral programme offered at Kenyatta University through the Department of Medical Laboratory Science and at Mount Kenya University through the School of Pure and Applied Sciences. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medical laboratory science, clinical diagnostics and laboratory medicine. The programme addresses Kenya's medical laboratory research and diagnostic services development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in medical laboratory science, clinical chemistry, haematology, immunology, medical microbiology, molecular diagnostics, transfusion science, histopathology, quality management in laboratory medicine and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops laboratory science insights for Kenya's diagnostic challenges. Kenya's diagnostic services expansion, laboratory quality management needs, disease surveillance, blood transfusion services, molecular diagnostics growth and the demand for laboratory research create demand for doctoral-level medical laboratory science expertise. The programme supports Kenya's laboratory medicine and diagnostic services goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At KU, the Department of Medical Laboratory Science offers PhD with research focus. At MKU, PhD in Medical Laboratory Sciences is offered with options in Immunology and Haematology and Blood Transfusion. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, medical laboratory researchers, clinical laboratory directors, diagnostic technology specialists and quality assurance managers. They work in universities, hospitals, KEMRI, KMLTTB and diagnostic laboratories.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Microbiology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Microbiology is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and at KEMRI Graduate School in collaboration with JKUAT. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medical microbiology, infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. The programme addresses Kenya's medical microbiology research and infectious disease control development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in medical bacteriology, medical virology, medical mycology, antimicrobial resistance, diagnostic microbiology, molecular microbiology, hospital-acquired infections, emerging pathogens, vaccines and immunology and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops microbiological insights for Kenya's infectious disease challenges. Kenya's infectious disease burden including malaria, TB, HIV, respiratory infections, diarrhoeal diseases, antimicrobial resistance crisis, hospital infection control needs and emerging pathogens create demand for doctoral-level medical microbiology expertise. The programme supports Kenya's infectious disease control and public health goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At UoN, the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology offers PhD in Medical Microbiology (H810) with tuition at KSh 432,000/year, total KSh 1,432,000 over 3 years. Related PhDs include Infectious Diseases (H84), Virology (H82), Immunology (H83), Tropical and Infectious Diseases (W80), Clinical Research (H85) and Implementation Science (H88). At KEMRI Graduate School, PhD in Medical Microbiology is offered through JKUAT/KEMRI collaborative training with application fee KSh 3,500. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, medical microbiology researchers, clinical microbiologists, infection control specialists and public health microbiologists. They work in universities, KEMRI, hospitals, Ministry of Health and international health organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Parasitology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Parasitology is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi and JKUAT in collaboration with KEMRI. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on parasitic diseases including malaria, schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and soil-transmitted helminths, contributing to disease control and public health in Kenya and tropical regions. Students engage with advanced parasitology, molecular biology, immunology of parasitic infections, vector biology, drug discovery, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent laboratory and field research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to medical parasitology. Kenya bears a significant burden of parasitic diseases particularly malaria, schistosomiasis, and leishmaniasis affecting millions of people. The programme addresses national health priorities under the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training researchers who can contribute to disease control strategies, drug development, and diagnostic innovation. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, field research, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to research facilities at UoN’s UNITID, KEMRI laboratories, and JKUAT’s Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, research scientists, parasitologists, and biomedical researchers in universities, KEMRI, international research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in parasitology research and tropical disease control. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master’s degree in medical parasitology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, or related health sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in parasitic disease research.