Skip to content
Nairobi · KenyaFree to read
Courses

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.

350courses recorded
0145Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in General Surgery

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 428,000
0146Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Global Health

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 428,000
0147Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Informatics

HighDemand

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.

3-4 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 428,000
0148Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Systems Management

HighDemand

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.

3-4 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 250,000
0149Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Systems and Preventive Medicine

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 428,000
0150Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Human Anatomy

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 396,000
0151Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Human Nutrition

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 367,200
0152Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Immunology

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 464,000
0153Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Implementation Science

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 432,000
0154Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Pharmacy

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 571,200
0155Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Infection Biology

ModerateDemand

The Doctor of Philosophy in Infection Biology provides advanced research training in the biology of infectious diseases, covering host-pathogen interactions, immune responses, and molecular mechanisms of infection. Students study bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, developing advanced research skills in infection biology. The programme is designed for graduates in biomedical sciences seeking doctoral research qualifications. Students develop advanced competencies in molecular microbiology, immunology, pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, and diagnostic development. The curriculum covers advanced infection biology concepts and a doctoral thesis. Research skills are developed through independent laboratory research and field work. Infection biology research is critical for Kenya's health sector. Infectious diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Kenya. Research institutions, hospitals, and public health agencies require trained infection biologists. The programme addresses the demand for doctoral-level research training in infection biology. The programme combines coursework with independent research, laboratory work, and thesis writing. Students study advanced infection biology concepts, design research projects, conduct laboratory research, and write a doctoral thesis. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, and research supervision. Graduates find employment as research scientists, university lecturers, clinical microbiologists, or public health specialists in research institutions, universities, hospitals, and international health organisations. The doctoral degree supports careers in infection biology research, education, and public health. This programme is ideal for biomedical science graduates seeking advanced research qualifications in infection biology. The programme provides advanced skills for pathogen research, diagnostic development, and public health microbiology.

3-4 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 250,000
0156Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 432,000
0157Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in International Health

HighDemand

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.

3 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 428,000
0158Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biochemistry (Research)

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 432,000
0159Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biotechnology

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 170,167
0160Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Education

ModerateDemand

The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Education is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the College of Health Sciences. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on medical education, curriculum development, assessment methods, and health professions training, contributing to the quality and effectiveness of medical education in Kenya and beyond. Students engage with educational theory, curriculum design, assessment and evaluation, simulation-based education, health professions education research, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to medical education knowledge. Kenya faces critical shortages of health professionals and needs high-quality medical education to train the next generation of doctors, nurses, and allied health workers. The programme addresses national health workforce priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training researchers who can improve medical education quality, curriculum relevance, and training outcomes. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, educational research projects, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to UoN’s medical education facilities at the Kenyatta National Hospital campus and collaborate with clinical educators at teaching hospitals. Graduates pursue careers as medical education researchers, university lecturers, curriculum developers, assessment specialists, and health professions education consultants in universities, medical schools, teaching hospitals, and international health education organisations. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in medical education research and practice. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master’s degree in medical education, health professions education, or a clinical discipline with education interest who are committed to advancing knowledge in medical education.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 428,000
0161Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Science

HighDemand

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.

3 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 464,000
0162Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Laboratory Sciences (Research)

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 432,000
0163Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Microbiology

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 432,000
0164Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Mycology

LowDemand

The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Mycology provides advanced research training in medical mycology, focusing on fungal pathogens, antifungal resistance, and the epidemiology of fungal infections. Students learn advanced mycological techniques, molecular characterisation of fungi, antifungal susceptibility testing, and the clinical management of fungal diseases. The programme is designed for graduates in biomedical sciences seeking advanced research qualifications in medical mycology. Students develop advanced competencies in fungal pathogenesis, laboratory diagnostics, molecular mycology, antifungal pharmacology, and public health mycology. The curriculum covers advanced mycological research methods and a doctoral thesis. Research skills are developed through independent laboratory research and field work. Medical mycology research is critical for Kenya's health sector. Fungal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. Research institutions, hospitals, and public health agencies require trained medical mycologists. The programme addresses the demand for doctoral-level research training in medical mycology. The programme combines coursework with independent research, laboratory work, and thesis writing. Students study advanced mycology concepts, design research projects, conduct laboratory research, and write a doctoral thesis. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, and research supervision. The programme is offered through the KEMRI Graduate School in collaboration with JKUAT. Graduates find employment as research scientists, university lecturers, clinical mycologists, or public health specialists in research institutions, universities, hospitals, and international health organisations. The doctoral degree supports careers in medical mycology research, education, and public health. This programme is ideal for biomedical science graduates seeking advanced research qualifications in medical mycology. The programme provides advanced skills for fungal pathogen research, diagnostic development, and public health mycology.

3-4 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 367,200
0165Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Parasitology

HighDemand

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.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 464,000
0166Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Parasitology and Entomology

HighDemand

The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Parasitology and Entomology is a doctoral programme offered at KEMRI Graduate School in collaboration with JKUAT and at JKUAT through the College of Health Sciences. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medical parasitology, medical entomology and vector-borne diseases. The programme addresses Kenya's parasitology research and vector-borne disease control development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in medical parasitology, medical entomology, vector biology, malaria research, neglected tropical diseases, parasite genomics, vector control methods, epidemiology of parasitic diseases, immunoparasitology and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops parasitological insights for Kenya's vector-borne disease challenges. Kenya's malaria burden, schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, leishmaniasis, sleeping sickness, vector control needs, insecticide resistance and the demand for parasitology research create demand for doctoral-level medical parasitology and entomology expertise. The programme supports Kenya's vector-borne disease control and public health goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions, fieldwork and supervised research. At KEMRI Graduate School, PhD in Medical Parasitology and Entomology is offered to train highly qualified global health professionals. At JKUAT, MSc in Medical Parasitology and Entomology is offered as a pathway to PhD. JKUAT/KEMRI collaborative training with application fee KSh 3,500 for PhD. JKUAT PhD total cost approximately KSh 510,500 over 3 years. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, parasitology researchers, medical entomologists, vector control specialists and public health researchers. They work in universities, KEMRI, Ministry of Health, WHO and international health organisations.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 432,000
0167Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physics

HighDemand

The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physics is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Physics. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on the application of physics principles to medicine, including medical imaging, radiation therapy, radiation protection, and dosimetry, contributing to healthcare quality and safety in Kenya and beyond. Students engage with advanced medical physics, radiation dosimetry, medical imaging physics, radiotherapy physics, radiation protection, and research methodology. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent laboratory and clinical research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to medical physics. Kenya is expanding its cancer treatment infrastructure with radiotherapy centres at KNH, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and county hospitals. The programme addresses national health priorities by training medical physicists who can ensure safe and effective use of radiation in medicine, support cancer treatment, and develop imaging technologies under Vision 2030. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, clinical training at radiotherapy and imaging centres, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to UoN's physics laboratories and clinical facilities at Kenyatta National Hospital. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, medical physicists, radiation protection officers, imaging scientists, and health physics consultants in universities, hospitals, cancer treatment centres, the Radiation Protection Board, and international health organisations. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in medical physics research and clinical practice. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in medical physics, physics, or related physical sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in the application of physics to medicine.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 392,000
0168Health Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physiology

HighDemand

The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physiology is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Human Anatomy and Medical Physiology. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medical physiology, organ function and clinical physiology. The programme addresses Kenya's medical physiology research and clinical physiology development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in cellular physiology, systems physiology, neurophysiology, cardiovascular physiology, respiratory physiology, renal physiology, endocrine physiology, gastrointestinal physiology, exercise physiology and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops physiological insights for Kenya's health challenges. Kenya's medical education needs, clinical physiology services, research on high-altitude physiology, tropical physiology, non-communicable disease mechanisms and the demand for physiology research create demand for doctoral-level medical physiology expertise. The programme supports Kenya's medical education and clinical research goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At UoN, the Department of Human Anatomy and Medical Physiology offers PhD in Medical Physiology (H802) with tuition at KSh 396,000/year, Year 1 total KSh 428,000, Year 2 KSh 423,000, Year 3 KSh 473,000, total KSh 1,324,000 over 3 years. Fees applicable to both local and international students. Applications open in April every year. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, medical physiology researchers, clinical physiologists and biomedical researchers. They work in universities, medical schools, hospitals and research institutes.

3-5 yearsFull-timeup to Ksh 396,000