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 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 Mycology
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.
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.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Parasitology and Entomology
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.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physics
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.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physiology
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.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Virology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Virology is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Medical Microbiology. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on viruses of medical importance, including HIV, influenza, arboviruses, and emerging viral pathogens, contributing to viral disease prevention, diagnosis, and control in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced virology, molecular biology, viral pathogenesis, diagnostic virology, vaccine development, 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 medical virology. Kenya faces significant viral disease burdens including HIV, viral hepatitis, and emerging arboviruses such as dengue and chikungunya. The programme addresses national health priorities under the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training virologists who can contribute to viral disease surveillance, outbreak response, vaccine development, and diagnostic innovation. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions at UoN's Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (UNITID) and KAVI Institute of Clinical Research, and supervised thesis work. Students train in biosafety level 2 and 3 laboratories for handling pathogenic viruses. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, research scientists, virologists, and biomedical researchers in universities, KEMRI, KAVI, WHO, CDC, and international research institutions. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in viral disease research and public health virology. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in medical virology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, or related health sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in viral disease research.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medicinal Chemistry
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medicinal Chemistry is a doctoral programme offered at JKUAT through the College of Health Sciences and at KEMRI Graduate School in collaboration with JKUAT. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medicinal chemistry, drug discovery and pharmaceutical chemistry. The programme addresses Kenya's medicinal chemistry research and drug discovery development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in medicinal chemistry, drug design, pharmaceutical synthesis, natural product chemistry, computational drug design, pharmacokinetics, drug metabolism, structure-activity relationships, analytical methods in pharmaceutical chemistry and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops medicinal chemistry innovations for Kenya's health challenges. Kenya's drug discovery needs, pharmaceutical manufacturing, traditional medicine research, neglected tropical diseases, antimicrobial resistance drug development and the demand for pharmaceutical research create demand for doctoral-level medicinal chemistry expertise. The programme supports Kenya's pharmaceutical industry and drug discovery goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At JKUAT, the College of Health Sciences offers PhD in Medicinal Chemistry. At KEMRI Graduate School, PhD in Medicinal Chemistry is offered through JKUAT/KEMRI collaborative training with application fee KSh 3,500. Duration 3 years with coursework, research and thesis. JKUAT PhD total cost approximately KSh 510,500 over 3 years. At KU, PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry is offered at KSh 571,200/year. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, medicinal chemistry researchers, drug discovery scientists, pharmaceutical chemists and analytical chemists. They work in universities, KEMRI, pharmaceutical companies, Pharmacy and Poisons Board and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medicinal Phytochemistry
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medicinal Phytochemistry is a doctoral programme offered at JKUAT through the College of Health Sciences and at KEMRI Graduate School in collaboration with JKUAT. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in medicinal phytochemistry, plant-based drug discovery and natural products chemistry. The programme addresses Kenya's medicinal phytochemistry research and traditional medicine development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in phytochemistry, natural product chemistry, medicinal plant research, plant extraction and isolation, spectroscopic methods, bioassay-guided fractionation, ethnopharmacology, plant biotechnology for medicinal compounds, quality control of herbal medicines and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops phytochemical insights for Kenya's traditional medicine and drug discovery challenges. Kenya's rich biodiversity, traditional medicine heritage, medicinal plant research, herbal medicine regulation, natural product drug discovery, phytopharmaceutical development and the demand for phytochemistry research create demand for doctoral-level medicinal phytochemistry expertise. The programme supports Kenya's traditional medicine and natural product development goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At JKUAT, the College of Health Sciences offers PhD in Medicinal Phytochemistry. At KEMRI Graduate School, PhD in Phytochemistry is offered through JKUAT/KEMRI collaborative training with application fee KSh 3,500. Duration 3 years with coursework, research and thesis. JKUAT PhD total cost approximately KSh 510,500 over 3 years. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, phytochemistry researchers, natural product scientists, drug discovery specialists and herbal medicine consultants. They work in universities, KEMRI, pharmaceutical companies, Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Medicine
The Doctor of Philosophy in Medicine is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Faculty of Health Sciences. The programme trains medical scholars to conduct advanced research on medical sciences, clinical medicine, and translational research, contributing to medical knowledge and healthcare improvement in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced medical research methods, clinical epidemiology, translational medicine, molecular medicine, and specialised medical research topics. The programme combines coursework with thesis research, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent clinical and laboratory research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to medical science. Kenya faces significant health challenges including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and maternal health issues requiring medical research. The programme addresses national health priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training physician-scientists who can bridge clinical practice and research, translating discoveries into improved patient care. Teaching methods include lectures, clinical research at Kenyatta National Hospital, laboratory research, seminars, and supervised thesis work. Students have access to UoN's medical research facilities at the KNH campus and collaborate with KEMRI and international medical research institutions. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, medical researchers, physician-scientists, clinical research directors, and medical consultants in universities, KEMRI, teaching hospitals, and international medical research organisations. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master of Medicine (MMed) or MSc in medical sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in medical science and translational research.
Doctor of Philosophy in Meteorology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Meteorology is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Earth and Climate Science. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in meteorology, atmospheric science and climate studies. The programme addresses Kenya's meteorological research and weather services development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in atmospheric dynamics, climate science, weather forecasting, atmospheric physics, climatology, satellite meteorology, numerical weather prediction, tropical meteorology, climate change modelling and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops meteorological insights for Kenya's weather and climate challenges. Kenya's climate variability, drought and flood cycles, agricultural meteorology needs, aviation weather services, climate change impacts, renewable energy planning, disaster management and the demand for meteorological research create demand for doctoral-level meteorology expertise. The programme supports Kenya's weather services and climate adaptation goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, computational sessions and supervised research. At UoN, the Department of Earth and Climate Science offers PhD in Meteorology (I805) with tuition at KSh 360,000/year, Year 1 total KSh 392,000, Year 2 KSh 387,000, Year 3 KSh 437,000, total KSh 1,216,000 over 3 years. Related PhDs include Climate Change and Adaptation (SCL81), Geology (SES82) and Environmental Governance and Management (SEG8). Graduates pursue careers as university professors, meteorology researchers, climate scientists, weather forecasters and atmospheric consultants. They work in universities, Kenya Meteorological Department, IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre, World Meteorological Organization and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology is a doctoral programme offered by Kenyan universities, designed to provide advanced training and research opportunities in philosophy and ethical studies. The programme is accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and delivered through coursework, seminars, and independent research. Students engage with ethical theory, logic, metaphysics, and philosophy of mind through a structured curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications. The programme emphasises critical reasoning, ethical analysis, and philosophical inquiry and prepares scholars to contribute original research to the discipline. Kenya's ethical challenges in technology, governance, and society require philosophical expertise. The programme addresses national development priorities and aligns with Kenya's Vision 2030, which emphasises the need for highly trained professionals in philosophy and ethics. 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 university lecturers, ethics consultants, policy analysts, and researchers 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 philosophy and ethics. This programme is ideal for individuals with a strong academic background in philosophy or a related humanities field who are passionate about research and advancing knowledge in philosophy and ethical studies. It suits those who wish to contribute to policy development, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making in Kenya and beyond.
Doctor of Philosophy in Mining Engineering
The Doctor of Philosophy in Mining Engineering is a doctoral programme offered at JKUAT through the School of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Material Engineering (SOMMME) and at the Technical University of Kenya (TUK). It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in mining engineering, mineral processing and extractive metallurgy. The programme addresses Kenya's mining engineering research and mineral resources development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in mining engineering, rock mechanics, mine ventilation, mineral processing, extractive metallurgy, mine planning and design, environmental management in mining, geostatistics, surface and underground mining and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops mining engineering innovations for Kenya's mineral resources challenges. Kenya's mineral sector growth including titanium, soda ash, fluorspar, gold, rare earth elements, diatomite and gemstones, mining safety needs, environmental management, mineral processing technology and the demand for mining research create demand for doctoral-level mining engineering expertise. The programme supports Kenya's mining sector development goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At JKUAT, BSc in Mining and Mineral Processing Engineering is offered with PhD programmes through SOMMME. JKUAT PhD total cost approximately KSh 510,500 over 3 years. Application fee KSh 1,500. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, mining engineering researchers, mineral processing specialists, mine planning consultants and mining safety engineers. They work in universities, mining companies, Ministry of Mining, Kenya Chamber of Mines and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology (Research)
The Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology (RESEARCH) is a doctoral programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Biochemistry and Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (CEBIB), and at Kenyatta University through the School of Pure and Applied Sciences (SPAS). It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in molecular biology, gene regulation and molecular genetics. The programme addresses Kenya's molecular biology research and life sciences development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in molecular biology, gene expression and regulation, molecular genetics, cell signalling, epigenetics, molecular biology of disease, recombinant DNA technology, molecular cloning, PCR and qPCR techniques, sequencing technologies and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops molecular biology insights for Kenya's health, agricultural and environmental challenges. Kenya's life sciences research needs, disease molecular mechanisms, crop improvement, pathogen molecular biology, biotechnology industry, genetic research and the demand for molecular biology expertise create demand for doctoral-level molecular biology researchers. The programme supports Kenya's life sciences and biotechnology development goals. Teaching is delivered through research and supervised thesis work. At UoN, the Department of Biochemistry and CEBIB offer PhD by research with links to KEMRI, ICIPE and ILRI. CEBIB PhD is 36 months by research. At KU, SPAS offers PhD by research alone, 3-4 years, evaluation by thesis. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, molecular biology researchers, geneticists, biotechnology specialists and biomedical researchers. They work in universities, KEMRI, ICIPE, ILRI, biotechnology firms and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics
The Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics is a doctoral programme offered at JKUAT and at the University of Nairobi through the Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (CEBIB). It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in molecular biology, bioinformatics and computational biology. The programme addresses Kenya's molecular biology research and bioinformatics development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in molecular biology, genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics algorithms, computational biology, sequence analysis, structural bioinformatics, systems biology, molecular modelling and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops molecular biology and bioinformatics insights for Kenya's health, agriculture and environmental challenges. Kenya's genomics research needs, agricultural biotechnology, health genomics, pathogen surveillance, drug discovery, biodiversity research and the demand for computational biology create demand for doctoral-level molecular biology and bioinformatics expertise. The programme supports Kenya's biotechnology and genomics development goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, computational sessions and supervised research. At JKUAT, PhD in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics is offered with duration 3-5 years. Application fee KSh 1,500. At UoN, CEBIB offers PhD in Bioinformatics (I837) by research only, minimum 6 semesters, maximum 14 semesters. Tuition 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. Students must publish at least 2 peer-reviewed articles. Admission open throughout the year. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, bioinformatics researchers, computational biologists, genomics scientists and biotechnology consultants. They work in universities, KEMRI, ILRI, ICIPE, biotechnology firms and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology is a doctoral programme offered at JKUAT through the Institute of Biotechnology Research (IBR) and at the University of Nairobi through the Centre for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (CEBIB). It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in molecular biology, biotechnology and genetic engineering. The programme addresses Kenya's molecular biology research and biotechnology industry development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in molecular biology, genetic engineering, plant biotechnology, animal biotechnology, industrial biotechnology, environmental biotechnology, molecular diagnostics, recombinant DNA technology, bioinformatics and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops biotechnology innovations for Kenya's agricultural, health and industrial challenges. Kenya's agricultural biotechnology needs, GM crop research, vaccine production, industrial enzymes, biofuel production, environmental bioremediation, molecular diagnostics and the demand for biotechnology research create demand for doctoral-level molecular biology and biotechnology expertise. The programme supports Kenya's biotechnology industry development goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At JKUAT, IBR offers PhD in Biotechnology with total cost KSh 510,500 over 3 years. Application fee KSh 1,500. At UoN, CEBIB offers PhD in Biotechnology by research, 36 months. Kenyan students KSh 380,000/year, foreign students US$ 6,500/year. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, biotechnology researchers, molecular biologists, genetic engineering specialists and biotechnology consultants. They work in universities, KEMRI, ICIPE, ILRI, biotechnology firms and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biomedical Sciences
The Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biomedical Sciences is a doctoral programme offered at KEMRI Graduate School in collaboration with JKUAT and at the University of Nairobi through the Faculty of Health Sciences. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in molecular biomedical sciences, molecular diagnostics and translational medicine. The programme addresses Kenya's biomedical research and molecular medicine development needs. Students engage with advanced topics in molecular biomedical sciences, molecular diagnostics, translational research, molecular pathology, immunology, molecular epidemiology, biomarker discovery, molecular therapeutics, genomics and proteomics in disease and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops molecular biomedical insights for Kenya's disease burden and health challenges. Kenya's infectious disease burden, non-communicable disease rise, molecular diagnostics needs, personalised medicine potential, biomarker discovery, translational research and the demand for biomedical research create demand for doctoral-level molecular biomedical sciences expertise. The programme supports Kenya's biomedical research and translational medicine goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, laboratory sessions and supervised research. At KEMRI Graduate School, PhD in Molecular Biomedical Sciences is offered through JKUAT/KEMRI collaborative training. School of Biomedical Sciences includes departments of Medical Microbiology, Medical Virology, Medical Mycology, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Medical Parasitology and Entomology, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. Application fee KSh 3,500 for PhD. Duration 3 years with coursework, research and thesis. JKUAT PhD total approximately KSh 510,500. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, biomedical researchers, molecular diagnosticians, translational medicine specialists and clinical research scientists. They work in universities, KEMRI, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and research institutes.
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Medicine
The Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Medicine is a postgraduate research programme offered at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST). The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research at the molecular level of disease, integrating molecular biology, genetics, and medicine to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for diseases prevalent in Kenya and globally. Students engage with molecular biology, genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, molecular pathogenesis, 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 molecular medicine. Kenya faces significant disease burdens from infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and genetic disorders. The programme addresses national health priorities under Vision 2030 and the Kenya Health Policy Framework by training researchers who can contribute to molecular diagnostics, drug discovery, and personalised medicine approaches relevant to Kenyan populations. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions, bioinformatics workshops, and supervised thesis research at JKUAT and MUST. Students have access to molecular biology laboratories and collaborate with KEMRI and international research institutions. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, molecular medicine researchers, biomedical scientists, and biotechnology specialists in universities, KEMRI, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and the growing biotechnology sector in Kenya. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in molecular medicine research and biomedical innovation. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in molecular medicine, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, or medical sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge at the molecular interface of medicine.
Doctor of Philosophy in Music
The Doctor of Philosophy in Music is a doctoral programme offered at Kenyatta University through the Department of Music and Dance, School of Creative Arts, Film and Media Studies. It is the oldest university music department in Kenya and continues to be the premier institution for music education. The programme is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in musicology, ethnomusicology, music education and musical arts. Students engage with advanced topics in musicology, ethnomusicology, African music, music education, music performance, music composition, music theory and analysis, music technology, cultural studies in music and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops musical insights for Kenya's cultural heritage and music education challenges. Kenya's rich musical heritage, cultural industries growth, music education needs, performing arts sector, music therapy potential, cultural preservation and the demand for music research create demand for doctoral-level music expertise. The programme supports Kenya's cultural development and music education goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, performances and supervised research. At KU, the Department of Music and Dance offers PhD in Musical Arts, PhD in Music Education, and PhD in (a) African Music, (b) Ethnomusicology, (c) Musicology. Fees KSh 244,800/year for East Africans, KSh 306,000/year for non-East Africans. PhD in performance requires annual recitals and seminar papers culminating in a thesis and recital. PhD in Music Education requires thesis on approved research problem. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, music researchers, ethnomusicologists, music educators and cultural consultants. They work in universities, cultural institutions, Ministry of Sports, Culture and Heritage, Kenya Music Festival and international cultural organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education
The Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education is a doctoral programme that develops scholars and educators at the intersection of music theory, music pedagogy, African musicology, ethnomusicology, and educational research. Students investigate how music is taught and learned, the role of music in cultural identity, and the documentation and preservation of African musical traditions. The programme is offered at Kenyatta University, which is accredited by the Commission for University Education. Maseno University also offers doctoral programmes in music and ethnomusicology. Admission requires a Master's degree in Music Education, Music, or a closely related field. Students develop expertise in music education research methods, curriculum design, assessment in music education, African musicology, and ethnomusicological field methods. Research areas include music pedagogy in Kenyan schools, indigenous music preservation, music technology in education, and the role of music in cognitive and social development. Kenya has rich musical traditions across its forty-plus ethnic communities, combined with a growing contemporary music industry. This creates unique opportunities for research on music education, cultural transmission, and the intersection of traditional and modern musical practices in educational settings. The programme combines coursework in music education theory and research methodology with independent doctoral research. Full-time study is the primary mode, with some institutions offering part-time options. Assessment includes coursework, research proposal defence, and thesis examination. Graduates serve as university lecturers, music curriculum developers, arts education consultants, ethnomusicology researchers, and cultural policy advisors. The programme suits music educators and performers who wish to contribute original research to music education in African contexts.
Doctor of Philosophy in Mycobacteriology
The Doctor of Philosophy in Mycobacteriology is a postgraduate research programme offered at the University of Nairobi through the Department of Medical Microbiology in collaboration with KEMRI. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on mycobacteria, with particular focus on Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, and non-tuberculous mycobacteria, contributing to TB control and diagnostic innovation in Kenya and globally. Students engage with advanced bacteriology, molecular biology of mycobacteria, TB drug resistance, diagnostic mycobacteriology, immunology of TB, 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 mycobacteriology. Kenya is among the 30 high TB burden countries globally and faces increasing multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and TB-HIV co-infection challenges. The programme addresses national health priorities under the Kenya Health Policy Framework and the National TB Programme by training researchers who can contribute to TB diagnostics, drug resistance surveillance, and treatment improvement. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory sessions at UoN and KEMRI's Centre for Respiratory Diseases Research, and supervised thesis work. Students train in BSL-3 laboratories for handling pathogenic mycobacteria and collaborate with the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, TB researchers, clinical microbiologists, and public health laboratory scientists in universities, KEMRI, WHO, CDC, the National TB Programme, and international research institutions. The programme provides advanced expertise for leadership roles in TB research and mycobacterial disease control. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in medical microbiology, biomedical sciences, or related health sciences who are committed to advancing knowledge in mycobacteriology and TB research.
Doctor of Philosophy in National Security and Strategy
The Doctor of Philosophy in National Security and Strategy is a doctoral programme offered at the National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) through the National Defence College (NDC) and the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC). NDU-K is headquartered in Lanet, Nakuru, and is a chartered institution comprising specialised constituent colleges. The programme is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in national security, strategic studies and defence policy. Students engage with advanced topics in national security, strategic studies, defence policy, security sector governance, conflict analysis, peace support operations, counter-terrorism, intelligence studies, cybersecurity policy, regional security and research methods. The curriculum emphasises original research that develops security and strategic insights for Kenya's national security challenges. Kenya's security challenges including terrorism, border security, cyber threats, regional instability, transnational crime, maritime security, internal conflicts and the demand for security research create demand for doctoral-level national security expertise. The programme supports Kenya's national security and defence development goals. Teaching is delivered through coursework, seminars and supervised research. At NDU-K, the National Defence College trains senior military officers and civil servants in national security and strategy. IPSTC conducts postgraduate programmes including Master of Arts in Crisis Response and Disaster Management. NDU-K provides a unique platform to blend theory and practice in security and strategy. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, security analysts, defence consultants, policy researchers and intelligence analysts. They work in universities, Ministry of Defence, National Intelligence Service, Kenya Defence Forces, security think tanks and international organisations.
Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Products Chemistry
The Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Products Chemistry is a research-focused doctoral programme investigating the isolation, characterisation, and biological activity of natural compounds from plants, marine organisms, and microorganisms. Students explore medicinal chemistry, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, and bioactive compound discovery with applications in pharmaceuticals and traditional medicine. The programme is offered at the University of Nairobi through its Department of Chemistry and at Mount Kenya University, both accredited by the Commission for University Education. Admission requires a relevant Master's degree in chemistry, natural products chemistry, or a closely related field. Students develop advanced skills in chromatographic techniques, spectroscopic methods (NMR, MS, IR), bioassay-guided fractionation, structure elucidation, and natural product biosynthesis. Research areas include medicinal plant chemistry, antimicrobial compounds, anti-cancer agents, and traditional medicine validation, with particular relevance to Kenya's biodiversity. Kenya's rich floral biodiversity, with thousands of medicinal plant species used in traditional medicine, provides exceptional research opportunities. The Kenya Medical Research Institute and universities collaborate on natural product research for drug discovery, addressing local health challenges including malaria, tuberculosis, and infectious diseases. The programme typically involves coursework in advanced organic chemistry, spectroscopy, and research methodology, followed by independent research and thesis writing. Duration is three to five years, with full-time and part-time options available at most institutions. Graduates work as university lecturers, research scientists at KEMRI and KALRO, pharmaceutical industry researchers, traditional medicine consultants, and quality control specialists. The programme suits chemistry graduates passionate about drug discovery from natural sources.
Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Resources and Peace
The Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Resources and Peace is a postgraduate research programme offered at Egerton University through the Faculty of Environment and Resource Development. The programme trains scholars to conduct advanced research on the intersection of natural resource management and peacebuilding, addressing resource-based conflicts, environmental security, and sustainable resource governance in Kenya and the East African region. Students engage with natural resource governance, environmental conflict, peacebuilding theory, resource-based conflict analysis, environmental security, and research methodology. The programme is delivered by thesis, requiring candidates to develop a research proposal, conduct independent field research, and produce a doctoral dissertation that makes an original contribution to the field of natural resources and peace. Kenya and the broader East African region face numerous resource-based conflicts including water conflicts, land disputes, pastoralist conflicts over grazing resources, and conflicts over mineral extraction. The programme addresses these challenges under Vision 2030 and national peacebuilding frameworks by training researchers who can inform conflict-sensitive resource management and peacebuilding policy. Teaching methods include supervised research, field studies in conflict-affected areas, seminars, and thesis writing. Candidates work with supervisors to develop proposals, conduct field research on resource-conflict dynamics, and write their dissertations. The programme is delivered full-time over a minimum of three years at Egerton University's main campus in Njoro. Graduates pursue careers as university lecturers, environmental conflict researchers, peacebuilding specialists, natural resource managers, and policy analysts in universities, research institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and international organisations working at the environment-peace nexus. This programme is ideal for holders of a Master's degree in natural resources, environmental studies, peace studies, conflict management, or related disciplines who are committed to advancing knowledge at the intersection of resource management and peacebuilding.