Top 7 Law Schools in Kenya

Learning about the law is really important because it helps train people who will work to make sure things are fair and equal in their communities. In Kenya, there are different schools where you can learn about the law, and each one has its own unique strengths and things to offer, giving students lots of choices to study law in different ways.

In this article, we have a helpful guide about the top seven law schools in Kenya. We will tell you about what they teach, who teaches there, and what it’s like for students. Whether you’re a lawyer who wants to learn more or someone thinking about going to law school, this article has useful information about the best law schools in Kenya.

When thinking about the top law schools in Kenya, it can be useful to compare them to the legal education systems in India and Florida. You can find more information in articles about law schools in India and the best law schools in Florida, which can give you a better understanding of the differences.

Duration for law schools in Kenya

In Kenyan universities, the Bachelor of Laws program usually lasts for at least four years, which is divided into eight semesters. To earn the degree, students need to finish the LLB program in a minimum of four years but no longer than six academic years.

Eligibility for attending Law Schools in Kenya

To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Have achieved a C+ (C plus) or equivalent in your Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E.), or
2. Have achieved a C plain or equivalent in your K.C.S.E. plus hold a relevant diploma qualification from a recognized institution with a distinction/credit pass. The diploma program should have lasted at least 2 years, or
3. Hold a Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE) with two principal passes- Principal A, B, or C- (at least) or an equivalent qualification, or
4. Hold a relevant degree (or degrees) from an accredited University, and have achieved a B (B plain) or equivalent in English at KCSE or an equivalent qualification.

Overview of Law schools in Kenya

1. University of Nairobi school of Law

The biggest university in Kenya is the University of Nairobi, situated in Nairobi. It’s famous for its impressive research and high-quality education.

One of its parts is the School of Law, which is a part of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. This School of Law has three sections: Public Law, Private Law, and Commercial Law, and each of these is overseen by a Chairperson. 

The Dean is the leader who manages both the academic and administrative aspects of the School. Students who want to become lawyers and study at this School receive excellent training. This helps them become respected professionals in different areas of law when they graduate.

2. Kenyatta University School of Law 

The KU branch is found in the calm outskirts of Nairobi, specifically on Chemilil road in Parklands. This location offers students a safe and peaceful place to live and study. It’s easy to get to the institution from the city center, whether you’re using private or public transportation.

Even though it initially started with 124 students on May 12, 2008, it didn’t have its official launch until November 27, 2009, with a vibrant ceremony. Since then, the university has graduated many accomplished lawyers, solidifying its standing as one of the top choices in Kenya for studying law.

3. Strathmore University School of law

Strathmore University School of Law is considered one of the best law schools in Kenya and has earned the top position among similar institutions. 

During the 2017 Bar exams conducted by the Council of Legal Education, Strathmore School of Law stood out with an impressive pass rate of 66%. This was the highest among all law schools and a significant difference from the as low as 10% pass rates seen in students from other universities in Kenya.

4. Moi University School of Law

Moi University School of Law, situated in Eldoret, Kenya, is a well-known law school that offers various undergraduate and postgraduate law programs. 

The university provides a four-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program, which covers various aspects of law like commercial law, constitutional law, criminal law, environmental law, and international law. Alongside the LLB program, they offer additional programs as well.

Moi University School of Law offers postgraduate programs, including a postgraduate diploma in law, a Master of Laws (LLM), and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in law. These programs enable students to specialize in particular areas of law.

5. Catholic University of Eastern Africa Faculty of Law

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) is a privately-owned university with multiple campuses in Kenya. It has received accreditation from the Commission for University Education in Kenya.

The faculty at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa consists of three departments: the Department of Public Law, the Department of Private Law, and the Department of International Law. Each department is headed by a Department Head who reports to the Dean.

The Faculty offers a four-year Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) program. The aim of this program is to graduate students who have a deep understanding of Kenyan law within a broader regional context.

6. Egerton University School of Law

Egerton University is a public university situated in Njoro, Nakuru County, Kenya.

Egerton University School of Law provides various programs including the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, Master of Laws (LLM) degree, and Postgraduate Diploma in Law. 

The LLB degree program at Egerton University takes four years and is meant to teach students important legal knowledge, skills, and values. It covers different areas of law like constitutional law, criminal law, property law, and tort law. 

In contrast, the LLM degree program lasts for one year and is meant for students who already have an LLB degree or something similar.

7. Riara University School of Law

Riara University is a private university located in Nairobi, Kenya.

The school provides a four-year program called Bachelor of Laws (LLB). It helps students understand Kenya’s legal system, legal rules, and how to practice law.  They also have a Master of Laws (LLM) program that goes deeper into various fields of law, like business law, human rights law, and international law.