10 Best Universities in Ghana
This article compiled by Lofty Scholars provides the best universities in Ghana. So, if you are planning to study in Ghana either as a national or an international student, this list will come in handy in helping you make the right choice for your school of study.
Most of the universities in this list are the best in Ghana and are also among the top-rated universities in Africa. They have gained recognition as one of the most popular universities in Africa.
The schools in the list of the top best universities in Ghana have been selected and ranked based on different criteria such as accreditation, affiliation, courses offered, quality of education offered etc.
These most popular universities in Ghana have been accredited by the Ghanaian higher education-related organizations such as:
- The Ministry of Education Ghana
- National Accreditation Board, Ghana
- African Quality Assurance Network
- Association of African Universities
- Accreditation Agencies
What are the best universities in Ghana?
1. University of Ghana
The University of Ghana was founded in 1948 and is situated in Legon, Greater Accra. The university has additional campuses in Korle-Bu and Accra City. With an enrollment range of 30,000 to 35,000, the University of Ghana is recognized as the top university in Ghana and is accredited by the National Accreditation Board of Ghana.
In addition to bachelor’s degrees, the University of Ghana also provides recognized pre-bachelor degrees (diplomas, certificates, and associates) as well as postgraduate degrees (masters and doctorates) in various fields of study.
The University of Ghana offers several academic and non-academic facilities, structures, and services, including housing accommodation, sports facilities, a state-of-the-art library, administrative services, online and distance learning opportunities, scholarships, and other financial aid programs.
The University of Ghana is a member of various prestigious organizations and affiliations such as the Association of African Universities (AAU), Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), League of World Universities (LWU), International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), and the International Association of Universities (IAU).
2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Established by Kwame Nkrumah in 1952, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is the second-best university in Ghana, renowned for its expertise in science, technology, entrepreneurship, and research. The university is located in Kumasi Ashanti, with additional branch campuses in Sunyani and Accra.
KNUST is recognized globally as a center of excellence in the fields of science, technology, entrepreneurship, and research. The university welcomes international students and has a teaching model that accommodates both national and international students.
KNUST is a member of prestigious organizations and affiliations such as the Association of African Universities and the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
3. University of Cape Coast
The University of Cape Coast is ranked third on our list of the best universities in Ghana. Established in 1962 as a non-profit institution, the university is located in the small city of Cape Coast and was originally established as a University College. It has now obtained full accreditation as an independent institution.
Apart from being one of the top-ranked universities in Ghana, the University of Cape Coast is also highly regarded in Africa. Its main goal is to produce highly skilled and qualified intellectuals, and it is accredited by the National Accreditation Board of Ghana.
The university is selective in its admission policy and considers applicants’ past educational records and grades. International students are also welcome to apply for enrollment.
The University of Cape Coast is recognized as one of the best universities in Ghana because of its successful track record in producing highly skilled and successful individuals across the globe. It is a member of several reputable organizations and affiliations, including the Association of African Universities (AAU) and the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
4. Ashesi University
Ashesi University, a non-profit private institution, is ranked fourth in our list of the best universities in Ghana. It was established in 2002 in the small rural town of Berekuso. Despite its location, the university has gained a reputation as one of the top 10 high institutions in Ghana, offering different programs that equip students with the skills needed for critical thinking, professional excellence, and exceptional integrity.
With an admission rate ranging from 10-20%, Ashesi University is considered one of the most selective universities in the country. The school offers financial aid and scholarships for students in need, as well as exchange programs and excellent administrative services.
The university is affiliated with several institutions, including the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), Association of African Universities (AAU), Council of Independent Universities (CIU Ghana), and Global Liberal Arts Alliance. It is important to note that the University of Education, Winneba is not an affiliation of Ashesi University, but rather a separate institution in Ghana.
5. University of Education, Winneba
The University of Education Winneba is ranked as the 5th best university in Ghana. It is located in a suburban area in Winneba, Central Region and was established in 1992. The university also has branch campuses in Ashanti Mampong, Kumasi, and Ajumako. It has received official recognition from the National Accreditation Board of Ghana.
The University of Education Winneba accepts between 50-60% of applicants and offers high-quality academic and non-academic services to both local and international students. The university is affiliated with the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
6. Regent University College of Science and Technology
Regent University College of Science and Technology is the sixth university on our list of the best universities in Ghana. It was established as a private university in 2003 and is located in the Greater Accra metropolis. The university has been officially accredited by the National Accreditation Board in Accra.
Although it is barely two decades old, Regent University College of Science and Technology has achieved immeasurable success in academic excellence. It has a track record of grooming purpose-driven individuals with expertise in science and technology for a competitive world. It is no surprise that Regent University College of Science and Technology is among the best universities in Ghana and Africa as a whole.
The school has memberships and affiliations with other external academic bodies such as the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
7. University for Development studies
The University for Development Studies, located in the Northern Region of Ghana’s Tamale, is ranked as the seventh-best university in the country. Established in 1992, it is a non-profit public university that has received official accreditation from the National Accreditation Board of Ghana.
As one of the top universities in Africa, it is guided by the motto “Knowledge for Service” and employs excellent teaching methods. Additionally, the university holds memberships and affiliations with external academic bodies such as the Association of African Universities (AAU).
8. Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration
The Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) has earned its place as the 8th best university in Ghana on our list. Founded in 1961, this non-profit public institution is located in the Greater Accra metropolis of Ghana and has received accreditation from the National Accreditation Board of Ghana.
GIMPA offers a diverse range of courses, including pre-bachelor, bachelor, and post-bachelor degrees, making it an attractive option for both local and international students. Additionally, the university has affiliations with external academic bodies, such as the Association of African Universities (AAU).
9. Valley View University
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Valley View University is a private co-educational institution located in the urban area of Greater Accra, and is affiliated with the Christian-Adventist religion. It was established in 1979 with a Christian mission to enhance literacy and education levels in Ghana. The university has been ranked among the best universities in Ghana and is also regarded as one of the top high institutions in West Africa.
In 1997, the National Accreditation Board of Ghana granted full accreditation to Valley View University, making it the first private university in Ghana to receive such recognition. Additionally, the university has programmatic accreditation from the Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA).
To sum up, Valley View University is a reputable institution that offers quality education and has achieved both national and programmatic accreditation.
10. Christian Service University College
The Christian Service University College (CSUC), located in the small town of Santasi-Kumasi in the Ashanti region, is recognized by the National Accreditation Board of Ghana as one of the top universities in the country, ranking 10th on our list. Founded in 1974, it is a non-profit private institution affiliated with the Christian-Evangelical religion.
CSUC provides a co-educational academic environment that offers a safe and ethical learning environment to students from all backgrounds. Admission is based on past academic records, grades, and the entrance examination.