Legal education in Kenya is fundamental for shaping future lawyers and legal professionals. If you’re aspiring to become a lawyer, the first step is selecting the right institution. However, not all institutions in Kenya are authorized to provide law training. The Council of Legal Education (CLE) is the official body responsible for accrediting and supervising law schools in Kenya, ensuring they meet required standards.
This guide provides a complete list of accredited law schools in Kenya, including those offering LL.B, Diploma in Law, and Master of Laws (LL.M) programs, ensuring that students can pursue their legal studies with confidence.
Understanding Accredited Law Schools in Kenya
The Council of Legal Education is tasked with regulating, licensing, and monitoring all legal education providers in Kenya. Institutions that offer law programs must obtain a license from the CLE, which is subject to periodic renewal to ensure compliance with the required standards.
Accredited law schools in Kenya fall into three categories:
- Institutions licensed to offer Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) programs
- Institutions licensed to offer Diploma in Law programs
- Institutions licensed to offer Master of Laws (LL.M) programs
Law Schools Licensed to Offer Bachelor of Laws (LL.B)
The Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) is the foundational degree for anyone aspiring to become a lawyer in Kenya. Here is a list of accredited institutions that offer the LL.B program:
- UMMA University – Valid until 24th Sept 2025
- Africa Nazarene University – Valid until 10th Dec 2025
- Chuka University – Valid until 10th Dec 2025
- Moi University – Valid until 10th Dec 2025
- University of Nairobi (Parklands Campus) – Valid until 10th Dec 2025
- Egerton University – Valid until 16th June 2026
- Kabarak University – Valid until 16th June 2026
- Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) – Valid until 29th Nov 2027
- Strathmore University – Valid until 29th Nov 2027
- Maseno University – Valid until 29th Nov 2027
- South Eastern Kenya University – Valid until 29th Nov 2027
- JKUAT – Valid until 20th June 2028
- Riara University – Valid until 21st Sept 2028
- Kenyatta University – Valid until 21st Sept 2028
- Daystar University (Athi River Campus) – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
- University of Embu – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
- Kisii University – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
- Mount Kenya University (Parklands Campus) – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
Law Schools Licensed to Offer Diploma in Law
For students who may not directly qualify for the LL.B program, a Diploma in Law is an excellent alternative. This diploma also serves those interested in paralegal careers. The following institutions are licensed to offer this program:
- Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) – Valid until 29th Nov 2027
- Mount Kenya University (Parklands Campus) – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
- Kisii University – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
- Kenya School of Law (Para Legal Studies) – Valid until 9th Apr 2029
Law Schools Licensed to Offer Master of Laws (LL.M)
The Master of Laws (LL.M) program allows lawyers to specialize in various fields such as human rights law, corporate law, and international law. Here’s the list of accredited institutions offering the LL.M program:
- Strathmore University – Valid until 17th Apr 2030
- Mount Kenya University – Valid until 23rd Mar 2026
- Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) – Valid until 21st Sept 2028
- JKUAT – Valid until 20th Jun 2028
Council of Legal Education Contact Information
For more details about accredited law schools in Kenya, students and employers can contact the Council of Legal Education directly:
- Phone: 0719 150 000 / 0111 056 130
- Email: [email protected] , [email protected]
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Accredited Law School in Kenya
Choosing an accredited law school in Kenya is crucial for any aspiring legal professional. Whether you are interested in pursuing an LL.B, Diploma in Law, or LL.M, it’s important to ensure that the institution you choose is licensed by the Council of Legal Education (CLE). By attending a registered law school, you can be assured of receiving quality legal education that prepares you for a successful career in law.
Before applying, always check the validity of the institution’s license to ensure the program remains recognized by the legal profession.
