University of Nairobi

What you'll study

The programme combines social science theory, gender analysis and development practice. Core topics include gender theory and feminist thought; masculinities; intersectionality; gender and development policy; human rights and gender justice; reproductive health and sexuality; gender and education; and gender-based violence.

Research methods are emphasised through courses in qualitative and quantitative methods, gender-sensitive monitoring and evaluation, and applied field research. Students complete a supervised research project or dissertation in the final year that applies gender analysis to a development question.

The curriculum typically mixes mandatory core courses, elective options drawn from sociology, anthropology, political science and economics, and practical learning such as internships or community attachments with NGOs, government programmes or international agencies. Year-by-year structure progresses from foundational theory and methods in the early years to specialised options and a capstone research project in the later years.

Entry requirements

• Kenyan applicants: Secondary school completion with a University of Nairobi minimum entry qualification (commonly a KCSE mean grade at the university-entry level). Competence in English or Kiswahili is required.
• Diploma holders: Applicants with a relevant recognised diploma may be eligible for direct entry into the second or third year, subject to Faculty assessment and credit transfer rules.
• International applicants: Equivalent secondary school qualifications from recognised institutions; specific equivalence is determined by the University.
• Mature entry: Mature or professional applicants with relevant experience may be considered under the University’s mature entry policies and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
• All applicants must meet any additional Faculty or University administrative and documentation requirements at the point of application.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers in non-governmental organisations (local and international), government ministries and devolved county departments (gender, social services, health, education), community development and advocacy organisations, policy and research institutes, and international agencies. Other pathways include monitoring and evaluation, programme management, gender mainstreaming and policy analysis, human rights work, sexual and reproductive health programming, and community mobilisation.

The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study (MA, MPhil, PhD) in gender studies, development studies, public policy, social sciences and related fields, and for professional roles in research, consultancy and teaching.

Why study at University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi is a major research and teaching institution in Kenya with an established tradition in social science and gender studies. The programme benefits from interdisciplinary teaching and links with the Institute of Anthropology, Gender and African Studies, offering access to gender-focused research, seminars and public engagement activities.

Students gain practical experience through field attachments and partnerships with NGOs, government departments and international organisations based in Nairobi, which is a regional hub for development actors. The programme prepares graduates with analytical skills, research competence and practical experience relevant to policy and development practice in Kenya and beyond.