USIU Africa

United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) stands as one of Kenya's most prestigious private universities, offering American-style education right in the heart of Nairobi. Located in Kasarani's Roysambu neighborhood, about 12 kilometers from Nairobi's bustling center, USIU-Africa has grown from modest beginnings to become a global educational powerhouse. From American Roots to African Excellence What began in 1927 as Balboa Law College in San Diego transformed into an international education pioneer under Dr. William C. Rust's visionary leadership. In 1969, USIU made history by establishing its African campus in Nairobi, becoming one of the first American universities to create a permanent presence in Africa. The university's journey reflects Kenya's own educational evolution. In 1970, USIU signed a groundbreaking agreement with the Kenyan government to offer business programs and unique degrees unavailable in public universities. This move helped diversify Kenya's higher education landscape, introducing American-style education alongside the traditional British system. Growth and Development USIU-Africa's physical growth mirrors its academic expansion. From its initial location, the university moved to Kasarani in 1991 under Dr. Lillian K. Beam's leadership, acquiring 20 acres of land. This move proved fortuitous, as it allowed the university to accommodate an influx of students from public universities during a challenging period in Kenya's education sector. Under Dr. Freida Brown's transformative leadership starting in 1994, USIU-Africa underwent remarkable development. The campus expanded to 80 acres, meeting accreditation requirements and securing its official Charter from President Daniel arap Moi. The university also achieved financial stability and built several landmark facilities, including: The Chandaria School of Business, supported by a US$1 million endowment A modern Library and Information Center worth KES 550 million The Science Center, opened by Deputy President William Ruto in 2015 The Freida Brown Student Center, completed in 2016 Academic Excellence and International Recognition USIU-Africa holds the distinction of dual accreditation - by Kenya's Commission for Higher Education (CUE) and America's Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This unique status ensures that graduates receive credentials recognized both in Kenya and internationally. Today's USIU-Africa Under the leadership of Prof. Mwenda Ntarangwi, USIU-Africa continues to grow and innovate. The university now offers: 38 diverse programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels Education to students from over 55 different nationalities A strong alumni network exceeding 25,000 graduates State-of-the-art facilities supporting modern learning approaches Global Community in the Heart of Kenya USIU-Africa's diverse student body creates a unique multicultural learning environment that prepares graduates for the global marketplace. This international atmosphere, combined with American-style education and Kenyan cultural context, gives students a unique advantage in today's interconnected world. Impact on Kenyan Education As one of Kenya's leading private universities, USIU-Africa has played a crucial role in transforming higher education in the country. It has helped: Introduce innovative teaching methods Expand program offerings beyond traditional curricula Foster international educational partnerships Develop industry-ready graduates Looking to the Future With its strong foundation, international recognition, and commitment to excellence, USIU-Africa continues to shape Kenya's educational landscape. The university remains dedicated to producing globally competitive graduates while maintaining its position as a center of academic excellence in East Africa. For Kenyans and international students seeking quality education with global recognition, USIU-Africa offers a unique blend of American educational standards and African perspectives, all within a dynamic, multicultural environment in Nairobi.