Overview
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is widely regarded as Ghana’s leading public university for science and technology education. Founded in 1952 and located in Kumasi, the university has grown into a major hub for STEM training, applied research, and technology-led solutions to development challenges across Africa. KNUST is named after Ghana’s first president and pan-Africanist leader, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, reflecting its focus on innovation and national transformation.
Today, KNUST is known for an applied, hands-on learning approach that blends strong academic foundations with practical laboratory and industry exposure. With a student population of 85,000+ (2023), the campus community is one of the most active in West Africa, supported by research centers, university teaching and health facilities, and partnerships that help connect learning to real-world needs. For more context on Ghana’s higher-education landscape, see also the guide to the University of Ghana.
2. General Information
| Name | Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) |
| Established | 1952 |
| Type | Public Research University |
| Location | Kumasi, Ghana |
| Campus | Urban (7 square miles) |
| Website | www.knust.edu.gh |
| Student Population | 85,000+ (2023) |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Annual Tuition (GHS) |
| Undergraduate (Science/Engineering) | 2,500 – 5,000 |
| Undergraduate (Arts/Business) | 2,000 – 4,000 |
| Graduate Programs | 3,500 – 7,500 |
| Medical Programs | 6,000 – 12,000 |
| PhD Programs | 4,500 – 9,000 |
Tuition ranges can vary by program structure, year of study, and specific departmental requirements. It is recommended to confirm exact fees directly through KNUST’s official admission and finance channels before applying.
4. Academic Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Various Specializations)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB)
- Bachelor of Architecture
- Bachelor of Pharmacy
- Master of Science in Agricultural Biotechnology
- Master of Business Administration (Technology Management)
- PhD in Materials Science
- Diploma in Computer Science
- Executive Master in Development Planning
If you are comparing program options across Ghana, you may also want to review University of Cape Coast (especially for education and professional development pathways) or Ashesi University for entrepreneurship-focused undergraduate routes.
5. Facilities
- Advanced engineering laboratories
- KNUST Teaching Hospital
- African Natural Resources Center
- University Library with special collections
- Innovation and Incubation Hub
- Agricultural research farms
- Sports complex and recreational facilities
- Student activity centers
KNUST’s facilities are designed to support learning beyond the classroom, including lab-based training for engineering and science students, applied research activities, and health-related practical exposure through its teaching hospital. The university’s innovation and incubation ecosystem also supports students who want to develop prototypes and business ideas alongside their studies.
6. Accommodation
KNUST operates one of Africa’s largest residential campus systems with 6 traditional halls and 9 private hostels. The university typically guarantees accommodation for first-year students, while continuing students apply through established internal processes. Off-campus housing is also widely available in Kumasi, which can be useful for students seeking more flexible living arrangements.
- Traditional Hall (shared): GHS 900-1,500 per semester
- Private Hostel: GHS 1,800-3,000 per semester
- International Student Hostel: GHS 3,500-5,000 per semester
- Off-Campus Housing: GHS 600-2,000 per month
When planning your move, consider factors such as commute time, cost-of-living differences in surrounding neighborhoods, and the type of accommodation that best matches your study schedule. If you are comparing living and campus options in other countries, you can also explore how institutions like Namibia University of Science and Technology structure research-oriented learning and student support.
7. Contact Information
- Email: registrar@knust.edu.gh
- Phone: +233 32 206 0404
- Address: Private Mail Bag, Kumasi, Ghana
For official updates on admissions, departmental requirements, and fee revisions, use KNUST’s website and contact channels listed above.
More Universities in Ghana
- University of Ghana
- University of Cape Coast
- University of Health and Allied Sciences
- University for Development Studies
- Ashesi University
- Central University
- University of Professional Studies, Accra
- Valley View University
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