Overview
The University for Development Studies (UDS) is Ghana’s leading university focused on solving real development challenges through community-based learning. Established in 1992, UDS is best known for its Third Trimester Field Practical Programme, where students spend time in rural communities to apply classroom knowledge to practical problems. With multiple campuses across northern Ghana in Tamale, Navrongo, Wa, and Nyankpala, UDS continues to support grassroots research and development education.
UDS offers programs across agriculture, medicine, education, and development studies, with strong emphasis on sustainable solutions for poverty reduction, food security, and improved healthcare access. If you’re comparing study options in Ghana, you may also want to explore how other health-focused institutions approach training, including the University of Health and Allied Sciences for medical and allied-health pathways.
2. General Information
| Name | University for Development Studies (UDS) |
|---|---|
| Established | 1992 |
| Type | Public University |
| Location | Multiple campuses in Northern Ghana (Main campus in Tamale) |
| Website | uds.edu.gh |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition and fees can change by academic year and program-specific requirements. Always verify the latest charges on the university’s official channels before you apply.
| Program | Tuition Fee (per year, GHS) |
|---|---|
| BSc Agriculture Technology | 3,500 |
| BSc Development Education | 3,200 |
| Doctor of Medicine (MBChB) | 7,800 |
| BSc Nursing | 4,500 |
| MSc Food Security | 5,200 |
4. Academic Programs
UDS is organized around degree pathways that connect classroom learning to community and fieldwork. Many programs are designed so graduates can pursue roles in development planning, healthcare service delivery, agricultural extension, and education.
- BSc Agriculture Technology
- BSc Community Nutrition
- Doctor of Medicine (MBChB)
- BSc Development Planning
- BSc Environmental Management
- MA in Peace and Development Studies
- MPhil Development Economics
- PhD Agricultural Extension
5. Facilities
Students benefit from facilities built to support both academic work and field-oriented learning across northern Ghana. Depending on your program, you may have access to teaching and practical support that complements UDS’s development-focused teaching model.
- Modern teaching hospitals in Tamale and Navrongo
- Agricultural research stations across northern Ghana
- Community-based Learning Support Centers
- Digital resource centers with development-focused collections
- Student hostels on all campuses
- Sports and recreational facilities
6. Accommodation
UDS provides affordable on-campus housing across its multiple campuses, with priority commonly given to first-year students. Hostels are designed to support community living while providing basic amenities needed for study. For students who prefer private accommodation, the university’s housing office may also help with local options around campus.
- Single and shared rooms available
- Common kitchens and study areas
- 24-hour security
- Laundry facilities
- Proximity to lecture halls
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@uds.edu.gh
- Phone: +233 37 209 3111
- Address: P.O. Box TL 1350, Tamale, Ghana
- Admissions Office: admissions@uds.edu.gh
More Universities in Ghana
- University of Ghana
- University of Professional Studies, Accra
- University of Health and Allied Sciences
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- University of Cape Coast
- Valley View University
- Ashesi University
- Central University
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