Accredited higher institutions in Ghana are recognized by the National Accreditation Board (NAB), which ensures that universities, colleges, and other tertiary institutions meet established standards of quality in education, infrastructure, and governance. Ghana’s higher education landscape is composed of public universities, private universities, technical universities, and other specialized institutions, each contributing to the country’s educational development.
Public universities in Ghana are among the most prominent and long-established institutions. The University of Ghana, located in Legon, Accra, is the oldest and largest university in the country, known for its diverse academic programs and research output. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi is another leading institution, particularly renowned for its focus on science, technology, and innovation. Other notable public universities include the University of Cape Coast, which specializes in education and training, and the University of Education, Winneba, which focuses on producing educators for the nation. These institutions are fully accredited and play a central role in shaping Ghana’s intellectual and professional workforce.
In addition to traditional universities, Ghana has a number of technical universities that were upgraded from polytechnics. These institutions, such as the Accra Technical University and the Takoradi Technical University, focus on practical and vocational training, offering programs in engineering, applied sciences, and technology. They are accredited to provide higher national diplomas and degree programs, bridging the gap between academic education and technical skills required by industries.
Private universities also form a significant part of Ghana’s higher education system. Institutions like Ashesi University, Central University College, and Valley View University are fully accredited and have gained recognition for their academic rigor and innovative approaches to education. Ashesi University, for instance, is known for its emphasis on leadership, ethics, and entrepreneurship, while Valley View University is operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These private institutions often provide smaller class sizes and more personalized learning experiences, attracting students who seek alternatives to the larger public universities.
Ghana also has a number of specialized institutions that focus on specific fields of study. For example, the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) is a leading institution for management and public administration training, while the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) specializes in communication and media studies. These institutions are accredited and play a crucial role in developing professionals in their respective fields.
Overall, accredited higher institutions in Ghana offer a wide range of academic and professional programs, ensuring that students receive quality education that meets both national and international standards. The National Accreditation Board continues to oversee the quality of these institutions, ensuring that they maintain the necessary standards in teaching, research, and infrastructure. This regulatory framework helps to safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s higher education system and ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the country’s development.
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Full List of Accredited Higher Institutions In Ghana
The first and arguably the best university in Ghana is the University of Ghana. While Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has the largest campus.
There are twelve (12) public/government universities accredited by the National Accreditation Board (NAB) in Ghana.
There are ten (10) public technical universities accredited by the National Accreditation Board (NAB) in Ghana.
There are also two accredited distance learning institution in Ghana which include: Laweh Open University College and University of Applied Management, Kwabenya.
The cost of these accredited higher institutions in Ghana are very affordable. In public institutions for example, the undergraduate tuition fees may averagely cost between GH¢1500 and GH¢220 averagely for Ghanaian students. And for international students, tuition may cost between $5200 and 6100 per year. Here are the full list of accredited higher institutions in Ghana sorted according to the National Accreditation Board (NAB):
Public Universities in Ghana
Accredited public universities in Ghana are government-owned institutions officially recognized by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to provide higher education and award degrees. These universities form the backbone of Ghana’s tertiary education system, offering a wide range of programs in science, technology, humanities, education, business, and health sciences.
They are known for maintaining academic standards, promoting research, and contributing to national development. Because they are accredited, it means their courses, teaching staff, facilities, and management systems meet the required national quality benchmarks. This ensures that the degrees and certificates they issue are valid and respected both locally and internationally.
Public universities in Ghana play a major role in advancing knowledge and building skilled manpower for the country. They attract students from across Africa and other parts of the world due to their strong academic reputation and relatively affordable tuition compared to many foreign universities.
Each university has its own area of specialization — some focus more on science and technology, others on education, health, or social sciences — but all share a commitment to academic excellence and nation-building.
Beyond academics, these institutions also promote cultural exchange, leadership development, and community service. They serve as centers for innovation, policy research, and public engagement, influencing the social and economic progress of Ghana.
In summary, accredited public universities in Ghana represent the highest level of state-supported education, combining quality learning, research, and national service under strict government regulation to ensure continuous growth and credibility in the country’s higher education sector. Here are the list of accredited public universities in Ghana:
- Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, Achimota
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- University for Development Studies
- University of Cape Coast
- University of Education
- University of Energy and Natural Resources
- University of Ghana
- University of Health and Allied Science
- University of Mines and Technology
- University of Professional Studies
- S.D. Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies
- C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences
Technical Universities in Ghana
Accredited technical universities in Ghana are government-recognized higher institutions that focus on practical, technological, and vocational education. They were formerly known as polytechnics but were upgraded to university status to expand their academic scope and strengthen technical training. These institutions are accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), meaning they meet the national standards for quality teaching, infrastructure, and program delivery.
Their main goal is to produce graduates with hands-on skills who can apply technical knowledge to solve real-life problems in industries such as engineering, construction, agriculture, business, and information technology. Unlike traditional universities that emphasize theory and research, technical universities focus more on practical learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
They play a vital role in Ghana’s industrial and economic development by bridging the gap between academic learning and the labor market. Students are often exposed to internships, industrial attachments, and project-based learning that prepare them for employment or self-employment after graduation.
These institutions also serve as centers for technology transfer and skill development, helping young people gain the competence needed to meet the demands of a modern, technology-driven economy. Their programs are designed in close collaboration with industries to ensure relevance and employability.
Overall, accredited technical universities in Ghana represent the country’s commitment to building a workforce that is not only educated but also skilled, innovative, and capable of driving sustainable national growth through technical expertise and entrepreneurship. The technical universities include:
- Bolgatanga Polytechnic
- Wa Polytechnic
- Accra Technical University
- Cape Coast Technical University
- Ho Technical University
- Koforidua Technical University
- Kumasi Technical University
- Sunyani Technical University
- Takoradi Technical University
- Tamale Technical University
Private Tertiary Institutions in Ghana
Accredited private tertiary institutions in Ghana play a significant role in expanding access to higher education and providing diverse academic opportunities beyond what public institutions alone can offer. These institutions are regulated by the National Accreditation Board (NAB), which ensures they meet required standards in curriculum, faculty, infrastructure, and governance. Over the years, private universities and colleges have gained recognition for their innovative programs, flexible learning environments, and focus on niche areas of study.
Many private tertiary institutions in Ghana were established with religious or ethical foundations, which often reflect in their values and academic offerings. For instance, Valley View University, operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, is one of the oldest private universities in the country and is known for its emphasis on moral and spiritual development alongside academic training. Similarly, Catholic University College and Presbyterian University College integrate religious principles into their educational frameworks, aiming to produce graduates with strong ethical values.
Other private institutions focus on practical and professional education, tailoring their programs to meet the demands of the job market. Ashesi University is a standout example, renowned for its liberal arts approach, emphasis on critical thinking, and commitment to fostering leadership and entrepreneurship. It has earned a reputation for academic excellence and innovation, attracting students from across Africa. Central University, another prominent institution, offers a wide range of programs in business, arts, and sciences, with a focus on holistic education and community engagement.
In addition to degree-awarding universities, there are several private colleges and specialized institutions that provide diplomas and certificates in specific fields. The Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), though partially public, collaborates with private entities and offers professional courses in management, governance, and law. Similarly, institutions like the African University College of Communications specialize in media and communication studies, preparing students for careers in journalism and public relations.
Private tertiary institutions in Ghana often distinguish themselves by offering flexible learning options, including evening and weekend classes, which cater to working professionals and mature students. This flexibility has made higher education more accessible to individuals who might otherwise be unable to pursue full-time studies. Additionally, these institutions tend to have smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention and better student-teacher interaction.
Despite their contributions, private tertiary institutions in Ghana face challenges such as higher tuition fees compared to public universities, which can limit access for students from low-income backgrounds. However, scholarships and flexible payment plans offered by some institutions help mitigate this barrier. Moreover, the perception of private institutions varies, with some still viewed as less prestigious than their public counterparts, though this is gradually changing as more private universities gain accreditation and build strong academic reputations.
Overall, accredited private tertiary institutions in Ghana complement the public education system by providing alternative pathways to higher education, fostering innovation, and addressing the diverse needs of students. Their focus on quality, ethics, and relevance to the job market ensures that they remain an integral part of Ghana’s educational landscape. There are over sixty (60) Private Tertiary Institutions accredited by the National Accreditation Board (NAB) offering Degree/ HND Programmes in Ghana. They include:
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- Catholic University College of Ghana
- China Europe International Business School (Africa Campus)
- Christ Apostolic University College, Kumasi
- College for Community and Organizational Development, Sunyani
- College of Science, Arts and Education, Sunyani
- Ensign College of Health, Kpong
- Entrance University College, Spintex road
- Evangelical Presbyterian University College
- Family Health University College
- Fountainhead Christian College
- Ghana Baptist University College
- Ghana Technology University College
- Good News Theological College and Seminary
- Health Access Institute
- Heritage Christian College
- ILMA Institute of Science and Technology, East Legon
- Institute for Security, Disaster and Emergency Studies (ISDES)
- Institute of Development and Technology Management
- Islamic University College, Ghana
- Joyce Ababio College of Creative Design
- KAAF University College, Darkuman Campus
- KAAF University College, Mallam Campus
- Kessben College
- Kessben College, Adum Kumasi
- Kings University College
- Klintaps College of Health and Allied Sciences
- Knutsford College, Accra Campus
- Lancaster University,Ghana Campus
- Marshalls College
- Methodist University College
- Modal College, Sogakope
- Mountcrest University College, Kanda
- Nduom School of Business and Technology
- Organization Development (OD) Institute
- Presbyterian University College, Ghana, Asante Akyem Campus
- Radford University College
- Redeemer College of Health
- Regent University College of Science and Technology
- S S Peter and Paul Pastoral and Social Institute
- School of Anaesthesia, Ridge- Accra
- Shiv-India Institute of Management and Technology
- Spiritan University College
- Sundoulos Advanced Leadership Training Institute, Accra
- Synergies Institute-Ghana
- Technical University College of Tamale
- Trans Africa College, Takoradi
- University College of Management Studies
- Webster University, Ghana Campus
- Wisconsin International University College – Kumasi Campus (Formally St. Margaret College)
- Wisconsin International University College, Accra Campus
- Palm Institute of Strategic Leadership, Manya Jorpanya – Shai Hills
- Academic City College
- Accra Business School
- Accra College of Medicine
- Accra Institute of Technology (AIT), Kokomlemle & Kasoa Campus
- Advanced Business College
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
- Akim State College
- Anglican University College of Technology, Kumasi Campus
- Anglican University College of Technology, Nkoranza Campus
- Assemblies of God Institute of Higher Learning
- Baldwin College, Osu
- Bluecrest College
- Unique Citizens College
Good morning. Please why does Ghana allow unaccredited institutions to advertise extensively to lure its citizens into reading programs that results in voidness? Please if sometuing can be done about this, help . Please is RJ Academics accredited in Ghana?