Mount Kenya University (MKU) made significant strides recently by achieving global recognition for its Medical School. In April 2025, the university’s Medical School was listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, an essential global reference that includes more than 4,000 accredited medical institutions. This recognition opens up opportunities for MKU’s graduates in renowned healthcare systems across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada to both specialize and work.
One of the key highlights of this achievement is the recognition by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in the United States. According to the ECFMG, graduates from MKU’s Medical School are now eligible to apply for ECFMG Certification, a critical requirement for international medical graduates who wish to practice medicine or pursue further training in the United States. The certification process allows foreign-trained doctors to take Step Three of the US Medical Licensing Examination, paving the way for them to obtain an unrestricted license to practice medicine in the country. The ECFMG states: “Graduates of this school are eligible to apply to ECFMG for ECFMG Certification and examination.”
In addition to the recognition in the United States, MKU’s medical degrees have also been accepted by provincial and territorial medical authorities in Canada. As a result, graduates of MKU’s Medical School are now eligible to practice in Canada and are recognized by medical organizations throughout the country. This recognition from Canada, which is confirmed by the World Directory of Medical Schools, further solidifies MKU’s standing as an internationally recognized institution. The World Directory confirms that medical degrees from MKU are “acceptable to the provincial/territorial medical authorities in Canada, and therefore acceptable to all medical organizations in Canada.”
The university also earned significant recognition from the General Medical Council (GMC) in the United Kingdom. The GMC is the regulatory body responsible for setting standards for medical practice in the UK. This recognition marks a key step for MKU graduates wishing to practice medicine in the UK or pursue postgraduate medical training there.
MKU’s journey in medical education began with its first cohort of 29 medical doctors, who graduated in August 2021. Since then, the institution has seen steady growth, offering a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for the challenges of modern healthcare. The university is fully accredited by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) and regional medical bodies like the East Africa Medical Practitioners and Dentists Boards/Councils, ensuring that its programs meet high academic standards.
As part of its ongoing efforts to expand its academic offerings, MKU has introduced several cutting-edge postgraduate programs under its College of Health Sciences. These programs include the Master of Pharmacy in Cosmetic Technology, the Master of Pharmacy in Industrial Pharmacy, and the Master of Science in Industrial Pharmacognosy and Traditional Medicine.
Other Kenyan universities whose medical schools are listed include Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology , University of Nairobi, Egerton, Kisii, Masinde Muliro, Moi and Kenya Methodist.
