7 Best Data Science Courses in Kenya (2024/25) – A Comprehensive Guide

The demand for data science skills in Kenya is skyrocketing, as organizations across all sectors seek to harness data for insights. In fact, Kenya’s tech scene is projected to reach a $5 billion value by 2025, and roughly 40% of tech roles require skills not taught in traditional degrees​. Whether you’re a fresh graduate looking to boost your tech skills, a working professional transitioning into a data role, or an entrepreneur aiming to leverage data in your business, there’s a program tailored for you. Below, we break down the 8 best data science courses in Kenya – ranging from intensive bootcamps to advanced university degrees – to help you find your perfect fit.

1. Africa Data School – Immersive 8-Week Data Science Bootcamp

Africa Data School offers an intensive 8-week Data Science bootcamp designed to turn beginners into practitioners rapidly. This immersive program (developed in partnership with Microsoft) covers the foundations of Python programming, data analysis & visualization, machine learning, deep learning, and even basics of NLP and big data​. It’s a fast-paced online course that packs a punch. Ideal if you want to kickstart a career in AI/ML or upskill quickly without a long-term commitment.

• Official Website: Africa Data School

• Course Duration: 8 weeks (full-time intensive)​

• Delivery Mode: Online (live virtual classes

• Tuition: KES 30,000 (approximately $240)​

• Next Intake: New cohorts start every few months (e.g. May 2025) – check website for dates.

Why choose Africa Data School? If you’re a fresh graduate or professional looking for quick, practical skills, this bootcamp is tailored for you. The curriculum is beginner-friendly yet comprehensive – past students include beginners starting in ML/AI, data analysts upskilling, and professionals pivoting into machine learning​. The program emphasizes hands-on learning; by the end of 8 weeks, you’ll have built projects and be ready for roles like data analyst or junior data scientist.

This course is also great for entrepreneurs or innovators who want a crash course in data science to apply in their businesses. In just two months, you’ll learn how to derive insights from data and deploy AI solutions – skills that could help automate processes or drive data-driven decisions in your startup. And with its affordable fee and online format, Africa Data School makes high-quality data science training accessible across Kenya and beyond. (Many graduates have landed jobs at companies like Nokia, UNICEF, and MTN, reflecting the program’s industry relevance.)

2. Moringa School – Data Science Bootcamp (Full-Time or Part-Time)

Moringa School is one of Kenya’s most renowned tech bootcamps, known for producing job-ready graduates. Their Data Science course combines theory and practice to equip you with skills in Python programming, data analysis, visualization, statistical modeling, and machine learning. Moringa offers this program in two formats: an accelerated full-time schedule or a flexible part-time option – perfect for those who need to work or handle other commitments while studying.

• Official Website: Moringa School – Data Science

• Course Duration: 6 months (full-time) or 8 months (part-time)​

• Delivery Mode: Both in-person (at Moringa’s Nairobi campus) and online; choose full-time immersive or part-time evening/weekend classes​

• Tuition: ~KES 170,000 (≈ $1,200) for the full program​Payment plans and occasional scholarships are available.

Why choose Moringa’s Data Science bootcamp? Moringa’s curriculum is very industry-aligned – you’ll build real-world projects and portfolios covering everything from data cleaning to building machine learning models. This practical approach means fresh graduates can quickly become job-ready.

For entrepreneurs, Moringa provides a solid grounding in data science within a relatively short time. You’ll learn how to generate business insights from data, which is invaluable for decision-making in your own company. The bootcamp’s intensive, hands-on training ensures that by graduation, you’re comfortable using tools like Python, SQL, and machine learning libraries to solve practical problems. Plus, you become part of Moringa’s extensive alumni community – a great resource for networking and mentoring in Kenya’s tech ecosystem.

3. Zindua School – Data Science Bootcamp with ISA (Income Share Agreement)

Zindua School is a Kenyan training provider that offers a comprehensive 25-week Data Science bootcamp with a uniquely flexible payment model. The program runs part-time (about 6 months), covering a wide range of topics: Python, SQL, data analysis, machine learning, deep learning, and even deployment tools like Docker and Kubernetes​ Zindua stands out by allowing students to opt for an Income Share Agreement (ISA) – meaning you can defer paying up to 50% of the tuition until after you graduate and secure a job​.

• Official Website: Zindua School

• Course Duration: ~6 months (25 weeks part-time)​

• Delivery Mode: Online (live instructor-led sessions).

• Tuition: ~KES 120,000 total (≈ $850). You may pay a portion upfront and defer up to 50% through an ISA, paying later as a percentage of your income​.

Why choose Zindua’s program? If you’re concerned about financing your education or need to study part-time, Zindua is a fantastic option. The ISA model means fresh graduates can join without hefty upfront fees – you only pay when you start earning – and professionals can upskill now and pay once the new skills boost your career. This lowers the risk and barrier to entry. Despite being part-time, the curriculum is robust: you'll tackle everything from foundational coding to advanced machine learning and cloud deployment, which prepares you for a range of data roles (data analyst, junior data scientist, ML engineer, etc.).

For working professionals, the evening/weekend schedule allows you to continue working as you learn – you can balance your job and classes.

4. ALX Africa – ALX Data Science Program (16-Month)

ALX Africa offers a 16-month Data Science program that is part of its mission to develop tech talent across Africa. This is a longer-term, immersive online program that dives deep into data science, covering data visualization, databases, machine learning, natural language processing, and more. Uniquely, ALX’s courses operate on a subscription model – thanks to partnerships (like the MasterCard Foundation), learners pay only a nominal fee of $5 USD per month to access the program​. Essentially, world-class training is provided at an extremely low cost, making ALX one of the most affordable paths to become a data scientist in Kenya.

• Official Website: ALX Africa

• Course Duration: 16 months (approximately 35–40 hours of study per week)​ This includes an initial 3-month foundational phase focused on professional skills, followed by ~12+ months of intensive data science content.

• Delivery Mode: Online (cohort-based, with structured deadlines). ALX has physical hubs in Nairobi and other cities where students can collaborate, but all coursework is delivered virtually.

• Tuition: $5 per month (≈ KES 600 monthly) – incredibly affordable. Total cost for 16 months is under $80, making it accessible to nearly everyone.

• Schedule: New cohorts have specific start dates (e.g., June 30, 2025)​

Why choose ALX’s Data Science program? ALX is ideal for those who value affordability and depth. If you’re a fresh graduate not in a rush to start working immediately, you can dedicate 16 months to become an expert-level practitioner with minimal financial burden.

For career switchers or working professionals, ALX can be challenging due to the high weekly hours required. However, if you can carve out the time (for example, if you opt to take a career break or can manage flexible work hours), the payoff is huge: you’re essentially getting a full diploma’s worth of training for the cost of a few coffees. The online format means you can learn from anywhere – a plus for those outside Nairobi or who prefer remote study.

Entrepreneurs might choose ALX if they want a deep dive into data science to become the data expert in their own company. Over 16 months, you could apply what you learn directly to your business problems (think of it as building your product while learning). The negligible cost also means you’re not diverting much funding from your venture. Just be prepared to commit time – ALX’s program is rigorous and will require discipline.

5. Strathmore University – Master of Science in Data Science & Analytics

Strathmore University (Nairobi) offers a Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics (MSc DSA), one of the pioneering graduate programs in this field in Kenya. Launched in 2021​, this is a two-year academic program that provides a solid foundation in data science concepts as well as practical analytical skills. The course is interdisciplinary combining statistics, mathematics, computing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence in its syllabus​. It’s run by Strathmore’s Institute of Mathematical Sciences in collaboration with @iLabAfrica, ensuring both academic rigor and industry relevance.

• Official Website: Strathmore University 

• Course Duration: 2 years (minimum of 4 semesters). The program is typically full-time, but Strathmore schedules classes in the evenings or weekends to accommodate working students.

• Delivery Mode: In-person, on campus at Strathmore University (Nairobi). Coursework includes lectures, labs, and a capstone project or thesis. Some courses may occasionally be offered in a blended (hybrid) format, but on-site attendance is required for most components.

• Tuition: KES 1,207,000 total for the program (approximately $8,500–$10,000).This fee can be paid per semester; there are six installments corresponding to six study modules in the program. v

Why choose Strathmore’s MSc in Data Science? This program is ideal for graduates who want an advanced, credentials-based career in data science. If you already have a strong quantitative background (in mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, etc.), the MSc will deepen your expertise and open up higher-level opportunities. Working professionals often enroll in this course to gain a competitive edge for leadership roles in data analytics – the evening class format means you can continue with your job and attend classes after work. The degree carries a lot of weight in the job market; Strathmore University is highly respected, and employers recognize the rigorous training MSc graduates receive.

The MSc involves a significant research or capstone project, which is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and industry professionals to tackle a real-world problem relevant to their business. For example, you could use your thesis to develop a predictive model or a data product for your company/startup under faculty guidance. This way, you not only earn a degree but potentially create something of direct business value. Moreover, Strathmore’s focus on business analytics means that even as a tech entrepreneur, you’ll learn how to translate data into business strategy – a crucial skill for growth.

One more advantage: the networking. You’ll be studying alongside and interacting with Kenya’s top talent and faculty in analytics, plus Strathmore often hosts industry events, competitions, and has partnerships (banks, telcos, NGOs) providing data for student projects. In short, Strathmore’s MSc is the best pick if you’re looking for a comprehensive, formal education in data science and don’t mind the time and financial investment for a high payoff in skills and career prospects.

6. JKUAT – Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics

This Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics is a four-year program aimed at training the next generation of data professionals right from the undergraduate level. The curriculum is similar in spirit to a Computer Science degree but with a specialized focus on data: students learn programming, statistics, machine learning, database systems, big data technologies, and how to apply these skills in various domains (finance, agriculture, healthcare, etc.).

• Official Website: JKUAT

• Course Duration: 4 years (8 semesters of coursework + final year project).

• Delivery Mode: In-person at JKUAT’s main campus in Juja. Students attend regular lectures, computer lab practicals, and undertake industrial attachment (internship) as part of the program.

• Tuition: Approx. KES 140,000 per year for self-sponsored students (about KES 560k for the entire program). Fees are significantly lower for government-sponsored students admitted through KUCCPS (those students pay a subsidized rate).

Why consider JKUAT’s BSc in Data Science? This program is best suited for those at an earlier stage of their education journey (such as recent school leavers) or anyone who wants a thorough, foundational education in data science. As a fresh graduate who already has a degree in another field, you would not normally pursue a second bachelor’s – you’d likely opt for a masters or bootcamp – but it’s good to know this course exists as it’s producing well-trained graduates for the job market. For completeness, we include it as one of the top courses because of JKUAT’s leadership in curriculum development and tech education in Kenya.

That said, if you’re a working professional or entrepreneur with a non-tech background and you desire a deep re-education in tech, enrolling in an undergraduate program like this is an option (though a 4-year commitment). The advantages of JKUAT’s BSc are the breadth of knowledge and university experience: you’ll master the mathematics behind data science as well as the programming, and you’ll have time to intern and gain practical experience through university linkages. JKUAT has a strong reputation in STEM, and as an analytics student, you can tap into their research labs and innovation hubs to work on projects (for example, applying data science in agriculture or engineering, which aligns with JKUAT’s strengths).

7. University of Nairobi – Master of Science in Data Science

The University of Nairobi (UoN) now offers a Master of Science in Data Science, an interdisciplinary graduate program hosted by the Department of Mathematics (in collaboration with Computer Science). Being a public university program, it is designed to provide a strong theoretical grounding as well as practical skills in data science, at a relatively affordable cost. The course spans a minimum of 4 semesters (2 years)​ for full-time students. Students learn statistical modeling, machine learning, data mining, big data analytics, and data visualization, among other topics, and typically complete a research thesis or project in their final semester applying data science to solve a real problem.

• Official Website: University of Nairobi

• Course Duration: 2 years full-time (extendable up to 4 years for part-time students). The structure usually involves 3 semesters of coursework and a fourth semester for an industry attachment or research project.​

• Delivery Mode: In-person. Classes are held at UoN’s Chiromo Campus in Nairobi.

• Tuition: Approximately KES 500,000–600,000 for the entire program (about KES 125k per semester for 4 semesters). Being a public institution, UoN’s fees are more affordable than private universities’ – making this program a cost-effective way to get a masters in data science. (Fees may vary slightly based on departmental charges; it’s advisable to check the latest fee structure from UoN).

Why choose UoN’s MSc Data Science? If you are looking for a recognized qualification with a strong academic foundation (and at a moderate fee), this course is a top pick. Fresh graduates who have done their undergraduate in sciences or engineering and want to specialize further will find UoN’s program offers the needed depth and an environment of academic excellence. You’ll have access to experienced faculty and resources from Kenya’s oldest university.

For working professionals, the possibility of part-time enrollment is a big plus. You can keep your day job and take a slightly lighter course load, finishing in 3–4 years. Employers often support employees to pursue UoN postgraduate programs because of the university’s stature. Upon graduation, you’ll not only have cutting-edge skills but also the credibility of a UoN degree – which can open doors in academia (PhD opportunities) or senior industry roles.

Entrepreneurs and business owners might engage with this program in a couple of ways. If you personally enroll, you could focus your thesis or project on a challenge your business faces – effectively getting expert mentorship to solve it.

Choosing the Right Course for You

With these seven options in mind, how do you decide which data science course best fits your background and goals?

• Fresh Graduates (with non-tech or general degrees): If you’ve just finished university in a non-data field and need job-ready tech skills, a bootcamp might be your quickest route. Short courses like Africa Data School’s 8-week bootcamp or Moringa’s 6-month program will immerse you in practical skills fast, preparing you for entry-level roles. If you prefer a more credentialed route and have a strong STEM foundation, consider a Master’s program like Strathmore’s MSc or UoN’s MSc to gain deeper knowledge and a valuable degree – these can set you apart in the job market. They take longer, but you come out with advanced expertise.

• Working Professionals (transitioning into data roles): Look for flexibility and applied focus. Moringa School’s part-time option and Zindua School’s part-time bootcamp are excellent since you can learn while working. Zindua’s ISA means you don’t pay most tuition until you land that new data job – perfect if you’re upskilling to switch careers. If you desire a formal qualification without quitting your job, University of Nairobi’s MSc (evening classes) or Strathmore’s MSc (evenings/weekends) allow you to study part-time. These will give you both the theoretical and hands-on skills, though you’ll juggle work and study for 2+ years. ALX’s program is another path if you can manage an intense workload; some professionals take ALX courses by dedicating nights and weekends, but ensure you have ~20+ hours per week free.

• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: Time is money for you, so you may lean towards shorter or highly flexible programs. A short bootcamp or online program can equip you with just enough data savvy to drive your business decisions. For example, Africa Data School’s 8-week course could teach you to implement an AI model for your product, or Moringa’s bootcamp could help you understand customer data analytics for growth. If your schedule is too hectic to attend classes, ALX’s self-paced online structure (despite its length) might work if you can chip away at it gradually. Also, consider programs with a business analytics focus – Strathmore’s Business Analytics track in the MSc is essentially built for people who want to use data to improve business outcomes. It might be worth the investment if you foresee data being a game-changer for your company’s strategy. Remember, as an entrepreneur you don’t necessarily need a degree; focus on what practical skills and networks you will gain. Bootcamps often connect you with a community of tech talent – potential hires or partners for your business.

Finally, keep in mind location and networking opportunities. In-person courses in Nairobi (like Moringa, Strathmore, UoN, JKUAT) will plug you into the local tech community – you’ll meet peers, mentors, and companies through events or career fairs. Online programs (Africa Data School, ALX, etc.) offer broader access and convenience, though you’ll need to be proactive to network via Slack, LinkedIn, or local meetups.

No matter which path you choose, any of these top 7 courses will significantly boost your data science journey. Kenya is nurturing a vibrant data science ecosystem, and by gaining these skills, you’re positioning yourself at the heart of new opportunities in the “Silicon Savannah.” Good luck, and happy learning!