By Ghana’s higher education system has emerged as a beacon of academic excellence in West Africa, attracting students from across the continent and beyond. With a vibrant culture, stable political climate, and a commitment to innovation, Ghana’s universities are shaping the next generation of leaders in fields like medicine, engineering, business, and sustainable development.
The 2025 rankings by the AD Scientific Index and other global metrics highlight the country’s top institutions, evaluated based on research output, academic reputation, and global impact. This article explores Ghana’s top 10 universities for 2025, their unique strengths, and their role in advancing education and development.
The Rise of Ghana’s Higher Education
Ghana, the first sub-Saharan nation to gain independence in 1957, has prioritized education as a cornerstone of its development. Its universities, both public and private, offer programs in English, making them accessible to international students. The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission accredits these institutions, ensuring quality across 68 universities and colleges.
The AD Scientific Index, which ranks universities based on metrics like Total H-Index and citations, underscores the dominance of Ghana’s traditional academic powerhouses while recognizing emerging institutions. Below, we present the top 10 universities in Ghana for 2025, drawing on data from sources like Business Insider Africa, Times Higher Education, and Webometrics.
1. University of Ghana, Legon
- Location: Accra
- Founded: 1948
- Strengths: Medicine, Law, Business, Social Sciences
- World Ranking: 851-900 (QS World University Rankings 2025)
The University of Ghana, the oldest and largest public university in the country, tops the list. With over 30,000 students, it offers diverse programs across four colleges: Health Sciences, Humanities, Basic and Applied Sciences, and Education. Its Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research is a global leader in tropical disease studies.
The university’s partnerships with institutions like Oxford and Harvard enhance its research profile, making it a hub for multidisciplinary studies. Tuition ranges from GHS 2,500–6,000 for locals and $5,000–$10,000 for international students. Scholarships, like the Mastercard Foundation, support disadvantaged students.
2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
- Location: Kumasi
- Founded: 1952
- Strengths: Engineering, Pharmacy, Technology
- World Ranking: Top 10 in West Africa
KNUST, located in Ghana’s second-largest city, is renowned for its focus on science, technology, and entrepreneurship. Its engineering and pharmacy programs are among Africa’s best, supported by research centers and startup incubators.
With tuition fees of GHS 3,500–7,500 for locals and $4,500–$8,000 for international students, KNUST offers scholarships like the KNUST Bursary Scheme. Its global recognition stems from innovations in environmental engineering and agriculture, making it a leader in sustainable development.
3. University of Cape Coast (UCC)
- Location: Cape Coast
- Founded: 1962
- Strengths: Education, Social Sciences
- World Ranking: Top 50 in Africa
UCC, initially established to train teachers, has evolved into a comprehensive university excelling in education and social sciences. Its coastal campus fosters a vibrant academic community, with programs accredited by the National Accreditation Board.
UCC’s focus on producing intellectuals with professional qualifications has earned it a strong reputation. Tuition ranges from GHS 2,000–5,000, with scholarships like the Ghana Government Scholarship available. Its ranking as Ghana’s top university for education underscores its impact.
4. University for Development Studies (UDS)
- Location: Tamale
- Founded: 1992
- Strengths: Sustainable Development, Rural Studies
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
UDS is unique for its emphasis on practical education addressing rural challenges. Located in northern Ghana, it trains students in agriculture, health, and community development. Its low acceptance rate reflects high demand, with tuition fees of GHS 2,000–4,000.
UDS’s community engagement programs, such as field-based learning, make it a model for development-focused education. Its ranking in the Times Higher Education Sub-Saharan Africa Rankings highlights its regional influence.
5. University of Education, Winneba (UEW)
- Location: Winneba
- Founded: 1992
- Strengths: Teacher Education, Humanities
- Ranking: Top 5 in Ghana (Webometrics)
UEW specializes in teacher training, producing educators who shape Ghana’s basic and secondary schools. Its programs in humanities and education are complemented by distance learning options, making education accessible. Tuition is affordable at GHS 1,500–3,500, with government scholarships available. UEW’s commitment to pedagogical innovation earns it a strong reputation among Ghanaian universities.
6. Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
- Location: Accra
- Founded: 1961
- Strengths: Business, Public Administration, Law
- Tuition: GHS 5,000–12,000
GIMPA, a public university, caters to professionals with flexible evening and weekend programs. Its business and law schools are highly regarded, with tuition ranging from $5,000–$15,000 for international students. GIMPA’s Merit Scholarship supports high-achieving students. Its focus on leadership and governance makes it a top choice for career-driven individuals.
7. Ashesi University
- Location: Berekuso
- Founded: 2002
- Strengths: Liberal Arts, Engineering, Business
- Ranking: 7th in Africa (THE Impact Rankings 2022)
Ashesi, a private university, emphasizes ethical leadership and entrepreneurship. Its liberal arts curriculum, combined with engineering and computer science, fosters critical thinking. Tuition is higher (GHS 20,000–40,000), but scholarships like the Ashesi Full-Tuition Scholarship ensure accessibility. Ashesi’s global partnerships and alumni success make it a rising star.
8. University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
- Location: Ho
- Founded: 2011
- Strengths: Medicine, Public Health
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
UHAS, a specialized public university, trains healthcare professionals in medicine, nursing, and public health. Its research in tropical diseases and community health is impactful. Tuition ranges from GHS 3,000–6,000, with government support available. UHAS’s focus on health innovation positions it as a leader in medical education.
9. University of Mines and Technology (UMaT)
- Location: Tarkwa
- Founded: 2004
- Strengths: Mining, Engineering
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
UMaT, located in a mining hub, specializes in mining and technology. Its programs equip students for Ghana’s mineral-rich economy, with tuition of GHS 2,000–5,000. UMaT’s high acceptance rate makes it accessible, and its industry ties ensure job prospects. It ranks highly for engineering in Africa.
10. Regent University College of Science and Technology
- Location: Accra
- Founded: 2003
- Strengths: Science, Technology
- Ranking: Top 10 in Ghana (Webometrics)
Regent, a private Christian university, excels in science and technology. Its programs in computer science and engineering are globally competitive, with tuition of GHS 5,000–10,000. Regent’s focus on innovation and ethical values earns it a spot among Ghana’s elite.
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