Ghana is a stable democratic country on the west coast of Africa. It has become a regional hub for higher education. This country has many historical institutions. Government investment and growing private universities are creating opportunities for quality education. English is the medium of instruction. Universities cover a broad spectrum. Technology, science, education, business, humanities and public administration are the most prominent ones. If you are planning to study in Ghana, this write-up is for you.
Here are the top 10 universities in Ghana. This is the updated list for the year 2025. We make these country-wise lists every year, comparing the QS ranking and other popular ranking systems. The list is based on recent rankings and academic performance. For a full listing of institutions, you can consult Universities in Ghana.
1. University of Ghana (Legon)
The University of Ghana was founded in 1948. It's located in Legon, Greater Accra. The University of Ghana is regarded as the leading university in Ghana. It offers degrees in many disciplines. Humanities, social sciences, medicine, and law are among them. It has the highest research output among the institutions of this country. It usually ranks first in country‐by‐country listings.
2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST)
KNUST was established in 1952. KNUST emphasizes science, engineering, technology, architecture, and related fields. It has strong facilities and research output. It is often second in national rankings. If you want to study STEM or applied sciences, KNUST is one of the best choices in Ghana.
3. University of Cape Coast (UCC)
UCC was founded in 1962. It is well-known for its excellence in teacher training, education, humanities, and natural sciences. It has a reputation for producing strong graduates in educational fields. For students interested in education and research, Cape Coast is an excellent choice.
4. University for Development Studies (UDS)
UDS was established in 1992. It has a community‐based structure. It is serving the northern regions of Ghana. This university offers a mix of development‐oriented programmes. Agriculture, health, education, and social sciences are some of its popular departments. The university has contributed to rural development.
5. University of Education, Winneba (UEW)
UEW was founded in 1992. This university specialises in teacher education. It provides training for primary and secondary school teachers. If you want to be a qualified educator, UEW is a good option.
6. University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
A newer public university (established in 2011), UHAS is building up rapidly. It specialises in health sciences and allied disciplines, producing graduates in public health, allied health professions, and medical research.
7. University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR)
UENR was established in 2011. It focuses on teaching and research in energy, natural resources, environmental sciences and sustainable development. The university offers diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Students who pursue higher studies in science, engineering and energy often aim to study at this university.
8. Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
GIMPA was established in 1961. More than 6000 students study there. The university specialises in public administration, governance, business, law, and policy studies. GIMPA also provides postgraduate training and management education. For students aiming for careers in public service, management, or policy, GIMPA offers relevant programs. It runs some international programs. Under these exchange programs, their students can study in Germany, Turkey, Italy, Sweden and Denmark.
9. University of Mines and Technology
The University of Mines and Technology was established in 1975. It offers Bachelor's, Master’s, PhD, Diploma and certificate programs. The university accepts both Ghanaian and international students. This is an Engineering University. The major departments are Mining Engineering, EEE, CSE, Minerals Engineering, Renewable Energy, etc.
10. Kumasi Technical University
Kumasi Technical University offers Undergraduate and Graduate Programs in different fields of science, engineering, and business administration. There is also a good range of tertiary diploma programs.
Conclusion
These top universities aim to develop the education system of Ghana. They are introducing higher education in less populated regions. They are introducing specialized fields like energy, natural resources and ICT. Research output is rising, putting Ghanaian institutions on the global map. Many universities contribute to health, education, the environment, and technology. Many of these universities emphasize leadership, entrepreneurship, and ethical education. After studying at these universities, graduates become well-prepared for jobs, innovation and leadership.