Nursing is a cornerstone of Ghana’s healthcare system, and the demand for skilled nurses continues to rise both locally and globally. With a robust education system overseen by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana (NMC), the country produces thousands of healthcare professionals annually. Whether you’re a high school graduate, a working professional seeking a career shift, or an international student, Ghana offers a range of nursing schools that balance quality education with affordability.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 nursing schools in Ghana as of 2025, including their tuition fees, program offerings, and unique strengths. This article provides everything you need to make an informed decision about your nursing education. Let’s dive in.
Why Choose Nursing as a Career in Ghana?
Nursing is more than a job—it’s a calling that offers stability, purpose, and global opportunities. In Ghana, nurses are vital to addressing healthcare challenges like maternal mortality, infectious diseases, and rural healthcare access. The profession also opens doors to international careers, with many Ghanaian nurses working in the UK, USA, Canada, and the Middle East.
Ghana’s nursing schools are accredited by the NMC, ensuring that diplomas and degrees meet international standards. Tuition fees remain competitive compared to Western countries, and the cost of living in Ghana is relatively low, making it an attractive option for both local and foreign students. With healthcare investments growing, now is an ideal time to pursue nursing education in Ghana.
How We Ranked the Top Nursing Schools
To create this list, we evaluated schools based on:
- Accreditation: Compliance with NMC and other regulatory standards.
- Program Diversity: Availability of certificate, diploma, degree, and postgraduate courses.
- Reputation: Academic excellence, alumni success, and employer feedback.
- Facilities: Quality of labs, libraries, and clinical training sites.
- Tuition Fees: Affordability and value for investment.
- Location: Accessibility and proximity to healthcare facilities.
The tuition fees listed are estimates for 2025, based on recent trends and available data as of March 19, 2025. Fees may fluctuate due to inflation or institutional updates, so verify with each school before applying.
1. University of Ghana School of Nursing and Midwifery
Overview:
The University of Ghana (UG), located in Legon, Accra, is Ghana’s oldest and most prestigious university. Its School of Nursing and Midwifery, established decades ago, is a leader in producing top-tier nurses and midwives.
Programs Offered
- BSc in Nursing: 4 years, focusing on general nursing practice.
- BSc in Midwifery: 4 years, specializing in maternal and neonatal care.
- MSc in Nursing: 2 years, with tracks in leadership, education, and clinical practice.
- PhD in Nursing: Research-focused, typically 3-4 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Undergraduate (Regular Ghanaian Students): GHS 3,515 – GHS 4,000 per year
- Undergraduate (Fee-Paying Ghanaian Students): GHS 8,294 per year
- Postgraduate (MSc): GHS 12,958 (Year 1); GHS 18,374 for MPH track
- PhD: GHS 11,261 (Year 1); up to GHS 15,081 by Year 3
- International Students: USD 6,813 – USD 8,814 per year
Facilities and Strengths
UG’s nursing school benefits from affiliations with Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and other premier facilities. Students use modern simulation labs and engage in research projects addressing Ghana’s healthcare needs, such as reducing maternal mortality rates.
Career Prospects
Graduates often secure roles in teaching hospitals, NGOs, or pursue further studies abroad. Many alumni report starting salaries of GHS 2,500 – GHS 4,000 monthly in Ghana, with higher earnings overseas.
Student Perspective
“Studying at UG was transformative. The clinical exposure at Korle-Bu prepared me for real-world challenges.” – Ama, BSc Nursing Graduate, 2023.
2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) School of Nursing
Overview:
Located in Kumasi, KNUST is a hub for science and technology education. Its School of Nursing and Midwifery integrates cutting-edge technology into healthcare training.
Programs Offered
- BSc in Nursing: 4 years, emphasizing evidence-based practice.
- BSc in Midwifery: 4 years, focusing on obstetric care.
- MSc in Nursing: 2 years, with specializations like critical care.
- Postgraduate Diploma: 1 year, for professional development.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Undergraduate: GHS 10,000 – GHS 20,000 per year
- Postgraduate: GHS 15,000 – GHS 25,000 per year
Facilities and Strengths
KNUST partners with Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, offering extensive clinical rotations. The school’s research focus includes telemedicine and health informatics, appealing to tech-savvy students.
Career Prospects
KNUST nurses are recruited by private hospitals and international organizations. Salaries range from GHS 2,800 – GHS 5,000 monthly locally.
Student Perspective
“The tech-driven curriculum at KNUST gave me an edge in modern nursing practices.” – Kwame, MSc Nursing Student, 2024.
3. University of Cape Coast (UCC) School of Nursing and Midwifery
Overview:
UCC, based in Cape Coast, is known for its academic excellence and serene campus environment. Its nursing school trains compassionate professionals for Ghana’s healthcare system.
Programs Offered
- BSc in Nursing: 4 years, covering adult and pediatric care.
- BSc in Midwifery: 4 years, with rural health focus.
- MSc in Nursing: 2 years, advanced clinical training.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Undergraduate: GHS 8,000 – GHS 15,000 per year
- Postgraduate: GHS 12,000 – GHS 20,000 per year
Facilities and Strengths
UCC’s simulation labs and partnerships with regional hospitals provide hands-on learning. The school emphasizes community engagement, ideal for public health enthusiasts.
Career Prospects
Graduates work in district hospitals or pursue master’s degrees abroad, earning GHS 2,500 – GHS 4,500 monthly in Ghana.
4. Korle-Bu Nursing and Midwifery Training College
Overview:
Situated in Accra, Korle-Bu NMTC is a historic institution tied to Ghana’s largest hospital, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. It’s a top choice for diploma seekers.
Programs Offered
- Diploma in Registered General Nursing (RGN): 3 years.
- Diploma in Registered Midwifery (RM): 3 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- First-Year Students: GHS 2,255 per semester (approx. GHS 4,510 per year)
- Continuing Students: GHS 1,405 per semester (approx. GHS 2,810 per year)
- Additional Fees: GHS 500 – GHS 1,000 (library, SRC dues, etc.)
Facilities and Strengths
Direct access to Korle-Bu Hospital ensures unmatched clinical exposure. The college excels in practical training over theory-heavy programs.
Career Prospects
Graduates often join public hospitals, earning GHS 2,000 – GHS 3,500 monthly.
Student Perspective
“Korle-Bu’s hands-on training made me job-ready from day one.” – Abena, RGN Graduate, 2022.
5. University for Development Studies (UDS) School of Nursing
Overview:
Based in Tamale, UDS addresses healthcare disparities in northern Ghana. Its nursing school is a leader in community-focused training.
Programs Offered
- BSc in Nursing: 4 years.
- BSc in Midwifery: 4 years.
- MSc in Community Health Nursing: 2 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Undergraduate: GHS 8,000 – GHS 15,000 per year
- Postgraduate: GHS 12,000 – GHS 18,000 per year
Facilities and Strengths
UDS leverages rural clinics for training, preparing students for underserved areas. Its research tackles local health issues like malaria.
Career Prospects
Graduates serve in rural health posts or NGOs, earning GHS 2,500 – GHS 4,000 monthly.
6. Narh-Bita College
Overview:
A private college in Tema, Narh-Bita is known for its modern infrastructure and affiliation with Narh-Bita Hospital.
Programs Offered
- BSc in Nursing: 4 years.
- Diploma in RGN: 3 years.
- Nurse Assistant Clinical (NAC) Certificate: 2 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- BSc in Nursing: GHS 10,000 – GHS 15,000 per year
- Diploma: GHS 8,000 – GHS 12,000 per year
- Certificate: GHS 5,000 – GHS 8,000 per year
Facilities and Strengths
Small class sizes and hospital-based training enhance learning. It’s ideal for students seeking private education.
Career Prospects
Graduates work in private clinics or abroad, earning GHS 2,800 – GHS 5,000 monthly.
7. Central University College School of Nursing
Overview:
A private Christian university in Accra, Central University emphasizes ethics and leadership in nursing.
Programs Offered
- BSc in Nursing: 4 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Undergraduate: GHS 10,000 – GHS 15,000 per year
- Application Fee: GHS 100
Facilities and Strengths
The school offers scholarships and a faith-based approach, appealing to values-driven students.
Career Prospects
Graduates join mission hospitals or private practices, earning GHS 2,500 – GHS 4,500 monthly.
8. Kintampo College of Health and Well-Being
Overview:
In Kintampo, this public college trains multi-disciplinary health workers, including nurses.
Programs Offered
- Diploma in RGN: 3 years.
- NAC Certificate: 2 years.
- BSc in Community Health Nursing: 4 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Diploma: GHS 3,852 per year
- BSc: GHS 4,682 per year
- Additional Fees: GHS 2,400 (feeding)
Facilities and Strengths
Affordable fees and rural focus make it accessible and impactful.
Career Prospects
Graduates work in community health, earning GHS 2,000 – GHS 3,500 monthly.
9. Sunyani Nursing and Midwifery Training College
Overview
A public college in Sunyani, it’s one of Ghana’s most affordable nursing schools.
Programs Offered
- Diploma in RGN: 3 years.
- Diploma in RM: 3 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Tuition: GHS 1,500 per year
- Additional Fees: GHS 660 (SRC, exams)
Facilities and Strengths
Low costs and a supportive environment attract budget-conscious students.
Career Prospects
Graduates join public health posts, earning GHS 2,000 – GHS 3,200 monthly.
10. St. Karol School of Nursing
Overview:
A private school in Accra, St. Karol offers flexibility and quality education.
Programs Offered
- BSc in RGN: 4 years.
Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
- Undergraduate: GHS 10,000 – GHS 15,000 per year
Facilities and Strengths
No age limit and modern resources make it inclusive.
Career Prospects
Graduates work in private sectors, earning GHS 2,800 – GHS 5,000 monthly.
Historical Context of Nursing Education in Ghana
Nursing education in Ghana dates back to the colonial era, with institutions like Korle-Bu NMTC established in 1945. Post-independence, the government expanded training to meet healthcare demands, leading to the rise of universities like UG and KNUST. Today, private schools like Narh-Bita and St. Karol complement public efforts, reflecting Ghana’s commitment to universal healthcare.
Tuition Fee Comparison: Public vs. Private
| Institution | Type | Tuition Range (GHS/Year) |
| University of Ghana | Public | 3,515 – 8,294 |
| KNUST | Public | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| UCC | Public | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| Korle-Bu NMTC | Public | 2,810 – 4,510 |
| UDS | Public | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| Narh-Bita College | Private | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Central University | Private | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Kintampo College | Public | 3,852 – 4,682 |
| Sunyani NMTC | Public | 1,500 + 660 (extras) |
| St. Karol School | Private | 10,000 – 15,000 |
Public schools offer lower fees, while private institutions provide flexibility and modern facilities.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
- WASSCE/SSSCE: Aggregate 36 or better (A1-C6 in English, Math, Science, and electives).
- Age: 18-35 for most schools; exceptions like St. Karol have no limit.
- Application: Online or in-person, with fees of GHS 100-200.
- Interviews: Required for diploma and certificate programs.
Scholarships and Financial Support
- Government Funding: Subsidizes public schools like Sunyani NMTC.
- Private Aid: Central University offers merit scholarships.
- International Options: UG and KNUST provide aid for foreign students.
Choosing the Right Nursing School
Consider:
- Budget: Align fees with your finances.
- Location: Proximity to home or clinical sites.
- Program: Diploma for quick entry, degree for advancement.
- Goals: Specialization or international practice.
Conclusion
Ghana’s top 10 nursing schools offer diverse pathways to a rewarding career. From the affordable Sunyani NMTC to the prestigious University of Ghana, each institution brings unique value. As of March 19, 2025, these schools remain pillars of healthcare education. Start your journey today by exploring their offerings and securing your future in nursing.
