Top10 prominent universities in Zambia
Zambia's higher education landscape has been steadily growing, with both public and private institutions contributing to the nation's human resource development. While specific "2025" rankings are yet to be definitively published by global bodies, we can highlight Zambia's consistently top-performing universities based on national recognition, historical significance, and unique specializations.
Here's a look at 10 prominent universities in Zambia, detailing what makes each unique, their program offerings, official links, and contact information.
A Look at Zambia's Top Universities
Zambia's universities are pivotal in shaping the country's future. From pioneering research to practical skills training, each institution offers a distinct flavor of academic excellence. Whether you're a prospective student, a researcher, or just curious about higher education in the heart of Southern Africa, here's a guide to some of Zambia's leading academic institutions.
1. The University of Zambia (UNZA)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? As the oldest and largest public university in Zambia, UNZA holds a unique position as the nation's premier academic institution. Established in 1966, it has been the bedrock of higher education and research, producing the majority of Zambia's leaders, professionals, and academics. Its uniqueness lies in its comprehensive range of disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to engineering, medicine, and agriculture, making it a truly multidisciplinary hub. It is often at the forefront of national policy discussions and research relevant to Zambia's development.
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Programmes Offered: A vast array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various schools including:
- School of Agricultural Sciences
- School of Education
- School of Engineering
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
- School of Mines
- School of Natural Sciences
- School of Veterinary Medicine
- Graduate School of Business
Official Website Link: While the direct link is often dynamic, search "University of Zambia official website" or look for variations like www.unza.zm
or www.unza.ac.zm
.
Online Application Link: Typically found under the "Admissions" or "Study" section of their official website. UNZA often utilizes an online application portal.
- Check the "Admissions" or "Apply Now" sections on their main website.
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 211 293340
- Admissions: Often a specific email/phone number for admissions is provided on their website.
FAQs:
- Q: How competitive is admission to UNZA? A: As the country's oldest and largest university, admission to UNZA, especially for popular programs like Medicine, Law, and Engineering, can be highly competitive.
- Q: Does UNZA offer distance learning? A: Yes, UNZA offers various distance learning programs to cater to students outside Lusaka or those who prefer flexible study.
- Q: Are there hostel facilities at UNZA? A: Yes, UNZA has student accommodation facilities, though demand often exceeds availability.
2. The Copperbelt University (CBU)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? CBU is Zambia's second-largest public university and stands out as the nation's premier institution for technology, mining, and applied sciences. Its uniqueness lies in its strong focus on industry-relevant programs, particularly in engineering, mining, and natural resources, directly supporting Zambia's key economic sectors. CBU prides itself on fostering innovation, growth, and academic excellence, with ongoing efforts to upgrade facilities to provide state-of-the-art learning environments.
Location: Kitwe, Copperbelt Province, Zambia (with campuses in Riverside, Parklands, Lusaka, Ndola, Kapasa Makasa, and Tazara).
Programmes Offered: A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, especially strong in:
- School of Mines and Mineral Sciences (Mining, Metallurgy, Geological Engineering)
- School of Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Telecommunications, Chemical, Computer)
- School of Built Environment (Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, Quantity Surveying)
- School of Business (Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Project Management)
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Computer Science)
- School of Medicine
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link: Typically accessible via their "Admissions" or "Study" section.
- Check
or similar links.https://www.cbu.ac.zm/admissions/
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 212 227038
- Admissions Email: admissions@cbu.ecampus.edu.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is CBU's main strength? A: CBU is renowned for its strong engineering and mining programs, directly serving Zambia's industrial needs.
- Q: Does CBU have a focus on practical skills? A: Yes, CBU's curriculum emphasizes practical application and industry engagement to ensure graduates are work-ready.
- Q: Are there opportunities for postgraduate studies at CBU? A: Yes, CBU offers various Master's and PhD programs across its schools.
3. Mulungushi University (MU)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? Mulungushi University stands out due to its serene and natural location in the central part of Zambia, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This unique setting, nestled in natural woods, offers an ideal environment for focused academic pursuit and "academic adventurism." Furthermore, its Great North Road campus is historically significant as the "Mulungushi Rock of Authority," the birthplace of Zambian politics. MU offers a blend of conventional and distance learning programs, making education accessible.
Location: Great North Road, Kabwe, Central Province, Zambia (with a Town Campus in Kabwe and a Livingstone Campus).
Programmes Offered: A diverse range of programs across its schools:
- School of Agriculture and Natural Resources
- School of Business Studies
- School of Education
- School of Science, Engineering and Technology
- School of Social Sciences
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link: Look for "Admissions" or "Apply Now" on their website.
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 215 228906
- Email: info@mu.ac.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is special about Mulungushi University's location? A: Its location in natural woods provides a tranquil and conducive environment for learning, distinct from urban campuses. It's also historically significant.
- Q: Does Mulungushi University offer distance learning? A: Yes, MU has a strong focus on distance learning, making its programs accessible to a wider population.
- Q: What are the accommodation options? A: MU provides hostel facilities for students, enhancing the on-campus learning experience.
4. Rusangu University (RU)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? Rusangu University, owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, is unique for its faith-based approach to education, integrating moral and ethical values into its curriculum. It emphasizes a holistic development of students, focusing not only on academic excellence but also on spiritual growth and community service. RU is known for its serene and conducive learning environment, attracting students seeking a value-driven educational experience.
Location: Monze, Southern Province, Zambia
Programmes Offered: Programs across various faculties/schools, often including:
- School of Education
- School of Business
- School of Science & Technology
- School of Health Sciences
- School of Theology
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link: Check their "Admissions" or "Apply" sections.
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 213 255474 / +260 977 416049
- Email: info@ru.edu.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is the religious affiliation of Rusangu University? A: It is a Seventh-day Adventist institution.
- Q: Does Rusangu University admit students of all faiths? A: Yes, while faith-based, it welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.
- Q: What kind of environment does RU offer? A: A serene and morally upright environment conducive to focused study and personal development.
5. Cavendish University Zambia (CUZ)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? Cavendish University Zambia holds the distinction of being the first private university established in Zambia (in 2004). Its uniqueness lies in its student-centric academic model that deploys innovation and global best practices in its pedagogy, philosophy, and operations. CUZ utilizes a learning management technology platform (CULP™) to support blended learning, flipped classrooms, and distance learning, offering flexibility and modern educational approaches. It focuses on transforming students for employment, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership.
Location: Lusaka, Zambia (Great North Road Campus and Longacres Campus).
Programmes Offered: Market-relevant and accredited programs across four main schools:
- School of Medicine
- School of Law
- School of Business and Information Technology (B.I.T)
- School of Arts, Education and Social Sciences (A.E.S.S.)
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link:
- Look for "Admissions" or "Apply Online" on their website.
https://www.cavendishza.org/admission/
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 211 387600
- Email: admissions@cavendish.co.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is the main differentiator of Cavendish University? A: Its pioneering role as Zambia's first private university and its innovative, student-centric academic model with a strong focus on technology-enhanced learning.
- Q: Does CUZ offer distance learning? A: Yes, CUZ offers extensive distance learning programs supported by its CULP™ platform.
- Q: What is the focus of CUZ's programs? A: Programs are market-relevant and designed to equip students for employment, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership.
6. ZCAS University
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? ZCAS University evolved from the Zambia Centre for Accountancy Studies, a well-established professional training institution. Its uniqueness stems from its strong practical orientation and deep roots in professional accounting and business qualifications. ZCAS University is particularly outstanding for its focus on producing highly skilled professionals in accounting, finance, and business, often with direct pathways to professional certifications like ACCA and CIMA.
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Programmes Offered: Predominantly in:
- Accountancy
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Information Technology
- Law (growing)
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link: Check the "Admissions" or "Apply Online" sections.
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 211 232 583 / +260 971 232 583
- Email: info@zcas.edu.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is ZCAS University's main specialization? A: It is exceptionally strong in accounting, finance, and business studies, often integrating professional qualification pathways.
- Q: Is ZCAS University good for professional qualifications? A: Yes, it has a long-standing reputation for preparing students for professional accounting bodies like ACCA and CIMA.
- Q: Does ZCAS University offer flexible study options? A: Given its history in professional training, it often provides flexible schedules and study modes to accommodate working professionals.
7. University of Lusaka (UNILUS)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? The University of Lusaka (UNILUS) is a prominent private university known for its modern approach to higher education and its emphasis on practical, industry-relevant training. Its uniqueness lies in its entrepreneurial focus and commitment to producing graduates who can contribute to the Zambian economy through innovation and job creation. UNILUS often collaborates with industry and offers programs designed to meet current market demands, particularly in business, law, and health sciences.
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Programmes Offered: Diverse programs across various schools:
- School of Business and Management
- School of Law
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- School of Health Sciences
- School of Education
- School of Technology
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link:
- Look for "Admissions" or "Apply Now" on their website.
https://www.unilus.ac.zm/admissions/
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 211 254477 / +260 977 400494
- Email: admissions@unilus.ac.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What makes UNILUS unique? A: Its entrepreneurial focus, modern curriculum, and strong links to industry aimed at fostering innovation and job creation.
- Q: Does UNILUS have a good reputation for its Law program? A: Yes, the School of Law at UNILUS is well-regarded.
- Q: Are there opportunities for practical experience at UNILUS? A: The university emphasizes practical training and often includes internships and real-world case studies in its programs.
8. Zambian Open University (ZAOU)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? ZAOU is unique as Zambia's pioneering open and distance learning university. It specializes in providing flexible and accessible higher education to a wide range of learners, particularly those who cannot attend traditional campus-based programs due to work, family commitments, or geographical location. Its strength lies in its extensive use of technology and various learning modes to deliver quality education without requiring physical presence on campus.
Location: Lusaka, Zambia (headquarters, with learning centers nationwide)
Programmes Offered: A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs primarily through distance learning, including:
- School of Education
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- School of Business Studies
- School of Law
- School of Agricultural Sciences
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link: Usually available on their "Admissions" or "Apply" section.
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 211 290234
- Email: info@zaou.ac.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is the primary mode of study at ZAOU? A: Distance and open learning, making it highly flexible for students.
- Q: Who is ZAOU ideal for? A: It's ideal for working professionals, mature students, or those in remote areas seeking higher education.
- Q: Does ZAOU offer face-to-face support? A: While primarily distance, ZAOU has learning centers across the country that provide some level of academic and administrative support.
9. Kapasa Makasa University (KMU)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding?
Kapasa Makasa University is unique due to its strategic location outside the traditional "line of rail" in a remote, rural part of Muchinga Province. This placement makes it a vital hub for regional development and agricultural research. KMU is designed to be a center of excellence in university education for
Location: Chinsali, Muchinga Province, Zambia
Programmes Offered: Focus on agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences and technologies. Examples include:
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
- Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Bachelor of Accountancy
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link: Look for "Admissions" or "Apply Now" on their website.
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 971 832 999 (Check website for specific contact numbers)
- Admissions Email: admissions@kmu.ac.zm
FAQs:
- Q: What is KMU's main focus? A: Agriculture, natural resources, science, and technology, with a strong emphasis on rural development and food security.
- Q: Why is its location unique? A: It's one of the few public universities located in a remote, rural province, serving a specific regional need.
- Q: Are there research opportunities related to local challenges? A: Yes, KMU is designed to conduct research that addresses the unique agricultural and environmental challenges of the region.
10. Livingstone International University of Tourism Excellence & Business Management (LIUTEBM)
What Makes it Truly Unique and Outstanding? LIUTEBM stands out as a specialized institution with a strong international outlook, focusing on tourism, hospitality, and business management. Its uniqueness lies in its aim to produce graduates for the tourism and hospitality industry, a critical sector for Zambia's economy. LIUTEBM also offers flexible online distance learning programs, including advanced postgraduate and doctoral degrees, reaching a global audience and working professionals. It has international accreditations, further solidifying its global focus.
Location: Lusaka, Zambia (IBEX Hill Extension)
Programmes Offered:
- Tourism and Hospitality Management (Diploma, Bachelor's)
- Business Administration (BBA, MBA, DBA)
- Management (Bachelor of Management, Master of Management)
- International Programs (various online Master's and Doctoral degrees like PhD, DBA, DCS in Business, IT, etc.)
- Health programs (approved by Health Professions Council of Zambia)
Official Website Link:
Online Application Link:
- Look for "Admissions" or "Apply Now" on their website.
(for general admissions)https://liutebmuniversity.org/?page_id=302 (for School of International Programs - SoIP)https://liutebmsoip.net/admission.php
Contact:
- General Enquiries: +260 953656029 / +260 957814580
- Admissions Email: admissions@liutebmuniversity.org
FAQs:
- Q: What is LIUTEBM's specialization? A: It specializes in tourism, hospitality, and business management, aiming to equip professionals for these sectors.
- Q: Does LIUTEBM have an international focus? A: Yes, it offers international programs, including online distance learning for global students, and has international accreditations.
- Q: Are there opportunities for postgraduate research? A: Yes, LIUTEBM offers various Master's and Doctoral (PhD, DBA) programs, some of which are research-based and available via distance learning.
Disclaimer: University rankings can be fluid and vary depending on the ranking methodology (e.g., academic reputation, research output, faculty-student ratio, internationalization, etc.). This list highlights prominent and highly regarded universities in Zambia based on their unique strengths and contributions to the higher education landscape. Always refer to the specific university's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding programs, admissions, and contact details.