Ghana boasts a diverse array of universities, with some standing out not only for their academic excellence but also for their expansive campuses, impressive student populations, and cutting-edge research. As the demand for higher education continues to rise, these institutions have become central to shaping the future leaders, innovators, and professionals of the country. The universities featured here are the largest in Ghana, both in terms of land size and student enrollment, playing an instrumental role in the nation’s educational landscape.
Whether you’re a prospective student, an academic, or just curious about the higher education system in Ghana, this guide provides a comprehensive look at the top 10 largest universities in the country. We’ll explore their campuses, student bodies, academic offerings, and the impact they have locally and globally.
Here are the top 10 biggest universities in Ghana:
University of Ghana, Legon
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
University of Education, Winneba
University for Development Studies (UDS)
University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
Valley View University
Accra Technical University (ATU)
Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
Ashesi University
- University of Ghana, Legon
Founded in 1948, the University of Ghana is the premier university in the country. Its main campus, located in Legon, spans approximately 11.4 square kilometers (about 2,817 acres), making it one of the largest university campuses in Africa. The university is home to more than 61,000 students and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.
The campus features tropical compound buildings and striking Colonial Architecture, with numerous halls of residence, academic buildings, and research institutes. It is an academic powerhouse, housing a thriving community of international students from over 70 countries. The Legon campus alone includes residential accommodations, a sports stadium, the University Medical Centre, and research facilities like the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research.
- University of Cape Coast (UCC)
Established in 1962, UCC has grown to become the second-largest university in Ghana in terms of land size. The university originally acquired 2,900 acres in 1969, expanding to 3,690 acres in 1987. However, recent land encroachment has reduced the land size. Nevertheless, UCC still boasts expansive campuses with picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.
With a student population of over 74,000, UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university has two main campuses: the Southern (Old) Campus and the Northern (New) Campus, both hosting various faculties, academic buildings, and recreational facilities.
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
KNUST, located in Kumasi, is the largest university in the Ashanti Region and the third-largest in Ghana. With a sprawling campus covering over 2,500 acres, KNUST serves approximately 85,000 students. Known for its focus on science, technology, and engineering, KNUST is recognized for its modern infrastructure, including the Great Hall, which can accommodate over 1,250 students.
The university’s six traditional halls of residence, academic buildings, and research centers contribute to a vibrant, self-contained campus community. Its striking modern architecture and extensive use of natural lighting and ventilation make KNUST a visually appealing campus for both students and visitors.
- University of Education, Winneba (UEW)
The University of Education, Winneba, is a multi-campus institution spread across the Central Region of Ghana. Its main campus, located in Winneba, covers approximately 1,682 acres, making it the fourth-largest university in the country. UEW has a student population of over 60,000 and offers various undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in the fields of education and teaching.
The university also has campuses in Kumasi, Mampong, and Ajumako, each offering specialized programs. UEW’s role in producing quality educators has made it a key player in shaping the educational landscape in Ghana.
- University for Development Studies (UDS)
UDS, established in 1992, is Ghana’s first public university in the northern part of the country. It is dedicated to promoting development-oriented education, and its campuses span across various regions in Ghana, including Nyankpala, Dungu, Wa, and Navrongo. The university has a student population of about 20,000 and offers programs in disciplines such as agriculture, health, and social sciences.
UDS’ Nyankpala campus, located in Tamale, covers a vast area of 122 acres and is home to multiple faculties and research centers. The university’s unique focus on development and its location in the northern part of Ghana make it an important institution in the country’s educational system.
- University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
Located in Ho, Volta Region, UHAS was established in 2012 and has quickly become one of the largest universities in Ghana. The university operates five campuses, including the central administrative campus in Hohoe. UHAS offers specialized programs in health sciences and has a land size of approximately 703 acres.
With a student population of over 7,600, UHAS focuses on training health professionals who are equipped to meet the country’s healthcare needs. Its expansive campus and commitment to health education make it a vital part of Ghana’s educational system.
- Valley View University (VVU)
Founded in 1979, Valley View University is a private university located in Oyibi, 31 kilometers from Accra. The university sits on 335 acres of land and has a student population of approximately 8,500. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with many students enrolled in sandwich courses.
Valley View University’s serene environment and vast campus make it an ideal space for academic pursuits. Its location also gives it a unique position for future expansion and development.
- Accra Technical University (ATU)
Accra Technical University, Ghana’s premier technical university, became a public university in 2016. With two campuses—one in Accra and the other in Mpehuasem (Nsawam)—ATU offers programs in engineering, applied sciences, arts, and business.
The Accra campus spans approximately 345 acres, and the Mpehuasem campus covers an additional 160 acres. With a student population of over 11,000, ATU is committed to providing hands-on, practical education to prepare students for the workforce.
- Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
GIMPA, established in 1966, is located in Achimota, Accra, and is well-known for its programs in management, public administration, and business studies. The university’s main campus spans 150 acres and offers a stunning panoramic view of the city.
With a student enrollment of over 6,000, GIMPA is an important institution for students seeking to pursue studies in business, governance, and public management. Its serene environment and modern facilities make it one of the largest universities in Ghana.
- Ashesi University
Ashesi University, founded in 2002, is a private institution focused on providing high-quality education to the next generation of African leaders. The university is located on a 100-acre campus in Berekuso, offering a serene environment for learning.
Ashesi’s commitment to leadership, entrepreneurship, and ethical values is reflected in its academic programs. With a student population of around 1,500 students from 34 countries, Ashesi stands as a leading example of innovative higher education in Ghana.
These ten universities are the largest in Ghana, each with unique strengths and contributions to the educational landscape. Whether you’re considering studying in Ghana or simply curious about the country’s top institutions, these universities are shaping the future of education in Ghana and beyond.
