Best Tertiary Institutions in Zimbabwe Table

Browse through 30+ tertiary to consider for your after high school education. Pick the right University/Poly/College type as this determines your career.

RankInstitution NameMain CampusFees + Living CostYear Founded
1University of Zimbabwe
Harare
$1,400
1952
2NUST, Zimbabwe
Bulawayo
$1,000
1991
3Africa University
Mutare
$1,700
1990
4Midlands State University
Gweru
$1,000
2000
5Chinhoyi University of Technology
Chinhoyi
$1,100
2001
6Harare Institute of Technology
Harare
$1,450
1988
7Great Zimbabwe University
Masvingo
$1,200
1999
8Bindura University of Science Education
Bindura
$1,000
1996
9Lupane State University
Lupane
$1,350
2005
10Solusi University
Bulawayo
$1,000
1894
11Zimbabwe Open University
Harare
$500
1999
12Gwanda State University
Gwanda
$900
2016

How to pick an institution for tertiary education in Zimbabwe

Choosing where to study after high school is one of the biggest decisions for students especially in Zimbabwe where some believe tertiary education to be a optional. For those who are willing and can afford tertiary education the first step it to think about your goals and the kind of qualifications you need to achieve these goals. For example, someone who wants to be a doctor will need to study at a university with a medical school.

It is important to attend accredited institutions which are also recognized by ZIMCHE (Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education). This ensures that your qualification upon completion will be accepted by employers and other institutions within Zimbabwean and in other countries as well.

Factors to consider include location, facilities and most importantly costs as these can go up to US$2000 per semester at bigger institutions like UZ depending on your program and choice of accommodation. In the end, the best institution is the one that matches your goals, budget, and the kind of environment where you will thrive.

Statistics about the Tertiary Education sector in Zimbabwe

  • Zimbabwe has 65+ registered higher and tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, teachers’ colleges, and vocational training centers.
  • Over 150,000 students are enrolled in universities and colleges across Zimbabwe.
  • Female participation has increased, though men still dominate in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs.
  • Demand for higher education is greater than available spaces, which has pushed private universities and colleges to expand.