University of Arusha (UoA) Courses 2025/2026, Courses Offered at University of Arusha (UoA)
The University of Arusha (UoA), located in Usa River, Arumeru District, Arusha Region, Tanzania, is a private, Christian institution operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Established in 1974 as Arusha Adventist Seminary and granted full university status in 2006 by the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU), UoA is guided by its mission to provide “holistic education” that nurtures intellectual, spiritual, and professional growth. With the motto “Wholistic Education for Wholistic Life,” UoA emphasizes academic excellence, Christian values, and service to humanity, preparing graduates for careers rooted in integrity and societal impact. Accredited by both TCU and the Adventist Accrediting Association (AAA).
UoA offers various certificates, diplomas, and undergraduate and postgraduate programs, delivered through its School of Education, Business, and Theology and Religious Studies. The university’s campus, situated near Arusha National Park, provides a serene learning environment supported by modern facilities like a high-tech digital library. Below is a detailed overview of UoA’s academic programs, organized by degree level and discipline, with tables summarizing key offerings, based on information from the university’s official website and related authoritative sources.
Undergraduate Programs
UoA’s undergraduate programs are designed to foster critical thinking, practical skills, and ethical leadership, preparing students for careers in education, business, and theology. These programs, offered across three schools, emphasize hands-on learning and alignment with Tanzania’s workforce needs.
| Program | School/Faculty | Duration | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts in Theology | Theology and Religious Studies | 4 years | Christian theology, pastoral care, biblical studies |
| Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies | Theology and Religious Studies | 4 years | Comparative religion, ethics, religious leadership |
| Bachelor of Education (options: English, Kiswahili, Geography, History, Religion, Accounting) | Education | 3 years | Pedagogy, curriculum development, subject-specific teaching |
| Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting | Business | 3 years | Financial reporting, auditing, taxation |
| Bachelor of Business Administration in Management | Business | 3 years | Organizational management, leadership, entrepreneurship |
| Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing | Business | 3 years | Market research, consumer behavior, and strategic marketing |
| Bachelor of Arts in Economics | Business | 3 years | Economic analysis, policy development, econometrics |
Theology and Religious Studies: The BA in Theology and BA in Religious Studies, rooted in UoA’s Seventh-day Adventist heritage, prepare students for ministry and religious leadership. The theology program focuses on pastoral care and biblical scholarship, while religious studies explores comparative religion and ethics, fostering interfaith understanding.
Education: The Bachelor of Education offers specialized tracks in English, Kiswahili, Geography, History, Religion, and Accounting, addressing Tanzania’s demand for qualified teachers. These programs combine pedagogical theory with practical teaching experience, ensuring graduates are classroom-ready.
Business: The School of Business offers BBA programs in accounting, management, and marketing, alongside a BA in economics. These programs emphasize ethical business practices and practical skills, with training in financial management, organizational leadership, and market strategies, preparing students for Tanzania’s growing economy.
Postgraduate Programs
UoA’s postgraduate programs cater to professionals seeking advanced expertise, focusing on research, leadership, and societal contribution. These programs, primarily offered through the School of Education and Business, support UoA’s mission to advance knowledge and holistic development.
| Program | School/Faculty | Duration | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Religious Studies | Theology and Religious Studies | 2 years | Advanced theology, religious ethics, and interfaith dialogue |
| Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction | Education | 2 years | Curriculum design, instructional strategies, and educational research |
| Master of Education in Administration and Leadership | Education | 2 years | Educational policy, school management, leadership |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | Business | 2 years | Strategic management, global business, entrepreneurship |
Theology and Religious Studies: The MA in Religious Studies builds on undergraduate theology programs, offering advanced study in religious ethics and interfaith dialogue, preparing graduates for leadership in religious organizations or academia.
Education: The MEd programs in Curriculum and Instruction and Administration and Leadership focus on advanced pedagogical research and educational management. These programs equip educators for roles in curriculum development, school administration, and policy-making, addressing Tanzania’s academic challenges.
Business: The MBA program prepares professionals for strategic leadership roles, with flexible delivery options for working students. It emphasizes ethical governance and entrepreneurship, aligning with UoA’s Christian values and Tanzania’s economic needs.
Certificate and Diploma Programs
UoA offers a range of non-degree programs, providing accessible pathways to employment or further studies. These programs, spanning education, business, and theology, are practical and tailored to immediate workforce demands.
| Program | School/Faculty | Duration | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate in Theology | Theology and Religious Studies | 1 year | Fundamental theology, Christian ethics, and ministry preparation |
| Diploma in Theology | Theology and Religious Studies | 2 years | Advanced biblical studies, pastoral leadership |
| Certificate in Education | Education | 1 year | Basic teaching skills, classroom management |
| Diploma in Education | Education | 2 years | Pedagogy, curriculum delivery, educational methodologies |
| Certificate in Business Administration | Business | 1 year | Basic management and accounting principles |
| Diploma in Business Administration | Business | 2 years | Business operations, marketing, entrepreneurship |
| Certificate in Accountancy | Business | 1 year | Basic accounting, financial reporting |
| Diploma in Accountancy | Business | 2 years | Advanced accounting, auditing |
| Certificate in Office Administration and HRM | Business | 1 year | Office management, human resource basics |
| Diploma in Office Administration and HRM | Business | 2 years | HR management, administrative systems |
Theology and Religious Studies: Theology certificates and diplomas provide foundational training for ministry roles, emphasizing Christian ethics and pastoral skills.
Education: The certificate and diploma in education train students for teaching roles, particularly in primary and secondary schools, with practical classroom training.
Business: Programs in business administration, accountancy, and office administration provide practical skills for entry-level positions in management, finance, and HR, addressing Tanzania’s economic sectors.
Specialized Offerings and Notable Features
UoA’s programs are distinguished by their alignment with Seventh-day Adventist philosophy, practical orientation, and community focus. Key features include
- Holistic Education: UoA’s “holistic education” philosophy integrates intellectual, spiritual, and physical development, fostering ethical and service-oriented graduates, as emphasized by its affiliation with the global Seventh-day Adventist education system.
- Flexible Delivery: The university offers distance learning options for select programs, enhancing accessibility for students across Tanzania and beyond, supported by a comprehensive online communication system for registration and results.
- Practical Training: Programs like BBA and BEd incorporate internships and teaching practice, while theology programs include community ministry, ensuring job-readiness.
- Modern Facilities: UoA’s high-tech digital library with 100 internet ports, completed with support from donors in Loma Linda, California, enhances research and learning.
- Community Engagement: UoA’s programs emphasize service, with initiatives like the Clean Low-Fluoride Drinking Water Project benefiting the campus and neighboring villages, reflecting its commitment to societal impact.
Mission and Values
UoA’s mission to provide holistic education is rooted in Seventh-day Adventist principles, emphasizing equality, integrity, and service. The university transcends religious, economic, and social boundaries, fostering an inclusive “family-like” environment where the vice-chancellor is affectionately called “Papa” or “Dad.” Its serene campus, near Arusha National Park, supports spiritual and academic growth, with faculty mentoring students for careers grounded in faith and service.
Final thoughts
The University of Arusha offers various impactful academic programs that prepare students for leadership in education, business, and theology. From its flexible certificate and diploma programs to its advanced postgraduate offerings, UoA addresses Tanzania’s workforce needs while fostering global competence. Its emphasis on holistic education, practical training, and Christian values makes it a distinctive institution in Tanzania’s higher education landscape. For the latest program details and admission information, prospective students should visit UoA’s official website or contact the university at info@uoa.ac.tz or +255 272 540 000.
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