Distance education has become a vital part of Ghana’s higher education system, offering flexible learning opportunities for students who are unable to attend traditional campus-based programs. In recent years, especially from 2020 to 2025, the demand for distance learning has increased significantly due to factors such as work schedules, family responsibilities, geographic barriers, and the rise of digital technologies. Many universities in Ghana—both public and private—have responded to this demand by expanding their distance education programs across various fields of study, including business, education, technology, health, and the humanities.
This article presents a comprehensive list of universities in Ghana currently offering distance education programs. These institutions provide accredited and structured academic programs through a mix of online platforms, weekend schools, study centres, and blended learning methods, giving students the flexibility to earn degrees, diplomas, and certificates from wherever they are. Whether you’re a working professional seeking career advancement or a first-time student needing a flexible option, this list will guide you toward reputable universities with distance learning options in Ghana.
Our ranking of Ghana’s top distance-education universities is based on factors such as academic reputation, accreditation, program quality, breadth of course offerings, learning support (e.g. study centres and online platforms), and recent performance metrics. We gave extra weight to institutions with well-established distance-learning systems, diverse programs (undergraduate, postgraduate, certificates), and high recognition in national/international rankings. The list below names the top 10 universities, both public and private, that excel in distance education.
Top Universities in Ghana Offering Distance Education:
- University of Ghana
- University of Cape Coast
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- University of Education, Winneba
- University for Development Studies
- Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
- University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA)
- Ghana Communication Technology University (formerly Ghana Telecom University College)
- Central University
- Valley View University
1. University of Ghana
The University of Ghana (UG) is Ghana’s oldest and largest public university, founded in 1948 as the University College of the Gold Coast. Its main campus is at Legon in the Greater Accra Region. UG’s School of Continuing and Distance Education operates a nationwide network of 11 learning centres (e.g. Accra, Kumasi, Tamale) to deliver programs for working adults.
Distance programs include Bachelor of Science in Administration (with options like Accounting, Banking & Finance, Human Resource Management, Public Administration, Health Services Management) and various B.A. degrees (Adult Education, Geography, History, Information Studies, Linguistics, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, etc.).
These courses can be taken via open/distance learning, often at UG regional centres. UG’s longstanding reputation, extensive resources and broad program range earn it a top ranking. It has a large alumni network and strong academic output.
The University of Ghana operates a network of distance learning centres through its School of Continuing and Distance Education. These centres are strategically located in all regions, including Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Sunyani, Tamale, Ho, Cape Coast, Koforidua, Bolgatanga, and Wa. Each centre is equipped with modern facilities such as computer labs, classrooms, and administrative offices to support students enrolled in its various undergraduate and graduate distance programs. These centres serve as hubs for weekend lectures, exams, and tutorial sessions.
Contact: Postal Address P.O. Box LG 25, Legon, Accra; Tel +233 302 213820; Email pad@ug.edu.gh. Website: ug.edu.gh.
2. University of Cape Coast
The University of Cape Coast (UCC), established in October 1962 and made an independent university in 1971, is located in Cape Coast (Central Region) on Ghana’s coast.
UCC’s College of Distance Education offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in Education and Business by distance learning. For example, UCC’s distance college runs degree courses in education (e.g. B.Ed. programs) and business fields at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
UCC is widely regarded as one of Ghana’s top-ranked universities, reflecting its quality research and teaching. Its distance programs benefit from this strong academic standing.
The University of Cape Coast runs one of the most extensive distance education networks in Ghana through its College of Distance Education (CoDE). With over 70 study centres nationwide, UCC provides access to learners in urban and rural communities alike. Key locations include Accra, Kumasi, Sekondi-Takoradi, Ho, Tamale, Bolgatanga, Sunyani, Koforidua, and Cape Coast. These centres offer academic counselling, weekend classes, and tutorial support, and are used for administering course assessments and examinations.
Contact: The Registrar, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast; Tel +233 3321 32440 or 32480-9; Email registrar@ucc.edu.gh. Website: ucc.edu.gh.
3. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) traces its roots to the Kumasi College of Technology, established in 1951, and became a full university in 1961. Its main campus is in Kumasi (Ashanti Region).
KNUST’s Institute of Distance Learning (IDL) provides flexible programs allowing professionals to study part-time. While specific online courses aren’t listed here, the IDL offers popular programs like Bachelor’s and MBA degrees in fields such as Engineering, Business, and IT, often via weekend or hybrid formats.
KNUST is Ghana’s premier science and technology university, ranked high globally; it maintains a rigorous academic reputation and strong campus resources.
KNUST’s Institute of Distance Learning (IDL) supports distance learners through regional learning centres in major cities and towns. Prominent centres include Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, Takoradi, Ho, Tamale, and Cape Coast. These centres provide logistical support for academic delivery, including hosting of lectures, distribution of learning materials, submission of assignments, and sitting for examinations. The IDL also partners with some technical universities and polytechnics to expand access.
Contact: Private Mail Bag, University Post Office, Kumasi; Tel +233 3220 60021. Website: knust.edu.gh.
4. University of Education, Winneba
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) was established in September 1992 and became a full university in 2004. Its main campus is in Winneba (Central Region).
UEW is Ghana’s leading institution for teacher education. Its College of Distance and e-Learning (CODeL) offers many teaching and education-related programs by distance.
Distance-undergraduate offerings include B.Ed. degrees in Basic Education (Upper Primary and Junior High School options), B.Ed. in Early Grade Education, B.A. in English Language Education, B.Sc. in Mathematics Education, B.A. in Social Studies Education, and even Bachelor of Business Administration (Accounting or HRM). It also runs diploma programs in Basic and Early Grade Education.
UEW’s focus on quality teacher training and its comprehensive distance curriculum has earned it a strong reputation.
UEW’s College for Distance and e-Learning (CODeL) maintains over 30 study centres across Ghana to serve students in teacher education and related fields. Centres are located in places such as Accra, Ho, Koforidua, Techiman, Kumasi, Tamale, Bolgatanga, and Sefwi-Wiawso. These centres facilitate weekend-based tuition, practical sessions, and academic support. They also function as points of coordination for student registration, course delivery, and exams.
Contact: University of Education, Winneba, P.O. Box 25, Winneba; Tel +233 3323 22269 (Registrar); Email registrar@uew.edu.gh. Website: uew.edu.gh.
5. University for Development Studies
The University for Development Studies (UDS) was established in 1992 as a multi-campus public university to serve northern Ghana. Its main campuses are in Tamale (Northern Region), with others in the Upper East/West.
UDS has an Institute for Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) that offers programs in fields like agriculture, environmental studies, development studies and other social sciences for distance learners. (Specific distance programs are not listed here.)
UDS is consistently ranked among Ghana’s top universities, known for practical, community-focused education (e.g., its special field practical programs). Its social-science and development focus make it a leader in distance education for Ghana’s underserved regions.
UDS, through its Institute for Distance and Continuing Education, operates regional learning centres that reflect its mission to provide access to education in underserved areas. Major centres include Tamale, Wa, Bolgatanga, and Navrongo, with growing presence in southern parts of the country. These centres offer programs tailored to local development needs, particularly in education, agriculture, and social sciences. They support face-to-face learning, community fieldwork, and examination logistics.
Contact: University for Development Studies, P.O. Box TL 1350, Tamale; Tel +233 37 209 3697; Email registrar@uds.edu.gh. Website: uds.edu.gh.
6. Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration
GIMPA is a public Ghanaian university (main campus at Greenhill, Accra). It originated in 1961 as the Institute of Public Administration and became a university in 2004.
GIMPA is renowned for its management, public administration and governance programs. Its distance education (often “modularised” or executive study formats) includes bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and executive courses in Business Administration, Public Administration, Accounting, Law, etc..
The institute is considered one of Ghana’s best for business and leadership education. Its strong industry links and professional reputation justify its high ranking.
GIMPA provides distance education support through its four main campuses located in Accra (Greenhill), Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tema. These centres serve as access points for students pursuing blended or modular programs in Business Administration, Public Administration, and Law. While GIMPA’s distance delivery model leans toward weekend and executive formats, its learning centres provide critical infrastructure for in-person interactions, seminars, and administrative services.
Contact: GIMPA Main Campus, Greenhill, Accra; Tel +233 302 901368 or 302 658526; Email info@gimpa.edu.gh. Website: gimpa.edu.gh.
7. University of Professional Studies, Accra
The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) is a specialised public university founded in 1965 and known for business, accounting and management education. Its Distance Learning School (DLS) offers blended and online programs for working professionals.
Currently, UPSA’s DLS is piloting graduate-level distance programs, including MBA degrees (Accounting & Finance; Auditing; Marketing; Petroleum Accounting & Finance), MPhil in Leadership, and similar courses. Undergraduates and short-course programs are planned for the future.
UPSA’s strong focus on business and high professional standards make it a popular choice.
UPSA’s Distance Learning School (DLS) is headquartered in Accra but has plans to expand support through regional centres. As of 2025, most distance programs are centrally coordinated with limited satellite operations, but the university uses digital platforms effectively for lectures and assessments. Weekend sessions and limited in-person engagements are conducted in partnership with local venues in Accra and nearby cities. Expansion to other regions is underway to serve students in the Greater Accra and Eastern Regions.
Contact: UPSA Distance Learning School, P.O. Box LG 149, Accra; Tel +233 2444 38164; Email distancelearning@upsa.edu.gh. Website: upsa.edu.gh.
8. Ghana Communication Technology University
Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) – formerly Ghana Telecom University College – focuses on ICT, engineering and technology education.
Its Institute of Continuing and Distance Education (ICDE) offers a variety of programs online or at study centres. These include diplomas (e.g. Diploma in IT), B.Sc. degrees (Information Technology, Electronics & Electrical Engineering, Procurement & Supply Chain Management, Logistics & Transport) and one-year master’s degrees (MSc in Procurement/Logistics, Digital Marketing, Finance, Economics with Informatics, etc.).
GCTU’s technology emphasis and links to industry give it a strong niche in Ghanaian higher education.
GCTU supports its distance education programs through centres in Accra (Tesano main campus), Kumasi, Takoradi, Ho, and Koforidua. These centres facilitate the university’s tech-focused programs in ICT, engineering, and business disciplines. Each centre is equipped with digital labs and resources for hybrid learning. Students also benefit from online access to lectures, with in-person components delivered at the nearest learning centre.
Contact: GCTU Main Campus, Tesano-Accra; Email info@gctu.edu.gh; Tel +233 5050 87423. Website: gctu.edu.gh.
9. Central University
Central University is a private, accredited university founded in 1998 with its main campus at Miotso near Accra.
Its Centre for Distance and Professional Education (CDPE) offers many programs online or in blended modes. These include undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as professional diplomas and certificates in fields like Business Administration, Information Technology, Education, and Theology. (For example, CDPE provides accredited certificate and diploma tracks alongside Central’s regular programs.)
Central University is known for its quality and Christian mission, and it has a broad national presence.
Central University’s Centre for Distance and Professional Education (CDPE) manages learning centres in Accra (Miotso), Kumasi, Takoradi, Ho, Tamale, and other major cities. These centres are used for weekend lectures, exams, and academic consultations. The university leverages these facilities to offer both short courses and full academic programs to working professionals, especially in business, theology, and education.
Contact: Central University, P.O. Box 2305, Tema (Accra); Tel +233 30 3318580; Email verification@central.edu.gh. Website: central.edu.gh.
10. Valley View University
Valley View University (VVU) is a private university founded in 1979 by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with its main campus near Accra (Adenta).
VVU offers a range of distance-learning options across its faculties (e.g. Education, Business, Social Sciences, Computer Science, etc.). While specific online programs are not listed here, VVU is Ghana’s oldest faith-based private university and is known for academic quality in its offerings. Its commitment to flexible learning and accreditation in the education field underpins its reputation.
Valley View University operates distance learning centres in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Tamale, and Techiman. These centres support undergraduate and certificate programs with a focus on flexible learning schedules. Students attend weekend or modular sessions, access online platforms for learning, and write examinations at their designated centres. VVU’s faith-based mission also ensures that its learning centres provide a disciplined and values-based academic environment.
Contact: Valley View University, Mile 19 Adenta-Dodowa Road, P.O. Box AF 595, Adentan, Accra; Tel +233 3070 111 833. Website: vvu.edu.gh.
LIST OF UNIVERSITIES IN GHANA OFFERING DISTANCE EDUCATION:
- University of Ghana
- University of Cape Coast
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- University of Education, Winneba
- University for Development Studies
- Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
- University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA)
- Ghana Communication Technology University
- Central University
- Valley View University
- University of Energy and Natural Resources
- Presbyterian University, Ghana
- Catholic University of Ghana
- Pentecost University
- Knutsford University College
- Ghana Baptist University College
- Wisconsin International University College
- Accra Institute of Technology
- Kessben University College
- Islamic University College
- Mountcrest University College
- Ghana Christian University College
- BlueCrest University College
- Regent University College of Science and Technology
- Dominion University College
