Zanzibar University
Zanzibar, Tanzania • Founded 1998
Updated May 2026
Overview
Established in 1998, the Zanzibar University is a private higher education institution located in the medium city of Zanzibar City (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Mjini Magharibi.
Officially recognized by the Tanzania Commission for Universities, Zanzibar University (ZU) is a very small-sized coeducational Tanzanian higher education institution formally affiliated with the Islamic religion. Zanzibar University (ZU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study.
ZU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
The geographic and contact details below cover where Zanzibar University is and how to reach its administrative offices. Campus emergency contact is typically distinct from general inquiries.
Academic Details
Zanzibar University's institutional metrics and recognition context. Recognition reciprocity matters for credential portability — check whether your home country accepts Zanzibar University's qualifications.
Degrees
Also MBA
Bachelor's 28 programs
Bachelor's programmes build foundational expertise, preparing graduates for entry-level professional roles and further postgraduate study.
- Accountancy
- Archiving
- Banking
- Business Administration
- Business Computing
- Computer Education
- Computer Engineering
- Economics
- Education
- Information Management
- Information Sciences
- Information Technology
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- Law
- Library Science
- Logistics Management
- Marketing
- Mass Communication
- Mathematics Education
- Modern Languages
- Natural Sciences
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Public Administration
- Public Health
- Science Education
- Social Work
- Telecommunications Engineering
Master's 13 programs
Master's programmes develop advanced specialised expertise, suited to senior industry positions and applied research.
- Administration
- Banking
- Business Administration
- Business Computing
- Comparative Law
- Economic and Finance Policy
- Economics
- Finance
- Human Resources
- Law
- Management
- Marketing
- Public Administration
Diploma & Certificate 13 programs
Diploma and certificate routes deliver focused, applied training for fast entry into skilled occupations.
- Business Administration
- Business Computing
- Education
- Laboratory Techniques
- Law
- Medicine
- Midwifery
- Natural Sciences
- Nursing
- Primary Education
- Psychology
- Science Education
- Secondary Education
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Tanzania Commission for Universities.
Arts and Social Sciences (Faculty) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Economics
- Education
- Information Sciences
- Modern Languages
- Public Administration
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Business Administration (Faculty) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Accountancy
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Information Technology
- Marketing
Common Career Paths
- Business Analyst
- Operations Manager
- Strategy Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Engineering (Faculty) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Engineering
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Health and Allied Sciences (Faculty) 6 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Health Sciences
- Laboratory Techniques
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Public Health
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Law and Shariah (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Islamic Law
- Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Mathematics
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Continuing Education (Institute) 9 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Business Administration
- Business Computing
- Education
- Humanities and Social Science Education
- Law
- Midwifery
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Science Education
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Islamic Banking and Finance (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Banking
Common Career Paths
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Banker
- Risk Manager
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Postgraduate Studies and Research (Institute) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Biochemistry
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance
- Law
- Psychology
- Public Administration
Programs Offered
Below: Zanzibar University's programme list by level. Programme intakes vary — some offer multiple entry points per year (Sep, Jan, May), others a single annual intake.
42 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Tanzania
Bachelor's Degree 16 programmes
Showing 10 of 16.
Master's Degree 7 programmes
Doctorate 2 programmes
Certificate 5 programmes
Diploma 12 programmes
Showing 10 of 12.
How to apply to Zanzibar University
How to apply to Zanzibar University — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Use the programme finder to browse Zanzibar University's 42 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Programme-level requirements at Zanzibar University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Get your documents ready
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Zanzibar University processes applications through www.zanvarsity.ac.tz. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Reach out and track your application
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +255 (24) 223 2642. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zanzibar University
Common questions students ask about Zanzibar University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
How old is Zanzibar University?
The institution opened in 1998 (approximately 28 years ago).
In which city is Zanzibar University?
Zanzibar University is based in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
What is Zanzibar University's control type?
Zanzibar University operates as a private institution.
How many students study at Zanzibar University?
Zanzibar University has approximately 4,206 students.
What qualification levels does Zanzibar University offer?
Programmes at Zanzibar University cover bachelor's and master's programmes.
Does Zanzibar University have a religious affiliation?
Zanzibar University operates within the Islam tradition.
Is Zanzibar University officially recognised?
Zanzibar University is accredited by Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU).
How do I find Zanzibar University online?
You can find Zanzibar University online at www.zanvarsity.ac.tz.
Top-Ranked Universities in Tanzania
The leading universities in Tanzania are listed below — useful for sizing Zanzibar University against the country's top tier. Top-tier institutions in Tanzania typically set admissions standards that downstream universities track.
Other Tanzanian Universities Affiliated with Islam
Below: other Islam-affiliated universities in Tanzania, alongside Zanzibar University.
Faculties at nearby universities
These universities are located near Zanzibar University, listed below for students comparing options by location.
Where Else to Study Business Administration
Universities in Tanzania with Business Administration programmes appear below, alongside Zanzibar University.
Universities Compared with Zanzibar University
Universities of a similar scale and standing to Zanzibar University are listed below.
Studying in Tanzania: guides and resources
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