Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences,Discover all about Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS) in Tanzania – courses, admissions, fees, application guide, and why CUHAS is a top choice for health and medical education in East Africa.
Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences
If you are passionate about becoming a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or public health professional, the Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS) is one of the most respected and advanced institutions in Tanzania. Located in Mwanza, this university offers specialized programs in health and medical sciences, producing top-tier health professionals who serve across East Africa and beyond.
In this article, we dive deep into all aspects of CUHAS – from courses offered, application procedures, admission requirements, tuition fees, student life, and why it continues to stand out as a center of excellence in health education.
CUHAS
The Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS), also known as CUHAS Bugando, is a private, faith-based health university established by the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC). It is accredited by the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) and affiliated with Bugando Medical Centre, one of the top referral hospitals in the Lake Zone.
Since its establishment in 2003, CUHAS has been known for its rigorous academic programs, world-class research, and commitment to producing competent health professionals guided by ethical and Christian values.
Location and Campus Environment
CUHAS is located in Mwanza city, at Bugando Hill, near Lake Victoria. The university shares a campus with the Bugando Medical Centre (BMC), giving students direct access to practical hospital-based training. The environment is serene, safe, and ideal for academic concentration.
Students enjoy:
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Clean hostels with 24/7 security
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Well-equipped libraries and laboratories
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Access to Bugando hospital for practical training
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Wi-Fi and digital learning tools
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A Catholic chapel for spiritual growth
Courses Offered at CUHAS (Undergraduate & Postgraduate)
CUHAS offers a wide range of undergraduate, diploma, and postgraduate programs in medicine and allied sciences. These include:
1. Doctor of Medicine (MD)
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Duration: 5 years
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Entry: Two principal passes in Biology and Chemistry
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Leads to: General Medical Doctor qualification
2. Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)
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Duration: 4 years
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Entry: Principal passes in Chemistry and Biology
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Career: Hospital Pharmacist, Industrial Pharmacy, Drug Regulatory Bodies
3. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN)
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Duration: 4 years
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Entry: Two principal passes including Biology
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Leads to: Registered Nurse
4. Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences (BMLS)
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Duration: 4 years
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Career: Lab Technician, Clinical Research
5. Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging
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Duration: 4 years
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Specialization: Radiography and Imaging Technology
6. Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences
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Duration: 3 years
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Entry: Form IV with at least D passes in sciences
7. Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences
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Duration: 3 years
Postgraduate Programs:
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Master of Medicine (MMed) in Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB/GYN
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Master of Public Health (MPH)
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PhD in Medical and Health Sciences
CUHAS is among the few Tanzanian institutions offering postgraduate residency training in medicine, making it highly competitive.
Admission Requirements
Admission to CUHAS is merit-based and follows guidelines set by the TCU and NACTVET for diploma programs.
For Undergraduate Programs:
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Completed A-Level with at least two principal passes in science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
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For Nursing, Medical Lab, and Imaging, relevant passes are required
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A good score in the ACSEE (Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education Examination)
For Diploma Programs:
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At least three D passes in science subjects from Form IV
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Application is done through the NACTVET Central Admission System
For Postgraduate Programs:
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Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with at least a second-class lower division
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Two recommendation letters
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CV and academic transcripts
How to Apply to CUHAS (2025)
CUHAS uses online application systems based on the level of study.
For Undergraduate (Degree) Applicants:
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Visit https://oas.cuhas.ac.tz
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Register with your Form VI index number
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Fill in your personal information
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Select your preferred course
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Upload academic documents (Form IV, VI, birth certificate)
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Pay the application fee (TZS 30,000) via mobile money
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Submit and wait for selection updates
For Diploma Applicants:
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Apply through the NACTVET system at www.nacte.go.tz
CUHAS Tuition Fees (2025 Estimates)
Fees at CUHAS vary depending on the program. Below are annual estimates:
| Program | Tuition Fee (TZS/year) | Other Costs (Library, Exam, Lab) |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Medicine | 3,500,000 | 800,000 |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy | 3,200,000 | 700,000 |
| BSc Nursing | 2,500,000 | 600,000 |
| BMLS | 2,800,000 | 650,000 |
| Diploma in Pharma/Lab | 1,200,000 | 350,000 |
| MPH / MMed | 5,000,000+ | Based on specialty |
Scholarships and loan support are available through HESLB (Higher Education Student Loans Board) and private sponsors.
Facilities and Student Life
CUHAS students enjoy a well-rounded university experience. Facilities and support services include:
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Modern Labs: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology
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E-learning Platform: Used for lectures, exams, and assignments
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Sports and Clubs: Football, netball, debate club, Christian union
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Medical Library: Fully equipped with journals, online access
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Hostels and Cafeteria: Affordable and student-friendly
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Hospital Training: Real-time patient interaction at Bugando Medical Centre
CUHAS also organizes health campaigns, research conferences, and community outreach programs, making it a dynamic institution beyond books.
Why Choose CUHAS?
Academic Excellence
CUHAS is ranked among the top 5 medical universities in Tanzania due to its academic performance, professional ethics, and world-class training.
Strong Hospital Affiliation
CUHAS is directly affiliated with Bugando Hospital, one of the country’s largest referral hospitals. Students gain hands-on clinical training.
Professional Recognition
Graduates are highly respected and employed in Tanzania, East Africa, and even abroad.
Christian and Ethical Foundation
As a Catholic university, CUHAS instills discipline, ethics, and professionalism based on Christian values.
Research and Innovation
Students and faculty actively engage in medical research, improving the quality of healthcare in Tanzania.
Contact Details
To get in touch with CUHAS for more information:
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Address: Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 1464, Mwanza, Tanzania
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Phone: +255 28 250 0881 / +255 767 066 066
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Email: admission@bugando.ac.tz
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Website: https://www.bugando.ac.tz
Final Thoughts
The Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS) is more than just a university — it’s a training ground for Tanzania’s future doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and public health leaders. With its strong foundation, modern facilities, and clinical exposure, CUHAS prepares students not just for exams but for real-world impact.
If you are committed to a career in health sciences and want a university that blends quality education with ethics and professionalism, then CUHAS Bugando is your ideal destination.
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