Egerton University is the oldest institution of higher learning in Kenya. It was founded as a Farm School in 1939 by Lord Maurice Egerton of Tatton, a British national who settled in Kenya in the 1920s. In 1950, the School was upgraded to an Agricultural College offering diploma programmes.
Egerton University is headquartered at Njoro’s main campus. The main campus also houses the Faculties of Agriculture, Arts and Social Sciences, Education and Community Studies, Engineering and Technology, Environment and Resources Development, Science and Veterinary Medicine & Surgery.
Egerton University contribution to the Kenya Vision 2030 includes the establishment of an AgroScience and Technology Park, Dryland Research Training and Ecotourism Centre and the Rehabilitation of Njoro River. In addition, the University has set up a Centre for CapacityBuilding to offer short courses in agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises, institutional development and business and professional leadership.

In partnership with African Virtual University (AVU), the University offers courses in Computer Science under the Open, Distance and E-learning (ODeL) model.

Egerton University has established a series of local and international partnerships and linkages in research, teaching, and industry. The University has established HIV and AIDS Prevention and Management Unit; Botanic Garden; Community Resource Centre and hosts the Secretariat of the African Council for Distance Education (ACDE).