Makerere University, established in 1922, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Africa. In its early years, it was affiliated with the University of London. In 1963, with the establishment of the University of East Africa, it became one of its three constituent colleges. On July 1, 1970, it became an independent national university of the Republic of Uganda. Makerere University currently has three campuses. The main campus is located on Makerere Hill, 5 kilometers from the city center, covering an area of 350 hectares. The university offers 145 undergraduate degree programs, including 11 diploma programs and 134 bachelor's degree programs. In addition, it offers over 139 master's degree programs, including 17 postgraduate diploma programs and 135 master's degree programs. All academic units are authorized to offer doctoral degrees, either by research only or through coursework and dissertation.