The University of Nairobi traces its origins back to founding of the Royal Technical College in Nairobi, in 1956. Five years later it underwent a name change to the 'Royal College of Nairobi' and began awarding degrees, accredited by the University of London. From May 1960 accreditation was provided by the Federal University of East Africa and the name 'University College Nairobi' adopted. This was to change again, in 1970, when the its status changed to that of an autonomous university, with degree awarding powers, operating under the name of the University of Nairobi.