Nursing in Kenya: Diploma vs Degree Requirements and How to Choose

Nursing is one of the most searched careers in Kenya. You can study it at diploma level or degree level, and there is more than one route to a degree. Here is how they compare.

Diploma in Nursing

According to Kenyans.co.ke (2022), a KMTC Diploma in Nursing asks for a minimum KCSE mean grade of C, plus relevant subjects. The programme was described as lasting 3 and a half years. Entry requirements and duration can change, so check with KMTC and KUCCPS for the current ones.

Degree in Nursing (BSc Nursing)

The same article describes two routes.

• Route 1, upgrade from a diploma: you need a diploma in nursing from a recognised institution, a valid practice licence from the Nursing Council of Kenya and work experience after graduating as a registered nurse. Some universities also ask for a KCSE mean grade of C plain.
• Route 2, direct admission: public universities such as the University of Nairobi and JKUAT admit students directly, with minimum KCSE grades in subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and English or Kiswahili. Some universities accept a combination with Biological Sciences and Physical Science.

Each university sets its own requirements, so read the exact ones on the course page.

Which route fits you?

• Strong grades and cluster points: apply directly for a degree through KUCCPS.
• Mean grade around C and good science subjects: a diploma at KMTC or another college is realistic, and you can upgrade to a degree later.
• Missing a subject requirement: check courses whose requirements you meet, because a missing subject can block you even with enough points.

Check nursing options on CourseChecker

• See which nursing degree programmes exist and their cut-offs at coursechecker.co.ke/can-i-do for nursing with each KCSE grade.
• See nursing diploma and certificate programmes at coursechecker.co.ke/college-courses.
• Enter your grades at coursechecker.co.ke to see the nursing courses you qualify for.

Sources

• Kenyans.co.ke, "Qualifications, Salaries of Diploma and Degree Nurses", 6 November 2022. Salary figures in that article are not repeated here because they may be outdated.
• KMTC (kmtc.ac.ke), Nursing Council of Kenya and KUCCPS (kuccps.net) for current requirements