Certificate in Nursing in Kenya: Requirements, Colleges Offering, Fees

The healthcare field in Kenya is experiencing tremendous growth and development, especially in the nursing sector. Nursing has become a highly lucrative career path, offering numerous employment opportunities in public hospitals, private health facilities, and international organizations like USAID and the Red Cross. If you are interested in pursuing a career in nursing in Kenya, obtaining a Certificate in Nursing is the essential first step. This article will provide comprehensive information on the requirements for a Certificate in Nursing, the colleges offering the program, and the associated fees.

Nursing Council of Kenya

The Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) is the statutory body regulating the nursing profession in Kenya. The NCK is responsible for setting standards for nursing education and practice and registering and licensing nurses. To get a certificate in nursing in Kenya, you must first be registered with the NCK. To register with the NCK, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with a minimum grade of C plain.
• Have completed a two-year certificate course in nursing from an accredited institution.
• Pass the NCK national licensure examination.

Requirements for Certificate in Nursing in Kenya

To ensure equal employment opportunities for all professionals, the entry requirements for a Certificate in Nursing in Kenya are standardized across all institutions. The main prerequisites for pursuing a Certificate in Nursing are as follows:

1. Mean grade of C- (Minus) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
2. C- (Minus) in English or Kiswahili.
3. C- (Minus) in Biology or Biological Sciences.
4. D+ (Plus) in either Chemistry or Physics.

Duration of a Nursing Certificate Course

Unlike other certificate courses in Kenya that typically take two years to complete, a Certificate in Nursing requires two and a half years of study. After completing the course, you must practice nursing for at least two years before becoming eligible for further studies. Various colleges offering the Certificate in Nursing have structures to support further education.

Additionally, most colleges have affiliations with hospitals and health facilities, providing graduates with valuable opportunities to gain hands-on experience and interact with patients and other healthcare professionals.

Colleges Offering Certificates in Nursing in Kenya

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Nursing Council of Kenya, oversees the regulation and licensing of colleges offering nursing courses, particularly at the certificate level. Here are some renowned institutions where you can pursue a Certificate in Nursing in Kenya:

Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC)

Since 1990, the Kenya Medical Training College has pioneered training and equipping students with the necessary skills for various medical fields. While most students at KMTC pursue diploma courses, the institution also offers certificate programs, including Certificate in Nursing. For self-sponsored students, the annual fee for pursuing a Certificate in Nursing at KMTC is Ksh 80,700.00 (as of 2020-2021 admissions).

Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Training Centre (MTRH)

Located in Eldoret, the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Training Centre is among the top colleges in Kenya offering a Certificate in Nursing. MTRH offers the Certificate in Nursing at affordable fees, typically between Ksh 80,000 and Ksh 100,000 annually.

PCEA, Chogoria Hospital Clive Irvine College of Nursing

Clive Irvine College of Nursing, situated in Chogoria, is an accredited training college affiliated with the PCEA (Presbyterian Church of East Africa) and Chogoria Hospital. The college offers both diploma and certificate courses in nursing. The Ministry of Education harmonizes Clive Irvine College of Nursing fees through the TVETA (Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority). For day scholars, the fee ranges from Ksh 95,000 to Ksh 151,400, depending on the year of study. Boarding students pay between Ksh 131,000 and Ksh 141,000, depending on the study year.

Gertrude's Institute of Child Health and Research — Muthaiga

The Gertrude's Institute of Child Health and Research is a renowned private college that offers a Certificate in Nursing in Kenya. This institution stands out for its unique approach to training and empowering future nurses, as all nursing courses feature an internationally inspired curriculum. The fee structure at Gertrude's Institute of Child Health and Research varies depending on the course and specific study area. For detailed information, contact the institution at 020 720 6000.

The Nairobi Women's Hospital College

The Nairobi Women's Hospital is renowned not only for its healthcare services but also for its exceptional nursing school. Unlike many other institutions, the Nairobi Women's Hospital College allows students to specialize at the certificate level rather than following a general nursing approach.

Fees at the Nairobi Women's Hospital College depend on the specific course of study. For instance, the fees for students pursuing a Certificate in Health Care Assistant differ from those undertaking a Certificate in Peri-Operative Theatre Technology. The payable fees range from Ksh 85,000 to 300,000 per year.

Consolata Hospital, Nkubu School of Nursing

Consolata Hospital, Nkubu School of Nursing, located in Meru County, is a private nursing school owned by the Catholic Church. The institution's main objective is to prepare students to serve humanity and boasts highly qualified instructors.

Consolata Hospital, Nkubu School of Nursing, fees range from Ksh 95,000 to Ksh 150,000 but are subject to change. Like other nursing schools affiliated with hospitals, students at Nkubu School of Nursing do not have to pay for access to the hospital.

The University of Eastern Africa Baraton

The University of Eastern Africa Baraton, situated in Eldoret, is among the few universities in Kenya offering certificate courses in nursing. The university's proximity to major regional hospitals provides students easy access to valuable practical experiences in healthcare settings.

The University of Eastern Africa Baraton has relatively low fees for certificate courses, including a Certificate in Nursing. Science-related courses at the university have an average fee of Ksh 40,000, excluding administration costs.

Fafa Medical Training College — Kakamega

In 2018, the County Government of Kakamega established the Fafa Medical Training College in partnership with the Nursing Council of Kenya and the Ministry of Education. The college offers a Certificate in Nursing, among other programs.

These colleges provide the necessary facilities and qualified instructors to ensure you receive high-quality nurse training. Kenyan nurses are highly regarded for their expertise and skills within and internationally.

COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF Colleges Offering Certificates in Nursing in Kenya

Career Prospects

Nurses can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and government agencies. The demand for nurses is growing in Kenya, and there are many opportunities for career advancement.

What Are the Benefits of Nursing Internships and Work Placements?

There are many benefits to participating in a nursing internship or work placement. These opportunities can help students:

• Gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting
• Learn about different nursing specialties
• Develop their clinical skills
• Network with professionals in the field
• Get a sense of what it's like to work as a nurse

What Are the Different Types of Nursing Internships and Work Placements?

There are many different types of nursing internships and work placements available. Some common types include:

• Clinical internships: These internships allow students to work in a clinical setting under the supervision of a registered nurse. Students may work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or other healthcare settings.
• Research internships: These internships allow students to work on research projects under the supervision of a nurse researcher. Students can collect, analyze, or write research papers.
• Administrative internships: These internships allow students to work administrative roles in healthcare settings. Students can work in human resources, quality improvement, or other areas.

READ ALSO: Diploma in Nursing Kenya Requirements, Qualifications, And Universities, Colleges Offering Them

Conclusion

A Certificate in Nursing is an excellent starting point for a nursing career in Kenya. The requirements are accessible, and the associated fees are affordable, considering the potential for a rewarding and fulfilling profession. The demand for nurses continuously increases, presenting numerous employment opportunities and the chance to impact patients' lives. Enrolling in one of the accredited colleges offering the Certificate in Nursing in Kenya allows you to embark on a promising journey toward becoming a well-trained nurse.

FAQS

What are the different types of nursing courses offered by KMTC?

KMTC offers a variety of nursing courses, including a Certificate in Nursing, a Diploma in Nursing, and a Higher Diploma in Nursing. The Certificate in Nursing is a two-year program, the Diploma in Nursing is a three-year program, and the Higher Diploma in Nursing is a four-year program.

What are the admission requirements for a Certificate in Nursing at KMTC?

The admission requirements for a Certificate in Nursing at KMTC vary depending on the campus. However, most campuses require the following:

• Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with a minimum of C- (minus)
• Specific subject requirements in English, Kiswahili, biology, and either chemistry, physics, or mathematics
• Good physical and mental health

What are the career prospects for nurses with a Certificate in Nursing?

Nurses with a Certificate in Nursing can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and government agencies. They can also work in community health, education, and research.

What are the average salaries for nurses with a Certificate in Nursing?

The average salary for nurses with a Certificate in Nursing in Kenya is around Ksh 150,000 annually. However, salaries can vary depending on the nursing position type, experience level, and location.

What are the benefits of a career in nursing?

There are many benefits to a career in nursing, including:

• Stable employment
• Good pay
• Job satisfaction
• Opportunities for advancement
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of others

What are the challenges of a career in nursing?

Some of the challenges of a career in nursing include:

• Long hours
• Shift work
• Stress
• Dealing with sick and dying patients

How can I become a registered nurse in Kenya?

To become a registered nurse in Kenya, you must complete a nursing program approved by the Nursing Council of Kenya. You must also pass the Kenya Registered Nurse (KRN) examination.

What are the different types of nursing specialties?

There are many different types of nursing specialties, including:

• Medical-surgical nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Obstetric nursing
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Community health nursing
• Emergency Nursing
• Operating room nursing
• Critical care nursing

What are the continuing education requirements for nurses in Kenya?

Nurses in Kenya must complete continuing education credits every three years to maintain their registration with the Nursing Council of Kenya.

What is the future of nursing in Kenya?

The future of nursing in Kenya is bright. The demand for nurses is growing, and there are many opportunities for career advancement. Nurses are in high demand in both the public and private sectors.