Marketable Courses for KCSE Students with Grades D+, D-, and D- in 2023

If you have a Mean Grade of either D+, D_-, or D in your KCSE and looking for a course that you can pursue, this article is right for you. The education system in Kenya is designed only to accommodate C+ plus and above students in places of higher learning. , However, did you know that with Grade D+, there are still better courses that you can pursue in universities, Colleges, and TVET institutions?

This article explores some of the best D+, D, And D- Courses That Are Marketable In Kenya Today.

Top Courses for Students With Grade D+ (Plus)

Advanced Certificate in Supplies Management:

• Best Institution Available: Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM)
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Advanced Certificate in Business Administration:

• Best Institution Available: Kenya Institute of Management (KIM)
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Business Information Technology:

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) and Kenya Institute of Information and Communications Technology (KICT).
• Entry Requirements: Applicants should obtain a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Advanced Certificate in Computer Technology:

• Best Institution Available: Kenya Utalii College, Technical University 
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Advanced Certificate in Network support and computer hardware

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Kenya Utalii College, Technical University of Kenya, etc.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Advanced Certificate in Software Development

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Strathmore University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Computer Engineering

• Best Institution Available: the Technical University of Kenya, Kenya Technical Trainers College, etc.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Fire Engineering

• Best Institution Available: Kenya Utalii College, National Youth Service Engineering Institute
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Electrical Installation Technician

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as the Technical University of Kenya, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, and others.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Applied Electronics

• Best Institution Available: the Technical University of Kenya, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, etc.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Computer Servicing and Maintenance (CSM) Technician

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, Meru National Polytechnic, 
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Technology Options (Airframes and Engines, Avionics, and Helicopters Maintenance)

• Best Institution Available: East African School of Aviation (EASA)
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Architectural Draughtsmanship

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Kenya Institute of Building and Construction Technology (KIBCT), Technical University of Kenya
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Science Laboratory Technology

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as the Technical University of Kenya, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Food Technology

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as the Technical University of Kenya, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, and others.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Environmental Studies

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as the Technical University of Kenya, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, and others.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Nutrition and Dietetics

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as the Technical University of Kenya, Kenya Utalii College, etc.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Health Records and Information Technology

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), Technical University of Kenya, and others.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Library Studies

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Kenya National Library Service (KNLS), Technical University of Kenya, and others.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Archives and Records Management

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions, such as the Technical University of Kenya and Kenya National Archives and Documentation Services, offer this course.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Counseling Psychology

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions, such as Kenyatta University and Maseno University, offer this course.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Disaster Management

• Best Institution Available: Various institutions offer this course, such as Kenyatta University, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), and others.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of D+ or an equivalent qualification.

Certificate in Civil Engineering

Civil engineering is a highly marketable technical course in Kenya. It involves planning, designing, and building various structures, including transportation infrastructure like highways and bridges and communication devices like radio masts.

Institutions offering this course: 

• Nyandarua Institute of Technology
•  Kipkabus Technical & Vocational College
• Kenya Coast Polytechnic, Mawego Technical Training Institute
• Sigalagala National Polytechnic,
• Karumo Technical Training Institute
• Kenya Coast Polytechnic.

READ ALSO: Top 30 Most Marketable Courses In Kenya

Advanced Certificate in Information Technology

IT skills are highly demanded across sectors, especially in this technology-driven era. Studying for an advanced diploma in IT can make it easier for a successful career as an IT expert. 

Institutions offering this course: 

Kajiado West Technical & Vocational College

Kisumu Polytechnic

Bushiangala Technical Training Institute

Nyeri National Polytechnic

Tseikuru Technical Training Institute

Rift Valley Institute of Science & Technology.

Certificate in Food and Beverage

A food and beverage studies certificate can give you significant experience and skills if you are passionate about the restaurant and hospitality industries. This course covers the background of the sector, information on its current state, and practical instruction. 

Institutions offering this course: 

1. Rwika Technical Institute
2.  Friends College Kaimosi
3. Coast Institute Of Technology
4.  Laikipia North Technical & Vocational College
5.  Kenya Coast Polytechnic and Nyeri National Polytechnic.

Certificate in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering deals mainly with the design and functioning of machines and the skills that offer the opportunity to progress to the diploma level. Some industries with job opportunities for graduates in this field include; manufacturing, automotive, and energy industries.

Institutions for this course include:

Mawego Technical Training Institute.

 Kabete National Polytechnic

 Kitale National Polytechnic

 Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology

 Sigalagala National Polytechnic

 Rift Valley Technical Training Institute.

Certificate in Business Management

This program equips learners with essential finance, marketing, human resources, and entrepreneurship knowledge and skills. This course can also prepare you for fascinating jobs in the business world or act as a stepping stone to more advanced business administration careers.

Institutions offering This course include:

 Nkabune Technical Training Institute

 Nairobi Technical Training Institute

 Nairobi Institute of Business Studies

 Mombasa Technical Training Institute

 Rift Valley Institute of Business Studies

Meru National Polytechnic.

 Certificate in Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Power generation and distribution, telecommunications, and automation are a few examples of the many uses for the discipline of electrical and electronics engineering. An electrical and electronics engineering certificate offers a solid basis to work at the entry-level in these fields and can lead to further specialization through diploma and degree programs.

Best Institution Available:

 Kisumu National Polytechnic

 Nairobi Technical Training Institute

 Sigalagala National Polytechnic

 Nyeri National Polytechnic

 Meru National Polytechnic

 Eldoret National Polytechnic

Top Courses for Students With Grade D (Plain)

If you scored a D in your KCSE exams, there are still viable options for further studies and career development. Here are some courses that you can consider pursuing:

Diploma in Hospitality Management

A diploma in hospitality management will prepare your future in the dynamic and expanding hospitality business. Some topics covered in this course include hospitality in hotel management, event planning, client relations, and food and beverage operations. You will take advantage of the various opportunities in this field, which include working in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and event management firms.

Institutions offering this course

•  Utalii College
•  Kenya Utalii College
•  Coast Institute of Technology
•  Thika Technical Training Institute
•  Nyeri National Polytechnic
•  Ruiru College of Catering and Management Studies.

Diploma in Graphic Design

This course is very lucrative if you have a creative streak and an interest in visual communication. This course will equip you with knowledge in layout design, typography, illustration, branding, and digital design applications. Graduates will get the chance in various fascinating employment options due to the growing demand for graphic designers in advertising agencies, marketing firms, and design studios in Kenya and beyond.

Best Institution Available: 

Shang Tao Media Arts College

Buruburu Institute of Fine Arts

 Nairobi Institute of Business Studies

 Thika Technical Training Institute

 Mombasa Technical Training Institute

Kenya Institute of Software Engineering.

Diploma in Community Development

This course deals with understanding and addressing communities' social, economic, and cultural needs. Major topics in this field include; Project management, resource mobilization, and sustainable development techniques.

Institutions offering this course: 

• Nairobi Institute of Business Studies
• Thika Technical Training Institute
•  KCA University
•  the Kenya Institute of Social Work and Community Development.

 Diploma in Early Childhood Education

This course is precious if you love working with young children. This course equips learners with knowledge in curriculum planning, classroom administration, teaching methods, and childhood development. 

Best Institution Available:

Kenya YMCA College of Agriculture and Technology

 Kenya Institute of Special Education

 Nairobi Institute of Business Studies,

Thika Technical Training Institute

Kibabii Diploma Teachers Training College.

Certificate in Human Resource Management

In Kenya, this course is offered by various institutions, including some universities, colleges, and technical and vocational training centers (TVETs):

Best Institution Available:

 Kenya Institute of Management (KIM)

Kenya Institute of Professional Studies (KIPS)

Kenya Institute of Social Work and Community Development (KISWCD).

Certificate in Social Work and Community Development

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available:

 Kenya Institute of Social Work and Community Development (KISWCD)

Kenya Institute of Professional Studies (KIPS)

Certificate in Sales and Marketing:

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), Kenya Institute of Professional Studies (KIPS)

Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Power Option)

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade in Mathematics and Physics

Best Institution Available: This course is offered by technical institutions such as Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology, and Nairobi Technical Training Institute.

Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Telecommunication Option)

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade in Mathematics and Physics

Best Institution: This course is available at Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology, Nairobi Technical Training Institute, and Meru National Polytechnic.

Certificate in Food and Beverage

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Utalii College

Certificate in Baking Technology

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Kenya Utalii College, Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS)

Certificate in Information Technology 

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Strathmore University

Certificate in Human Resource Management 

Requirements: KCSE D plain or equivalent qualification

Institutions: Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), Kenya Institute of Professional Studies (KIPS)

Top Courses in Kenya for Students With Grade D- (Minus)

D- courses in Kenya provide opportunities for individuals to acquire practical skills in various vocational fields. 

They offer an alternative pathway for those who may have yet to achieve higher grades in their KCSE examinations, allowing them to pursue meaningful careers and contribute to the country's workforce and economy.

Artisan in Electrical Installation

Entry Requirements: KCSE D- (D minus) or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Nairobi Technical Training Institute, Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology, and Kenya Coast National Polytechnic.

Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Power Option)

Entry Requirements: KCSE D- (D minus) or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade in Mathematics and Physics

Best Institution Available: Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology, and Nairobi Technical Training Institute.

Certificate in Electronics Engineering (Telecommunication Option)

Entry Requirements: KCSE D- (D minus) or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade in Mathematics and Physics

Best Institution Available: Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology, Nairobi Technical Training

Artisan in Baking Technology

Entry Requirements: KCSE D- (D minus) or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, Nairobi Technical Training Institute, and Thika Technical Training Institute.

Artisan in Masonry

Entry Requirements: KCSE D- (D minus) or equivalent qualification

Best Institution Available: Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology, Nairobi Technical Training Institute, and Kenya Coast National Polytechnic.

Certificate in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy

The beauty sector is flourishing in the modern world. A diploma in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy can provide the knowledge and abilities needed to work in salons, spas or even open a beauty business. 

You can major in several topics in this field, including skincare techniques, makeup application, hairstyle, and salon management.

Best Institution Available:

  Nairobi Institute of Business Studies

 Thika Technical Training Institute

Kenya Institute of Software Engineering

Certificate in Information Technology

Information technology knowledge is precious in the modern world. With the help of an information technology certificate, you can gain an essential understanding of computer systems, software programs, and network administration. Graduates from this field secure jobs in the IT sector or computer science fields after they advance their education.

Best Institution Available:

Nairobi Institute of Business Studies

 Thika Technical Training Institute

Kenya Institute of Software Engineering.

Certificate in Community Development

 This course focuses on strengthening both individuals and communities through community development projects. You will be prepared for positions in community-based projects, nonprofit organizations, and government organizations that work on community development initiatives by taking this course. 

Best Institution Available:

The Kenya Institute of Software Engineering

 Nairobi Institute of Business Studies

Thika Technical Training.

READ ALSO:  Best Diploma and Degree Programs for C+, C, and C- Students in Kenya

Conclusion

Getting a D or D- in your KCSE exams does not mean the end of your educational and career journey. Kenya has many educational opportunities that can assist you in developing valuable skills and pursuing rewarding career options. Several options are available for you to use your abilities, whether you're interested in technical trades, hospitality, business, or creative industries. Investigating and picking a course that complements your job objectives and presents chances for improvement is crucial. You may overcome academic hurdles and create a bright future if you put in the necessary effort, work hard, and have the essential abilities.