One of the most crucial decisions students face includes course selection after graduating high school. Many factors are considered during this process. Some students pick courses aligned with their passion, and others choose to consider how marketable the course is first. For the best and most marketable courses, priority is given to students who perform best.
In Kenya, one needs to attain a C+ and above to qualify for a degree course. KUCCPS (Kenya Universities and Colleges Placement Service) does university and college admissions guidance and selection. When choosing a degree course, it’s important to be wise and carry out enough research. Here is a list of the best degree courses to pursue in Kenya:
1. Bachelor of Medicine and surgery
Health disciplines are among the most sought-after degree courses all over the world. It’s an important discipline and a respected profession that certainly makes a difference in the quality of people’s lives. The best universities to study this discipline include the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta. To study Medicine in Kenya, one must attain a grade of B+ and above.
This course is very demanding and equally as rewarding. It requires excellence and discipline on the student’s part. The skills acquired when partaking in Medicine allow one to work anywhere in the world with little to no additional training. It is untrue for some courses such as Law.
2. Bachelor of pharmacy
Pharmacy is popular because of the great and vast opportunities that it provides. These fields include research, community health, industry, and academia. Additionally, one must attain a grade of B and above to pursue the course. However, it largely depends on the learning institution of choice.
This course takes a minimum of 5 years to complete. A strong background in chemistry, biology, and mathematics are required to pursue pharmacy. Some university articles have ranked pharmacy the hardest, followed by medicine courses and actuarial science. This course also allows self-employment, such as operating and licensing pharmacies.
3. Bachelor of Science in computer science
With the increasing use of technology and digitized systems in Kenya, this course has a significant market. It involves learning about computer systems and developing programming and software development skills. To pursue it, a grade of C+ and above is required. Some of the best institutions for computer science learning include JKUAT (Jomo Kenyatta University College of Agriculture and Technology) and KU (Kenyatta University).
4. Bachelor of nursing
A nursing degree doesn’t come easy. To undertake it as an undergraduate, a grade of C+ and above is mandatory. However, it is not a well-paying career; it is one of the most marketable. However, it can be advantageous if a certified nurse employs entrepreneurship skills in this field.
There is a huge shortage of nurses locally and internationally. For this reason, it is difficult to remain unemployed as a nurse. The best nursing schools include the University of Nairobi and KMTC (Kenya Medical Training College).
5. The bachelor of aviation
Aviation remains the dream of many. It’s one of the courses that has given priority to the best students. Besides the fact that it’s a very expensive course, aviation can be very rewarding, it being one of the highest-paying jobs worldwide. This course is not offered in all universities but only a select few.
The best aviation schools include Kenya School of Flying and Kenya Aeronautical College. Before enrolling for the undergraduate program or the diploma, good grades in mathematics, physics, and geography are required.
6. Bachelor of architecture and architectural studies
It is a field of engineering that involves the technological aspects and skills of designing and constructing buildings and infrastructure. Art and creativity and mathematical skills are important in this discipline. A grade of B+ and above is required.
Architects earn a huge amount of money. An added advantage is that it also allows one to venture into self-employment. Most architects end up opening their firms.
7. Bachelor of Science in software engineering
The 21st century is undoubtedly the error of social media and technology. In Kenya, a lot of businesses market themselves online. Mobile apps are very popular; for entertainment, banking, studying, and much more. It has provided a huge market for web developers and software engineers.
Kenyatta University is one of the best institutions to get a software engineering degree. Moreover, many companies require the services of a software engineer, including Safaricom. A software engineer earns an average of Ksh 100,000.
8. Bachelor of quantity surveying
It involves the financial and contractual features of construction projects. A good background in mathematics and geography studies is essential. It requires a minimum grade of C+. Some of the best schools include the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, and Moi University.
Quantity surveyors are involved in issuing title deeds and taking measurements of the land. As with most disciplines, the more experience a quantity surveyor has, the more money they earn. They also earn more money through side hustles.
9. Bachelor of economics and statistics
This course mostly deals with mathematics, statistics, and economic theories. It is one of the most popular courses in Kenya. A grade of C+ and above is required to pursue it. It is advisable to pursue professional courses such as CPA, CFA, ACCA, and CIFA.
It is easier for graduates who pursue professional courses and degrees to secure jobs. Professional courses are an added advantage. With this degree, one can work in investment firms, banks, and financial institutions.
10. Bachelor of Science in civil engineering
This discipline involves designing and constructing physical and natural environment structures such as airports, bridges, and sewage systems. A minimum grade of C+ is required. Best universities for civil engineering include UON and KU.
Further, most job opportunities in this field are in government institutions. This course is not very marketable; however, it is well-paying.
The list of courses above guarantees many opportunities, even if not well paying.