💻
Software Developer
Builds websites, apps and software systems
Qualifications needed
- Diploma or degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT or a related field
- Strong practical portfolio — personal projects, GitHub contributions or freelance work
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g. JavaScript, Python, PHP, Java)
- Understanding of databases, version control (Git) and web fundamentals (HTML/CSS)
Typical entry grades
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| University degree | Mean grade C+ (KCSE) and above |
| Diploma (e.g. AITU, TVET) | Mean grade D+ and above |
| Bootcamp / self-taught | No fixed grades — portfolio matters most |
💡 Certifications from AWS, Google or Meta can boost your chances without a degree.
🩺
Doctor
Diagnoses and treats illnesses
Qualifications needed
- MBChB / MD degree from a medical school accredited by KMPDC (Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council)
- One-year compulsory internship at a approved training hospital
- Registration and licensing with KMPDC to practise
- Strong grades in Biology, Chemistry and Physics at secondary level
Typical entry grades
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| MBChB (5–6 years) | Mean grade A- or B+ with Biology A, Chemistry B+ |
| Postgraduate specialisation | Valid MBChB + internship |
💡 Medicine is highly competitive — cutoffs vary each year by university.
🧱
Civil Engineer
Designs and supervises construction projects
Qualifications needed
- BSc degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering (4–5 years)
- Registration with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) after graduation
- Strong foundation in Mathematics, Physics and technical drawing
- Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SAP2000 or ETABS
Typical entry grades
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| University degree | Mean grade B- or C+ with Maths & Physics B |
| Diploma in Civil Engineering | Mean grade C with Maths & Physics C+ |
💡 An internship or industrial attachment at a real construction site gives you a head start.
📚
Teacher
Educates learners in schools and colleges
Qualifications needed
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree, OR a degree in your subject plus a PGDE
- Registration with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC)
- Good communication skills and a passion for helping learners grow
- For private schools: diploma in education may be accepted
Typical entry grades
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| B.Ed degree (primary) | Mean grade C+ with English & Maths C+ |
| B.Ed degree (secondary) | Mean grade B- with teaching subject B |
| Diploma in Primary Education | Mean grade C with English & Maths C |
💡 TSC registration requires your original certificate and a valid ID — start the process early.
📊
Accountant
Manages financial records and reporting
Qualifications needed
- Degree or diploma in Commerce, Accounting, Finance or Business-related field
- Professional certifications such as CPA(K), ACCA or CIFA (often studied alongside work)
- Membership with ICPAK (Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya) for CPA holders
- Strong numeracy skills and proficiency in Excel and accounting software
Typical entry grades
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| University degree | Mean grade C+ with Maths C+ |
| CPA(K) Part I | Mean grade C with Maths C |
| Diploma in Accounting | Mean grade D+ |
💡 Many accountants start with CPA while working — experience plus certificates opens doors fast.
✈️
Pilot
Operates aircraft for airlines or charter services
Qualifications needed
- Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) from a KCAA-approved flying school
- Class 1 Medical Certificate from a KCAA-designated aeromedical examiner
- Minimum 200 flight hours (including cross-country and night flying)
- Strong English communication skills and passed ATPL theory exams
Typical entry grades
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Flying school (CPL) | Mean grade C+ with English, Maths & Physics C+ |
| Airline cadet programmes | Mean grade B- or above; competitive selection |
💡 Flying training is expensive — look out for airline sponsorships and cadet programmes that fund your training.