"D Plain Courses in Colleges in Kenya

If you receive a D+, D, or D-, you might not be able to enrol as a government-sponsored student at a Kenyan university.

However, this does not mean that your journey is over because there are numerous competitive courses you may take with your grades that will help you launch a lucrative profession.

There is still hope for students because there are D plain courses in colleges. In any event, you can gradually raise your educational attainment to the maximum.

In this post, we’ll help you find the top D+, D, and D plain courses in Kenya. Our article will also look at the kind of institutions you can attend with such grades and much more.

Understanding “D” Plain Courses in Kenya
Misconceptions About “D” Plain Grades
Opportunities for “D” Plain Students
Which college can I join with D Plain in Kenya?
Which college can I join with D Plain in Kenya?
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions
- Polytechnics and Colleges
Differences in Curriculum and Career Paths
Benefits of Pursuing “D” Plain Courses
Can I join Kenyatta University with D Plain?
Which medical course can I do with A D Plain in Kenya?
Can I do business management with D minus in Kenya?
Can I do teaching with D-plain in Kenya?
Can I do hospitality with D minus in Kenya?
Which is the best course to study with D?
Benefits of Pursuing “D” Plain Courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
References
Read Also

Understanding “D” Plain Courses in Kenya

A “D” plain grade in the Kenyan education system indicates that a student scored below average in their KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations.

This grade often limits direct entry into university degree programs, but it does not mean the end of educational opportunities.

Misconceptions About “D” Plain Grades

Many believe that achieving a “D” plain grade restricts one’s future career prospects. However, several tertiary institutions, such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, offer courses catering to “D” plain students.

Opportunities for “D” Plain Students

Students with a “D” plain can pursue certificates or diplomas in technical skills, hospitality, business, and health. These courses provide practical, hands-on training highly valued in the job market, enabling students to build successful careers or become entrepreneurs.

Which college can I join with D Plain in Kenya?

KCSE D- courses in Kenya

Kenya offers several excellent D-courses (in addition to D and D+) for students who want to study electrical and electronics engineering, food technology, construction, and civil engineering.

Artisan in electrical installation
Certificate in electrical and electronics engineering (power option)
Certificate in electrical and electronics engineering (telecommunication option) modular
Artisan in baking technology Artisan in Masonry

KCSE D+ courses in Kenya

KASNEB offers courses that include a Certificate in Accounting and Management Skills (CAMS) for D+ students. While D+ diploma degrees were available in Kenya in the past, as shown below, many universities now offer advanced certificates and certificate programs.

Advanced Сertificate in supplies management
Advanced Сertificate in business administration
Certificate in business information technology
Advanced Certificate in Computer Technology
Advanced Certificate in computer hardware and network support
Advanced Certificate in software development
Certificate in computer engineering
Certificate in computer technology
Certificate in system technical support Advanced
Certificate in information technology
Certificate in information technology
Certificate in civil engineering
Certificate in fire engineering
Certificate in electrical installation technician
Certificate in applied electronics
Certificate in computer servicing and maintenance (CSM) technician
Certificate in technology options (airframes and engines, avionics, and helicopter maintenance)
Certificate in architectural draughtsmanship
Certificate in science laboratory technology
Certificate in food technology Certificate in environmental studies
Certificate in nutrition and dietetics.
Certificate in health records and information technology
Certificate in Library Studies
Certificate in archives and records management
Certificate in Counseling Psychology
Certificate in disaster management.

List of KCSE D plain courses in College

D plain students can sit for KNEC certificate courses. They include:

Certificate in human resource management
Certificate in social work and community development
Certificate in business management
Certificate in sales and marketing.
Certificate in electrical and electronics engineering (power option)
Certificate in electrical and electronics engineering (telecommunication option) modular
Certificate in food and beverage Certificate in baking technology
Certificate in information technology (modular)
Certificate in human resource management (modular)
Certificate in supply chain management (modular)
Certificate in business management (modular)
Certificate in building technology
Certificate in Plumbing
Certificate in carpentry and joinery
Certificate in science laboratory technology

Which college can I join with D Plain in Kenya?

Kenya has various institutions that provide educational opportunities for students with a “D” plain grade, focusing on technical skills and practical training.

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions

TVET institutions are the most popular option for students with a “D” plain grade. They offer certificate and diploma courses in mechanics, electrical installation, plumbing, and fashion design. These institutions emphasize hands-on experience and skills development.

Polytechnics and Colleges

Polytechnics and specialized colleges across Kenya also offer a range of courses tailored for “D” plain students. These include hospitality, business management, social work, and community development programs.

Differences in Curriculum and Career Paths

While TVETs focus on technical skills, polytechnics and colleges provide a mix of technical and business-oriented programs, allowing students to choose paths that align with their career goals and meet D Plain Courses Requirements In Colleges.

Benefits of Pursuing “D” Plain Courses

Enrolling in “D” plain courses in Kenya offers numerous advantages for students looking to build successful careers despite their KCSE scores.

1. Skills Development and Practical Training

These courses focus on hands-on skills and practical knowledge, making graduates highly competent in their chosen fields. Programs such as motor vehicle mechanics, electrical installation, and hospitality provide valuable, in-demand experience.

2. Shorter Course Duration and Quick Job Market Entry

Most “D” plain courses are shorter in duration, allowing students to complete their studies and enter the job market faster. This swift transition offers early work experience and income opportunities.

3. Pathways for Further Education and Entrepreneurship

Graduates can advance their education by upgrading to diploma and higher-level courses. Alternatively, they can start small businesses or entrepreneurial ventures using the practical skills acquired during their training.

Can I join Kenyatta University with D Plain?

Candidates must have at least a C- in English or Kiswahili, or their equivalent, or a minimum of a Subsidiary pass in KACE exams, a mean grade of C (Plain) in KCSE exams, a certificate in Chinese language and culture from Kenyatta University, or level II Chinese language proficiency.

Which medical course can I do with A D Plain in Kenya?

Certificate in Community Health and Development.
Certificate in Health Records and Information Technology.
Certificate in Medical Engineering.
Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology.
Certificate in Nutrition and Dietetics.
Certificate in Pharmaceutical Technology.

Can I do business management with D minus in Kenya?

Yes, you can do business management with D minus in Kenya.

Can I do teaching with D-plain in Kenya?

You can teach with D-plain in Kenya, provided you have also attained a D-plain in mathematics and a C- in English.

Can I do hospitality with D minus in Kenya?

Yes, you can study hospitality with a D minus in Kenya. Students with lower KCSE grades can also be admitted to institutions in Kenya after successfully passing the aptitude test.

Which is the best course to study with D?

There are quite several courses available for D-plain students. However, an ICT course is the most suitable option for D-plain students.

Benefits of Pursuing “D” Plain Courses

Opting for “D” plain courses in Kenya provides various benefits, especially for students looking to gain practical skills and quickly enter the job market.

1. Hands-On Skills for Employment

These courses focus on technical and practical training, equipping students with the skills needed in automotive repair, electrical installation, and hospitality industries. Graduates are often job-ready and can immediately contribute to the workforce.

2. Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment Opportunities

Courses like fashion design, plumbing, and business management empower students to start businesses. With the right skills, many graduates choose entrepreneurship, creating jobs for themselves and others.

3. Further Education and Career Growth

Completing a “D” plain course is not the end of learning. Students can use their certificates or diplomas to advance to higher levels of education, paving the way for continued personal and professional growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do electrical engineering with D minus in Kenya?

Minimum qualification for electrical engineering is a mean grade of D- (MINUS) and above in KCSE.

Can I join NYS with D minus in Kenya?

The National Youth Service (NYS) has dropped the minimal mean grade for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) from the existing D plain to D—(minus).

How long do “D” plain courses take?

Most certificate courses take 6 months to 1 year, while diploma courses may take 1 to 2 years.

Can I get financial aid for “D” plain courses?

Yes, financial aid options like HELB loans, scholarships, and bursaries are available for students in TVET institutions and colleges.

Conclusion

“D” plain courses in Kenya offer valuable opportunities for students to build successful careers through practical training and skill development. These programs provide a pathway to employment, entrepreneurship, and further education, proving that a “D” plain grade is not the end of one’s academic or professional journey.

With the right mindset and dedication, students can leverage these courses to gain the necessary skills for the job market or to advance their studies. Exploring these options and making informed choices is crucial to unlock a promising future.