Various degree distinctions exist to help distinguish one academic qualification from another. This practice is not peculiar to Kenya but can be seen worldwide in any academic setting.
One of such degrees is the bachelor of arts courses in Kenya. A Bachelor of Arts degree is an undergraduate degree that offers programs in various topics and fields.
This article explains in detail what bachelor of arts courses in Kenya encompass.
We aim to help those who may be curious about what it means to have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kenya and also to help them understand the difference between a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of arts.
Table of contents
- Studying Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)?
- Admission Requirements for Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Why Study in Kenya?
- Best Bachelor of Arts courses in Kenya
- #1. Anthropology
- #2. Art History
- #3. Business
- #4. Communications
- #5. Criminal Justice
- #6. Education
- #7. English
- #8. General Studies
- #9. Geography
- #10. Graphic Design
- #11. History
- #12. Human Services
- #13. Information Technology
- #15. Liberal Arts
- #16. Music Production
- #17. Philosophy
- #18. Political Science
- #19. Psychology
- #20. Religious Studies
- #21. Sociology
- Which Is Better, a Bachelor of Arts or a Science Degree?
- Some of the Colleges that offer Bachelor of Arts (B.A) courses in Kenya
- FAQs
- References
- Read Also
What Is a Bachelor of Arts Degree?
The bachelor of arts degree is an undergraduate degree that offers studies in a range of subjects and fields. It consists of courses in a selected field of study, such as psychology, literature, or history, and general education credits.
Generally speaking, BA programs aim to teach critical thinking and communication skills so that you can be ready for a future career. Having this four-year degree could open up many avenues, including graduate degree programs and positions with a variety of potential earnings.
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Studying Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)?
The most popular undergraduate degree universities and colleges offer is the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.).
B.A. degrees are generally awarded to students undertaking a curriculum in the Liberal Arts (e.g. Humanities, Social Sciences). All courses, including science, are offered as Bachelor of Arts degrees at traditional colleges like Oxford and Cambridge.
A B.A. degree requires three to four years of study. In the UK, a three-year Bachelor’s is also known as a Basic or a bachelor’s, while a four-year Bachelor’s is referred to as an Honours Bachelor, e.g., Criminology and Law (Hons).
The Bachelor of Arts degree enhances students’ capacity for critical analysis and clear communication, whereas the Bachelor of Science degree concentrates on research and mathematical skills.
Pupils gain knowledge on how to reason through their conclusions and articulate them. You must complete a thesis during your last year of study to graduate.
Students majoring in the humanities, arts, social sciences, linguistics, and cultural sciences are typically granted a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). However, a bachelor’s degree in business sciences and informatics may occasionally be awarded instead of a bachelor’s degree in science (B.Sc.).
Admission Requirements for Bachelor of Arts (BA)
i) All applicants accepted into the Bachelor of Arts degree program must meet the minimal standards for admission listed in the Common University Entrance Regulations;
ii) Furthermore, applicants must have earned at least a C+ in the topic for which they are applying and a minimum grade of C+ and above in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
iii) Outstanding Social Science diploma holders or those with credentials comparable to those from universities approved by the Egerton University Senate may be eligible for admission.
Why Study in Kenya?
Kenya is a stunning nation well-known for its game reserves and safaris. With more than twenty colleges providing degrees taught in English, Kenya has been attracting a sizable influx of foreign students.
Select from various recognized programs, particularly in human rights, philosophy, communications, and health.
Best Bachelor of Arts courses in Kenya
- Anthropology
- Art History
- Business
- Communications
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- English
- General Studies
- Geography
- Graphic Design
- History
- Human Services
- Information Technology
- Liberal Arts
- Music Production
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
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#1. Anthropology
Anthropology majors examine humans from a historical and cultural perspective. Students in this field of study must be able to think critically about issues like race and globalization.
You will probably study biological and cultural anthropology courses for your degree in this field. Many programs also allow students to take electives that will enable them to focus on a particular area of interest, such as the anthropology of a specific place.
This major frequently entails studying communities and populations throughout the world. Many anthropology graduates go on to pursue careers in public health, politics, or policymaking as lifetime problem solvers.
#2. Art History
As the name implies, art history is an investigative approach to the history of art. Interpreting different works of art to determine their meaning and draw parallels to societal issues is a major component of most art history curricula.
You may study artists’ particular decisions about the presentation and materials used in their work in your classes. You may be expected to become proficient in writing about works of art utilizing primary and secondary sources and mastering the oral presentation of your findings.
Graduates can find employment as instructors, museum curators, or writers of art history. Some pursue an MA or PhD in the discipline to advance their knowledge.
#3. Business
A business bachelor’s degree is one way to provide the groundwork for subjects like economics and finance. Even though math and statistics will undoubtedly make up most of your classes, you’ll also probably take supplementary courses in the humanities and history.
Taking liberal arts coursework in addition to typical business classes increases the likelihood that you will graduate from the program with a diverse range of abilities.
Many business bachelor’s degree holders decide to become sales managers, financial analysts, or marketing managers.
#4. Communications
The study of communications examines how people and organizations in society develop, disseminate, and understand messages.
A degree program in this area usually examines the reasons underlying human behavior, various communication channels, and the effects of mass media on people and communities.
A degree in communications can lead to several opportunities because sharing and consuming information is common in today’s environment.
Career paths include public relations, marketing, advertising, and social and digital media. If you prefer written communication, consider a career in the publishing and writing sector.
#5. Criminal Justice
Obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice can help you gain a fundamental comprehension of every aspect of the legal system, including crime and law enforcement within our community.
The majority of criminal justice curricula include an introduction to criminal law, the American court system, and incarceration. Some students use a degree in this subject as a stepping stone toward a law degree.
Some become employees of different law enforcement organizations, including the FBI, Homeland Security, and the Secret Service.
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#6. Education
A bachelor’s degree in teaching can give you the knowledge and skills required to function effectively in a classroom.
These courses usually include the fundamental ideas and terminology of a variety of fields, as well as how to provide an education that is understandable to all students.
Since many education programs offer state-mandated courses, they can assist you in obtaining your teaching credentials.
Many who follow this path go on to hold significant positions in the educational sector as administrators or instructors.
#7. English
Getting an undergraduate degree in English can assist you in building a solid foundation in the field.
This degree’s curriculum usually covers various subjects, such as linguistics, literature, and composition.
All of these are meant to improve your communication and critical thinking abilities.
Many students who graduate in this discipline are interested in pursuing careers that call for solid communication abilities. These could include professions in publishing, advertising, writing, and teaching.
#8. General Studies
Graduates of general studies programs typically have a solid background in the humanities and sciences.
A general studies curriculum allows you to focus on critical and creative thinking while honing your problem-solving skills and abilities.
Because it allows you to select from a wide range of areas of interest, this degree is often great for people who are nervous about choosing a major.
Since it’s one of the most adaptable college majors, it is usually not too difficult to incorporate it into your interests.
What you do with your BA in General Studies depends on your specialization areas.
Some people use this to pursue careers in marketing, politics, or education. For others, it leads to a career in social work, public health, or nutrition.
#9. Geography
Undergraduate geography students focus primarily on two areas of study: human and physical geography. The overall purpose of geography studies is to offer students the opportunity to explore how people interact with and affect their surroundings.
You’ll likely learn how to communicate and analyze maps, photos, and geographic data.
Many graduates of this program work in planning and development at the municipal, state, or federal levels. Some choose to pursue careers in public policy or mapping and imaging. This degree’s flexibility opens up several doors in both the public and private sectors.
#10. Graphic Design
Enrolling in a degree program in graphic design might assist you in learning how to express ideas visually.
Your lower-level courses will generally focus on applying core design ideas to print and web projects and teach concepts such as color and layout.
Your classes can also help you better understand storytelling and visual literacy skills.
The majority of graduates in graphic design go on to work in a range of enterprises in design-related fields.
This degree can help open the door to a wide range of employment choices because so many businesses and organizations rely on graphics to reach their target audiences.
A degree in this field is frequently used to pursue careers in animation, graphic design, industrial design, and art professor.
#11. History
The study of the past is often emphasized in undergraduate history studies to influence our decision-making in the future.
You’ll probably concentrate on honing your writing and research techniques while studying the background of important civilizations. Additionally, you might be able to focus on a particular culture or field of interest.
Choosing a focused specialty in your history major will help you position yourself for various post-graduation professional choices. A large number of history degree holders go on to work as archivists, educators, or historians.
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#12. Human Services
Human services include a wide range of concentrations, but earning a degree in this field will help you get ready for employment in neighborhood groups.
Your education in a human services degree program will likely be interdisciplinary, embracing psychology, public policy, and social sciences.
This could be the best course of action for you if you’re compassionate and want to help communities needing life-altering services.
Human services graduates frequently find employment in counseling, medicine, and juvenile or domestic violence services.
#13. Information Technology
Information technology is the study of how humans manage and store data. In addition to more basic courses, the curriculum for an undergraduate degree in this discipline may contain technical courses like database management and information systems architecture.
A computer network is necessary for almost any significant firm to run its daily activities.
This implies that individuals with information technology backgrounds are frequently essential to their organizations.
Many people with this degree hold IT positions in the public, commercial, and educational sectors.
#15. Liberal Arts
A BA in Liberal Arts can assist you in gaining a foundation in a variety of areas, such as literature, creative writing, history, and psychology, just like a general studies degree can.
Instead of concentrating on a single subject, this degree might help you develop your research and analytical abilities across various topics.
A liberal arts degree frequently leads to employment in helping professions like public service or education. You could pursue careers as a community service manager, policy advisor, or teacher depending on your chosen concentration.
#16. Music Production
Undergraduate studies in music production usually concentrate on the composition and production of music. First, you’ll probably take core classes that examine music theory.
After that, you’ll probably enroll in classes covering particular facets of the music production sector, like advanced audio production and digital audio fundamentals.
As you might expect, a degree in music production usually leads to employment in the music business. Graduates frequently work as sound engineers, music producers, and recording engineers.
#17. Philosophy
Because philosophy covers a wide range of topics, this degree frequently easily meets students’ interests and professional objectives.
The capacity for critical thought and the development of compelling arguments in various contexts are fundamental to philosophy studies.
You’ll probably also pick up the skill of integrating ethical reasoning into your writing and discussions. Depending on your field of concentration of choice, your job options following graduation from philosophy school will differ.
However, problem-solving and analysis skills are transferable to practically any industry, so graduates can find employment in financial services, healthcare, and education, among other fields.
#18. Political Science
Political science focuses on the distribution of power in society. In a political science program, you will probably study how power and influence have affected public policy.
You can gain a deeper grasp of the political movements and systems that have brought about societal change through your studies.
A political science degree can provide you with a strong foundation in research and data analysis and good interpersonal abilities. These skills may enhance public policy, government, or education employment options.
#19. Psychology
Psychology is the study of the human mind, emotions, and actions. For a bachelor’s degree, classes covering allied subjects, such as the arts and social sciences, are usually combined with regular psychology courses.
Some psychology bachelor’s degree holders use it as a stepping stone to graduate school, which can help them get more job chances.
Some pursue careers as journalists or social workers by applying their analytical abilities.
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#20. Religious Studies
As the name suggests, “religious studies” is the study of various religious traditions by analyzing texts, groups, and rituals.
You can focus more closely on a particular religion in this major or delve deeper into the morality of other customs and practices. Likely you’ll also learn about how religion has shaped significant historical choices and occurrences.
Critical thinking skills and the ability to pose challenging questions about established traditions are fundamental to religious studies.
This might help you get ready for jobs in community service and education. While some graduates pursue careers as academics or community activists, others choose careers as counselors or religious educators.
#21. Sociology
Sociology studies how individuals interact with one another and the makeup of various social groups. Sociology majors study how human activity impacts social change.
A solid understanding of human behavior and relationships is essential in every industry. After earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology, many students work in market research or social work. They commonly become social workers, policy analysts, and human resources specialists.
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Which Is Better, a Bachelor of Arts or a Science Degree?
Your interests and professional objectives will determine whether you choose a BA or BS degree. Keeping the following things in mind when you decide can be beneficial:
Program duration: Completing a BS program usually requires more time than a BA program.
Career objectives: A B.A can help you get ready to engage directly with people and communities, while a BS can help you gain the technical skills required to enter a specific sector.
Preferred coursework: A bachelor’s degree might be the best option if you’re a math and science geek. If you are a critical thinker, you might consider pursuing a BA.
Some of the Colleges that offer Bachelor of Arts (B.A) courses in Kenya
- Computer Learning Centre Nairobi
- Kenyatta University
- Kisii National Polytechnic
- Kisii University
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
- Masai Mara University
- University of Nairobi
- iambu Institute of Science and Technology
- Kisumu Polytechnic Makasembo Kisumu
- Kenya Water Institute South C Nairobi
- Machakos Institute of Technology
- Nairobi Institute of Business Studies
- Kinyanjui Technical Training Institute
- Technical University of Kenya
- Technical University of Mombasa
- Machakos University College
- Kenya Institute of Mass Communication Nairobi
- Meru National Polytechnic
- Kenya Online College
- KCA University
- Moi University
- Africa International University (Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology)
- Kabarak University
- Laikipia University
- Kenya Utalii College Nairobi
- Zetech University
- Migori Teachers college
- Tangaza University College
- United Africa College Nairobi
- Starnet College Nairobi
- University of Kabianga
- Nairobi Film School
- Star College of Management Sciences Nairobi
- Mosoriot Teachers College Eldoret
- Presbyterian University of East Africa
- Uzima University College
- Tec Institute of Management Nairobi and Eldoret
- Skynet Business College Nairobi
- Kenya Aeronautical College Nairobi
- Masinde Muliro University of Science & Technology
- International School of Kenya
- Amani College
- Daystar University
- Riccatti Business College
- Maryknoll Institute of African Studies Nairobi
- PREMESE Africa College Nairobi
- Sacred Training Institute
- Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology Kisumu
- Tom Mboya Labour College Kisumu
- Vision Institute of Professionals Nairobi and Mombasa
- East Africa School of Management
- African Virtual University
- Kabete Technical Training Institute
- Railway Training Institute Nairobi
- Kenya School of Government
- Co-operative University of Kenya
- Regional Centre for Tourism and Foreign Languages
- Keiway Mining & Technology College
- East Africa Institute of Certified Studies Nairobi
- Kenya Forestry Research Institute
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FAQs
Kenya offers a diverse range of BA courses, covering various fields of study. Some of the most popular BA programs include:
Humanities: English, Literature, History, Philosophy, Religious Studies
Social Sciences: Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Economics, Geography
Arts: Fine Arts, Music, Drama, Film Studies
Languages: English, French, German, Spanish
BA graduates in Kenya have a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors, including:
Education: Teaching, research
Government: Civil service, diplomacy
Media: Journalism, broadcasting, public relations
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Business: Marketing, human resources, public relations
Law: Legal research, paralegal work
The admission requirements for BA courses in Kenya may vary depending on the university and specific program. However, generally, applicants need to:
Have a high school certificate or equivalent
Meet the minimum university entry requirements
Pass any required entrance examinations
Yes, some universities in Kenya offer specialized BA programs, such as:
International Relations
Development Studies
Gender Studies
African Studies
Communication Studies
Pursuing a BA degree in Kenya can provide several benefits, including:
Broadening your knowledge: BA programs offer a well-rounded education, covering a wide range of subjects.
Developing critical thinking skills: BA courses help you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Opening career opportunities: A BA degree can open doors to various career paths in both the public and private sectors.
Building a strong foundation: A BA degree can provide a solid foundation for further studies, such as a Master’s or PhD.
Conclusion
There are numerous bachelor of Arts courses in Kenya and we have listed some of the best of them. These courses are designed to make students who go through the courses the best in whatever field they find themselves in.
So, if you came here while searching for the best bachelor of arts courses in Kenya, we’d like to think that you are convinced these courses are the best. Good luck.
References
- dlll.egerton.ac.ke – Bachelor of Arts
- free-apply.com – List of universities by your criteria
- www.mydegreeguide.com – 20 Best Bachelor of Arts Degrees [2024 Guide]