Civil Engineering Courses in Kenya | 2024 Requirements and Fees

As you prepare to pursue your chosen career in the field of Civil engineering in Kenya, you must understand what it takes to have a smooth, hitch-free, and rewarding academic journey if you are to pitch your tent in Civil Engineering as a Kenyan student or even an international student.

You need to be aware of the Civil Engineering courses available in Kenya, the fees to be paid, the requirements, the institutions that offer Civil Engineering courses, and what a degree in Civil Engineering from a Kenyan University can fetch you regarding job placement.

Civil engineering is among the key disciplines in Kenya because this country has been, and still is, one of those improving its infrastructure and responding to some urbanization challenges.

With Kenya fast becoming a big economy, the need for Civil Engineers is rising. With the right degree from a good university offering Civil Engineering courses, your chances of landing a well-paying job are almost guaranteed.

In this article, you will be furnished with information about Civil Engineering courses in Kenya, fees, requirements, and universities that have been accredited to offer degrees in Civil Engineering in Kenya.

 
Civil Engineering Courses in Kenya

Civil engineering courses are offered in both universities and middle-level colleges in Kenya. The courses impart the knowledge and skills necessary for solving practical engineering problems.

This course covers various topics including, but not limited to, structural engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, and geotechnical engineering. A career path in civil engineering is promising due to the country’s increasing demand for competent engineers.

How long does studying civil engineering take in Kenya?

This usually takes four years for a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in Kenya. The coursework often includes theoretical classes, practical sessions, and internships that offer hands-on experiences.

Graduates may continue with further studies or enter the workforce as civil engineers, project managers, or consultants.

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How much does the civil engineering course cost in Kenya?

Most Kenyan universities charge tuition fees for civil engineering courses between Ksh 40,000 and Ksh 200,000 per academic year. This is, however, determined by the university and program structure. Public universities usually charge lower compared to private ones.

Public universities charge tuition fees from KSh 40,000 to KSh 85,000 for Kenyan students.

Tuition fees charged by private universities are usually much higher than those charged by public institutions. On average, fees lie in the range of KSh 100,000 to KSh 200,000 annually in private universities.

Apart from tuition, the students need to consider other financial responsibilities: accommodation fees, transport, textbooks, materials, and daily living expenses that can increase considerably the total amount that needs to be invested in a civil engineering degree.

There are scholarships and financial aid programs for deserving students, easing some of the stress of the load and making education more available.

How Much Does a Civil Engineer Make in Kenya?

Salaries for civil engineers in Kenya vary and depend on experience, speciality, and the type of sector in which they operate.

Starting salaries for entry-level civil engineers usually range from Ksh50,000 to Ksh100,000. Experiencing engineers will have an average monthly income ranging from Ksh100,000 to Ksh200,000, while the senior civil or project manager earns over Ksh 300,000.

Since infrastructural projects are continuously growing, the demand for qualified civil engineers is also increasing; hence, the profession has a sure growth, making it a prudent investment for students who pursue it.

While studying civil engineering courses in Kenya might be costly, the potential returns through salaries and available jobs make it a worthy pursuit. Hence, the costs of undertaking a civil engineering course in Kenya can be relatively high.

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Civil Engineering Courses Requirements in Kenya

These are the minimum admission requirements set by KUCCPS and the relevant universities to pursue a course in civil engineering in Kenya.

Basic Requirements

The candidate must attain a minimum mean grade of C+ at KCSE examinations, with at least a C+ grade in mathematics and physics.

In addition, students need a minimum of a C grade in both English and chemistry. Some universities add biology and geography at a minimum of a C grade as an entry requirement.

Finally, a student needs to attain entry requirements specified by the university. For instance, some universities require one to attain a minimum aggregate grade of 32 points in KCSE examinations.

The individuals should also be dynamically solution-finders and critical thinkers.

Civil Engineering Courses Fees in Kenya

The fees vary for studying civil engineering courses, considering the different institutions and levels of study.

For a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, tuition varies from 40,000 to 85,000 KSh per year for students who get government sponsorship. With this, the pursuit becomes relatively affordable for many students in Kenya.

On the other hand, self-sponsored students pay approximately between KES 150,000 and KES 300,000 per year.

The fees are relatively lower in diploma and certificate courses; the range is from KES 30,000 to KES 80,000. It is critical to note that this fee does not cover other expenses such as accommodation, stationery, and transportation.

Other universities offer scholarships or financial assistance as a means of helping students in paying tuition fees.

Cluster points for Civil Engineering Courses in Kenya

Cluster points for civil engineering in Kenya lie between 40 and 45 marks out of the possible 60. This means that students must excel in key subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, besides attaining a minimum requirement grade in the overall KCSE grade.

The high cluster points reflect the rigors of the curriculum, including structural design, fluid mechanics, and geotechnical engineering, together with sustainable construction in civil engineering.

The cluster points for civil engineering in Kenya have become so important in recent years and guide the assessment and admission of students into various universities for civil engineering courses, based on their performance in the KCSE examination.

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Which college is the best for civil engineering in Kenya?

1.  University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi is among Kenya’s best-ranking universities for Civil Engineering. Its Department of Civil and Construction Engineering is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and an experienced team of lecturers who are experts in their various specializations.

The department offers are Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Master of Science in Civil Engineering, and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering. Similarly, because of the strong industrial relationship that this university has, students are exposed to a lot of practical work and newer research.

2. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Another highly regarded civil engineering university in Kenya is Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, also called JKUAT. JKUAT is among the leading public universities in Juja; it is very well connected to science and technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Civil Engineering Department at JKUAT is accredited by the Engineers Board of Kenya, EBK. It offers a range of programs, including B.Sc. in Civil Engineering, M.Sc. in Civil Engineering, and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering.

The modern facilities include a state-of-the-art engineering workshop and several specialist laboratories. General industry links and research at JKUAT are also strong, thus allowing students to enjoy industrial work experiences and participate in innovative research projects.

Other leading institutions offering civil engineering in Kenya, besides UoN and JKUAT, include Moi University, Kenyatta University, and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology.

The programs are accredited by EBK and recognized by industries since they offer quality civil engineering courses. Equally, the institutions have strong industry links and a research focus that offers students several field practical exposures, coupled with innovative research projects.

List of Best Civil Engineering Courses in Kenya

This has been informed by the rapid urbanization and development of Kenya, which has significantly heightened the demand for competent civil engineers in the country.

In this regard, most institutions in Kenya offer courses in civil engineering to adequately equip students with the relevant knowledge and skills necessary for the market.

Some of the best universities offering high-quality courses in civil engineering are in Kenya include;

1.  University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi is one of the distinguished universities in Kenya. It offers a highly recognized Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

The university also maintains good industrial links and a research focus, allowing students to work on real projects and interact with industry professionals.

2.  Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)

JKUAT is another leading institution for civil engineering studies in Kenya. The university offers a variety of civil engineering courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels through the School of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering, such as a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, and a Master of Science in Structural Engineering, among others.

3.  Technical University of Kenya (TU-K)

Another institution offering excellent civil engineering courses is the Technical University of Kenya. The university’s Department of Civil Engineering offers a Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering to equip students with practical skills in building, surveying, and materials science.

4.  Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT)

For the more theoretically oriented, KIHBT has various diploma courses in civil engineering, construction management, and related areas, specifically designed to impart practical skills and knowledge to the learners for immediate employment in the job market.

5.  Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology

Engineering courses are Masinde Muliro’s strong suit; therefore, the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering will fall under practical training, innovation, and research in training students for leadership within the sector.

Private Universities Offering Civil Engineering in Kenya

In response to this increased demand for infrastructure in Kenya, there has been a proliferation of civil engineering programs offered by private universities.

Let us examine Kenya’s private universities offering civil engineering and their strengths, curriculum, and career prospects.

1.  University of Eastern Africa, Baraton (UEAB)

The University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, is among Kenya’s pioneer private universities offering civil engineering. Its School of Engineering, established in 1989, offers a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, accredited by the Engineers Board of Kenya.

UEAB has close industrial links that ensure that students acquire industrial experience through internships and industrial attachments that prepare them for the job market.

2.  Mount Kenya University (MKU)

Other excellent private universities offering civil engineering courses in Kenya include Mount Kenya University. The School of Engineering and Built Environment at MKU offers a Bachelor of Science course in Civil Engineering, which aims to produce graduates who can design, construct, and manage civil engineering projects efficiently and effectively. 

With an ideal environment set by a strong research focus at MKU, coupled with modern facilities, students can explore state-of-the-art solutions to civil engineering challenges.

3.  Strathmore University

Another private university offering a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering is Strathmore University, accredited by the Engineers Board of Kenya.

The university seeks to develop highly competent, enterprising graduates with solid leadership skills by offering civil engineering subjects.

4.  United States International University (USIU)

The university offers a Bachelor of Science course in Civil Engineering incorporating modern technology and management principles into the curriculum.

5.  Nairobi Institute of Technology

The course structure for civil engineering is broad, emphasising fieldwork and practicality to equip students with challenges in the industry.

6.  Kenya Methodist University (KEMU)

The Engineering Course at KEMU focuses on amalgamating ethical and technical knowledge to produce graduates who will be competent in the job market.

7.  KCA University

KCA offers a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with an emphasis on sustainable practices and project management in engineering.

Is Civil Engineering in demand in Kenya?

Civil engineering is in high demand within Kenya, owing to the ambitious infrastructural development programs, an increase in urbanization, and a growing population.

The region’s economic growth has placed Kenya as one of the fastest-growing economies within East Africa, thus making the country highly invest in infrastructure to facilitate economic growth and improve the living standards of its citizens.

One of the strongest driving forces about the demand for civil engineers in Kenya is the government’s Vision 2030 initiative, through which the government aspires to join the league of middle-income economies by sprucing up infrastructure, investing, and improving service delivery.

FAQs

Conclusion

Several excellent institutions in Kenya offer first-class courses in civil engineering. The courses are designed to impart the required knowledge and skills in the industry of civil engineering, and many institutions have strong industry links and a research focus, allowing students to gain real-world projects and collaboration with industry experts.

Something is available for everyone in Kenya, From students who wish to pursue a career in Civil Engineering to professionals who want to upgrade.

References

• tuko.co.ke-Best Civil Engineering Courses in Kenya
• bachelorsportal.com-Civil engineering Courses in Kenya
• kenyaplex.com/-Civil engineering Courses in Kenya
• colleges.co.ke/-Civil engineering Courses in Kenya

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