Electrical Engineering is a core part of Engineering that we can’t ignore. Its importance to society and numerous industries cannot be overemphasized, especially for growing economies like Kenya.
This is why we’d look at Kenya’s best electrical engineering courses and the best electrical engineering colleges.
Our article will also look at the admission requirements for admission to some of the best electrical engineering colleges And why you should consider studying electrical and electronics engineering.
So, if you have your KCSE grade, are still trying to decide what to study, and are interested in engineering, check out what we have lined up in this piece.
Table of contents
- What exactly does an electrical engineer do?
- What is the Average Electrical Engineering salary in Kenya?
- Why are certifications necessary for electrical engineers?
- What jobs can you get with an Electrical Engineering degree?
- Electrical Engineering Courses in Kenya Requirements
- Which college is best for electrical engineering in Kenya?
- Are electrical engineers in demand in Kenya?
- Best Electrical and Electronics Engineering Colleges in Kenya
- 1. NIE Engineering College
- 2. Nairobi TTI
- 3. Technical University of Kenya
- 4. Nairobi Aviation College
- 5. Zetech University
- 6. Kiambu National Polytechnic
- 7. Wote TTI
- 8. Railway Training Institute
- 9. Nakuru College
- 10. TIBS
- 11. Chuka Technical College
- 12. Murang’a University of Technology
- 13. Kenya Industrial Training Institute
- Electrical Engineering Courses: FAQs
- Conclusion
- References
- Read Also
What is Electrical Engineering?
According to Michigan Tech, Electrical engineering is the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.
Electrical engineers’ innovations revolutionized civilization in the 20th century, providing radio, television, telecommunications, and universal electric power.
We now have access to computers, the internet, medical imaging, and electronic surveillance.
A wide range of projects are undertaken by electrical engineers, such as creating computer and smartphone circuits, building and city power systems, establishing wireless communication networks throughout society, and upholding contemporary civilization.
Circuit design is the foundation of electrical engineering. Electricity may pass through electronic equipment thanks to circuits, which function similarly to roads. Electrical engineers design circuits that amplify signals change the type of power or regulate a device’s operation.
Power systems are another crucial subject concerning electricity production, distribution, and transmission.
Electrical engineering produces the fundamental technologies of modern society, including semiconductor chips for computing and artificial intelligence, medical diagnostic and surgical systems, electric vehicles, aircraft and automobile electronics, and wireless technology for a connected world and universe.
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What exactly does an electrical engineer do?
Electrical Engineers concentrate on the development and design of electrical processes. They also inspect and resolve problems with machinery, and all three qualities are based on the science and mathematics of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic fields.
What is the Average Electrical Engineering salary in Kenya?
Electrical Engineering salaries differ among companies, and many elements influence the variances, such as the employer’s financial status, employee skill level, and salary constraints.
According to Glassdoor, engineers in Kenya may earn between Kshs. 40,000 and Kshs. 300,000 each month.
You might want to know what Electrical and other types of engineers earn in the world’s most populous black country.
Why are certifications necessary for electrical engineers?
Certifications are crucial in various fields, including resume building, which can be particularly beneficial for recent graduates with limited work experience, especially in the field of electrical engineering. Applicants to certification programs often need to complete training courses before the exam.
Through this, engineers might learn new or specialized skills that allow them to change their areas of specialization or pursue other career paths.
Additionally, a certification can make a candidate stand out from the crowd or help electrical engineers already working increase efficiency and safety at work.
What jobs can you get with an Electrical Engineering degree?
- Electronic engineer
- Automotive engineer
- Engineer in the energy sector
- Aerospace engineer
- Professional in the oil and gas sector
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Electrical Engineering Courses in Kenya Requirements
Depending on the degree level, there are several requirements for enrollment in electrical engineering, such as a certificate, diploma, degree, or master’s. It will be thoroughly broken below:
Certificate
- Minimum of KCSE D Plain
- Duration: Two years
- You can take the certificate course at NIBS.
Diploma
- Minimum of KCSE C+ (Plus) Duration: Six Semesters
- In MKU, the requirements are KCSE C (Plain) with a C- (minus) in Mathematics, Physics, and English or a KCSE C- (Minus) with a certificate in a relevant field.
- It lasts for three academic years. The requirements for MMUST are a mean grade of C+ (Plus) at KCSE and at least a C+ (Plus) in Mathematics, Physics, or Physical Sciences.
- The course takes five academic years.
Degree
To pursue a degree in this program from the listed institutions, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Alternative one: Mathematics – B+ (Plus), Chemistry – B (Plain), English – B- (Minus), and Physics – B+ (Plus).
- Alternative two: Mathematics – B+ (Plus), English – B- (Minus), and Physical Science – B+ (Plus).
- Alternative three: National Diploma holders in Engineering from recognized polytechnics in Kenya.
Note: When you enrol, you must devote six academic years to the program. Every institution charges a different amount for the time required to complete the course.
Best certifications for electrical engineers
These are some common certifications that electrical engineers can pursue to demonstrate their professional skills:
1. Autodesk AutoCAD
Professionals in various industries use AutoCAD, a computer-aided design program, to create models, drawings, and other designs. This accreditation might serve as proof of your expertise on this significant platform.
Autodesk offers the Certified Associate, Professional, and Expert certifications at three levels.
To earn these credentials, candidates must pass a proctored exam and meet specific requirements for practical AutoCAD experience.
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2. Engineer in Training (EIT)
The EIT certification is a crucial entry-level qualification for engineers working in various disciplines. Obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) certification often starts with this step.
The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying administers EIT testing four times yearly in all states.
Upon completing the EIT exam, the candidate receives certification from their state engineering board, enabling them to work as entry-level engineers.
3. Certified Technical Professional (CTP)
Young technical professionals who have completed their associate’s or bachelor’s degree programs can obtain a certificate from the CTP.
It can assist entry-level professionals in building their credentials as it does not require job experience, unlike specific qualifications.
Some people decide to work toward earning a Certified Technical Manager (CTM) designation after finishing the CTP. They may be more equipped for leadership roles in their industry as a result.
4. Professional Engineer (PE)
One of the more useful certifications in many engineering domains, including electrical engineering, is the PE certification.
To become certified, candidates must finish a four-year degree program, pass the EIT or FE exam, and then work under a certified PE for at least four years.
After that, engineers can take a rigorous test to obtain their PE certification. Many states require engineers to enrol in continuing education programs to keep their PE.
5. Project Management Professional (PgMP)
This accreditation frequently benefits electrical engineers who want to work as leaders. It may demonstrate their capacity to oversee business initiatives and achieve critical objectives.
Obtaining this credential requires an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, two years of prior project management experience, and passing an exam. Many project managers need to renew their qualifications every three years.
6. Certified Systems Engineer Professional (CSEP)
CSEP certification can determine a person’s proficiency in planning and administrating intricate multidisciplinary engineering projects. INCOSE, the International Council on Systems Engineering, awards this certification to engineers who meet the standards.
These prerequisites include an undergraduate or graduate degree, which some candidates may replace with additional work experience and a minimum of five years of experience in systems engineering.
Candidates must also complete a multiple-choice exam and provide professional references to INCOSE.
7. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) certification
Electrical engineers can demonstrate their proficiency with electronic automation technologies with a PLC programming certification.
Engineers can take many PLC courses online or in person, and many of them offer certification upon completion.
Selecting a course based on the PLC you are most likely to use at work can be beneficial, as many classes focus on teaching a specific PLC platform.
For instance, if you plan to work with the Allen Bradley series of PLCs, you can enrol in a certification program offered by Allen Bradley or a third party, such as the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT).
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8. Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) certification
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition is referred to as SCADA. SCADA knowledge may benefit electrical engineers who intend to work in the manufacturing or energy sectors. It is a tool for automation in production that is becoming increasingly significant.
Engineers can learn the principles of SCADA from several online courses that offer certification upon completion.
9. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
A CEM certification attests to an engineer’s increased proficiency in facility energy performance management and optimization.
The Association of Energy Engineers awards this certification to engineers who satisfy its qualifying standards and complete a written exam and training session.
The prerequisite experience for eligibility differs according to the candidate’s educational background.
People with a four-year engineering degree need three years of experience, while those without one need ten years of work experience.
Different degrees of work experience are necessary for different educational backgrounds depending on their relevance to energy engineering.
Which college is best for electrical engineering in Kenya?
Best Electrical and Electronics Engineering Colleges in Kenya
- NIE Engineering College.
- Nairobi TTI.
- Technical University of Kenya.
- Nairobi Aviation College.
- Zetech University.
- Kiambu National Polytechnic.
- Wote TTI.
- Railway Training Institute.
Are electrical engineers in demand in Kenya?
Yes, electrical engineers are in demand in Kenya. They help efficiently collect and generate power from resources like wind powers.
Electrical engineers are needed to expand, maintain, and operate the wind power installations in Kenya continuously.
With this in mind, electrical professionals with experience in power transmission and wind turbine technology now have more prospects.
Biomedical Engineers are another set of engineers in demand; find out more about this type of engineering here.
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Best Electrical and Electronics Engineering Colleges in Kenya
1. NIE Engineering College
The 12-month NIE College Certificate in Electrical and Electronics Engineering program covers the principles, theories, and practical skills needed to understand and manage electrical and electronic systems.
NIE Colleges’ curriculum aims to give students a deep understanding of electrical and electronics engineering principles.
Through classroom education and hands-on training, students will learn to evaluate, design, install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical and electronic systems.
This certificate program provides a solid basis for pursuing additional coursework or developing an electrical and electronics engineering career.
2. Nairobi TTI
Nairobi TTI College accommodates students who wish to finish their courses by enrolling in evening, part-time, or full-time programs.
They have also accepted the redesigned modular syllabus for the Electrical Engineering Certificate and Diploma Programs and have fully implemented it.
The department has two technicians, twenty-one instructors, and about eight hundred residents. It also offers certificate programs in solar photovoltaics.
3. Technical University of Kenya
The organization, split into the electrical and communication systems divisions, is one of the main engineering specialties.
The colloquial terminology for the two locations are light current and heavy current, respectively.
Electrical engineering is one of the most competitive degrees for university admissions.
Because it offers degree programs, the school attracts many high school graduates and working-class members who want to continue their education.
4. Nairobi Aviation College
Enrollment in Nairobi Aviation College’s two-year curriculum requires a cumulative KCSE grade of D or above.
Students should be able to close any knowledge gaps in electrical and electronic engineering through their curriculum.
It also provides students with knowledge about preparing electrical designs and systems.
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5. Zetech University
To get admitted to Zetech, students must have an overall D in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E.) and a minimum D in the following subjects: English, Mathematics, Physics, or Chemistry.
This certificate program offers eight alternatives accessible in five terms. After completing it, students can pursue a diploma in electrical and electronic engineering (with a power option).
6. Kiambu National Polytechnic
In their Electrical and Electronics Department, there are three levels of training: Artist, Certificate, and Diploma. The Artist curriculum requires high competence, and its graduates are exceptionally skilled in real-world situations.
The certificate program includes both theoretical and practical instruction. The trainees can interpret simple formulas and illustrations about their field of study.
Diploma programs include mostly theory, with significant practical instruction in some areas. The students can conduct assessments, measurements, and data analysis in the training domain.
7. Wote TTI
Currently, the department has 105 students registered in different courses. During the breaks, the department conducted solar photovoltaic training sessions with USAID, SNV, KEREA, and Strathmore University.
NITA is one government agency that recognizes its solar initiatives. The department features seven (7) electrical workshops supplied with the latest education equipment.
For diploma courses, a minimum of a C minus is needed; for craft courses, a D plain is needed; and for artisan courses, KCPE is required.
8. Railway Training Institute
A grade of D is necessary for certificate courses, and a C- is necessary for diploma courses. The department offers full-time and part-time enrollment options for its courses.
The target audience for part-time courses is students who work during the day and attend evening sessions to make up for lost study time.
Regular classes run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Part-time classes are available from 4.30 to 8.30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9.00 to 5.00 p.m. on Saturdays.
9. Nakuru College
Nakuru College offers Electrical Installation and wiring at three primary levels: artisan, certificate, and diploma. The courses last nine months, a year, a half, and two years, in that order.
They offer regular classes, evening classes, online learning, and daily morning lessons (from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m.). Their courses are designed to fit around your schedule.
10. TIBS
The course’s three competency-based modules aim to increase students’ adaptability in formal and informal work environments.
Each module gives the student the tools to complete specific tasks and jobs. Combined, these will give them the essential competency and allow them to graduate from the course.
Because the course emphasizes acquiring competencies through practical experience, students should allocate sufficient time to practical lectures.
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11. Chuka Technical College
Chuka Technical and Vocational Training gives students a working knowledge of the industry. It educates them on the technical skills and technology information needed to design, access, and expand Electrical and Electronics technical systems.
They offer field trips and industry ties to enable their students to integrate theory with real-world work experience. They also permitted them to participate in the school’s electronics and electrical workshops.
12. Murang’a University of Technology
Since 1980, the department has provided programs leading to a craft certificate in electrical and electronics technology and a diploma in electrical engineering with a power option.
The department has produced alumni who have excelled in the subjects above. Under the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology’s School of Engineering, the department was housed with mechanical engineering, building and civil engineering, and other engineering-related departments.
13. Kenya Industrial Training Institute
The Electrical Engineering Department provides annual training to technicians, artisans, and craftsmen. Applications for its programs are still being received from throughout the nation.
They are dedicated to impacting the energy sector in electrification, solar energy supply, and system maintenance.
Their capacity to produce creative and innovative industry technicians cannot be overstated. They provide the modern skill training required by the job market.
Electrical Engineering Courses: FAQs
Electrical engineering courses focus on the study and application of electricity and electronics. They cover various topics, including circuit analysis, power systems, control systems, signal processing, and electronics.
Some popular specializations within electrical engineering include:
Power systems: Designing and operating electrical power grids
Electronics: Developing and designing electronic devices and circuits
Control systems: Designing systems that regulate and control other systems
Signal processing: Analyzing and manipulating signals, such as audio and video
Telecommunications: Designing and operating communication systems, such as cellular networks and internet infrastructure
The specific requirements may vary depending on the institution, but generally include:
A high school diploma with strong grades in mathematics, science, and physics
Entrance exams, such as the SAT or ACT
A portfolio showcasing your technical skills and problem-solving abilities
Electrical engineers are in high demand in various industries, including:
Power generation and transmission
Electronics and semiconductor manufacturing
Telecommunications
Automation and control systems
Research and development
Studying electrical engineering offers several benefits, such as:
High earning potential: Electrical engineers are among the highest-paid professionals in many fields.
In-demand skills: Electrical engineering skills are essential for various industries.
Problem-solving: Electrical engineers develop strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Innovation: Electrical engineers play a crucial role in technological advancements.
Conclusion
Numerous electrical engineering courses in Kenya are designed to help interested prospects become certified and qualified engineers.
Our article has outlined the best so you can easily pick what suits your aspirations as an electrical engineer.
References
- www.tuko.co.ke – Electrical Engineering universities and colleges in Kenya
- www.indeed.com – 9 of the Best Certifications for Electrical Engineers
- www.mtu.edu – Electrical Engineering