If you’re a fashionista or a budding designer in Kenya, then you know that fashion isn’t just about the clothes you wear; it’s about expressing your culture and individuality in a uniquely Kenyan way.
From the colourful kitenge fabrics worn for generations to the modern twists on traditional designs, fashion in Kenya is all about embracing the past and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
So, whether you’re into haute couture or streetwear, Kenya has a lot to offer in terms of fashion and design education. In this course, we will discuss this career path in Kenya and the best 10+ fashion and design courses in Kenya.
Table of contents
- Fashion and design in Kenya
- Which school offers Fashion Design in Kenya?
- How long does a fashion and design course take in Kenya?
- Best Fashion and Design Courses in Kenya
- 1. Fashion design by Mcensal School of Fashion Design
- 2. Fashion Design Management Diploma course by Inceptor
- 3. Certificate in Fashion and Design (TVET CDACC Level 5)
- 4. Fashion and Interior Design by Nie College
- 5. Diploma in Fashion Design
- 6. Fashion Designing Principles
- 7. Fashion Stylist Essentials: Unleashing Your Creative Style
- 8. Fashion as Design
- 9. Sustainable Fashion
- 10. Fashion Design and Styling
- Is diploma in fashion and design marketable in Kenya?
- Fashion and Design Courses in Kenya requirements
- Fashion and Design Courses fees in Kenya
- FAQs
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
Fashion and design in Kenya
First things first: Fashion in Kenya has a rich history dating back centuries. Traditional Kenyan clothing is known for its bold, vibrant colours and intricate patterns, often incorporating beading, embroidery, and other embellishments.
These traditional designs are not only beautiful but also hold deep cultural significance. Modern Kenyan fashion is just as dynamic.
As Kenya has evolved, so has its fashion scene. Today, you’ll find everything from high-end designer labels to streetwear brands, all drawing inspiration from traditional and contemporary influences.
Whether you’re rocking a dashiki or a bold, contemporary print, fashion in Kenya is all about self-expression, cultural pride, and looking fabulous.
This fusion of tradition and modernity has made Kenya a fashion and design talent hotbed.
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Which school offers Fashion Design in Kenya?
Here are some of the best universities in Kenya that offer fashion and design courses:
1. University of Nairobi
First, we have the University of Nairobi. Established in 1970, it is the oldest and largest university in Kenya.
It’s got a great acceptance rate of 66% and a student population of about 50,000. It’s also known as the top university in Africa for fashion design, ranking at #46.
2. Kenyatta University
Next up on the list is Kenyatta University. It was founded in 1985 and boasts a 70% acceptance rate. Kenyatta University is ranked #84 in Africa and #2728 worldwide for fashion design.
This university is known for providing students with the latest trends and techniques in fashion design, so if you want to stay on the cutting edge, Kenyatta University could be your fashion BFF.
3. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, or JKUAT for short, was founded in 1994 and has an impressive acceptance rate of just 16%. Despite its focus on agriculture, JKUAT is ranked #102 in Africa and #3139 worldwide for fashion design.
The university’s Fashion Design program combines technical skills with creativity, giving you a well-rounded education in the fashion industry.
4. Moi University
Moi University was established in 1984, and its acceptance rate is 93%—that’s pretty high! It’s ranked #111 in Africa and #3382 worldwide for fashion design.
Located in Eldoret, Moi University offers a comprehensive Fashion Design program that covers everything from sketching and pattern making to fabric manipulation and garment construction.
5. Egerton University
Founded in 1987, Egerton University is ranked #123 in Africa and #3575 worldwide for fashion design. Its acceptance rate is 33%, which is on the lower side.
Egerton University’s Fashion Design program emphasizes practical skills and creativity. Students create their own clothing lines and collections.
If you’re ready to hit the ground running in the fashion world, Egerton University could be your place.
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How long does a fashion and design course take in Kenya?
Just like each university has its own vibe, the duration of Kenya’s fashion design programs varies from institution to institution.
Some schools offer certificate courses, which might take 6 months to a year, while others offer diploma courses that can take 2-3 years. For those who want to go all in, a bachelor’s degree in fashion design can take up to 4 years.
It really depends on how much time you want to commit to your studies and what your goals are.
Best Fashion and Design Courses in Kenya
See some of the best fashion and design courses in Kenya:
1. Fashion design by Mcensal School of Fashion Design
The Mcensal School of Fashion Design is like Kenya’s secret sauce for fashion dreams. They’re on a mission to turn your passion for fashion into a real skill.
With a mix of certificate, diploma, and HND courses, they’ll take you from just “knowing your way around a needle and thread” to creating fashion that could rival the runway shows in Milan!
This school is serious about turning Kenya’s fashion dreams into a reality, one stitch at a time.
They understand that fashion isn’t just about pretty dresses and fancy suits. It’s about adding value to the economy, creating jobs, and giving talented designers the tools they need to make a real difference.
2. Fashion Design Management Diploma course by Inceptor
Ever dreamed of being the mastermind behind those amazing clothes you see on the runway? Inceptor’s Fashion Design Management Diploma can be your launching pad! It is one of the best fashion and design courses in Kenya.
We’re talking hands-on training that’ll teach you everything you need to know, from designing clothes that turn heads to managing a fashion business like a pro. It’s perfect if you’re starting out or want to improve your fashion skills.
Inceptor’s course is considered one of the best in Kenya for a reason. We have experienced instructors who have been there and done that and are ready to share their fashion wisdom with you.
3. Certificate in Fashion and Design (TVET CDACC Level 5)
N.I.T.’s one-year Fashion and Design certificate course is yet another one of the best fashion and design courses in Kenya.
his course is all about helping you develop your creativity and technical skills. We’ll teach you how to bring your ideas to life, from mastering sewing techniques to creating patterns. You’ll also learn the fashion industry’s secrets, so you’re ready to take on the world!
This program is perfect if you have a passion for fashion and a creative eye. By the end, you’ll be qualified for cool jobs like sewing machine operator, dressmaker, or tailor.
4. Fashion and Interior Design by Nie College
It doesn’t matter if you’re a budding fashion designer looking to create the next big trend or an aspiring interior designer hoping to transform spaces into works of art, Nie College has you covered.
With fashion and design courses in garment making, clothing technology, tailoring, dressmaking, and more, you’ll be armed with all the skills you need to make your mark in the design world.
5. Diploma in Fashion Design
This course is like a backstage pass to the world of fashion. You’ll learn all about the ins and outs of the industry, from understanding trends and influences to sourcing fabrics and constructing garments. And the best part?
You’ll also get a glimpse of what it takes to launch your clothing line. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next big thing in the fashion world!
This course is for anyone who has a passion for fashion and wants to learn the ropes of the industry. It’s perfect for aspiring designers, entrepreneurs, or anyone who just wants to know more about the clothes they wear.
6. Fashion Designing Principles
In this course, you’ll get deep into fashion history, learn how to create a killer portfolio, and even produce a successful fashion show. You’ll become a pro at understanding design principles, color theory, and sustainable fashion.
Oh, and did I mention the fashion show marketing strategy? Because you’ll be learning how to make your designs the talk of the town.
7. Fashion Stylist Essentials: Unleashing Your Creative Style
This free online course from Course Cloud is the key to unlocking your creative potential and becoming a fashion stylist extraordinaire.
Get ready to get into the essence of fashion styling, from body types and accessorizing to trend-spotting and sustainable practices. You’ll learn how to mix and match colors, fabrics, and designs like a pro and understand how to use digital tools to enhance your workflow.
Also, this course will teach you about the different roles of fashion stylists in the industry, from personal shoppers to runway coordinators. You’ll learn how to choose fabrics and colors that complement each other and flatter skin tones.
By the end of this course, you’ll be a fashion guru with an eye for detail, a heart for sustainability, and the skills to make any outfit pop!
8. Fashion as Design
Fashion as Design on Coursera is no ordinary fashion course, it’s an exploration into the world of art and design that will teach you to see fashion in a new light. With instructors like Paola Antonelli, you’ll learn about the history of fashion, how it’s shaped by culture, and how to express yourself through clothing choices.
But the best part of this course is how it teaches you to think creatively and see fashion as a form of self-expression. You’ll learn about the different techniques used by designers and how to apply them to your style.
Plus, the course is packed with hands-on activities and assignments that will have you putting your new-found knowledge into practice. So, not only will you be dressing to impress, but you’ll also be able to speak the language of fashion and understand its role in society.
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9. Sustainable Fashion
This course on sustainable fashion on Coursera is the perfect mix of style and substance. It is one of the best fashion and design courses online. You’ll learn how to incorporate eco-conscious practices into your wardrobe and business ventures without compromising on quality or style.
You’ll discover how brands are shifting towards more sustainable models, reducing their environmental impact, and creating a more circular economy.
You’ll also get inspired by real-world examples of how companies are doing things differently, positively impacting the planet and the people in it.
10. Fashion Design and Styling
Fashion Design and Styling on Coursera is the perfect course for anyone who wants to understand the ins and outs of the fashion world. From the history of fashion to the principles of design, you’ll learn everything you need to know to express yourself and create the perfect look for any occasion.
You’ll also explore the world of famous fashion designers, learn about their iconic styles, and see how they have shaped the industry.
This course will teach you how to use balance, harmony, and proportion in your designs to create stunning outfits. You’ll also learn about the Munsell colour system, how to choose the perfect accessories, and so much more.
Other fashion and design courses in Kenya you can go for include:
- Diploma in Fashion Design
- Diploma in Fashion Photography
- Diploma in Leather Design
- Certificate in Footwear Design
- Diploma in Fashion Technology
- Certificate in Jewelry Design
- Diploma in Retail Merchandising
- Diploma in Apparel Design
- Diploma in Jewelry Design
- Diploma in Textile Design
- Certificate in Textile Design
- Diploma in Visual Merchandising
- Certificate in Fashion Design
- Certificate in Accessory Design
- Certificate in Leather Design
Is diploma in fashion and design marketable in Kenya?
The answer is a resounding yes! A diploma in fashion and design is marketable in Kenya. The fashion industry is booming, with more and more people expressing themselves through their style.
The skills you learn in a diploma in fashion and design, like pattern making, garment construction, and fabric selection, are all skills that local fashion houses and designers are searching for.
Plus, with a diploma, you’re showing that you’ve got the knowledge and dedication to be a real asset to the industry.
Also, read: 50+ Most Marketable Courses in Kenya | 2024
Fashion and Design Courses in Kenya requirements
First, if you’re aiming for a degree in fashion and design, you’ll need at least a KCSE mean grade of C+ and a C+ in Home Science or any one science subject. Don’t stress if you’ve got a C plain or C- there’s still hope! You could get a certificate or diploma in fashion design from a recognized institution.
Now let’s talk about the duration of these courses. A short certificate course can be as quick as 3 to 6 months, which is great if you’re in a hurry to start your fashionista career. A diploma or certificate program can take 2 years, while an undergraduate degree in fashion and design takes 4 years, like most other degrees.
Here’s all you need to know about the different fashion and design courses in Kenya and requirements:
| COURSE TITLE | MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENT | MODE OF STUDY | EXAM BODY | DURATION |
| DIPLOMA IN FASHION DESIGN | KCSE MEAN GRADE C- | FULL TIME | KNEC | 3 Years |
| CRAFT CERTIFICATE IN FASHION DESIGN | KCSE MEAN GRADE D | FULL TIME | KNEC | 2 Years |
| ARTISAN CERTIFICATE IN DRESS MAKING | KCPE AND ABOVE | EVENING | NITA | 6 Months |
| ARTISAN CERTIFICATE IN TAILORING | KCPE AND ABOVE | EVENING | NITA | 6 Months |
| ARTISAN CERTIFICATE IN INTERIOR DECORATION | KCPE AND ABOVE | EVENING | KCNP | 1 Year |
| ARTISAN CERTIFICATE IN BEAUTY THERAPY AND HAIR DRESSING | FULL TIME | NITA | 1 Year | |
| ARTISAN CERTIFICATE IN HAIR CUTTING & BARBERING | PART TIME | KCNP | 4 Weeks | |
| CERTIFICATE IN WEAVING & BRAIDING | PART TIME | KCNP | 4 Weeks | |
| CERTIFICATE IN MANICURE & PEDICURE | PART TIME | KCNP | 4 Weeks | |
| CERTIFICATE IN MASSAGE | PART TIME | KCNP | 3 Weeks |
Fashion and Design Courses fees in Kenya
The cost of fashion and design courses in Kenya can vary depending on where you’re studying, but let’s look at the fees for the Mcensal School of Fashion Design.
First, there’s a non-refundable registration fee of Kshs 5,000, a graduation fee of Kshs 5,000, and an optional student kit of Kshs 7,500.
Now, the tuition fees. For a full-time course, the tuition fee per semester is Kshs 105,500. And if you’re enrolled in a BTEC (British vocational qualification), there’s a registration fee and an assessment fee that vary.
FAQs
While fashion designers may not always sew the garments themselves, they must have a strong understanding of sewing techniques to bring their designs to life.
Yes, some fashion and design courses in Kenya accept a C grade as a minimum entry requirement. However, the entry requirements vary by institution.
Kenya has several colleges offering fashion and design courses. These include the African Institute of Research and Development Studies (AIRADS), the International College of Professional Studies (ICPS), and the Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS). Visit their websites for more details.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, fashionistas! We’ve reviewed the top fashion and design courses in Kenya, their requirements, and fees. With this information, you’re one step closer to taking your fashion dreams to the runway.
Remember to keep an eye on those fees and requirements, and remember, fashion is all about creativity, passion, and, most of all, fun!
References
- edurank.org – universities for Fashion Design in Kenya
- Alison.com – Free online Fashion Design Courses
- coursera.org – Fashion and design courses
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