We are just starting to feel the remnants of the recent university placement for students who did their exams in 2023 and applied to join different universities via the KUCCPS portal. While those who performed their KCSE exams well didn’t have any issues in getting selected, those who scored a C- (minus) weren’t so lucky to have as many choices at their disposal.
And let’s face it, the education sector in Kenya has become so unpredictable especially with the current transition from the old 8-4-4 system in favor a new competency based curriculum (CBC). While not much has happened so far in matters tertiary education, most students I recon they might be asking themselves a number of questions and in this case we are focusing on those who got a C-.
Students who attained a C- in their KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education), have many options for diploma courses. These courses cover various interests as well as career goals, so this blog post is about the top C- diploma courses in Kenya, concentrating on teaching, medical and other professional fields. We also provide answers to popular queries such as: “Can I join TTC with C-?” and “Can I do P1 with C-? “.
Can I Join TTC with C- (Minus)?
A question that often comes up from students is whether they can get admission into a Teacher Training College (TTC) with a C-. The response is yes. Numerous TTCs in Kenya allow entry for learners who have achieved at least grade C- in different teaching programs. These places of learning provide certifications and diplomas in education, equipping students for a fulfilling profession in teaching primary schools as well as pre-primary stages.
Teaching Courses with C-
If you are looking to start a career in teaching but only managed to get a C- (minus) grade in high school, it’s not really the end of the road. You can still enroll yourself in one of the higher learning institutions and pursue a fulfilling career in education. Some of the popular options include:
- Certificate in Early Childhood Education: For those with passion in dealing with young children, this would probably be the most appropriate course for them. It equips learners with skills that are needed in handling children, focusing on early childhood development and pedagogy.
- Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (PTE): This course is particularly suitable for those who are aiming to teach in primary schools, it covers a broad curriculum designed to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
Can I Do P1 with C- (Minus)?
For the longest time, P1 has been the only choice for Kenyans looking to pursue a career in early teaching primary schools, however things are slowly shifting and TSC is shifting away from this course in favor to diploma in teacher education. The P1 (Primary 1) teaching course has been a popular choice for those aspiring to become primary school teachers. While traditionally the P1 course required a C plain, some colleges have been offering bridging courses for students with a C-. This pathway allows students to upgrade their qualifications and eventually enroll in the P1 course.
Best C- Courses in KMTC
KMTC has become a hot cake for students leaving secondary education, in fact, from recent data released by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) show that demand for KMTC courses for both students who qualified for university placement and those who are eligible for diploma courses has tremendously increased. The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) is renowned for its diverse range of medical courses. Students with a C- have several options, including:
- Certificate in Health Records and Information Technology: This course trains students in managing health records and information systems, an essential aspect of healthcare management.
- Certificate in Community Health Nursing: Although more competitive, some campuses may accept students with a C- for this foundational course in nursing, subject to additional qualifications or bridging courses.
- Certificate in Medical Engineering: This course provides technical skills in maintaining and repairing medical equipment, crucial for healthcare facilities.
Best C- Courses
Aside from teaching and medical fields, students with a C- can explore various diploma courses in different fields. Some of the best options include:
- Diploma in Business Management: This course offers comprehensive training in business principles, management practices, and entrepreneurship.
- Diploma in Information Technology: Ideal for tech enthusiasts, this course covers programming, network management, and systems administration.
- Diploma in Hospitality and Tourism Management: This program prepares students for careers in the thriving hospitality and tourism industry, focusing on customer service, hotel management, and tourism operations.
C- Courses in Kenyatta University
Kenyatta University, one of Kenya’s leading institutions, offers several diploma courses for students with a C-. Some notable programs include:
- Diploma in Environmental Science: This course covers environmental conservation, management, and sustainable development practices.
- Diploma in Mass Communication: Suitable for aspiring journalists and media professionals, this course offers training in broadcasting, journalism, and media studies.
- Diploma in Human Resource Management: This program equips students with skills in managing workforce dynamics, employee relations, and organizational development.
Medical Courses with C-
For students interested in medical careers but who scored a C-, there are still viable options. Besides the courses offered at KMTC, other institutions also provide medical-related programs such as:
- Certificate in Nutrition and Dietetics: This course focuses on dietary management, nutrition planning, and public health nutrition.
- Certificate in Community Health: A course designed to train students in promoting health and preventing diseases within communities.
Conclusion
Having a C- in KCSE is not a limit for starting a good career. There are many diploma courses that match with this grade, such as those in teaching or medicine to business and technology fields – all offering chances for more education and professional growth. Colleges such as KMTC and Kenyatta University offer hope to students who have not achieved high KCSE scores, allowing them to fulfill their career desires. By learning about good C- courses, they can enter a profession that suits them well and make valuable contributions in different fields here in  Kenya. We have created an impressive cluster points caculator that will also show you which careers you are eligible, be sure to check it out and all the best in your careers.