As Kenya’s healthcare sector grows, the need for well-trained healthcare professionals has never been higher. Nairobi Women’s Hospital College (NWHC) has been at the forefront of providing quality, specialized training in various healthcare disciplines. The institution, which is part of the larger Nairobi Women’s Hospital, offers a range of programs that prepare students for successful careers in healthcare.
Founded with the mission to address the country’s healthcare needs, NWHC is known for its cutting-edge curriculum and its focus on providing both practical and theoretical knowledge. The college offers various diploma, certificate, and higher diploma programs that cater to different aspects of healthcare, including nursing, health records, nutrition, medical social work, and community health.
In this article, we will explore the courses offered at Nairobi Women’s Hospital College, the admission requirements, the course structures, and most importantly, the fees for each program. This information will guide prospective students in making informed decisions regarding their education and career paths in healthcare.
1. Overview of Programs Offered at Nairobi Women’s Hospital College
Nairobi Women’s Hospital College offers diverse programs, ranging from short certificate courses to comprehensive diploma and higher diploma courses. These programs are designed to equip students with the skills required to excel in healthcare and community services.
Nursing Programs
The nursing programs at NWHC are designed to provide high-quality, hands-on training that prepares students to meet the healthcare demands of Kenya and the wider region. The institution offers both Diploma and Higher Diploma options in nursing.
Diploma in Nursing
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum of C+ in the relevant subjects (English, Mathematics, and Biology).
- Duration: 3 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 57,000
- Trimester 2-7: KSh. 47,000
- Trimester 8: KSh. 52,000
This program provides students with comprehensive training in nursing theory, clinical practice, and the emotional intelligence needed to work with patients. Graduates are well-prepared to serve in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.
Higher Diploma in Kenya Registered Perioperative Nursing
- Prerequisite: A Diploma in Nursing or equivalent qualification.
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 89,000
- Trimester 2: KSh. 99,000
- Trimester 3: KSh. 89,000
This higher diploma course focuses on perioperative nursing, equipping nurses with the skills to assist in surgical operations and provide post-operative care. It’s designed for those already practicing in nursing but looking to specialize in the surgical aspect of healthcare.
Higher Diploma in Kenya Registered Critical Care Nursing
- Prerequisite: Diploma in Nursing or equivalent qualification.
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 89,000
- Trimester 2: KSh. 99,000
- Trimester 3: KSh. 89,000
This program provides specialized knowledge in critical care, preparing nurses to work in intensive care units (ICUs) and high-dependency areas.
Health Records & Information Technology Programs
The healthcare industry today heavily relies on accurate data management. With this in mind, NWHC offers Health Records and Information Technology programs to train professionals who will manage the increasing volume of healthcare data.
Certificate in Health Records & IT
- Prerequisite: KCSE with a minimum grade of C- in English, Mathematics, and Biology.
- Duration: 1 year
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 40,000
- Trimester 2-5: KSh. 32,000
- Trimester 6: KSh. 37,000
This program offers foundational knowledge in health records management and IT, including medical coding, data entry, and IT applications in healthcare.
Diploma in Health Records & IT
- Prerequisite: KCSE with a minimum grade of C in English, Mathematics, and Biology.
- Duration: 2 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 40,000
- Trimester 2-7: KSh. 32,000
- Trimester 8: KSh. 37,000
The diploma program takes students through advanced topics in health records management, medical databases, and hospital information systems. It is ideal for individuals interested in healthcare administration and medical data management.
Perioperative Theatre Technology Programs
Surgical care is one of the most critical areas of healthcare, and perioperative theatre technology ensures the proper functioning of surgical units. NWHC offers certificate and diploma programs in this field.
Certificate in Perioperative Theatre Technology
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum of C- in relevant subjects.
- Duration: 1 year
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 55,000
- Trimester 2-3: KSh. 45,000
This program focuses on preparing students to assist in surgery, maintain sterile fields, and operate essential equipment in operating theatres.
Diploma in Perioperative Theatre Technology
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum of C- in relevant subjects.
- Duration: 2 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 55,000
- Trimester 2-5: KSh. 45,000
- Trimester 6: KSh. 50,000
Diploma students gain a deeper understanding of surgical procedures, anesthesia technology, and surgical assistant skills.
Community Health Programs
Community health is a crucial aspect of healthcare in Kenya, especially in rural and underserved areas. NWHC’s community health programs prepare students to address healthcare challenges in the community.
Artisan in Community Health
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum grade of D.
- Duration: 1 year
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 38,000
- Trimester 2-3: KSh. 30,000
This certificate program focuses on community outreach, disease prevention, and health promotion.
Diploma in Community Health
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum grade of C-.
- Duration: 3 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 38,000
- Trimester 2-5: KSh. 30,000
- Trimester 6: KSh. 35,000
The diploma program offers advanced training in community health assessment, nutrition, and healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
Nutrition & Dietetics Programs
As dietary habits are essential to overall health, nutritionists and dietitians play a critical role in improving public health. NWHC’s nutrition programs are designed to provide students with essential knowledge in food science and nutrition.
Certificate in Nutrition & Dietetics
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum grade of C- in relevant subjects.
- Duration: 1 year
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 38,000
- Trimester 2-5: KSh. 30,000
- Trimester 6: KSh. 35,000
This certificate program focuses on food planning, meal preparation, and nutrition counseling.
Diploma in Nutrition & Dietetics
- Prerequisite: KCSE certificate with a minimum grade of C in relevant subjects.
- Duration: 2 years
- Trimester Fees:
- Trimester 1: KSh. 38,000
- Trimester 2-7: KSh. 30,000
- Trimester 8: KSh. 35,000
This diploma program prepares students to become professional nutritionists and dietitians who work in hospitals, wellness centers, and food companies.
Additional Programs and Courses
In addition to the programs mentioned above, NWHC offers several short-term and specialized programs such as:
- Certificate in Healthcare Assistant (KSh. 55,000 per trimester)
- KNEC Bridging Courses for Mathematics and Biology (KSh. 29,000 per trimester)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) (KSh. 6,500)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) (KSh. 16,000)
These programs are ideal for individuals seeking to improve their skills or qualifications in specific healthcare areas.
Accommodation and Other Fees
NWHC provides accommodation for students at a rate of KSh. 16,000 per trimester. However, the college does not offer on-campus housing for all students, so it’s important for prospective learners to make arrangements ahead of time.
Additionally, there are indexing, licensing, and external examination fees that are payable separately, as stipulated by the relevant regulatory bodies such as KNEC and the Nursing Council of Kenya.
Nairobi Women’s Hospital College offers a broad range of healthcare programs that cater to the diverse needs of the Kenyan healthcare system. From nursing to nutrition and social work, the college provides education that equips students with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
With a clear structure, affordable fees, and quality education, NWHC is an excellent choice for those seeking to make a difference in the healthcare sector. Whether you are looking to start a career in nursing, pursue a specialized higher diploma, or gain expertise in community health, Nairobi Women’s Hospital College provides the opportunity to achieve your goals.
