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Career & Employment

Requirements for Diploma in Education Secondary Option: Everything You Need to Know

  • BY waceke
  • March 25, 2025
teacher

Embarking on a career in secondary education in Kenya is a noble and impactful endeavor. To become a secondary school teacher, one viable pathway is pursuing a Diploma in Education (Secondary Option). This comprehensive guide outlines the qualifications required, application procedures, and offers insights into institutions offering this diploma, ensuring you are well-prepared to take the next step in your teaching career.

Understanding the Diploma in Education (Secondary Option)

The Diploma in Education (Secondary Option) is tailored to equip aspiring teachers with the pedagogical skills and subject matter expertise necessary to educate students at the secondary school level. Graduates are prepared to handle two teaching subjects, fostering a well-rounded educational environment.

Minimum Entry Requirements

To enroll in the Diploma in Education (Secondary Option) program, candidates must meet specific academic criteria:

  1. KCSE Mean Grade:
    • A minimum of C+ (Plus) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
  2. Teaching Subjects:
    • At least C+ (Plus) in two teaching subjects.
  3. Language Proficiency:
    • A minimum of C (Plain) in English or Kiswahili.
  4. Mathematics Requirement:
    • For Science teaching subjects: C (Plain) in Mathematics.
    • For Arts teaching subjects: A minimum of D+ (Plus) in Mathematics.

These requirements ensure that candidates possess the foundational knowledge necessary for effective teaching at the secondary level.

Additional Requirements by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC)

Beyond academic qualifications, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has set forth additional criteria for those seeking registration as secondary school teachers:

  • Citizenship: Must be a Kenyan citizen.
  • Age Limit: Not more than 45 years old.
  • Registration: Must be a registered teacher with the TSC, in accordance with Section 23 of the TSC Act.

Meeting these standards is crucial for employment in Kenyan secondary schools.

Institutions Offering the Diploma in Education (Secondary Option)

Several accredited institutions in Kenya offer this diploma. Selecting a recognized institution is vital for ensuring eligibility for TSC registration. Notable institutions include:

  • Kagumo Teachers Training College: Renowned for producing skilled secondary school teachers in sciences, languages, and humanities.
  • University of Eldoret: Offers a Diploma in Education (Arts) Secondary Option, requiring a minimum mean grade of C+ at K.C.S.E and C+ in two teaching subjects.
  • Chuka University: Provides a Diploma in Education (Secondary Option) with applications invited from suitably qualified self-sponsored students.
  • KCA University: Offers a two-year Diploma in Education course aimed at producing skilled secondary school teachers.
  • Machakos Institute of Technology (MIT) Teachers Training College: Provides a Diploma in Secondary Education with Arts/Science options.

Enrolling in these institutions enhances your prospects of meeting TSC requirements and securing employment upon graduation.

Application Process

Prospective students can apply for the Diploma in Education (Secondary Option) through two primary avenues:

1. Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS)

KUCCPS facilitates the placement of students into tertiary institutions. The application process involves:

  1. Accessing the KUCCPS Portal:
    • Visit the KUCCPS website during the application window.
  2. Logging In:
    • Enter your KCSE Index Number, examination year, and a password (typically your KCPE Index Number or Birth Certificate Number).
  3. Selecting Courses:
    • Choose the Diploma in Education (Secondary Option) program from the list of available courses.
  4. Submitting Application:
    • Confirm your choices and submit the application.

It’s essential to apply during the specified periods, as announced on official channels.

2. Direct Application to Institutions

Alternatively, candidates can apply directly to their institution of choice:

  1. Obtain Application Forms:
    • Download from the institution’s website or collect from the admissions office.
  2. Complete Forms:
    • Fill in the required details accurately.
  3. Submit Application:
    • Return the completed forms along with necessary documents, such as academic certificates and identification, before the deadline.

Direct applications are subject to the institution’s specific timelines and requirements.

Importance of TSC Registration

Securing a TSC number is mandatory for teaching in Kenyan secondary schools. The registration process includes:

  1. Meeting Educational Qualifications:
    • Completion of the Diploma in Education (Secondary Option) from a recognized institution.
  2. Submitting Application:
    • Apply through the TSC portal, providing personal and academic details.
  3. Providing Documentation:
    • Upload scanned copies of academic certificates, national ID, and other relevant documents.
  4. Awaiting Approval:
    • The TSC reviews applications and communicates approval or requests for additional information.

Registration with the TSC legitimizes your teaching credentials and opens doors to employment opportunities.