Did you know that the University of Nairobi (UoN) is currently the only university in Kenya offering a Bachelor of Arts (Design) degree through KUCCPS placements? If you’re passionate about graphic design, fashion, or industrial design, this program could be your gateway to a creative career.
This in-depth guide covers:
✔ Why UoN is the only option for BA Design in Kenya
✔ Detailed entry requirements (2025 KUCCPS guidelines)
✔ Career opportunities for design graduates
✔ Alternative pathways if you don’t meet the cut-off
✔ Step-by-step application process
Why University of Nairobi is the Only KUCCPS Option for BA Design
The Current Landscape (2025)
- Only UoN offers BA (Design) under KUCCPS placement
- No other public universities have this program in KUCCPS
- Historical context: UoN’s School of Arts & Design has been the pioneer in design education since 1970s
Key Strengths of UoN’s Program
✅ Industry-recognized curriculum (Approved by Design Society of Kenya)
✅ State-of-the-art facilities: Digital labs, textile workshops, 3D printers
✅ Strong alumni network (Graduates work at Scanad, Safaricom, Nation Media)
Bachelor of Arts (Design) Entry Requirements (2025 KUCCPS)
1. KCSE Minimum Grades
| Subject | Minimum Grade |
|---|---|
| Overall Mean Grade | C+ (Plus) |
| Mathematics (MAT A) | C+ |
| Physics (PHY) | C+ |
| English/Kiswahili | C+ |
Career Opportunities for BA Design Graduates
1. Graphic Design Field
- Junior Designer: Ksh 40,000 – Ksh 80,000
- Art Director: Ksh 120,000 – Ksh 250,000
2. Fashion & Textile Industry
- Fashion Designer: Ksh 50,000 – Ksh 300,000
- Textile Technologist: Ksh 70,000 – Ksh 150,000
3. Industrial Design Sector
- Product Designer: Ksh 80,000 – Ksh 200,000
- Packaging Specialist: Ksh 90,000 – Ksh 180,000
4. Entrepreneurship Paths
- Design Studio Owner (Earn Ksh 200,000+ per project)
- Freelance Designer (Global platforms like Upwork, Fiverr)
How to Apply for BA Design at UoN via KUCCPS 2025
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Double-check your KCSE grades meet C+ threshold
Step 2: KUCCPS Application
- Visit students.kuccps.net
- Select “Bachelor of Arts (Design)” as 1st choice
- Choose 2 alternative programs (Fine Art/Architecture)
Why This Degree is Worth It (Despite Limited Options)
1. Growing Design Economy
- Kenya’s creative industry contributes 5.3% to GDP (KNBS 2024)
- Digital design jobs growing at 12% annually
2. Alumni Success Stories
- Jane Muthoni (Class of 2018) – Lead Designer at Safaricom
- Mark Odhiambo (Class of 2020) – Runs Nairobi’s top design agency
3. International Recognition
- UoN’s program is accredited by:
- International Council of Design (Ico-D)
- Africa Design School Network
Final Advice & Call to Action
With only 60 slots available annually, competition for UoN’s BA Design is fierce. But with proper preparation, you can secure your spot in this exclusive program.
📢 Take Action Now!
✅ Start preparing your portfolio today
✅ Apply via KUCCPS Portal before deadline
✅ Need help? Comment your questions below!
🔗 Share this guide with fellow aspiring designers!
