Kenya Utalii College (KUC), established in 1975, is Africa’s premier hospitality and tourism training institution, having trained over 60,000 graduates who excel in local and international industries. Located off Thika Road in Nairobi, with satellite campuses in Mombasa and Kisumu, KUC is a government-owned college under the Tourism Act, 2011, renowned for its industry-aligned programs. The college’s vision is to be a globally recognized leader in tourism and hospitality education, while its mission focuses on delivering quality education, research, and consultancy to develop competitive professionals.
Why Choose Kenya Utalii College?
KUC is a member of the International Association of Hotel Schools (EUHOFA), one of only three African institutions with this distinction, ensuring global recognition of its qualifications. The college’s programs are designed to meet industry trends, with practical training at its demonstration restaurant, modern kitchens, and industry attachments. Its core values—integrity, commitment, leadership, accountability, diversity, quality, and professionalism—shape a holistic learning environment.
Key Benefits of Studying at KUC:
- Global Recognition: Graduates work in top hotels, airlines, and tourism agencies worldwide.
- Practical Training: Hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities and real-world attachments.
- Industry Connections: Strong links with the tourism sector via the KUC/Tourism Industry Liaison Committee.
- Flexible Programs: Offers diploma, certificate, degree (in partnership with the University of Nairobi), and short courses.
- Government Support: Affordable fees with access to HELB loans and bursaries.
- Cultural Engagement: Events like the Gastronomy Festival (November 2024) promote Kenyan cuisine and tourism.
KUC’s commitment to modernizing its curriculum ensures graduates are equipped for evolving industry demands, making it the ideal choice for a career in hospitality and tourism.
Utalii College October 2025 Intake: Courses and Requirements
The October 2025 intake offers a variety of full-time courses in hospitality and tourism, ranging from one to three years. Below is a detailed breakdown of the courses, their durations, and entry requirements, as outlined by KUC.
Kenya Utalii College October 2025 Intake: Courses and Requirements
Hospitality Courses:
- Higher National Diploma in Hospitality Management:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements: KUC graduates of 3- or 4-year Diploma in Hotel Management.
- Description: Advanced training for senior roles in hotel management.
- Diploma in Hospitality Management:
- Diploma in Front Office Operations & Administration:
- Diploma in Culinary Arts:
- Duration: 2 years
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C, English C-, Mathematics/Home Science D+.
- KUC graduates of 1½- or 2-year Food Production/Food & Beverage certificate with Distinction or Credit.
- Description: Specialized training in culinary techniques for professional kitchens.
- Diploma in Food & Beverage Management:
- Duration: 2 years
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C, English C-, Mathematics/Business Studies D+.
- KUC graduates of 1½- or 2-year Food & Beverage/Food Production certificate with Distinction or Credit.
- Description: Focuses on food and beverage operations, service, and sales.
- Diploma in Events Management:
- Duration: 2 years
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C, English C-, Mathematics/Business Studies D+.
- KUC graduates of 1½- or 2-year Food & Beverage/Food Production certificate with Distinction or Credit.
- Description: Equips students to plan and manage events in hospitality settings.
- Diploma in Housekeeping & Laundry Operations:
- Certificate in Front Office Operations:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-, Mathematics/Business Studies D.
- KUC short course graduates (Reception/Front Desk Techniques, Hotel Information Systems) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Prepares students for front office roles with a 3-month industry attachment.
- Certificate in Pastry and Bakery:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-, Mathematics/Home Science D.
- KUC short course graduates (Kitchen Operation Techniques/Cake Making & Decoration/Pastry & Bakery) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Focuses on baking and pastry skills for hospitality settings.
- Certificate in Housekeeping & Laundry:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-.
- KUC short course graduates (Housekeeping Operational Skills/Laundry and Dry-Cleaning) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Trains students in housekeeping and laundry operations.
- Certificate in Food and Beverage Service & Sales:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-.
- KUC short course graduates (Banqueting Operations Techniques/Barista & Bar Tending) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Prepares students for roles like waiters and captains in hotels and restaurants.
- Certificate in Banqueting & Events:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-.
- KUC short course graduates (Banqueting Operations Techniques/Barista & Bar Tending) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Focuses on managing banquets and events in hospitality.
Tourism Courses:
- Diploma in Travel & Tourism Management:
- Diploma in Tour Guiding & Administration:
- Duration: 2 years
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C, English C-, Mathematics/Geography/History D+.
- KUC graduates of 1½- or 2-year tourism-related certificate with Distinction or Credit.
- Description: Prepares students for tour guiding and administrative roles.
- Certificate in Travel & Tour Operations:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-, Mathematics/History/Geography D.
- KUC short course graduates (Airline Cabin Crew/Travel Agency Techniques) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Equips students for roles in travel agencies and tour operations.
- Certificate in Tour Guiding & Administration:
- Duration: 1 year
- Requirements:
- KCSE aggregate C-, English C-, Mathematics/History/Geography D.
- KUC short course graduates (Airline Cabin Crew/Travel Agency Techniques) with KCSE D+ and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D, two short courses, and Distinction/Credit.
- KUC short course graduates with KCSE D-, two short courses, Distinction/Credit, and 2 years’ relevant experience.
- Description: Focuses on tour guiding skills and administrative tasks.
Short Courses:
- Duration: 1–6 months
- Description: Ongoing applications for courses like Front Desk Techniques, Food Safety & Hygiene, and Supervisory Management. Visit www.utalii.ac.ke for details.
Utalii College Fee Structure for October 2025 Intake
While the exact fee structure for October 2025 is not publicly available, KUC’s fees are competitive, with government sponsorship and HELB loans reducing costs. Based on historical data and industry standards, approximate annual fees are:
- Diploma Courses: Ksh 80,000–120,000 (tuition, excluding accommodation and meals).
- Certificate Courses: Ksh 60,000–90,000 (tuition, excluding accommodation and meals).
- Short Courses: Ksh 10,000–50,000, depending on duration.
- Additional Fees:
HELB Loans and Bursaries:
- Students can apply for HELB loans via www.helb.co.ke to cover tuition and upkeep (Ksh 13,600–18,600 annually).
- KUC offers bursaries for needy students; download the application form from www.utalii.ac.ke.
- Application deadline for HELB: Typically March for May intake; check for October updates.
Payment Terms:
- Fees are payable per semester or annually.
- Pay via the application portal or bank deposit:
- Fees are non-refundable once paid.
For the exact 2025 fee structure, contact KUC at admissions@utalii.ac.ke or 0722205891.
Application Process for October 2025 Intake
Applications for the October 2025 intake are open, with a deadline of June 6, 2025. The process is online, ensuring convenience for local and international applicants.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the Website: Go to www.utalii.ac.ke and navigate to the applications section.
- Select Program: Choose your preferred course based on qualifications.
- Complete Form:
- Fill in personal details, academic history, and contact information.
- Attach scanned copies (PDF format) of:
- KCSE or O-Level certificate.
- School leaving certificate.
- National ID or birth certificate.
- KUC short course certificates (if applicable).
- Pay Application Fee: Ksh 1,000 (plus Ksh 50 transaction fee) via the portal.
- Submit: Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly; incomplete applications are not processed.
- Track Application: Use the provided email and phone number for updates.
Contact for Inquiries:
- Email: admissions@utalii.ac.ke
- Phone: 0722205891, 0722205892, 0733410005
- Address: Kenya Utalii College, Main Campus, Off Thika Road, Nairobi
Notes:
- Applications not meeting academic requirements will not be acknowledged.
- International applicants pay USD 50 application fee.
- KUCCPS placement is available for government-sponsored students; apply via students.kuccps.net by February 2025.
Facilities and Student Life at Utalii College
KUC’s main campus in Nairobi offers state-of-the-art facilities, fostering a vibrant learning environment. Satellite campuses in Mombasa and Kisumu provide additional access.
Key Facilities:
- Training Kitchens: Equipped for food production, pastry, and culinary arts.
- Demonstration Restaurant: Practical training in food and beverage service.
- Mock Hotel Rooms: For housekeeping and front office practice.
- Computer Labs: Support ICT and hotel information systems training.
- Hostels: Affordable on-campus accommodation.
- Library: Resources for research and study.
Student Life:
- Events: The Gastronomy Festival (November 2024) showcases Kenyan cuisines, with plans for 2025.
- Clubs: Tourism, culinary, and environmental clubs foster leadership and creativity.
- Industry Attachments: 3-month placements in top hotels and agencies.
- Sports and Recreation: Facilities for football, volleyball, and cultural activities.
Career Prospects for Utalii College Graduates
KUC graduates are highly sought after in the global hospitality and tourism industry, with opportunities in:
- Hospitality:
- Tourism:
- Tour guides, travel consultants, reservation officers.
- Employment with travel agencies, tour operators, and national parks.
- Entrepreneurship:
- Start-ups in catering, event planning, or travel agencies.
- Further Studies:
The college’s job placement support and industry connections ensure graduates secure roles locally and internationally.
Tips for Prospective Students
To succeed in applying for the October 2025 intake:
- Check Requirements: Ensure you meet the specific KCSE grades and subject requirements.
- Apply Early: Submit by June 6, 2025, to avoid last-minute issues.
- Secure Funding: Apply for HELB loans and KUC bursaries immediately after admission.
- Prepare Documents: Scan all certificates in PDF format for smooth submission.
- Choose Wisely: Select a course aligned with your career goals (e.g., culinary arts for chefs, tourism for travel roles).
- Contact KUC: Clarify doubts via admissions@utalii.ac.ke or 0722205891.
Utalii College’s Role in Kenya’s Hospitality and Tourism Sector
KUC is a cornerstone of Kenya’s tourism industry, contributing to the sector’s growth, which accounts for 10% of GDP (World Bank, 2023). Its training aligns with national policies like Vision 2030, promoting sustainable tourism and job creation. The college’s partnerships with the University of Nairobi and international bodies like EUHOFA enhance its global impact.
By hosting events like the Gastronomy Festival and modernizing its curriculum, KUC promotes cultural tourism and addresses industry trends like digitalization and sustainability. Its graduates drive innovation in hotels, travel agencies, and culinary arts, making KUC a vital player in East Africa’s hospitality landscape.
Kenya Utalii College’s October 2025 intake offers a gateway to rewarding careers in hospitality and tourism, with diploma and certificate courses tailored to industry needs. With affordable fees (Ksh 60,000–120,000 annually), HELB support, and a June 6, 2025, application deadline, KUC is accessible to KCSE graduates with C- to C+ grades. Its world-class facilities, industry attachments, and global recognition ensure graduates excel in roles like hotel management, tour guiding, and culinary arts.
Apply now via www.utalii.ac.ke, and secure your future in one of Africa’s top hospitality colleges. For inquiries, contact admissions@utalii.ac.ke or 0722205891. Join KUC in October 2025 and become a global leader in hospitality and tourism!
