Full List of Courses Offered at Kenya Forestry College: Everything You Need to Know

Kenya Forestry College (KFC), located in the serene Masaita Forest Block in Londiani, Kericho County, is a premier Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution under the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Established in 1957 as a Forestry Training School, KFC serves as the training arm of the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), equipping students with skills for sustainable forest management, environmental conservation, and related fields. With its rich history, paramilitary training, and commitment to excellence, KFC has trained over 3,000 graduates from Kenya and beyond, including countries like Somalia, Rwanda, and Tanzania. This article provides a detailed overview of the courses offered for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, admission requirements, career prospects, and why KFC is a top choice for aspiring environmental professionals.

Why Choose Kenya Forestry College?

Nestled 4 km from the Nakuru-Kericho Highway, KFC offers a unique learning environment surrounded by the 4,152-hectare Masaita Forest Block, ideal for hands-on forestry training. Here’s why KFC stands out:

Accreditation: KFC is registered with the Technical and Vocational Education Authority (TVETA) under license number TVETA/PUBLIC/TVC/0014/2018, ensuring high-quality education.
Industry-Relevant Training: As the training arm of KFS, KFC aligns its curricula with national goals, such as increasing Kenya’s forest cover from 7.2% to 30% by 2032.
Paramilitary Wing: KFC offers specialized paramilitary training for Forest Rangers, preparing them for forestry protection duties.
Regional Impact: The college trains students from across East Africa and beyond, fostering regional collaboration in environmental conservation.
Short Courses and Outreach: KFC provides capacity-building short courses for KFS staff and external clients, enhancing its community impact.

This guide details the six programs offered for the 2025/2026 cycle, categorized by focus area, along with entry requirements, application processes, and career opportunities.

Courses Offered at Kenya Forestry College for 2025/2026

KFC offers a focused portfolio of certificate, diploma, and trade test programs in forestry, environmental management, and related technical fields. The following six courses are available for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, as listed by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS):

1. Forestry Department

The Forestry Department is the cornerstone of KFC’s offerings, training students in sustainable forest management and conservation.

Diploma in Forestry (3880F05): A two-year program focusing on forest management, silviculture, and conservation techniques. It prepares students for roles in KFS, NGOs, and private forestry enterprises.
- Duration: 2 years
- Cost: KES 40,000 (residential), KES 28,500 (non-residential), plus KES 500 application fee
Certificate in Forestry (3880B40): An entry-level course covering basic forestry principles, ideal for Forest Assistants and community conservation roles.
- Duration: 1 year
- Cost: Approximately KES 20,000–25,000 (varies by residency)

2. Environmental Management Department

This department addresses environmental challenges, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Diploma in Environmental Management (3880712): Covers environmental policy, conservation strategies, and resource management, preparing students for careers in environmental agencies and NGOs.
- Duration: 2 years
- Cost: Approximately KES 35,000–40,000 (varies by residency)

3. Business Management Department

This department equips students with entrepreneurial skills to support forestry-related enterprises.

Certificate in Business Management (3880777): Provides foundational business skills for managing forestry cooperatives or small-scale environmental ventures.
- Duration: 1 year
- Cost: Approximately KES 15,000–20,000

4. Technical Skills Department

This department offers trade test certifications for practical skills in carpentry and joinery, supporting infrastructure development in forested areas.

Grade Test II in Appropriate Carpentry and Joinery (3880G46): Intermediate training for carpentry skills, suitable for construction roles in forest reserves.
- Duration: 6 months
- Cost: Approximately KES 10,000–15,000
Grade Test III in Appropriate Carpentry and Joinery (3880G58): Basic carpentry certification for entry-level roles in woodworking and construction.
- Duration: 3–6 months
- Cost: Approximately KES 8,000–12,000

Additional Offerings

While not listed in the KUCCPS 2025/2026 cycle, KFC also provides:

Short Courses: Topics include forest management, GIS applications in forestry, and community-based conservation. These are tailored for KFS staff and external clients.
Information Communication Technology (ICT): Includes a Diploma in Information Technology and computer package courses, enhancing digital skills for forestry applications.
Paramilitary Training: Specialized training for Forest Rangers, focusing on forest protection and law enforcement.

Admission Requirements for KFC Courses

Entry requirements vary by program level and are set by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, with KFC aligning with TVETA standards:

Diploma Courses:
- Minimum KCSE mean grade of C-.
- Specific subject requirements may include C- in Biology, Geography, or Mathematics for Forestry and Environmental Management programs.
- Certificate in Forestry (with Credit or Pass) and 2 years of post-qualification experience for Diploma in Forestry.
Certificate Courses:
- Minimum KCSE mean grade of D plain or D+.
- KCPE certificate may be accepted for some programs with relevant experience.
Trade Test Courses:
- KCPE certificate or basic literacy skills.
- No formal KCSE grade requirement, but practical aptitude is assessed.
Additional Requirements:
- Physical fitness (minimum height: 5’6” for males, 5’3” for females for paramilitary roles).
- Certificate of Good Conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
- Medical examination certificate confirming no disabilities that inhibit field duties.

Applicants must submit:

KCSE/KCPE result slips
National ID or birth certificate
Medical certificate
Certificate of Good Conduct
Completed application form
Application fee (KES 500)

How to Apply to Kenya Forestry College

Download the Application Form: Visit kenyaforestservice.org or kenyanlife.com for the 2025/2026 application form.
Complete the Form: Fill in personal details, program choice, and attach required documents.
Pay the Application Fee: Use mobile money (M-Pesa Paybill) or bank transfer (KES 500).
Submit the Application: Send to P.O. Box 8-20203, Londiani, or email to college@kenyaforestservice.org.
KUCCPS Application: For government-sponsored students, apply via students.kuccps.net during the placement cycle (March 28–April 30, 2025).
Await Confirmation: Successful applicants receive an admission letter via email or post.

Fee Structure and Funding Options

The fee structure varies by program and residency status:

Diploma in Forestry: KES 40,000 (residential), KES 28,500 (non-residential) per year.
Certificate Courses: KES 15,000–25,000 per year.
Trade Test Courses: KES 8,000–15,000 per course.
Short Courses: KES 5,000–10,000, depending on duration.

Additional fees include:

Application fee: KES 500
Accommodation (optional): KES 10,000–15,000 per year
Examination fees: Vary by program

Government capitation through KUCCPS subsidizes tuition for TVET students. Students can also apply for loans through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) or scholarships from KFS and partner NGOs.

Career Prospects and Industry Impact

KFC graduates are well-positioned for careers in Kenya’s growing environmental and forestry sectors, contributing to national goals like the 30% forest cover target by 2032. Career paths include:

Forestry: Forest Officers, Silviculturists, and Conservation Managers in KFS, county governments, and NGOs.
Environmental Management: Environmental Consultants, Policy Analysts, and Sustainability Officers in organizations like NEMA.
Business Management: Managers of forestry cooperatives, agribusiness entrepreneurs, and community project coordinators.
Technical Roles: Carpenters and joiners in forest reserve infrastructure projects.
Paramilitary Roles: Forest Rangers protecting Kenya’s forests from illegal activities like logging and poaching.

KFC’s emphasis on Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) ensures graduates meet industry standards, with many securing roles in KFS, private forestry firms, and international conservation organizations.

Why KFC is a Top Choice for 2025/2026

Specialized Focus: KFC’s programs are tailored to forestry and environmental management, addressing critical national and global needs.
Strategic Location: The Masaita Forest Block provides a living laboratory for practical training.
Paramilitary Training: Unique offerings like Forest Ranger training enhance employability in security-related roles.
Regional Influence: KFC’s training extends to East African countries, fostering cross-border conservation efforts.
Affordable Education: Competitive fees and government support make KFC accessible to diverse students.

Kenya Forestry College in Kericho County is a leading TVET institution, offering six specialized programs for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, alongside short courses and paramilitary training. From Diploma in Forestry to Trade Test in Carpentry, KFC equips students with skills for sustainable forest management, environmental conservation, and technical expertise. With its strategic location, industry-aligned curricula, and commitment to Kenya’s environmental goals, KFC is an ideal choice for students passionate about forestry and sustainability. Apply today through the KFC website or KUCCPS portal to join a legacy of environmental stewardship.

For more details, contact KFC at: