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Full List of Courses Offered at Kirinyaga Central Technical and Vocational College: Everything You Need to Know

  • BY waceke
  • June 15, 2025
kirinyaga central technical & vocational college

Kirinyaga Central Technical and Vocational College (KCTVC), located in Kirinyaga County, is a public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution dedicated to equipping youth with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship. Established to address the skills gap in the agriculturally rich and industrially growing region of Kirinyaga, KCTVC is registered under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) and offers competency-based education and training (CBET) programmes accredited by the TVET Curriculum Development Assessment and Certification Council (TVET-CDACC) and examined by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) or the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) where applicable. Situated in a region known for its rice, tea, and coffee farming, as well as emerging industrial activities, KCTVC provides training in engineering, ICT, hospitality, business, social work, fashion, and cybersecurity, aligning with Kirinyaga’s economic landscape. This article details the full list of courses offered at KCTVC for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, admission requirements, programme durations, and career prospects, optimized for readers seeking comprehensive information on technical education.

Why Choose Kirinyaga Central Technical and Vocational College?

KCTVC is strategically positioned to serve Kirinyaga County, a region with a growing demand for skilled professionals in engineering, technology, and hospitality. Here’s why KCTVC is an excellent choice:

  • Competency-Based Curriculum: Programmes align with industry needs, ensuring graduates are job-ready, as mandated by TVET-CDACC.
  • Practical Training: Modern workshops, computer labs, kitchens, and studios facilitate hands-on learning in fields like civil engineering, culinary arts, and cybersecurity.
  • Accessible Location: Located in Kirinyaga County, KCTVC is accessible to students from the Central region, with proximity to Kerugoya’s economic activities.
  • Flexible Entry Requirements: Artisan, certificate, craft, and Level 4–6 programmes cater to diverse academic backgrounds, from KCPE to KCSE C-.
  • Funding Support: Students can access Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans and Kirinyaga County bursaries to cover fees and upkeep.
  • Multiple Intakes: Admissions occur in January, May, and September, offering flexibility for applicants.

This guide explores KCTVC’s 42 programmes for the 2025/2026 cycle, helping you navigate your path to a rewarding career.

Full List of Courses Offered at Kirinyaga Central Technical and Vocational College (2025/2026)

Below is the complete list of programmes offered at KCTVC for the 2025/2026 academic year, as per the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) data. The college offers diploma, craft, certificate, artisan, and Level 4–6 programmes in engineering, ICT, hospitality, business, social work, fashion, and cybersecurity.

Diploma Programmes

  1. Diploma in Civil Engineering (Code: 5170336)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent; credits in Mathematics and Physics are preferred.
    • Overview: Covers structural design, construction management, and infrastructure development, with practical training for Kirinyaga’s infrastructure projects.
    • Career Prospects: Civil engineers, site supervisors, or infrastructure project managers.
  2. Diploma in Information Communication Technology (ICT) (Code: 5170758)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Teaches network management, programming, and IT support, supporting Kirinyaga’s digital economy.
    • Career Prospects: IT technicians, network administrators, or software support specialists.
  3. Diploma in Building Technician (CDACC) (Code: 5170876)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent; credits in Mathematics are preferred.
    • Overview: Covers construction techniques, building design, and project management, with practical training in workshops.
    • Career Prospects: Construction managers, site engineers, or building inspectors.
  4. Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering (Power Option) (Code: 5170917)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent; credits in Mathematics and Physics are preferred.
    • Overview: Focuses on power systems, electrical design, and maintenance, with hands-on training.
    • Career Prospects: Electrical engineers, power technicians, or renewable energy specialists.
  5. Diploma in Supply Chain Management (Code: 5170988)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Covers procurement, logistics, and supply chain operations, aligning with Kirinyaga’s agricultural trade activities.
    • Career Prospects: Supply chain managers, logistics officers, or procurement specialists.

Level 6 Programmes

  1. Social Work and Community Development Level 6 (Code: 5170552, 5170G49)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Advanced community mobilization, social work practices, and development projects, with fieldwork in Kirinyaga’s rural communities.
    • Career Prospects: Social workers, community development officers, or NGO programme managers.
  2. Fashion and Design Level 6 (Code: 5170557)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Advanced fashion design, garment construction, and textile technology, with practical training in studios.
    • Career Prospects: Fashion designers, textile specialists, or fashion entrepreneurs.
  3. Building Technician Level 6 (Code: 5170705)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent; credits in Mathematics are preferred.
    • Overview: Advanced construction techniques, project management, and building design, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Building technicians, construction supervisors, or site engineers.
  4. Human Resource Management Level 6 (Code: 5170755)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Advanced HR practices, recruitment, and employee management, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: HR officers, payroll managers, or consultants.
  5. Civil Engineering Level 6 (Code: 5170836)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent; credits in Mathematics and Physics are preferred.
    • Overview: Advanced structural design, construction management, and infrastructure planning, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Civil engineers, construction supervisors, or infrastructure consultants.
  6. Food and Beverage Production (Culinary Arts) Level 6 (Code: 5170B96)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Advanced culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food production, with practical training in modern kitchens.
    • Career Prospects: Chefs, kitchen managers, or catering entrepreneurs.
  7. Cyber Security Level 6 (Code: 5170B90)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Advanced cybersecurity skills, including threat detection and network protection, with practical lab work.
    • Career Prospects: Cybersecurity analysts, IT security specialists, or network administrators.
  8. Information Communication Technology Level 6 (Code: 5170F67)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Advanced ICT skills, including network configuration, cybersecurity, and system administration, with practical lab work.
    • Career Prospects: Network technicians, IT support specialists, or cybersecurity assistants.
  9. Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Power Option) Level 6 (Code: 5170L10)
    • Duration: 2.5 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent; credits in Mathematics and Physics are preferred.
    • Overview: Advanced power systems, electrical design, and renewable energy, with hands-on training.
    • Career Prospects: Power engineers, electrical project supervisors, or renewable energy technicians.

Level 5 Programmes

  1. Building Technician Level 5 (Code: 5170773)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate construction techniques and building materials, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Construction assistants or progression to Level 6 studies.
  2. Fashion Design and Garment Making Level 5 (Code: 5170784)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate fashion design, pattern making, and garment construction, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Fashion designers, tailors, or progression to Level 6 studies.
  3. Food and Beverage Production (Culinary Arts) Level 5 (Code: 5170872)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate food preparation, culinary techniques, and kitchen management, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Chefs, kitchen supervisors, or catering assistants.
  4. Human Resource Management Level 5 (Code: 5170888)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate HR practices and employee management, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: HR assistants, payroll clerks, or progression to Level 6 studies.
  5. Plumbing Level 5 (Code: 5170936)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate plumbing system installation and maintenance, with hands-on training.
    • Career Prospects: Plumbers, pipe fitters, or plumbing contractors.
  6. Information Communication Technology Level 5 (Code: 5170F68)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate ICT skills, including computer applications and network support, with practical lab work.
    • Career Prospects: IT support assistants, network technicians, or progression to Level 6 studies.
  7. Hairdressing Level 5 (Code: 5170F79)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate hairdressing and salon management skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Hairdressers, salon managers, or beauty entrepreneurs.
  8. Social Work & Community Development Level 5 (Code: 5170G27)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate community development and social work practices, with practical fieldwork.
    • Career Prospects: Community development assistants, social work aides, or progression to Level 6 studies.
  9. Beauty Therapy Level 5 (Code: 5170G29)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate beauty therapy and salon management, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Beauty therapists, salon managers, or entrepreneurs.
  10. Cyber Security Level 5 (Code: 5170H92)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate cybersecurity skills, including network security and threat mitigation, with practical lab work.
    • Career Prospects: Cybersecurity assistants, IT support specialists, or progression to Level 6 studies.
  11. Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Power Option) Level 5 (Code: 5170L11)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Intermediate electrical and electronic systems maintenance, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Electrical technicians, power assistants, or progression to Level 6 studies.

Craft Programmes

  1. Craft in Electrical and Electronics Technology (Power Option) (Code: 5170831)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic electrical and electronic systems maintenance, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Electrical technicians, power assistants, or apprentices.
  2. Craft in Food and Beverage (Production, Sales and Service) (Code: 5170871)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic food preparation, beverage service, and hospitality skills, with practical training in kitchens.
    • Career Prospects: Kitchen assistants, catering staff, or progression to Level 5 studies.
  3. Craft in Plumbing (Code: 5170937)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic plumbing system installation and maintenance, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Plumbers, pipe fitters, or plumbing assistants.

Certificate Programmes

  1. Certificate in Information Communication Technology (ICT) (Code: 5170798)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic ICT skills, including computer applications and IT support, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: IT support assistants, data entry clerks, or progression to diploma studies.
  2. Certificate in Supply Chain Management (Code: 5170941)
    • Duration: 2 years
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic procurement and logistics management skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Supply chain assistants, logistics coordinators, or progression to diploma studies.

Artisan and Level 4 Programmes

  1. Grade III in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy (NITA) (Code: 5170A01)
    • Duration: 6 months to 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Entry-level hairdressing and beauty therapy skills, certified by NITA, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Hairdressers, beauty therapists, or progression to higher studies.
  2. Building Artisan (Masonry) Level 4 (Code: 5170A02)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic masonry techniques for construction projects, with hands-on training.
    • Career Prospects: Masons, construction workers, or progression to higher programmes.
  3. Artisan in Fashion Design & Garment Making Level 4 (CDACC) (Code: 5170A10)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic garment design and sewing skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Tailors, garment makers, or progression to higher studies.
  4. Grade III in Plumbing (NITA) (Code: 5170A24)
    • Duration: 6 months to 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Entry-level plumbing skills, certified by NITA, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Plumbers, pipe fitters, or plumbing assistants.
  5. Electrical Installation Level 4 (TVET-CDACC) (Code: 5170A62)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic electrical installation and maintenance skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Electricians, electrical assistants, or apprentices.
  6. Artisan in Plumbing Level Four (TVET-CDACC) (Code: 5170A67)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic plumbing system installation and maintenance, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Plumbers, pipe fitters, or plumbing assistants.
  7. Beauty Therapy Level 4 (Code: 5170A84)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic beauty therapy and salon skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Beauty therapists, salon assistants, or entrepreneurs.
  8. Information Communication Technology Level 4 (Code: 5170F69)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic ICT skills, including computer applications and basic network support, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: IT support assistants or progression to Level 5 studies.
  9. Hairdressing Level 4 (Code: 5170F80)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic hairdressing and salon skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Hairdressers, salon assistants, or entrepreneurs.
  10. Food and Beverage Level 4 (Code: 5170J66)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic food preparation and beverage service skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Kitchen assistants, catering staff, or progression to higher studies.
  11. Food and Beverage Sales and Services Level 4 (Code: 5170M27)
    • Duration: 1 year
    • Minimum Entry Requirements: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
    • Overview: Basic beverage service and sales skills, with practical training.
    • Career Prospects: Waiters, baristas, or catering assistants.

Additional Programmes

KCTVC may offer short courses to enhance specific skills, though not listed in the KUCCPS 2025/2026 cycle:

  • Examples:
    • Computer Applications
    • Basic Entrepreneurship Skills
    • Customer Service in Hospitality
  • Duration: A few weeks to months
  • Entry Requirements: Vary by course; typically KCSE certificate or relevant experience.
  • Career Prospects: Skill enhancement for professionals or entry into specialized roles.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

General Admission Requirements

  • Diploma and Level 6 Programmes: KCSE Mean Grade C- (minus) or equivalent.
  • Level 5, Craft, and Certificate Programmes: KCSE Mean Grade D (plain) or equivalent.
  • Artisan and Level 4 Programmes: KCPE certificate or equivalent.
  • Short Courses: Vary by programme; typically require a KCSE certificate or relevant experience.
  • Additional Requirements: Credits in Mathematics, Physics, or relevant subjects are advantageous for technical courses.

Application Process

  1. Obtain Application Form: Download from the KCTVC website (not publicly available; check with the college) or collect from the admissions office in Kirinyaga County.
  2. Pay Application Fee: Deposit KShs 1,000 (non-refundable) to the designated KCTVC bank account (details available upon request from the admissions office).
  3. Submit Application: Include photocopies of academic certificates, national ID, and the application fee receipt. Submit to Kirinyaga Central Technical and Vocational College, P.O. Box not publicly available, Kerugoya, Kirinyaga.
  4. Intake Periods: January, May, and September.
  5. KUCCPS Applications: Apply through the KUCCPS portal (students.kuccps.net) using your KCSE and KCPE index numbers.

Funding Opportunities

  • HELB Loans and Bursaries: Available for TVET students to cover fees and upkeep. Apply via the HELB portal (www.helb.co.ke).
  • Kirinyaga County Bursaries: The county government provides financial support for TVET students through the Kirinyaga County Education Fund.
  • Scholarships: Limited scholarships may be available through KCTVC or partner organizations. Contact the admissions office for details.

Fee Structure and Accommodation

Fee Structure

  • Diploma and Level 6 Programmes: Approximately KShs 60,000–80,000 per year.
  • Level 5, Craft, and Certificate Programmes: Approximately KShs 40,000–60,000 per year.
  • Artisan and Level 4 Programmes: Approximately KShs 20,000–30,000 per year.
  • Short Courses: KShs 10,000–30,000, depending on duration. For the latest fee structure, contact KCTVC’s admissions office (contact details not publicly available; check with the college).

Accommodation

  • Limited on-campus hostels are available in a serene environment conducive to learning.
  • Cost: Approximately KShs 20,000–30,000 per semester (subject to availability).
  • Confirm availability before payment.

KCTVC’s Role in Technical Education and Industry Impact

KCTVC plays a pivotal role in Kirinyaga County’s TVET landscape, a region with a population of over 600,000 and a strong agricultural base, particularly in rice, tea, and coffee production. The college supports Kenya’s Vision 2030 by providing skills in engineering, ICT, hospitality, business, social work, fashion, and cybersecurity, aligning with Kirinyaga’s economic activities, including agriculture, trade, and emerging industries. Graduates contribute to:

  • Engineering and Construction: Supporting infrastructure development, including roads, buildings, and power systems in Kirinyaga County.
  • Hospitality and Culinary Arts: Enhancing food production and service in Kirinyaga’s hospitality sector, driven by local tourism and agribusiness.
  • ICT and Cybersecurity: Driving digital literacy and security in the region’s commercial and administrative sectors.
  • Business and Social Work: Promoting entrepreneurship and community development in Kirinyaga’s agricultural and rural areas.
  • Fashion and Beauty: Fostering entrepreneurship in garment making and beauty services.

Career opportunities include:

  • Public Sector: County governments, ministries, and parastatals.
  • Private Sector: Construction firms, hotels, IT companies, and beauty salons.
  • Self-Employment: Entrepreneurship in plumbing, fashion design, or culinary arts.
  • NGOs: Roles in community development and social work.

Why KCTVC Stands Out in 2025/2026

KCTVC’s focus on competency-based education, modern facilities, and alignment with TVET-CDACC and NITA standards ensures graduates meet industry expectations. Its location in Kirinyaga County, near Kerugoya’s agricultural and commercial hubs, positions students to tap into local economic opportunities. With flexible entry requirements, multiple intakes, and access to HELB and county bursaries, KCTVC is accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. The inclusion of cutting-edge programmes like Cyber Security Level 6 highlights its commitment to emerging technologies.

Kirinyaga Central Technical and Vocational College offers 42 programmes for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, ranging from artisan courses like Grade III in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy to Level 6 programmes like Cyber Security Level 6. Its commitment to practical training and industry relevance makes it an ideal choice for students seeking skills in engineering, ICT, hospitality, business, social work, fashion, or cybersecurity. Whether you aim to become a civil engineer, cybersecurity analyst, or fashion designer, KCTVC provides the foundation for a successful career.

For more information or to apply, contact KCTVC’s admissions office.