Kisii National Polytechnic (KNP), located in the heart of Kisii County, Kenya, is a leading Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution. Renowned for its commitment to equipping students with market-relevant skills, KNP offers a diverse range of artisan, certificate, diploma, and higher diploma programs. This comprehensive guide provides the full list of courses available for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, along with entry requirements, application processes, and key insights into why KNP is a top choice for aspiring professionals.
Why Choose Kisii National Polytechnic?
Founded in 1971 as Gusii Institute of Technology, KNP has grown into a national polytechnic, elevated to this status in May 2016 through Legal Notice No. 93. With over 74 accredited courses, modern facilities, and a focus on Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), KNP prepares students for careers in engineering, business, health sciences, and more. Here’s why KNP stands out:
- Accreditation: Courses are accredited by TVETA, KNEC, KASNEB, NITA, and CDACC, ensuring global recognition.
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Programs align with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and industry needs.
- Affordable Education: Government subsidies and flexible funding models make education accessible.
- Strategic Location: Situated along Kisii-Keroka Road, KNP is easily accessible within Kisii Town.
- Diverse Intakes: January, May, and May 2025 intakes provide flexibility for applicants.
Full List of Courses Offered at Kisii National Polytechnic for 2025/2026
Below is the complete list of programs offered at Kisii National Polytechnic for the 2025/2026 academic cycle, as provided by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) and other reliable sources. Courses are categorized into artisan, certificate, diploma, and higher diploma levels, covering various departments such as engineering, business, applied sciences, health sciences, and creative arts.
Artisan Courses (Level 4 and Below)
Artisan courses are entry-level programs ideal for students with a KCSE certificate or KCPE qualification. They focus on practical skills for immediate employment or further studies.
- Artisan in Hair Dressing & Beauty Therapy Level 4 (CDACC) (Code: 1065A01)
- Garment Making Level 3 (KNP) (Code: 1065A07)
- Motor Vehicle Mechanics Level 3 (KNP) (Code: 1065A09)
- Artisan in Fashion Design & Garment Making Level 4 (CDACC) (Code: 1065A10)
- Artisan in Masonry (Code: 1065A44)
- Electrical Installation Level 4 (TVET-CDACC) (Code: 1065A62)
- Artisan in Motor Vehicle Mechanics (Code: 1065A81)
- Motor Vehicle Mechanics Level 4 (KNP) (Code: 1065A83)
- Artisan in Food and Beverage (Code: 1065A90)
- Welding Level 4 (TVET-CDACC) (Code: 1065C07)
- Plumbing Level 4 (Code: 1065C11)
- Mechanical Plant Level 4 (KNP) (Code: 1065H62)
Certificate Courses (Level 5)
Certificate courses require a minimum KCSE grade of D plain or an artisan certificate. These programs provide foundational skills for technical and vocational careers.
- Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Code: 1065769)
- Certificate in Building Technology (Code: 1065774)
- Certificate in Business Management (Code: 1065777)
- Certificate in Food Science Technology (Code: 1065881)
- Craft in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy (Code: 1065885)
- Certificate in Human Resources Management (Code: 1065888)
- Certificate in Information Studies (Code: 1065890)
- Certificate in Science Laboratory Technology (Code: 1065948)
- Certificate in Secretarial Studies (Code: 1065949)
- Social Work and Community Development Level 5 (Code: 1065950)
- Supply Chain Management Level 5 (Code: 1065941)
- Craft Certificate in Plumbing Level 5 (Code: 1065936)
- Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Code: 1065920)
- Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Production Option) (Code: 1065923)
- Community Health Level 5 (Code: 1065G83)
Diploma Courses (Level 6)
Diploma courses require a minimum KCSE grade of C- or a relevant certificate. These programs offer advanced training for professional roles.
- Diploma in Civil Engineering Level 6 (Code: 1065336)
- Diploma in Social Work & Community Development (Code: 1065552)
- Diploma in Accounting Technician (Code: 1065601)
- Diploma in Architecture Engineering (Code: 1065702)
- Building Technology Level 6 (Code: 1065705)
- Diploma in Applied Biology (Code: 1065711)
- Diploma in Environmental Sciences (Code: 1065713)
- Computer Science Level 6 (Code: 1065715)
- Diploma in Electrical and Electronics (Telecommunication) (Code: 1065717)
- Diploma in Supply Chain Management (Code: 1065746)
- Diploma in Information Science (Code: 1065750)
- Diploma in Business Management (Code: 1065751)
- Diploma in Human Resource Management (Code: 1065755)
- Diploma in Pharmaceutical Technology (Code: 1065793)
- Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science (Code: 1065794)
- Diploma in Medical Engineering (Code: 1065795)
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Production) (Code: 1065808)
- Diploma in Horticulture (Code: 1065812)
- Diploma in Building Technology (Code: 1065876)
- Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology (Code: 1065895)
- Diploma in Secretarial Studies (Code: 1065901)
- Automotive Engineering Level 6 (Code: 1065908)
- Diploma in Electrical and Electronics (Power) (Code: 1065917)
- Analytical Chemistry Level 6 (Code: 1065926)
- Diploma in Animal Health (Code: 1065995)
- Food and Beverage Production (Culinary Arts) Level 6 (Code: 1065B96)
Additional Courses Offered
Based on available data, KNP also offers the following courses, which may not be listed under the KUCCPS 2025/2026 cycle but are part of their curriculum:
- Higher Diploma Courses:
- Higher Diploma in Human Resource Management
- Higher Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- Higher Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Higher Diploma in Business Management
- Short Courses:
- Computer Packages
- CISCO Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Entrepreneurship Education
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
- CICT (Certified Information Communication Technologist)
- Other Certificate and Diploma Courses:
- Certificate in Catering and Accommodation Management
- Diploma in Cooperative Management
- Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics
- Certificate in Sales and Marketing
- Diploma in Sales and Marketing
- Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Power)
- Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Telecom)
- Diploma in Information Communication and Technology (ICT)
Entry Requirements for Kisii National Polytechnic Courses
Entry requirements vary by course level and are set by the Ministry of Education, with KNP occasionally specifying subject clusters for competitive programs. Below is a general guide:
- Artisan Courses:
- KCSE certificate or KCPE with relevant subject passes.
- No minimum grade required for most programs.
- Certificate Courses:
- Minimum KCSE grade of D plain or an artisan certificate.
- Specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics, Physics) may be required for technical courses.
- Diploma Courses:
- Minimum KCSE grade of C- or a relevant certificate.
- For health sciences (e.g., Pharmaceutical Technology), a C plain in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics is often required.
- Engineering diplomas may require a C- in Mathematics and Physics.
- Higher Diploma Courses:
- A diploma in a related field from KNP or a recognized institution.
Prospective students should confirm specific requirements on the KNP website (kisiipoly.ac.ke) or contact the admissions office.
How to Apply to Kisii National Polytechnic
KNP offers three intakes annually (January, May, September) to accommodate diverse schedules. Applications can be submitted through KUCCPS or directly to the institution.
Application Process
- Via KUCCPS:
- Visit the KUCCPS portal (students-new.kuccps.net).
- Log in using your KCSE index number, year, and password.
- Select Kisii National Polytechnic and your preferred course.
- Submit your application and pay the required fee.
- Government-sponsored students are eligible for funding.
- Direct Application:
- Download the application form from kisiipoly.ac.ke or collect it from the Admissions Office.
- Fill out the form and attach:
- KCSE/KCPE result slips or certificates
- School Certificate
- Birth certificate
- National ID
- Application fee receipt (KSh 500 for self-sponsored, KSh 2,000 for government-sponsored)
- Submit the completed form to the KNP Registry Office, P.O. Box 222-40200, Kisii.
Application Deadlines
- Check kisiipoly.ac.ke for specific deadlines for the 2025/2026 intakes.
- Early application is recommended, especially for competitive courses like Medical Laboratory Science and Pharmaceutical Technology.
Fee Structure for 2025/2026
The fee structure varies by course and sponsorship type. Below is an overview based on available data:
- Government-Sponsored Students:
- Approximately KSh 26,420 per year.
- Eligible for government capitation and HELB loans.
- Self-Sponsored Students:
- Approximately KSh 56,420 per year.
- Part-time courses vary; contact KNP for details.
- Accommodation:
- Optional, at KSh 30,000 per term (excluding meals).
- Additional Costs:
- Examination fees (KNEC, KASNEB, etc.)
- Materials fees for technical courses (e.g., engineering, fashion design)
For precise fees, visit kisiipoly.ac.ke or email kisiipolytechnic@gmail.com.
Funding and Scholarships
KNP students can access various funding options to support their education:
- Government Funding: Apply through the Higher Education Funding Portal (HEF) for scholarships and loans.
- HELB Loans: Available for TVET loans to cover tuition and upkeep.
- Constituency Bursaries: Contact local leaders or CDF offices.
- Private Sponsors: NGOs and corporate sponsors may offer scholarships for needy students.
The new government funding model assesses neediness levels, ensuring equitable support. Apply early to secure funding.
Facilities and Student Life at Kisii National Polytechnic
KNP’s 16.95-hectare campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, fostering a conducive learning environment:
- Modern Laboratories: For health sciences, engineering, and applied sciences.
- Workshops: For automotive, mechanical, and building technology training.
- Library and E-Learning: Access to digital resources via elearning.kisiipoly.ac.ke.
- Hostels: Affordable accommodation options.
- Cultural and Sports Events: Annual events like the Cultural Week (May 28-31, 2025) promote student engagement.
The student portal (accessible via kisiipoly.ac.ke) allows students to register, check results, and manage academic records.
Career Prospects After Graduating from KNP
KNP graduates are highly employable due to the institution’s focus on practical, industry-aligned training. Popular career paths include:
- Engineering: Civil engineers, electrical technicians, automotive mechanics.
- Health Sciences: Pharmacists, medical lab technicians, community health workers.
- Business: Supply chain managers, accountants, HR professionals.
- Creative Arts: Fashion designers, hairdressers, chefs.
- ICT: Computer scientists, network administrators.
Graduates can also pursue further studies at universities or start their own businesses, leveraging KNP’s entrepreneurship training.
Contact Information
For inquiries, reach out to Kisii National Polytechnic:
- Address: P.O. Box 222-40200, Kisii, Kenya
- Phone: +254 700 152 177, +254 752 031 300
- Email: kisiipoly@yahoo.com, kisiipolytechnic@gmail.com
- Website: www.kisiipoly.ac.ke
Kisii National Polytechnic is a beacon of technical and vocational education in Kenya, offering over 74 courses that cater to diverse career aspirations. Whether you’re interested in engineering, health sciences, business, or creative arts, KNP provides affordable, accredited programs to help you succeed. With flexible intakes, modern facilities, and robust funding options, KNP is the ideal choice for your 2025/2026 academic journey. Apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding career!
