“Laboratory Science Courses in Kenya: Requirements and Colleges Offering Them”

Laboratory Science courses in Kenya have gained significant popularity due to their strong demand in the healthcare sector. These courses are offered by several universities and colleges, providing students with essential skills for various medical applications. But what are the requirements and institutions offering Laboratory Science programs?

Studying Laboratory Science in Kenya is important because it prepares learners to assist doctors in making accurate diagnoses, contributing to the overall well-being of patients. The course is regulated by the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB), ensuring that educational institutions meet required standards, thus maintaining the quality of professionals entering the field.

What are Laboratory Science courses?

Laboratory Science courses focus on practical and hands-on learning, emphasizing experiments, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. These programs aim to give students a comprehensive understanding of scientific principles and methodologies used in laboratory settings.

What are the requirements for Laboratory Science courses?

To pursue a degree in Laboratory Science, you need at least a C+ in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics/Physics, and English/Swahili. For a diploma in medical laboratory science, the requirement is a mean grade of C (Plain) with a C in Biology/Chemistry, English/Kiswahili, and a minimum of C- in Mathematics/Physics. If you didn’t meet the entry requirements for a diploma or degree program, you can opt for a certificate in Laboratory Science. For the certificate course, a minimum KCSE grade of C- is required, along with a D+ in Mathematics or Physics and a C- in Biology, Chemistry, and English/Kiswahili.

What is the duration of Laboratory Science courses?

The duration of these courses varies across institutions. A certificate course typically lasts two years, a diploma takes three years, and a degree program spans four years (eight semesters). Some institutions also offer online Laboratory Science courses.

Colleges offering Laboratory Science courses in Kenya

Several institutions offer Laboratory Science courses at various levels (certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate). Below are some of the colleges where you can pursue Laboratory Science courses in Kenya

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  1. Rift Valley Institute of Business Studies (RVIBS)
    • Location: Nakuru
    • Contact: 0715111101
    • RVIBS offers a comprehensive range of career development programs, including Laboratory Science courses.
  2. AIC Litein Medical Training College
    • Location: Litein
    • Contact: 0726126367
    • Established in 2011, AIC Litein is renowned for providing medical training, including medical laboratory science.
  3. International Development Institute Africa (IDIA)
    • Location: Nairobi
    • Contact: 0722759942
    • IDIA offers a diploma in medical laboratory science among its wide range of technical training programs.
  4. Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences
    • Location: Thika
    • Contact: 0723 991866
    • Thika School offers medical and health science training and is fully approved by the Ministry of Higher Education.
  5. Kisii University
    • Location: Kisii
    • Contact: +254720875082
    • Kisii University offers various medical-related programs, including Laboratory Science.
  6. Laikipia University College
    • Location: Nyahururu
    • Contact: 0713 552761
    • Laikipia University provides diploma programs in medical laboratory science.
  7. Kenya Polytechnic University College
    • Location: Nairobi
    • Contact: +254-20343672
    • Kenya Polytechnic University College offers diploma and degree programs in Laboratory Science and other medical fields.
  8. Kisii National Polytechnic
    • Location: Kisii
    • Contact: 0700152177
    • Kisii National Polytechnic, established in 1971, offers quality training in various fields, including Laboratory Science.
  9. Kings Medical College
    • Location: Nyeri
    • Contact: 0714 021522
    • Kings Medical College focuses on medical laboratory science training to equip students with essential laboratory skills.
  10. Murang’a University College
  • Location: Murang’a
  • Contact: 0771463515
  • Affiliated with Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Murang’a University offers various science programs, including Laboratory Science.

Laboratory Science courses play a vital role in the medical field, and institutions offering these courses provide opportunities for students to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills that are highly sought after in the healthcare industry.