Got your KCSE results and not sure what comes next? You do not need a university cluster-points score to build a good career. Many certificate, diploma and short courses in Nairobi accept students with a KCSE mean grade of D (plain) or C- (minus), and some do not ask for KCSE results at all.
This guide explains the options at The New Dimension College (TNDC) in Nairobi CBD, what each level requires, and how to choose the right course for you.
Certificate, diploma or short course: what is the difference?
Certificate courses usually take 6 to 12 months. Most ask for a KCSE mean grade of D (plain), and they are a good first step into a career or into a diploma later.
Diploma courses usually take 12 to 18 months and generally ask for a KCSE mean grade of C- (minus). They go deeper and can lead to supervisory and management roles.
Short courses run from 2 weeks to 2 months and focus on one practical skill, such as accounting software, web design or computer repair. Entry is open.
Certificate courses you can join with a D (plain)
If your KCSE mean grade is D (plain), you can look at certificate programmes in these areas:
Business and management
- Accountancy
- Banking and Finance
- Business Management and Business Studies
- Entrepreneurship Development
- Project Management
- Human Resource Management
- Supply Chain Management and Purchasing and Supply
- Archives and Records Management
Social sciences, tourism and media
- Criminology and Security Management
- Social Development Studies
- Tour Guiding and Travel Operations
- Digital Journalism
Information technology
- Certificate in ICT (this one asks for a D+)
Diploma courses you can join with a C- (minus)
If your KCSE mean grade is C- or above, you can aim higher with diploma programmes such as:
- Accountancy, Banking and Finance, and Business Administration
- Sales and Marketing, Project Management, and Human Resource Management
- Tourism Management
- Criminology and Security Management
- Information and Communication Technology (some diplomas ask for a C plain or a pass in a related certificate)
- Digital Journalism
- Community Health and Development, and Social Work and Community Development
Open-entry short courses and languages
Not happy with your grade, or want to start earning a skill quickly? These courses are open entry:
- Computer packages: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Windows, email and internet
- Web and graphic design: HTML, WordPress, Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW
- Programming: Python, Java, C++, C#
- Accounting software: QuickBooks, Sage, Tally, Pastel
- Computer and mobile phone repair
- Video production, photography and animation (3 months)
- Foreign languages: English, French, German and Chinese (6 months, from beginners to advanced)
How to choose the right course
- Start with what you enjoy. You will study harder and last longer in a field you like.
- Think about the job you want. Look at job adverts in Kenya and see which qualifications employers ask for.
- Consider your next step. You can begin with a certificate and move on to a diploma later.
- Match the course to your time and budget. Short courses are quick, while diplomas take longer but go deeper.
- Ask questions before you enrol. Ask about the exam body, class schedule, fees and how practical the training is.
How to apply at TNDC
- Choose the course you are interested in.
- Send us a message or call us with the course name.
- Visit the campus in Nairobi CBD, opposite Nairobi Sports House, for a quick tour and to meet the admissions team.
- Bring your KCSE results and a copy of your ID.
- Complete registration and start the next intake.
Contact TNDC with the course you want, and ask for the current fees, entry requirements and next start date. Entry requirements can vary by programme, so confirm the details with admissions before applying.
Frequently asked questions
Can I join college with a D (plain) in KCSE?
Yes. Many certificate courses accept a KCSE mean grade of D (plain). Some programmes, like the Certificate in ICT, ask for a D+, so check the requirement for your course.
What is the difference between a certificate and a diploma?
A certificate is shorter and more introductory, usually 6 to 12 months. A diploma usually takes 12 to 18 months, goes deeper, and asks for a higher KCSE grade.
Can I move from a certificate to a diploma?
Yes, many students do. Some diploma programmes accept a pass in a related certificate, so ask admissions which routes apply to your course.
Are there courses with no KCSE requirement?
Yes. Our short courses and language courses are open entry.
Where is The New Dimension College located?
We are in Nairobi CBD, opposite Nairobi Sports House, at Mageso Chambers on Moi Avenue, next to Family Bank.
Find a course that fits your next step
Share your KCSE grade and the career you are considering. TNDC can help you ask the right questions about course options and admission requirements.
Contact Admissions Admissions Information