Bachelor of Science in Crop Improvement and Protection
The Bachelor of Science in Crop Improvement and Protection is a degree programme that equips students with knowledge and skills in in crop improvement and protection. The programme falls under the Agriculture & Environment category and typically spans 4 years of full-time study at accredited Kenyan universities.
The short answer
- What it costs
- Up to Ksh 366,000 a year at a public institution, Ksh 1,464,000 for the whole course. Up to Ksh 178,800 a year at a private one.The detail
- Who can get in
- A KCSE mean grade of C+ (plus) mean grade at KCSE or above, plus 4 subject grades. There is another way in without it.The detail
- How long, and when
- Takes 4 years, full-time, with 8 months of attachment. Next intake January 2027, at 5 institutions.The detail
- Where it leads
- 8 careers in the catalogue. The least exposed to AI is Aquaculture Technologist, at 3 out of 100.The detail
The programme
What you study, how long it takes, and how it is delivered.
Overview
The curriculum covers Crop Improvement, Plant Breeding, Crop Protection, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Biotechnology. Students engage with both theoretical foundations and practical applications, developing competencies in Advanced Econometrics, Advanced Statistics for Agricultural Research, Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship, Agribusiness Finance and Accounting, Agribusiness Information Systems. The coursework is designed to build progressive understanding from foundational concepts to advanced topics.
Throughout the programme, students study Plant Genetics, Introduction to Crop Improvement and Protection, Seed Science and Technology, Weed Science, Agricultural Entomology. The teaching approach combines lectures, laboratory practicals, tutorials, assignments and independent research projects. This blend ensures graduates can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems in their field.
The programme offers specialisations in Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Entomology. Students can focus their studies on areas of particular interest, allowing them to tailor their degree to specific career goals. The flexibility enables graduates to pursue diverse professional paths within the sector.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Crop Improvement and Protection pursue careers as Crop Protection Specialist, Crop Breeder, Agricultural Researcher, Plant Pathologist. They find employment in various sectors including government agencies, private companies, research institutions, non-governmental organisations and academic institutions. The degree opens doors to both local and international opportunities.
The programme is accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and offered at recognised universities across Kenya. Students benefit from industry attachments, fieldwork and practical training that complement classroom learning and enhance employability upon graduation.
What you study
6 subjects- Crop Improvement
- Plant Breeding
- Crop Protection
- Plant Pathology
- Entomology
- Biotechnology
Modules
12 in the programmeIntroduction to Crop Improvement and Protection
Year 1Semester 13 creditsCore
Overview of crop improvement, crop protection, and their importance in agriculture.
Plant Breeding
Year 1Semester 23 creditsCore
Plant Breeding: Principles of plant breeding, genetic improvement, and variety development. Covers theoretical foundations, practical applications, and industry-relevant skills.
Plant Pathology
Year 1Semester 33 creditsCore
Plant Pathology: Plant diseases, disease diagnosis, and disease management strategies. Covers theoretical foundations, practical applications, and industry-relevant skills.
Agricultural Entomology
Year 2Semester 13 creditsCore
Insect pests, pest biology, and integrated pest management. The module covers theoretical foundations, practical applications and industry-relevant skills, assessed through continuous assessment te...
Crop Protection
Year 2Semester 23 creditsCore
Crop Protection: Integrated crop protection strategies, pest and disease management. Covers production techniques, soil management, pest control, and yield optimisation.
Plant Biotechnology
Year 2Semester 33 creditsCore
Biotechnology applications in crop improvement, genetic engineering, and molecular breeding.
Weed Science
Year 3Semester 13 creditsCore
Weed Science: Weed biology, ecology, and management strategies for weed control. Covers theoretical foundations, practical applications, and industry-relevant skills.
Seed Science and Technology
Year 3Semester 23 creditsCore
Seed production, processing, storage, and quality control. The module covers theoretical foundations, practical applications and industry-relevant skills, assessed through continuous assessment tes...
Plant Physiology
Year 3Semester 33 creditsCore
Plant physiological processes, growth, and development. The module covers theoretical foundations, practical applications and industry-relevant skills, assessed through continuous assessment tests,...
Plant Genetics
Year 4Semester 13 creditsCore
Plant Genetics: Genetic principles, inheritance, and molecular genetics in plants. Covers theoretical foundations, practical applications, and industry-relevant skills.
Resistance Breeding
Year 4Semester 23 creditsCore
Resistance Breeding: Breeding for resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses. Covers theoretical foundations, practical applications, and industry-relevant skills.
Crop Improvement and Protection Project
Year 4Semester 36 creditsCore
Crop Improvement and Protection Project: Independent research project on crop improvement or protection topic. Covers production techniques, soil management, pest control, and yield optimisation.
Specialisations
Plant Breeding
Focus on genetic improvement, variety development, and breeding methodologies. This specialisation equips graduates with discipline-specific competencies for professional practice in Kenya and the East African region, with pathways to postgraduate study and professional certification.
Plant Pathology
Specialization in plant diseases, disease diagnosis, and disease management. This specialisation equips graduates with discipline-specific competencies for professional practice in Kenya and the East African region, with pathways to postgraduate study and professional certification.
Entomology
Focus on insect pests, pest biology, and integrated pest management. This specialisation equips graduates with discipline-specific competencies for professional practice in Kenya and the East African region, with pathways to postgraduate study and professional certification.
General Practice
Broad foundational knowledge covering core principles and practices in the field. This specialisation equips graduates with discipline-specific competencies for professional practice in Kenya and the East African region, with pathways to postgraduate study and professional certification.
Research and Analysis
Focus on research methods, data analysis, and evidence-based decision making. This specialisation equips graduates with discipline-specific competencies for professional practice in Kenya and the East African region, with pathways to postgraduate study and professional certification.
Research and Analysis
Focus on research methods, data analysis, and evidence-based decision making. This specialisation equips graduates with discipline-specific competencies for professional practice in Kenya and the East African region, with pathways to postgraduate study and professional certification.
A day as a student
Students attend lectures, conduct laboratory analysis, participate in field trials, and engage in crop research.
The trade-offs
| In its favour | Against it |
|---|---|
| Critical role in developing improved crop varieties and protection strategies. | Limited programme specialisation options may be available. |
| Accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). | Competitive job market requiring practical experience and networking. |
| Hands-on experience with breeding programmes and crop protection research. | Crop breeding is a long-term process requiring patience and persistence. |
| Graduates are eligible for HELB loans and government funding. | — |
| Growing demand for crop improvement professionals due to climate change and food security needs. | — |
What it costs
Tuition at both ends of the market, and how to pay for it.
What it costs, and where
Against 303 agriculture coursesAnnual tuition in Kenyan shillings, rounded. The upright tick is the median for this field, so a bar sitting entirely to its right is an expensive programme by the standards of its own subject.
The fine print
Egerton 307.3K/yr KUCCPS. UoN 366K/yr faculty page. MKU 54.55K/sem=109.1K/yr. UEAB 89.4K/sem=178.8K/yr.
HELB loans available for eligible students. Some universities offer scholarships based on academic performance.
Funding options
Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)
Scholarships
3 recordedCounty Government Bursaries
BursaryKenyan
Kenyan students from respective counties demonstrating financial need.
Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) Loan
LoanKsh 60,000Kenyan
Kenyan students admitted to recognised universities demonstrating financial need.
Higher Education Fund (HEF)
Government fundingKenyan
Kenyan students in public universities under the new funding model based on financial need assessment.
Scholarships you could apply for
13 usable where it is taught- Equity Group Foundation Wings to Fly
Closes 28 February 2027FullEquity Bank
Full secondary + university
- Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship
Closes 31 March 2027FullAga Khan Foundation
Full university study
- KCB Foundation Scholarship
Closes 31 March 2027FullKCB Bank
Full tuition + stipend
- Mombasa Cement Scholarship
Closes 31 May 2027PartialMombasa Cement Ltd
KES 100,000 per year
- Safaricom Foundation ICT Scholarship
Closes 30 June 2027FullSafaricom Foundation
Full tuition + internship
- Family Bank Foundation Education Support
Closes 30 June 2027PartialFamily Bank
KES 80,000 per year
- HELB Undergraduate Scholarship
Closes 31 July 2027PartialHigher Education Loans Board
KES 40,000 to 60,000 per year
- County Government Scholarships
Varies by countyPartialCounty Governments
KES 50,000 to 200,000 per year
Getting in
The grades, the alternatives, and who accredits the award.
What you need
Diploma holders in Crop Science, Agriculture, Biology, or related fields with Credit pass from recognized institutions may also apply.
When it next starts
Taught at 5 institutionsIncluding Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Moi University, University of Embu.
Including Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Moi University, University of Embu.
Including Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Moi University, University of Embu.
How you are assessed
5 componentsContinuous Assessment Tests and Assignments
Coursework30% of the mark
Written tests, assignments, and practical exercises throughout the semester.
Continuous Assessment Tests
Cat30% of the mark
Regular tests, assignments, and laboratory reports throughout the semester.
End of Semester Examinations
Exam70% of the mark
Comprehensive written examinations at the end of each semester.
Research Project
Project100% of the mark
Independent research project on crop improvement or protection topic.
Field Practice Assessments
Practicum100% of the mark
Evaluation of practical skills in breeding, pest management, and crop protection.
Accreditation
Commission for University Education (CUE)
Academic accreditationRequired
CUE is the statutory body responsible for the accreditation and quality assurance of university programmes in Kenya.
Commission for University Education
NationalRequired
Mandatory accreditation for all university programmes in Kenya.
Accredited by Commission for University Education (CUE).
Where it leads
The roles it opens, and what you leave with.
Where graduates go
8 rolesCrop Protection Specialist
High demandKsh 55,000 to Ksh 120,000
Implement crop protection strategies, manage pest and disease control, and advise farmers.
Crop Breeder
High demandKsh 60,000 to Ksh 130,000
Develop improved crop varieties, implement breeding programmes, and conduct genetic research.
Agricultural Researcher
Medium demandKsh 62,000 to Ksh 135,000
Conduct agricultural research, develop technologies, and contribute to scientific knowledge.
Graduate Trainee
High demandKsh 40,000 to Ksh 60,000
Entry-level position applying academic knowledge in a professional environment.
Research Assistant
Moderate demandKsh 45,000 to Ksh 65,000
Supporting research projects through data collection, analysis, and reporting.
Project Officer
High demandKsh 55,000 to Ksh 80,000
Coordinating and implementing projects in public, private, or NGO sectors.
Analyst
High demandKsh 60,000 to Ksh 90,000
Analysing data, trends, and patterns to support decision-making.
Plant Pathologist
Medium demandKsh 58,000 to Ksh 125,000
Diagnose plant diseases, develop disease management strategies, and conduct research.
Graduate outcomes
Graduates work in crop improvement, crop protection, and agricultural research across Kenya's agricultural sector.
Where these fields lead
8 careers- Aquaculture TechnologistAgriculture3Low exposure
- Climate-Resilient Seed BreederAgriculture3Low exposure
- Veterinary Public OfficerAgriculture3Low exposure
- Veterinary OfficerAgriculture7Low exposure
- Climate Change AnalystEnvironmental Science10Low exposure
- Wildlife Corridors EcologistEnvironmental Science10Low exposure
- Farm Insurance AssessorAgriculture11Low exposure
- Finance AnalystEnvironmental Science11Low exposure
Tools you will learn
Google Earth
Gis
Microsoft Excel
SpreadsheetPrimary
PlantVillage Nuru
Agriculture
QGIS
GisPrimary
R
Analytics
ArcGIS
SoftwarePrimary
GIS software for crop pest mapping and field analysis.
SPSS
SoftwarePrimary
Statistical analysis software for crop improvement research data.
DSSAT
Software
Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer for crop modelling.
ChatGPT / Claude
Ai
Certifications
Industry links
Common misconceptions
Farmers spray a lot of chemicals on their crops
Farmers only use what is necessary to maintain plant health. They have a vested interest in using the smallest number of pesticides needed.
All pesticides are harmful to the environment
When used responsibly and according to label instructions, modern pesticides can be used with minimal environmental impact. IPM reduces reliance on chemicals.
GMOs always increase pesticide use
Some GMOs reduce pesticide use by providing built-in pest resistance. The impact varies by crop and trait.
Organic farming means no pesticides
Organic farming uses approved pesticides, just different ones. It's about which pesticides are used, not whether any are used.
Plant breeding is only about GMOs
Most plant breeding uses conventional methods like selection and cross-breeding. GMOs are one tool among many.
Resistant crops mean no more pesticide use
Resistant crops reduce but don't eliminate pesticide use. Pests evolve, and multiple pests may still require management.