Certificate in Computer Application
The Certificate in Computer Application is a foundational programme that introduces students to essential computer application skills and information technology concepts. Offered at multiple Kenyan universities including Laikipia University, Kenya Methodist University and Kibabii University, the programme prepares learners for entry-level roles requiring computer literacy and basic IT skills.
Students develop competencies in computer operating systems, Microsoft Office applications, internet usage, basic computer maintenance and data management. The curriculum covers practical computer skills that are essential in modern workplaces, enabling graduates to support office operations and administrative functions.
Computer literacy is a fundamental requirement in virtually all sectors of Kenya's economy. Organisations across business, government, education and healthcare require personnel with computer application skills to support daily operations involving data entry, document processing and digital communication.
Teaching is delivered through classroom instruction and extensive hands-on laboratory practice. Students work through practical exercises in word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations and internet applications.
Graduates typically find employment as data entry clerks, office assistants, computer lab assistants or customer service representatives. Many proceed to pursue diploma or degree-level qualifications in computer science, IT or business information technology.
The programme is ideal for KCSE graduates or professionals seeking to gain essential computer skills for the modern workplace.
- Duration
- 6 months - 1 year
- Public, up to
- Ksh 67,189
- Job market
- Moderate
The programme
What you study, how long it takes, and how it is delivered.
Practicalities
- Study mode
- Full-time, Part-time
- Attachment
- 3 months
- Average class
- 40 students
- Award
- Certificate
What you study
8 subjects- Computer Operating Systems
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Internet and Email
- Computer Maintenance
- Data Entry
Modules
8 in the programmeIntroduction to Computers
Year 1Semester 12 creditsCore
Introduces computer hardware, software and basic computing concepts.
Windows Operating System
Year 1Semester 12 creditsCore
Covers Windows navigation, file management and system settings.
Microsoft Word
Year 1Semester 13 creditsCore
Teaches word processing including document creation, formatting and mail merge.
Microsoft Excel
Year 1Semester 13 creditsCore
Covers spreadsheet operations including formulas, charts and data analysis.
Microsoft Access
Year 1Semester 12 creditsCore
Introduces database management including table creation, queries and forms.
Microsoft PowerPoint
Year 1Semester 12 creditsCore
Teaches presentation design including slides, animations and multimedia.
Internet and Email
Year 1Semester 12 creditsCore
Covers web browsing, email communication and online research.
Computer Maintenance
Year 1Semester 12 creditsCore
Introduces basic computer maintenance, troubleshooting and security.
A day as a student
A typical day involves hands-on laboratory practice with Microsoft Office applications. Students work through practical exercises in word processing, spreadsheet creation, database management and presentation design, with instructor guidance and self-paced practice.
The trade offs
In its favour
- Computer literacy is essential for virtually all modern workplace roles.
- Short, practical programme with immediate workplace applicability.
Against it
- Basic computer skills are increasingly expected of all job applicants, reducing competitive advantage.
- Limited career advancement without further IT or business qualifications.
What it costs
Tuition at both ends of the market, and how to pay for it.
What it costs, and where
Against 191 technology 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
TVET 67,189/yr public (kamukunjitvc.ac.ke). Private: short courses, unverified.
Students may access HELB loans and NGCDF bursaries.
Funding options
HELB Loan
NGCDF Bursary
Scholarships
2 recordedHELB Loan
LoanKsh 40,000Kenyan
Kenyan students in accredited certificate programmes
NGCDF Bursary
BursaryKenyan
Kenyan students from low-income backgrounds
Getting in
The grades, the alternatives, and who accredits the award.
What you need
- KCSE mean grade
- D+
- Alternative entry
- KCPE with relevant experience or any KCSE qualification
English/Kiswahili
D
How you are assessed
3 componentsContinuous Assessment Tests
Written examination30% of the mark
Regular CATs throughout each semester.
Practical Assignments
Practical30% of the mark
Hands-on assignments assessed on competency.
End of Semester Examinations
Written examination40% of the mark
Formal written examinations at the end of each semester.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE) under the respective university charters.
Accredited by
Commission for University Education
AcademicRequired
The programme is accredited by the Commission for University Education under the respective university's charter.
Where it leads
The roles it opens, and what you leave with.
Where graduates go
4 rolesData Entry Clerk
Moderate demandKsh 18,000 to Ksh 35,000
Enters and manages data in computer systems for organisations.
Office Assistant
Moderate demandKsh 20,000 to Ksh 40,000
Provides administrative support using computer applications.
Computer Lab Assistant
Low demandKsh 18,000 to Ksh 35,000
Supports computer laboratory operations in schools and training institutions.
Customer Service Representative
Moderate demandKsh 22,000 to Ksh 45,000
Handles customer inquiries using computer systems and databases.
Graduate outcomes
Graduates work as data entry clerks, office assistants and computer lab assistants.
Where these fields lead
8 careers- EntrepreneurBusiness23Low exposure
- AI Safety ResearcherTechnology25Low exposure
- Reinsurance AnalystBusiness25Low exposure
- Cyber Security AnalystTechnology26Low exposure
- Entrepreneur / Startup FounderBusiness27Low exposure
- AI Red TeamerTechnology28Low exposure
- Cybersecurity SpecialistTechnology30Low exposure
- Entrepreneur in Tech/ScienceBusiness32Low exposure
Fees and entry marks for Certificate in Computer Application are restated every intake. Save it and the app keeps this version, so you can see what changed when it does.