Every programme, with the real numbers.

The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts is a four-year degree programme that prepares students for careers in performance, directing, playwriting, and theatre production. The curriculum covers performance theory, theatre history, speech and movement, script analysis, play production, stage directing, indigenous theatre practices, dance, music theory, film analysis, theatre in education, theatre in community development, and theatre management. Students develop competencies in acting, directing, stagecraft, scriptwriting, movement, speech, theatre production, community theatre, and arts management. The programme combines lectures, studio practice, performance workshops, and production projects. Graduates pursue careers as actors, directors, playwrights, theatre educators, arts administrators, stage managers, and community theatre practitioners. The programme is offered at Moi University (public, KSH 122,400 per year) and Kenyatta University (public, KSH 204,000 per year). Accreditation is provided by the Commission for University Education (CUE), the statutory body responsible for quality assurance and regulation of university education in Kenya. Admission requires a KCSE mean grade of C+ with C+ in English or Kiswahili, consistent with KUCCPS cluster 3 requirements for social sciences and creative arts programmes. Skills RequiredActingDirectingPlaywritingStagecraftSpeech and movementScript analys isTheatre productionCommunity theatreArts managementTheatre historyKey SubjectsPerformance TheoryTheatre HistorySpeech and MovementScript AnalysisPlay ProductionStage DirectingIndigenous Theatre PracticesDance TheoryTheatre in EducationTheatre ManagementCertificationsKenya Cultural Centre MembershipInternational Theatre Institute (ITI) Kenya ChapterSpecializationsPerformanceFocus on acting, movement, and speech for stage and screen. DirectingFocus on stage directing, production management, and creative leadership. Playwriting and Script DevelopmentFocus on writing for stage, including script creation and interpretation. Community TheatreFocus on theatre for community development and social transformation. Theatre in EducationFocus on using theatre as an educational tool in schools and communities.

The Certificate in Music provides foundational training in music theory, performance, musicianship, and music technology. Students learn music fundamentals, practical performance, traditional and contemporary music, and music computer literacy. The programme is designed for individuals with talent and interest in music seeking formal qualification or a pathway to further studies in music. Students develop competencies in music theory, practical performance, musicianship, traditional Kenyan music, music technology, and music appreciation. The curriculum covers fundamentals of music theory, practical performance, traditional music of Kenya, musicianship, music computer literacy, and music appreciation. Practical skills are developed through performance sessions and practical assessments. Music plays a significant role in Kenyan culture, education, and the entertainment industry. The creative economy in Kenya is growing, with opportunities in music performance, education, production, and the entertainment industry. The programme provides an accessible entry point for talented individuals who have not met university entry requirements to gain formal music qualification. The programme combines classroom lectures with practical performance sessions and music technology training. Students study music theory, practise performance on instruments or voice, and learn music technology basics. Teaching methods include lectures, practical sessions, performances, and skill-based assessments with 75% practical and 25% theoretical components. The programme emphasises practical music skills. Graduates find employment as music performers, music teachers' assistants, church music coordinators, or entertainment industry support personnel. The certificate also provides a pathway to diploma and degree programmes in music at Kenyatta University, Maseno University, or Daystar University. Some graduates use the qualification to support professional music careers or teaching. This programme is ideal for individuals with musical talent and interest who seek formal qualification, including KCSE graduates with music participation experience, church musicians, and aspiring music professionals. The accessible entry requirements accommodate talented individuals who may not meet standard university entry thresholds.

The Certificate in Music and Dance provides foundational training in music performance, dance techniques, traditional and contemporary performing arts, and creative expression. Students learn music fundamentals, dance styles, choreography, traditional Kenyan music and dance, and performance skills. The programme is designed for individuals with talent and interest in performing arts seeking formal qualification or a pathway to further studies. Students develop competencies in music performance, dance techniques, choreography, traditional Kenyan performing arts, stage performance, and creative expression. The curriculum covers fundamentals of music, dance techniques, traditional music and dance of Kenya, choreography, performance practice, and creative arts. Practical skills are developed through studio sessions and performance assessments. The performing arts sector in Kenya is growing with increasing recognition of the creative economy. Music and dance are integral to Kenyan culture, with opportunities in education, entertainment, cultural preservation, tourism, and the creative industries. The programme provides accessible entry-level training for talented individuals seeking formal qualification in performing arts. The programme combines classroom lectures with practical studio sessions and performance training. Students practise music performance, learn dance techniques, develop choreography, and prepare for stage performances. Teaching methods include lectures, practical sessions, studio work, and performance-based assessments. The programme emphasises practical performing arts skills with both music and dance components. Graduates find employment as performers, dance instructors' assistants, music performers, cultural event coordinators, or entertainment industry support personnel. The certificate also provides a pathway to diploma programmes in music and dance at MMUST. Some graduates use the qualification to support professional performing arts careers or cultural work. This programme is ideal for individuals with talent and interest in music and dance, including KCSE graduates, performing artists, and cultural workers. The accessible entry requirements accommodate talented individuals who may not meet standard university entry thresholds.

The Diploma in Art and Design is a programme that equips students with knowledge and practical skills in visual arts, design and creative practice. Offered at Pwani University through the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, the programme was developed in collaboration with the Transnational Perspectives in Art and Art Education (TPAAE) project involving European and Kenyan educators. The curriculum covers drawing and painting, textile design, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital design, art history, African and Kenyan traditional and contemporary art, aesthetics, art psychology, anthropology, entrepreneurship for creative industries (artrepreneurship), communication skills, ICT and portfolio development. Students develop both artistic creativity and technical design skills. Kenya's creative economy is growing, with increasing demand for skilled art and design professionals in advertising, media, fashion, cultural institutions and creative enterprises. The programme responds to the need for trained artists and designers who can contribute to the creative industries while drawing on African and Kenyan cultural heritage. The programme is delivered through studio sessions, workshops, lectures, field visits to cultural institutions, practical projects and portfolio development. Students gain hands-on experience in various artistic media and design techniques through studio work, workshops and collaborative projects. Graduates pursue careers as artists, graphic designers, textile designers, illustrators, art teachers, gallery assistants, creative entrepreneurs, cultural project officers and freelance designers in advertising agencies, media houses, cultural institutions, fashion companies, schools and self-employment. They can also progress to a Bachelor of Arts in Art and Design or related degree programmes. Prospective students should have creative ability, visual aptitude and interest in artistic expression. The programme is suitable for students seeking a practical foundation in art and design for employment or further study.

The Diploma in Church Music is a programme offered at Kenya Methodist University, Maseno University, and other institutions that trains musicians for church music ministry and worship leadership. The course covers music theory, choral conducting, African music and instruments, theology of music, worship leading, music performance, studio recording, and music education across progressive modules. Students develop competencies in music theory, vocal and instrumental performance, choral conducting, song composition, African and Western music traditions, and worship planning. The programme integrates theological studies with practical music training for church ministry. Kenya's vibrant church community, with growing demand for trained worship leaders and church musicians, has created opportunities for qualified church music professionals. Churches, theological institutions, schools, and Christian media organisations recruit diploma holders for music ministry roles. The programme combines classroom theory with practical music performance, choral conducting exercises, and studio recording sessions. students participate in worship leading, choir direction, and music performances. Practical attachment in a church music department provides hands-on ministry experience. Graduates work as worship leaders, church music directors, choir masters, music teachers, and gospel music artists. Many serve in churches, Christian schools, and media organisations while pursuing independent music careers. This programme is suitable for KCSE graduates with a mean grade of C- (minus) who have musical aptitude and are called to church music ministry and worship leadership.

The Diploma in Fine Art, offered at Kenyatta University, builds on a prior Certificate in Art and Design to develop advanced skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and related visual art disciplines. Students study advanced drawing and painting techniques, sculpture, art history and theory, and studio practice, developing both technical craft and a personal artistic voice. Kenya's growing contemporary art market, gallery scene, and creative economy create opportunities for trained fine artists, alongside teaching and art therapy-adjacent roles. Training is intensively studio-based, with students building a portfolio of work assessed through exhibitions and critiques alongside more conventional coursework. Graduates work as practising artists, art teachers, gallery/museum assistants, and in creative industries adjacent to fine art such as illustration and design, with progression into Bachelor of Art and Design degrees. The programme suits students who have already completed a foundation certificate in art and design and want to deepen their technical and conceptual practice as visual artists. Skills RequiredDrawing and PaintingSculptureArt Theory and HistoryStudio PracticePortfolio DevelopmentKey SubjectsAdvanced DrawingPaintingSculptureArt History and TheoryStudio PracticeSpecializationsPaintingFocus on advanced painting techniques and personal artistic style. SculptureFocus on three-dimensional art and sculptural techniques. The programme also encourages participation in national art exhibitions and competitions, providing exposure and networking opportunities with established artists and galleries. The programme also encourages participation in national art exhibitions and competitions, providing exposure and networking opportunities with established artists and galleries.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Fine Art and Design is a doctoral programme offered at Kenyatta University through the Department of Fine Art and Design, the oldest and only department in Kenya offering degree courses in both fine art and design. It is designed to produce scholars capable of advancing research in contemporary art, design theory, creative practice and visual culture. The programme spans fine art and design disciplines with emphasis on creative problem-solving and inventiveness. Students engage with advanced topics in art theory, design research, visual culture, contemporary art practices, digital media, art history, curatorial studies and research methods. The programme is offered through research in any field of fine art and design, culminating in a thesis. Lecturers are practitioners and educators with national and international exhibition profiles. Kenya's growing creative economy, the expansion of the cultural sector and the need for design innovation in industry create demand for doctoral-level art and design expertise. The programme supports Kenya's creative economy agenda and contributes to cultural development and design innovation. Teaching is delivered through supervised research at Kenyatta University's main campus. The Department of Fine Art and Design engages in extensive national and international programmes with visiting artists and speakers, and overseas study programmes. The programme is full-time with a minimum duration of three years. Annual fees are KSh 275,400 for East Africans and KSh 344,250 for non-East Africans. Graduates pursue careers as university professors, art researchers, curators, design consultants, creative directors and cultural policy advisors. They work in universities, museums, galleries, design firms, cultural institutions and creative industries. The programme is ideal for individuals with backgrounds in fine art, design, visual arts or related creative disciplines who wish to contribute original research to art and design knowledge.

<p>The Master of Arts in Music is a postgraduate programme that provides advanced study of music theory, performance, composition, ethnomusicology, and music education. The programme trains graduates for careers in music performance, education, research, composition, and the music industry. Core areas include music theory, performance, composition, ethnomusicology, African music, music education, music technology, and research methods. Students engage with both Western and African music traditions and practical performance skills. The programme is offered by Kenyatta University and Maseno University. KU offers MA in Ethnomusicology and African Music through its Department of Music and Dance, the oldest university music department in Kenya. Maseno offers MA in Music with specialisations in performance, ethnomusicology, and music education. Students develop competencies in music performance, composition, ethnomusicological research, music education, music technology, and African music studies. The programme includes coursework, performance recitals, examinations, research project or thesis, and oral defence. KU charges KES 216,000/year for the programme. Maseno fees are estimated at KES 140,000-160,000/year. Entry requires a Bachelor's degree in Music or related field with at least Second Class Honours Upper Division. Graduates pursue careers as music educators, performers, composers, ethnomusicologists, music producers, and arts administrators in schools, universities, media, cultural organisations, and the music industry.</p><h3>Skills Required</h3><ul><li>Music Performance and Technique</li><li>Music Theory and Analysis</li><li>Composition and Arrangement</li><li>Ethnomusicological Research</li><li>African Music Studies</li><li>Music Education and Pedagogy</li><li>Music Technology and Production</li><li>Research Methods in Music</li><li>Conducting and Ensemble Direction</li><li>Music Criticism and Journalism</li></ul><h3>Key Subjects</h3><ul><li>Music Theory and Analysis</li><li>Performance and Technique</li><li>Composition and Arrangement</li><li>Ethnomusicology</li><li>African Music</li><li>Music Education and Pedagogy</li><li>Music Technology</li><li>Research Methods in Music</li><li>Conducting and Ensemble Direction</li><li>Music History and Criticism</li></ul><h3>Certifications</h3><ul><li>ISME Music Education Certification</li><li>ICTM Ethnomusicology Certification</li></ul><h3>Specializations</h3><h4>Ethnomusicology</h4><p>Focuses on ethnomusicology, African music, world music, field methods, and studying music as cultural phenomenon across societies.</p><h4>Performance</h4><p>Examines music performance, technique, repertoire, recital, and developing advanced performance skills on instruments or voice.</p><h4>Composition</h4><p>Covers composition, arrangement, orchestration, songwriting, and creating original music across genres and styles.</p><h4>Music Education</h4><p>Focuses on music education, pedagogy, curriculum, teaching methods, and teaching music in schools and institutions.</p><h4>African Music</h4><p>Examines African music, traditional music, contemporary African music, instruments, and understanding and performing African music traditions.</p><h4>Music Technology</h4><p>Covers music technology, production, recording, digital music, and using technology for music creation and production.</p>

<p>The Master of Arts in Theatre is a postgraduate programme that equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in theatre arts, performance studies, dramaturgy, and theatrical production. The programme prepares creative professionals for leadership roles in theatre, film, education, cultural administration, and the creative industries. Core areas of study include theatre theory and criticism, acting and performance studies, directing, dramaturgy, scriptwriting, theatre history, African theatre traditions, applied theatre, stagecraft and production design, theatre for development, and research methods. Students engage with both classical and contemporary theatrical traditions from Kenyan, African, and global perspectives. The programme is offered by Kenyatta University through its School of Visual and Performing Arts at the Ruiru Campus. KU has well-established theatre facilities including performance theatres, rehearsal spaces, and production studios. The programme integrates theoretical analysis with creative exploration and practical applications. Students develop competencies in performance, directing, scriptwriting, dramaturgy, production design, theatre criticism, applied theatre facilitation, and research. The programme combines coursework, studio practice, examinations, and a research project or creative portfolio, allowing students to specialise in their areas of interest. The programme is delivered over two years through a blended learning model combining in-person workshops, studio sessions, and online coursework. Students participate in practical training using performance theatres, rehearsal spaces, and production facilities. Opportunities for collaborative projects, internships, and industry engagement are available. Graduates pursue careers as theatre directors, actors, playwrights, drama educators, arts administrators, cultural officers, theatre critics, and creative entrepreneurs in theatre companies, educational institutions, media houses, cultural organisations, and the creative industries.</p><h3>Skills Required</h3><ul><li>Acting and Performance Studies</li><li>Theatre Directing</li><li>Playwriting and Scriptwriting</li><li>Dramaturgy and Theatre Criticism</li><li>Theatre History and Theory</li><li>African Theatre Traditions</li><li>Stagecraft and Production Design</li><li>Applied Theatre and Theatre for Development</li><li>Arts Administration</li><li>Research Methods in Theatre Studies</li></ul><h3>Key Subjects</h3><ul><li>Theatre Theory and Criticism</li><li>Acting and Performance Studies</li><li>Directing for Theatre</li><li>Playwriting and Scriptwriting</li><li>Theatre History</li><li>African Theatre Traditions</li><li>Applied Theatre and Theatre for Development</li><li>Stagecraft and Production Design</li><li>Arts Administration</li><li>Research Methods in Theatre Studies</li></ul><h3>Certifications</h3><ul><li>International Theatre Institute Membership</li><li>East African Theatre Institute Certification</li></ul><h3>Specializations</h3><h4>Acting and Performance</h4><p>Focuses on advanced acting techniques, performance theory, physical theatre, voice and movement, and character development for stage and screen performance.</p><h4>Directing</h4><p>Covers theatre directing theory and practice, including script analysis, blocking, working with actors, staging, and production management for theatrical productions.</p><h4>Playwriting and Scriptwriting</h4><p>Examines dramatic writing techniques, script structure, character development, dialogue craft, and adaptation for stage and screen.</p><h4>African Theatre Traditions</h4><p>Explores African theatre traditions, indigenous performance forms, oral literature, African dramatists, and the integration of African cultural elements in contemporary theatre.</p><h4>Applied Theatre</h4><p>Covers applied theatre practices including theatre for development, community theatre, educational drama, and theatre for social change in community and educational settings.</p><h4>Theatre Criticism and Dramaturgy</h4><p>Examines theatre criticism, dramaturgical analysis, performance theory, and the role of the dramaturg in theatrical production and cultural commentary.</p><h4>Production Design and Stagecraft</h4><p>Focuses on stagecraft, set design, lighting, sound design, costume design, and technical production management for theatrical productions.</p><h4>Arts Administration</h4><p>Covers arts management, theatre company administration, festival organisation, cultural policy, and creative industry entrepreneurship.</p>