Choosing the right course is more than just picking a subject you enjoy. In Kenya today, the job market is crowded, and unemployment is high.
Each year, Kenyan universities produce nearly 800,000 graduates, but only a small number land jobs in their fields. Many are left unemployed or underemployed for years.
That’s why you must go for the most marketable degree courses in Kenya—programs that give you real job opportunities, decent pay, and career growth.
Whether you’re just joining university or considering a switch, this guide will help you choose wisely and avoid regrets later.
1. Software Engineering and Web Development
Tech jobs are booming. Businesses need websites, mobile apps, and secure systems—and they need people to build them.
Software engineering gives you job security and flexibility. You can work remotely or join top companies like Safaricom, Google, or IBM. Freelancers also make good money.
If you’re sharp in math and logic, this is a great pick. Consider earning extra certifications to boost your credibility.
Average salary: Ksh 200,000–500,000 per month.
2. Medicine and Surgery
Doctors are always in demand. This course is tough, long, and demanding—but the rewards are worth it.
Once qualified, you can work in public hospitals, private clinics, or open your own practice. Some medical students even get job offers before they graduate.
Kenya and other African countries continue to face doctor shortages, so job opportunities are strong.
Average salary: Ksh 150,000–400,000 per month.
3. Nursing
Nursing is a highly respected and employable course in Kenya and abroad.
With a nursing degree, you can work in hospitals, clinics, and even get international placements in countries like the UK, US, or Canada. There’s also room for growth into specialized fields like midwifery or critical care.
Average salary: Ksh 70,000–200,000 per month (higher abroad).
4. Pharmacy
Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare. This course blends science, health, and business.
You can work in hospitals, retail pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies like GSK or AstraZeneca—or even start your own chemist.
Entrepreneurship is a big plus in this field.
Average salary: Ksh 100,000–300,000 per month.
5. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
The CFA designation is globally recognized. It focuses on finance, investment, and risk management.
Once you pass all three levels, you’ll stand out. Employers know it’s a tough course, so it carries weight. You don’t need another degree to back it up.
CFA holders enjoy one of the lowest unemployment rates among graduates in Kenya.
Average salary: Ksh 150,000–500,000 per month.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
This course is about measuring the success of projects—especially in NGOs, government programs, and development agencies.
Not many people study it, which means fewer competitors and more job chances. M&E professionals are in high demand in Kenya and across Africa.
Average salary: Ksh 100,000–300,000 per month.
7. Law
Law is competitive but remains highly marketable in Kenya. Qualified lawyers can work in law firms, corporations, courts, or government or even start their own practice.
You can also branch into legal consultancy, compliance, and policy-making. To succeed, you’ll need to pass your bar exams and get licensed by the Kenya School of Law.
Average salary: Ksh 80,000–400,000 per month.
8. Accounting and Finance
Businesses, NGOs, and governments all need accountants. This course is reliable and opens doors in many sectors.
Pair it with professional certifications like CPA or ACCA, and your chances of employment go even higher. With experience, you can rise to roles like financial manager, auditor, or CFO.
Average salary: Ksh 70,000–250,000 per month.
9. Architecture
Architecture mixes design, creativity, and engineering. It’s ideal for those who are creative but also love structure and detail.
You can work for firms or freelance on your own projects. As Kenya continues to urbanize, architects are in demand in both public and private sectors.
Average salary: Ksh 100,000–300,000 per month.
10. Education (STEM Teaching)
Teachers are needed, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects.
If you love teaching and have strong knowledge in math, physics, or biology, consider a degree in education. There are many job openings in secondary schools, international schools, and education NGOs.
Average salary: Ksh 50,000–150,000 per month (higher with experience or international schools).
Final Thoughts
In a market flooded with degrees, it’s not enough to just study—you must study smart. These marketable degree courses in Kenya offer strong job prospects, solid pay, and long-term career growth.
Before picking a course, ask yourself: Will this help me stand out? Can I build a future with it?
Choose wisely, and your degree will become more than just a paper—it will be your stepping stone to success.
