This archive report was first published on 28 June 2021.
With a mean grade of D, pursuing a career in medicine may seem daunting, but there are still opportunities to explore. In fact, several certificate programs in Kenya are designed for students with a mean grade of D, providing a pathway to a career in the healthcare sector.
One such program is the Certificate in Health Records and Information Technology (in-service), which targets individuals working in recognized Health Records departments but lack the required professional qualifications. To be eligible, candidates must have a KCSE Aggregate grade D+ and at least two years of working experience in a recognized Health Records and Information Department.
Another option is the Certificate in Health Promotion for the Deaf (CHPD), which is specifically designed for deaf students. The minimum entry requirement is a mean grade of D+ in KCSE, with additional requirements including scoring D+ in English or Kenya Sign Language and D plain in Biology.
For those interested in community health, the Foundations in Community Health course is available at the Kenya Medical Training College. This short course, lasting six months, is suitable for form four leavers and provides training on the basic foundations of community health.
Lastly, students with a mean grade of D can also pursue the Certificate in Nutrition and Dietetics course, which prepares students to become nutritionists or dieticians. The minimum entry requirement is a KCSE mean grade of D+, along with scoring D+ in English or Kiswahili and a D+ in Biology or Biological Sciences.
While a mean grade of D may limit some career options, it is not a barrier to entering the healthcare sector. With the right certificate program, students can still achieve their dreams and contribute to the healthcare team.
