Introduction: Preparing for a New Chapter
Joining university in Kenya is an exciting milestone, especially for students transitioning from Form Four or waiting for KUCCPS placement results. The months before campus offer a valuable opportunity to grow your skills, prepare mentally, and build a strong foundation for academic and career success.
This guide outlines the best things to do before joining university in Kenya, plus the top short courses to take before campus—courses that will make you more confident, employable, and future-ready.
1. What to Do Before Joining University in Kenya
1.1 Learn Essential Digital Skills
Digital literacy is no longer optional—everything from online classes to assignments relies on technology. Before joining campus, ensure you can comfortably handle:
- Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Sheets)
- Email professionalism
- Basic typing and computer skills
- Online research skills
These will make your first semester much easier.
1.2 Prepare Financially
University life requires budgeting. Before joining campus:
- Learn basic budgeting
- Start saving for upkeep
- Understand HELB loan processes
- Compare accommodation options (hostel vs. off-campus)
Financial preparedness reduces stress once you begin your studies.
1.3 Research Your Course and University
Take time to understand:
- What your degree covers
- Career opportunities
- Recommended books or YouTube tutorials
- Clubs and societies related to your field
Being informed boosts your confidence on day one.
1.4 Build Soft Skills
Kenyan employers value soft skills just as much as academic qualifications. Work on:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Leadership
- Time management
These skills help you thrive academically and professionally.
1.5 Get Mentally and Emotionally Prepared
Campus comes with freedom—and responsibility. Prepare by:
- Setting personal goals
- Understanding campus culture
- Being aware of peer pressure
- Learning self-discipline
A strong mindset helps you balance academics, social life, and personal growth.
2. Best Short Courses to Take Before Joining Campus in Kenya
Short courses can give you an advantage academically and even help you earn money while studying. Below are the most marketable short courses for KCSE leavers and students preparing for university in Kenya.
2.1 Digital & Tech Short Courses (Highly Marketable)
• Computer Packages (Highly Recommended)
This is the most essential course for all students. It covers:
- MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Internet & email management
- Basic ICT skills
Best taken before joining campus.
• Graphic Design
You can earn money on campus through:
- Posters
- Logos
- Invitations
- Event banners
Tools learned: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Canva.
• Web Design Basics
Perfect for students interested in tech or freelancing. Learn:
- HTML & CSS
- WordPress
- Website setup and customization
• Digital Marketing
Every business in Kenya is going online. This course teaches:
- Social media marketing
- Content creation
- SEO basics
- Online advertising
Great for online jobs and campus businesses.
• Coding / Programming Fundamentals
Ideal for students pursuing:
- Computer Science
- ICT
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
Languages learned: Python, JavaScript, SQL.
• Data Analytics Basics
A rising career in Kenya—helps you secure internships early.
2.2 Business & Entrepreneurship Short Courses
• Basic Accounting / QuickBooks
Useful for students taking:
- Business
- Commerce
- Finance
- Entrepreneurship
Gives you an edge in class and practical work.
• Entrepreneurship Skills
Learn how to:
- Start a small business
- Manage money
- Market products
- Innovate and grow
Perfect for campus hustles.
• Customer Service Training
Very marketable for part-time jobs.
2.3 Creative & Media Short Courses
• Photography & Videography
Campus events need photographers. You can earn immediately with:
- Birthdays
- Graduations
- YouTube content creation
• Social Media Management
Helps you manage pages for:
- Startups
- Events
- Celebrities
A good online side hustle.
• Content Creation
Learn:
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Instagram growth strategies
Digital influence is a viable career in Kenya.
2.4 Career-Specific Short Courses
• First Aid & Life Skills
Great for all students but especially:
- Nursing
- Medicine
- Public Health
- Education
• Foreign Languages (French, German, Chinese)
Boosts career opportunities in:
- Tourism
- International relations
- NGOs
- Aviation
• Driving School
A practical and employable skill—especially for engineering, business, and logistics students.
3. Why Short Courses Matter Before Campus
Short courses help you:
- Stand out academically
- Build confidence
- Gain employable skills
- Start earning earlier
- Adapt faster to digital learning
In Kenya’s competitive job market, skills = opportunities.
Conclusion: Prepare Smart, Start Strong
The months before joining university offer a golden opportunity to prepare for success. By taking the right short courses and focusing on personal development, you will enter campus confident, skilled, and ready for the future.
Whether you choose tech, business, creative, or career-specific courses, the key is to build skills that align with Kenya’s evolving job market.
Your campus journey starts now—prepare wisely, invest in yourself, and step into university ready for success.