Nursing is one of the most trusted and employable medical careers in Kenya. Many students choose to train at Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) because of its affordable fees, wide campus network, and strong clinical exposure.
If you are planning to join nursing, this guide explains all KMTC nursing courses, the KCSE entry requirements, campuses that offer nursing, and the career paths available after graduation. For a broader overview of all programmes, you can first read our complete guide on KMTC courses and application process in Kenya.
Overview of KMTC Nursing Courses
KMTC offers nursing programmes at certificate, diploma, and higher diploma levels. All nursing courses are regulated by the Nursing Council of Kenya, meaning graduates are eligible for licensing and formal employment after completion. Nursing courses at KMTC are among the most competitive, so understanding the correct entry grades is important before applying.
KMTC Diploma Nursing Courses
Diploma programmes are the most common entry point into nursing after KCSE.
Kenya Registered Nursing (KRN) is a three-year diploma course that prepares students for general nursing duties in hospitals, clinics, and health centres. The minimum entry requirement is a KCSE mean grade of C plain, with C in English or Kiswahili, C in Biology or Biological Sciences, and at least C- in Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Kenya Registered Nursing and Midwifery (KRNM) is also a three-year diploma programme. It combines general nursing with maternal and newborn care. Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of C plain, C in English or Kiswahili, C in Biology, and C- in Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Diploma in Community Health Nursing focuses on preventive and community-based healthcare. The course takes three years. Entry requirements include a KCSE mean grade of C plain, C in English or Kiswahili, C in Biology, and C- in Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Registered Nursing Mental Health and Psychiatry is a three-year diploma that prepares nurses to work in mental health facilities. Applicants need a KCSE mean grade of C plain, C in English or Kiswahili, D+ in Biology, and C- in History, CRE, or Religious Studies.
KMTC Certificate Nursing Course
KMTC also offers a Certificate in Community Health Nursing. This programme takes two years and is suitable for students with lower KCSE grades who still want to pursue nursing. The minimum requirement is a KCSE mean grade of C-, C- in English or Kiswahili, D+ in Biology, and D in Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Students who start at certificate level can later upgrade, as explained in our guide on KMTC certificate courses and requirements.
KMTC Higher Diploma Nursing Courses
Higher diploma nursing programmes are designed for qualified nurses who want to specialize. Options include Critical Care Nursing, Paediatric Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Nephrology Nursing, Oncology Nursing, Perioperative Nursing, Ophthalmic Nursing, Family Health Nursing, and Palliative Care Nursing.
To qualify, applicants must hold a diploma in nursing, be registered with the Nursing Council of Kenya, have a valid practicing license, and possess at least one year of post-licensing work experience. These programmes usually take two years to complete and are covered in detail in our article on KMTC upgrading and higher diploma courses.
KMTC Campuses Offering Nursing Courses
Nursing courses are offered in many KMTC campuses across the country, although specialized programmes are limited to selected locations. Major campuses offering nursing include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Thika, Machakos, Embu, Nyeri, Kakamega, Kisii, Kilifi, and Meru.
Because not every campus offers every nursing option, applicants should confirm availability using our updated list of KMTC campuses in Kenya by county.
How to Apply for KMTC Nursing Courses
Certificate and diploma nursing courses are applied for through KUCCPS. Applicants select KMTC as their institution and choose their preferred nursing course and campus. A full step-by-step explanation is available in our guide on how to apply for KMTC courses through KUCCPS.
Higher diploma nursing courses are applied for directly through the KMTC online application portal, where applicants upload academic certificates, professional licenses, and work experience documents.
Career Paths After KMTC Nursing Courses
After graduating from KMTC, nursing students can work as registered nurses, community health nurses, midwives, or mental health nurses. With experience and further training, nurses can specialize in areas such as critical care, nephrology, oncology, or paediatrics. Many graduates also upgrade to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or seek employment with county governments, private hospitals, NGOs, or international health organizations.
Common Mistakes Nursing Applicants Make
Many applicants fail to meet Biology requirements, select the wrong nursing option, ignore campus-specific availability, or apply for higher diploma courses without the required experience. Understanding requirements early helps avoid rejection or delays.
Need Help Applying for KMTC Nursing Courses?
If you are unsure which nursing course you qualify for, which campus to choose, or how to apply correctly through KUCCPS or the KMTC portal, Luvisia Digital can guide you step by step.
Email: luvisiadigital@gmail.com
Website: https://luvisiadigital.com
Conclusion
KMTC nursing courses provide a clear and reliable pathway into the nursing profession in Kenya. With multiple entry levels, many campuses, and strong career prospects, nursing remains one of the best medical careers to pursue. Before applying, always confirm your KCSE grades, choose the correct programme, and apply through the right channel to increase your chances of success.
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