Boma International Hospitality College (BIHC), located in Nairobi’s South C, is a premier institution for hospitality and culinary arts education in Kenya. Established in May 2015 in partnership with the Business and Hotel Management School (BHMS) in Lucerne, Switzerland, BIHC offers Swiss-accredited programs that combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. This article provides a comprehensive overview of BIHC’s courses, fee structure for 2025, admission requirements, and why it’s a top choice for aspiring hospitality professionals.
About Boma International Hospitality College
Founded to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in Kenya’s hospitality industry, BIHC is a private Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution affiliated with the Kenya Red Cross Society. Located within the Boma Hotels complex, BIHC provides students with real-world training environments, including modern kitchens, bakeries, and hotel facilities. Its partnership with BHMS, a globally recognized leader in hospitality education, ensures Swiss-accredited diplomas and pathways to bachelor’s degrees at BHMS in Switzerland or the United States International University (USIU) in Nairobi.
BIHC is celebrated for its ISO 9001:2015 certification and recognition as a Centre of Excellence for Hospitality and Culinary Arts Training by TVETA. With Kenya’s tourism sector contributing approximately 10% to the nation’s GDP, BIHC’s programs are designed to produce job-ready graduates for local and international hospitality careers.
Courses Offered at BIHC
BIHC offers a range of programs tailored to various skill levels and career aspirations, including short courses, certificate programs, and diploma courses. Below is a detailed breakdown of the programs available for the May 2025 intake, designed to equip students with practical and theoretical skills in hospitality, culinary arts, and baking.
1. Short Courses
Short courses at BIHC are part-time programs with open entry requirements, making them accessible to individuals with diverse educational backgrounds. These courses are ideal for beginners or professionals seeking to enhance specific skills. Examples include:
- Housekeeping & Laundry: Focused on operational skills for maintaining high standards in hotel environments.
- Food and Beverage Service Supervision: Covers service techniques, customer interaction, and supervisory roles.
- Food and Beverage Production, Sales, and Service: Combines culinary skills with sales and service training.
- Baking & Patisserie Short Courses: Introduces basic techniques in bread, pastry, and dessert preparation.
Admission Requirements: No specific academic qualifications are required, but applicants must demonstrate an interest in the hospitality industry.
2. Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are full-time courses designed for students with a minimum KCSE grade of D+ or equivalent. These programs provide foundational knowledge and practical training, with fees including BIHC-branded aprons, training materials, and certificates of achievement.
- Certificate in Culinary Arts: A 2-year program focusing on food preparation, kitchen operations, and culinary techniques.
- Certificate in International Hospitality Management: Covers hotel operations, including Rooms Division and Food & Beverage management.
- Certificate in Baking & Patisserie: Trains students in bread, pastry, and dessert production with hands-on experience in BIHC’s modern bakeries.
Admission Requirements:
- KCSE mean grade of D+ (Plus) with D+ or above in English or Kiswahili and D- in Mathematics or any Science.
- IGCSE: 3 ‘O’ Passes with D and above, including at least a D in English or Kiswahili and D in Math or any Science.
- International students must provide equivalent qualifications recognized by BIHC.
3. Diploma Programs
Diploma programs are 2-year full-time courses requiring a minimum KCSE grade of C- or equivalent. These Swiss-accredited programs offer pathways to bachelor’s degrees at BHMS or USIU.
- Diploma in Culinary Arts (DCA): Combines advanced culinary techniques with practical training at Boma Hotels.
- Diploma in International Hospitality Management (DIHM): Focuses on hotel management, including front office, housekeeping, and food and beverage operations.
- Diploma in Baking & Patisserie: Covers advanced techniques in baking, pastry arts, and dessert creation, preparing students for careers in high-end bakeries or hotels.
Admission Requirements:
- KCSE mean grade of C- (Minus) with C- or above in English or Kiswahili and D in Mathematics or any Science.
- IGCSE: 4 ‘O’ Passes with D and above, including at least a C in English or Kiswahili and C in Math or any Science.
- International students must provide equivalent qualifications and may need to meet visa requirements.
4. Foundation in Hospitality Management
The Foundation in Hospitality Management is a preparatory program for students who may not meet the entry requirements for certificate or diploma programs. It introduces learners to culinary arts and hotel management basics.
Admission Requirements: Open entry, with no specific academic qualifications required, though an interview may be conducted to assess suitability.
Duration: Varies based on the student’s pace and program structure.
BIHC Fee Structure for 2025
BIHC’s fee structure for 2025 is transparent and varies by program and student status (Kenyan, East African, or International). Fees are inclusive of tuition, training materials, meals (tea breaks and lunch), library materials, computer lab use, campus Wi-Fi, foreign language instruction, examinations, and internship placement services. Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees for the May 2025 intake, based on available data.
Foundation in Hospitality Management Fees
Kenyan Applicants (KES):
- Single Annual Payment: KES 99,500
- Tuition: KES 90,000
- Application Fee: KES 2,500
- Student ID: KES 1,000
- Operating Expenses: KES 5,000
- Accident & Liability Insurance: KES 1,000
- Two Instalments:
- 1st Instalment (Due 02.05.2025): KES 54,500
- 2nd Instalment (Due 05.09.2025): KES 45,000
East African Applicants (USD):
- Single Annual Payment: USD 812
- Tuition: USD 694
- Application Fee: USD 19
- Student ID: USD 9
- Operating Expenses: USD 47
- Accident & Liability Insurance: USD 9
- Two Instalments:
- 1st Instalment: USD 406
- 2nd Instalment: USD 406
International Applicants (USD):
- Same as East African rates, with an additional immigration fee of USD 140.
Uniform Fees: Not included in instalment plans; contact BIHC for details.
Certificate and Diploma in Culinary Arts or International Hospitality Management Fees
East African Applicants (USD):
- Single Annual Payment:
- 1st Year: USD 5,024
- Tuition: USD 4,719
- Application Fee & Student Pass: USD 85
- Student ID: USD 10
- Admin & Graduation Fees: USD 55
- Accident & Liability Insurance: USD 55
- 2nd Year: USD 5,119 (includes USD 250 graduation fee for certificate completers)
- 1st Year: USD 5,024
- Two Instalments (1st Year):
- 1st Instalment (Due 02.05.2025): USD 2,634
- 2nd Instalment (Due 05.09.2025): USD 2,539
- Four Instalments (1st Year):
- 1st Instalment (Due 02.05.2025): USD 1,392
- 2nd Instalment (Due 04.07.2025): USD 1,242
- 3rd Instalment (Due 05.09.2025): USD 1,242
- 4th Instalment (Due 01.11.2025): USD 1,492 (includes graduation fee for certificate completers)
Uniform Fees:
- Culinary Arts (Certificate & Diploma): USD 363
- Hospitality Management (Certificate & Diploma): USD 303
Certificate and Diploma in Baking & Patisserie Fees
Kenyan Applicants (KES):
- Single Annual Payment:
- 1st Year: KES 438,541
- Tuition: KES 422,541
- Application Fee: KES 10,000
- Student ID: KES 1,000
- Admin & Graduation Fees: KES 5,000
- 2nd Year: KES 463,541 (includes KES 25,000 graduation fee for certificate completers)
- 1st Year: KES 438,541
- Two Instalments (1st Year):
- 1st Instalment (Due 03.01.2025): KES 238,390
- 2nd Instalment (Due 02.05.2025): KES 247,390
- Four Instalments (1st Year):
- 1st Instalment (Due 03.01.2025): KES 127,195
- 2nd Instalment (Due 03.03.2025): KES 111,195
- 3rd Instalment (Due 02.05.2025): KES 111,195
- 4th Instalment (Due 04.07.2025): KES 136,195 (includes graduation fee for certificate completers)
Uniform Fees: KES 37,335 (not included in instalment plans).
East African Applicants: Fees are denominated in USD; contact BIHC for specific rates.
International Applicants: Additional immigration fee of USD 140 applies.
Fee Payment Policies
- Payment Options: Students can choose single annual payments, two instalments, or four instalments. Options cannot be altered within an academic year.
- Defaults: A 5% interest charge applies to late instalments or returned cheques.
- Refunds: Fees are non-refundable, with excess fees refunded only to the guardian or sponsor’s bank account upon completion of studies and a verified written request.
- Discounts:
- Siblings: 5% tuition discount for the second and third sibling, 10% for the fourth and subsequent siblings, verified with original birth certificates.
- Early Payment: 5% tuition discount for single annual payments made one month in advance for the second year.
- BIHC Alumni: Discounts vary by course, subject to college approval.
Note: Fees are subject to change at BIHC’s discretion. Personal cheques are not accepted.
Admission Process and Requirements
BIHC’s admission process is straightforward and designed to accommodate both local and international applicants. Here’s how to apply for the May 2025 intake:
- Select a Program: Choose from short courses, certificate, diploma, or foundation programs based on your qualifications and career goals.
- Download Application Form: Available on BIHC’s website (www.bihc.ac.ke) or the online applications portal (crm.bihc.ac.ke).
- Pay Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of KES 1,000 for Kenyan applicants or USD equivalent for international applicants.
- Submit Documents:
- Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts.
- Copy of national ID or passport.
- Two passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of application fee payment.
- International students may need visa and residency documents.
- Attend Interview: BIHC conducts interviews to assess motivation and alignment with the college’s values.
- KUCCPS Option: Eligible students can apply via the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) for government-sponsored placements. Visit www.kuccps.ac.ke for details.
Application Deadlines: Applications for 2025 are open. Check BIHC’s website for specific deadlines.
Why Choose BIHC?
BIHC stands out as a leader in hospitality education in Kenya and East Africa. Here are key reasons to enroll:
- Swiss-Accredited Curriculum: Programs integrate Swiss precision with practical training, ensuring global recognition.
- Hands-On Experience: Training within the Boma Hotels complex provides real-world exposure to hotel operations, kitchens, and bakeries.
- Global Career Opportunities: Graduates secure positions in top hotels like Serena, Hilton, and international chains, with options for study abroad at BHMS in Switzerland.
- Internship Placements: BIHC arranges internships with leading hospitality brands, enhancing employability.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern training kitchens, bakeries, computer labs, Wi-Fi, and access to Boma Hotels’ front office, housekeeping, and spa facilities.
- Flexible Admission: Open entry for short courses and foundation programs, with clear requirements for certificate and diploma courses.
- Industry Relevance: Kenya’s tourism sector, a key economic driver, relies on BIHC’s graduates to meet the demand for skilled professionals.
Career Prospects for BIHC Graduates
Graduates of BIHC’s programs are well-equipped for diverse roles in the global hospitality industry. Career paths include:
- Pastry Chef: Work in five-star hotels, restaurants, or cruise ships.
- Hotel Manager: Oversee operations in hotels or resorts.
- Bakery Owner: Start your own bakery or patisserie.
- Food and Beverage Manager: Manage dining operations in high-end establishments.
- Product Developer: Innovate recipes for food brands.
- Hospitality Consultant: Advise businesses on operational excellence.
BIHC’s Swiss-accredited qualifications and internship placements ensure graduates are job-ready, with many securing positions in Kenya and abroad.
Campus Life and Amenities
BIHC’s South C campus offers a vibrant and secure environment, with proximity to Nairobi’s business district. Amenities include:
- Modern Facilities: Training kitchens, bakeries, computer labs, and Wi-Fi.
- Real-World Training: Access to Boma Hotels’ front office, housekeeping, and spa facilities.
- Support Services: Internship placement, foreign language instruction, and e-library access.
- Safe Location: South C is a secure, accessible area ideal for students.
How to Contact BIHC
For more information or to apply, contact BIHC at:
- Address: South C (Bellevue), Red Cross Road, Off Mombasa Road, P.O. Box 26601-00100 GPO, Nairobi, Kenya
- Phone: +254 719 050 550
- Email: study@bihc.ac.ke
- Website: www.bihc.ac.ke
Boma International Hospitality College is a top choice for students seeking world-class hospitality education in Kenya. With Swiss-accredited programs, hands-on training, and flexible fee payment options, BIHC prepares graduates for successful careers in the global hospitality industry. Whether you’re interested in culinary arts, hotel management, or baking and patisserie, BIHC’s programs offer the skills and opportunities needed to excel. Apply for the May 2025 intake today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in hospitality.
