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Eldoret National Polytechnic Courses: All You Need to Know

  • BY Norah Waceke
  • September 1, 2025
Eldoret National polytechnic

Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP), located in Uasin Gishu County along the Eldoret-Kapsabet Road, is a cornerstone of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Kenya. Established under Legal Notice No. 114 of 2014 and accredited by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA), TENP has grown into a premier institution with over 15,000 students and more than 130 market-driven programs. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and high graduate placement rate (over 85% locally and internationally), TENP is a top choice for students seeking practical, industry-relevant skills.

TENP stands out due to its commitment to producing job-ready graduates through hands-on training and industry-aligned curricula. Here are key reasons to consider TENP:

  • Industry-Relevant Programs: Courses are designed to meet Kenya’s industrial and economic needs, ensuring high employability.
  • Modern Facilities: The polytechnic offers advanced laboratories, computer labs, and workshops for practical learning.
  • High Placement Rate: Over 85% of graduates secure jobs in sectors like engineering, health sciences, and business.
  • Strategic Location: Located 5 km from Eldoret CBD, TENP is easily accessible, with additional campuses in Bomet, Turkana East, Entebes, and Eldoret Town (Zion Mall).
  • Flexible Intakes: Admissions occur in January, May, and September, aligning with Kenya’s education calendar.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): TENP offers RPL assessments for practical skills in select departments, enhancing accessibility for non-traditional learners.

Academic Departments and Courses Offered

TENP offers a diverse range of artisan, craft, certificate, diploma, and higher diploma courses across multiple departments. Below is a detailed breakdown of programs, entry requirements, duration, and examination bodies, with a focus on the September 2025 intake.

Department of Agriculture and Environmental Studies

This department focuses on sustainable agriculture and environmental technologies, addressing Kenya’s need for food security and environmental conservation.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Agriculture & Extension: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Environmental Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Food Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Agriculture & Extension: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Food Technology: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Graduates can work in agribusiness, food processing industries, or environmental agencies like NEMA. Self-employment opportunities include farming or consultancy services.

Department of Applied Sciences

The Applied Sciences department equips students with skills in chemical, biological, and geological sciences, ideal for industries like mining and manufacturing.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Chemical Engineering Technician: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Science Laboratory Technician: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Applied Biology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Applied Statistics: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Analytical Chemistry: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Industrial Chemistry: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Mining Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Leather Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Geophysical Exploration Technician: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Leather Goods Production: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Science Laboratory Technician: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Leather Processing (Tanning): KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Opportunities in pharmaceutical industries, research institutions, or mining companies like Base Titanium. Graduates can also start businesses in leather production.

Department of Building and Civil Engineering

This department trains students in construction, architecture, and land surveying, with programs tailored for infrastructure development.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Architectural Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in Maths/Physics and English, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Building Technician: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in Maths/Physics and English, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Civil Engineering: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in Maths/Physics and English, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Interior Design: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in Maths/Physics and English, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Water Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in Maths/Physics and English, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Land Surveying: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in Maths/Physics, English, and Geography, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Construction Foreperson: KCSE D+ (Plus), D+ in Maths/Physics, D in English, 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Land Surveying: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Plumbing: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Water Technology: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Building Technician: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Carpentry and Joinery: KCSE D+ (Plus), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Artisan Programs (Level 4):
    • Construction Survey: KCSE D- (Minus), D- in Maths/Physics and English, 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Construction Field Testing: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Employment with firms like DITTMAN Construction, Kenya Power, or KENGEN. Graduates can also venture into private consultancy or construction startups.

Department of Business Studies

This department offers programs in accounting, management, and finance, preparing students for corporate and entrepreneurial roles.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Cooperative Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Sales and Marketing Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Project Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Business Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Human Resource Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 terms (Sandwich), HRMPEB.
    • Customer Care: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TENP.
    • Office Administrator: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Entrepreneurship Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Banking & Finance: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Supply Chain Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Accountant Technician Diploma (ATD) I & II: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 terms (Sandwich), KASNEB.
    • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) I & II: KCSE C+ (Plus), 7 terms (Sandwich), KASNEB.
    • Certified Purchasing & Supplies (CPS-K): KCSE C+ (Plus), 7 terms (Sandwich), KISEB.
    • Associate of Procurement & Supply (APS): KCSE C- (Minus), 7 terms (Sandwich), KISEB.
  • Higher Diploma Programs:
    • Business Management: Pass in Diploma in Human Resource or Degree in Business, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Human Resource Management: Pass in Diploma in Human Resource or Degree in Business, 6 terms, KNEC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Cooperative Manager: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Supply Chain Management: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Office Administrator: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Business Manager: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Sales and Marketing Manager: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Banking & Finance: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Artisan Programs (Level 4):
    • Office Administrator: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Storekeeping: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Short Course:
    • German Language: KCSE D- (Minus), 4 terms, Goethe-Institut Kenya.

Career Paths: Roles in banks, NGOs, government agencies, or corporate firms like Safaricom. Entrepreneurial ventures in retail or consultancy are also viable.

Department of Computing and Informatics

This department focuses on IT, journalism, and information management, catering to the digital economy.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Library and Information Science: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Records & Archives Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Software Development: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Computer Science: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Broadcast Journalism: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Digital Journalism: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Information Communication Technology Technician: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Library and Information Science: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Records & Archives Management: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Software Development: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Jobs in media houses, IT firms, or libraries. Graduates can also freelance as software developers or digital content creators.

Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

This department trains students in electrical systems and telecommunications, critical for Kenya’s energy and tech sectors.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Electrical Engineering Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), C- in Maths and Physics, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Telecommunications Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), C- in Maths and Physics, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Instrumentation and Control Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), C- in Maths and Physics, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Electrical Engineering Technology: KCSE D+ (Plus), D+ in Maths and Physics, 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Artisan Programs (Level 4):
    • Electrical Installation Technology: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Solar Photovoltaic System Installation Technology: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Employment with Kenya Power, KENGEN, or private firms. Opportunities in renewable energy sectors like solar installation are growing.

Department of Health Sciences

This department offers programs in healthcare, vital for Kenya’s medical sector.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Community Health: KCSE C- (Minus), C- in English/Kiswahili, D+ in Biology, D in Maths/Physics/Chemistry, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Nutrition and Dietetics: KCSE C- (Minus), D+ in English/Kiswahili, Biology, Chemistry, D in Maths/Physics, 7 modules, TVETCDACC/KNDI.
    • Medical Laboratory Sciences: KCSE C (Plain), C in English/Kiswahili, Maths/Physics, Biology, Chemistry, 9 terms (Sandwich), TENP/KMLTTB.
    • Health Records and Information Technology: KCSE C (Plain), C in English/Kiswahili, C- in Maths, D+ in Biology, 9 terms (Sandwich), TENP/HRIMB.
    • Health Records and Information Technology (Upgrading): Certificate in Health Records, HRIMB registration, 6 terms (Sandwich), TENP/HRIMB.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Community Health: KCSE D+ (Plus), D+ in English/Kiswahili, D in Biology, Maths/Chemistry, 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Nutrition and Dietetics: KCSE D (Plain), D in English/Kiswahili, Biology, Chemistry, Maths/Physics, 4 modules, TVETCDACC/KNDI.
    • Health Records and Information Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), C- in English/Kiswahili, D in Maths, D in Biology, 6 terms (Sandwich), TENP/HRIMB.

Career Paths: Jobs at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, county health facilities, or private clinics. Opportunities in medical research or health IT are also available.

Department of Hospitality and Institutional Management

This department prepares students for the hospitality and tourism industries.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Food and Beverage Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Catering and Accommodation Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Tourism and Travel Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Fashion Design Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Catering and Accommodation Operations: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Food and Beverage Operations: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Tour and Travel Operations: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Fashion Design: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Employment in hotels, tour companies, or fashion industries. Graduates can also start catering or travel agencies.

Department of Liberal Studies

This department focuses on social sciences and community development.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Social Work & Community Development: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Child Protection: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Counselling Psychology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Social Work & Community Development: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Child Protection: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Short Course:
    • HIV Testing & Counselling Services: Diploma in Social Work/Counselling Psychology, 1 month, NASCOP/TENP.

Career Paths: Roles in NGOs, community organizations, or government agencies focused on social welfare.

Department of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering

This department trains students in automotive and mechanical technologies.

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Automotive Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), C- in Maths/Physics/Chemistry, 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Autobody Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Welding Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Mechanical Production Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Mechanical Plant Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Agricultural Engineering: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5):
    • Welding Technology: KCSE D (Plain), D in Maths/Physics/Chemistry, 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Mechanical Production Technology: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Mechanical Plant Technology: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Automotive Technician: KCSE D (Plain), 4 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Artisan Programs (Level 4):
    • Agricultural Machinery: KCSE D- (Minus), D- in Maths/Physics/Chemistry, 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Motor Cycle Mechanics: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Motor Vehicle Electrics: KCSE D- (Minus), 2 modules, TVETCDACC.
  • Short Course:
    • Driving Class ABCD: 18 years and above, National ID, 1 month, NTSA.

Career Paths: Jobs in automotive workshops, manufacturing plants, or agricultural machinery firms. Self-employment in repair shops is common.

Eldoret City Campus (Zion Mall) Courses

The Zion Mall campus offers specialized higher diploma and diploma programs:

  • Higher Diploma Programs:
    • Construction (Building & Engineering): Pass in Diploma in Civil Engineering, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Electrical Engineering (Power): Pass in Diploma in Electrical Engineering, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Land Survey: Pass in Diploma in Land Survey, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Mechanical (Plant/Production Engineering): Pass in Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Human Resource Management: Pass in Diploma in HRM or Business Course, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Entrepreneurship Development: Pass in Diploma in Business Course, 6 terms, KNEC.
    • Water Engineering: Pass in Diploma in Water Engineering, 6 terms, KNEC.
  • Diploma Programs (Level 6):
    • Electrical Engineering: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Civil Engineering: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Supply Chain: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Office Administrator: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Project Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Business Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Accountancy: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Taxation: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Cosmetology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Computer Programming: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Mechanical Production Technology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Plant and Service Engineering: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Automotive Engineering: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Agricultural Extension: KCSE C- (Minus), 6 terms, TENP.
    • Film Production: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Land Survey: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Human Resource Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Social Work: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Child Care and Protection: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Counselling Psychology: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Tourism and Travel Management: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Cooperative Manager: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Computer Science: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Information Communication Technician: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Library and Information Studies: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Banking & Finance: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Broadcast Journalism: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.
    • Digital Journalism: KCSE C- (Minus), 7 modules, TVETCDACC.

Career Paths: Similar to main campus programs, with additional opportunities in urban-based industries.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

General Entry Requirements

  • Diploma Programs (Level 6): KCSE mean grade of C- (Minus) or equivalent. Some programs require specific subject grades (e.g., D+ in Maths/Physics for engineering courses).
  • Certificate Programs (Level 5): KCSE mean grade of D (Plain) or D+ (Plus) for select programs.
  • Artisan Programs (Level 4): KCSE mean grade of D- (Minus) or KCPE for some courses.
  • Higher Diploma Programs: Pass in a relevant diploma or degree program.
  • Additional Documents: KCSE/KCPE certificates, birth certificate, medical report, passport-size photos, and a non-refundable application fee of Ksh 750 (via MPESA Paybill 304250).

Application Process

  1. KUCCPS Placement: Apply through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) portal for government-sponsored programs. Admission letters are downloadable online.
  2. Direct Application: Download the application form from www.tenp.ac.ke, fill it, and submit it to the registrar’s office or email to eldopolyadmissions@gmail.com with required documents.
  3. In-Person Application: Visit the main campus (5 km from Eldoret CBD) or Zion Mall campus to collect and submit forms.
  4. Intake Dates: January, May, and September 2025. The next intake begins on September 1, 2025.

Contact Information:

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

TENP offers RPL assessments for students with practical experience in:

  • Building & Civil Engineering
  • Electrical & Electronics Engineering
  • Hospitality & Institutional Management
  • Mechanical & Automotive Engineering

RPL allows learners to gain formal recognition for skills acquired outside traditional education, enhancing access to certifications. Contact the registrar for ongoing RPL assessments.

Modular Training Structure

TENP’s courses are modular, with each module lasting 3 months (1 term):

  • Level 6: 7 modules
  • Level 5: 4 modules
  • Level 4: 2 modules

This structure allows flexibility, enabling students to progress at their own pace and balance work or internships.

Fees and Funding

  • Tuition Fees: Approximately Ksh 67,189 per year for diploma, certificate, and artisan courses, as guided by the Ministry of Education. Examination fees vary by course and exam body.
  • Funding Options: Eligible students can apply for Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans or bursaries through KUCCPS. Priority is given to orphans and single-parent students.

Career Prospects and Industry Connections

TENP’s proximity to industries like Chemelil, Nzoia, and Kenya Seeds ensures strong job placement opportunities. Graduates have secured roles with:

  • Engineering: Kenya Power, KENGEN, DITTMAN Construction, ARM Cement.
  • Health Sciences: Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, private clinics.
  • Business: Banks, NGOs, government agencies.
  • Hospitality: Hotels, tour companies, fashion brands.

The polytechnic’s 85% placement rate reflects its alignment with Kenya’s industrial needs.

Eldoret National Polytechnic is a leading TVET institution offering over 130 programs tailored to Kenya’s job market. With flexible intakes, modular training, and RPL options, TENP is accessible to students of varying academic backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in engineering, health sciences, business, or hospitality, TENP provides the skills and opportunities to succeed. Apply now for the September 2025 intake to start your journey toward a rewarding career