Key takeaways
- Top degree options for software engineering and computer science include the University of Nairobi, JKUAT, Strathmore, KCA University, Multimedia University and Kenyatta University.
- Bootcamps such as Moringa School, ALX Africa, Zetech short courses and Power Learn Project give faster, job-focused training.
- Employers in Kenya care most about a portfolio of real projects, Git history and problem-solving skills.
- The best path often combines a degree or diploma with hands-on projects and internships.
In this guide
- Best universities for software engineering and computer science
- Top coding bootcamps and short courses in Kenya
- Entry requirements
- Skills that get software engineers hired in Kenya
- How to get your first software engineering job in Kenya
- Degree, diploma or bootcamp?
- Degree vs diploma vs bootcamp
- Skills Kenyan employers look for
Kenya’s tech scene, from Nairobi’s “Silicon Savannah” to fintech built around M-Pesa, needs skilled developers. If you want to become a software engineer, this guide covers the top colleges and universities to learn software engineering in Kenya, the best bootcamps, entry requirements and how to land your first job.
Best universities for software engineering and computer science
1. University of Nairobi – School of Computing and Informatics
Offers Computer Science and related degrees with a strong theoretical base and a well-connected alumni network in Kenyan tech.
2. JKUAT – BSc Software Engineering, Computer Science and IT
JKUAT is known for practical, engineering-focused computing and has produced many of Kenya’s leading developers and tech founders.
3. Strathmore University – School of Computing and Engineering Sciences
Home to @iLabAfrica, Strathmore links students to industry projects, research and internships, with programmes in Informatics, Computer Science and Telecommunications.
4. KCA University
Offers Software Development and IT degrees with flexible class times, popular with working students.
5. Multimedia University of Kenya
Strong in Computer Science, Software Engineering and telecommunications.
6. Kenyatta University
Computer Science and Software Engineering programmes with growing labs and innovation hubs.
Also worth considering
- USIU-Africa – Applied Computer Technology.
- Dedan Kimathi University of Technology – Computer Science and IT.
- Technical University of Kenya – Computer and Software Engineering-related programmes.
- Zetech University – practical ICT diplomas and degrees.
- Maseno, Egerton and Moi Universities – Computer Science across Western and Rift Valley regions.
Top coding bootcamps and short courses in Kenya
- Moringa School – full-stack software development and data science with career support.
- ALX Africa – software engineering, data and cloud programmes, often sponsored.
- Power Learn Project (PLP) – sponsored software development training at scale.
- eMobilis – mobile, web and cloud training.
- Ajira Digital and KamiLimu – digital work skills and mentorship for students.
- Free online: freeCodeCamp, The Odin Project, CS50 and Google/Meta certificates.
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Entry requirements
- Degree: usually KCSE C+ and above with strong Mathematics and English or Physics; check KUCCPS cut-off points each year.
- Diploma: usually a KCSE C (plain), with Mathematics required by many colleges.
- Certificate: usually a KCSE D+ or C-, depending on the college.
- Bootcamps: typically an aptitude test or interview; no specific grade.
Skills that get software engineers hired in Kenya
- Programming languages: JavaScript/TypeScript, Python, PHP, Java, Kotlin or Dart.
- Frameworks: React, Next.js, Laravel, Django, Node.js, Flutter.
- Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB.
- Local integrations: M-Pesa Daraja API, SMS gateways and KRA eTIMS.
- Tools: Git, GitHub, testing, Docker and cloud deployment.
- Soft skills: communication, teamwork and problem solving.
How to get your first software engineering job in Kenya
- Build 3–5 real projects, such as a shop with M-Pesa checkout or a booking system.
- Put your code on GitHub and write clear READMEs.
- Join communities: Nairobi tech meetups, Google Developer Groups and hackathons.
- Apply for internships and attachments at software companies.
- Freelance for small businesses to build experience and references.
Degree, diploma or bootcamp?
A degree gives deep foundations and opens doors to graduate programmes and study abroad. A diploma is affordable and practical. A bootcamp is fastest for career changers. Many successful Kenyan developers combine them, for example a diploma plus a bootcamp plus a strong portfolio.
Programmes and requirements change. Confirm details with each institution, CUE and KUCCPS before applying.
Permalink Business Ltd. is a Kenyan software company building web, mobile and business systems. Check our careers page for internships and roles.
Degree vs diploma vs bootcamp
| Path | Typical length | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| BSc Software Engineering / Computer Science | 4 years | Deep foundations, graduate jobs, further study abroad |
| Diploma in ICT / Software Development | 2–3 years | Students with C grades, practical skills, progression to degree |
| Bootcamp (full-stack, data, mobile) | 3–12 months | Career changers and graduates who need job-ready skills |
| Online certificates (Google, Meta, AWS, freeCodeCamp) | Self-paced | Adding specific skills on a budget |
Skills Kenyan employers look for
- JavaScript/TypeScript, Python, PHP, Java or Kotlin
- React, Laravel, Django or Node.js
- SQL databases and APIs
- M-Pesa Daraja integration
- Git, testing and deployment
Frequently asked questions
Which university is best for software engineering in Kenya?
Strong choices include the University of Nairobi, JKUAT, Strathmore University, KCA University, Multimedia University of Kenya and Kenyatta University. Compare labs, industry links and internship support, not just the name.
What grade do I need for software engineering in Kenya?
Degree programmes usually need a KCSE mean grade of C+ or higher with good grades in Mathematics and English or Physics; cut-off points vary each year on KUCCPS. A diploma typically needs a C.
Is a coding bootcamp enough to get a job in Kenya?
It can be, if you finish with a strong portfolio of real projects. Many developers combine a bootcamp with freelancing or an internship to get their first role.
How much do software engineers earn in Kenya?
Pay varies by skill and company. Juniors earn far less than seniors, and developers working for international clients often earn more. Skills and a portfolio matter more than the certificate.
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