The Bachelor of Global Leadership and Governance program contributes to standards of competence in business and organization leadership knowledge and skills needed in Kenya, the African region, and the globe as a whole. The program will bridge the gap in competence by placing emphasis on practical tools that are used in management and leadership to achieve better results for firms in both private and public sectors.
Linkages with industry and professional bodies including Global tour experience as an option for students equip graduates with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to respond to market demands. The ultimate goal of the program is to equip students with appropriate knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values essential for functioning successfully and responsibly in public, private and not for profit organizations.
Upon successful completion of the course, the learner will be able to:
The BSc. in Accounting program aims to instill experiential learning experiences that address the intricacies surrounding the changing financial landscape in the globe. The program provides students with knowledge and skills in accounting, taxation, auditing and information systems through practical experience, case studies, guest speakers and research. Students can prepare, analyze and interpret financial statements; uphold ethical behavior and apply international audit guidelines when handling financial information.
Graduates from the program can comfortably handle operations in a modern accounting office; identify relevant information, process it, communicate and apply it effectively in making economic and value added decisions. The program aims at imparting a range of knowledge, skills, problem solving abilities and developing attitudes to enable students apply information technology in preparation, analysis, evaluation, interpretation and communication of accounting and financial data effectively in profit and not-for-profit organizations within a dynamic environment.
Our tailor made program is specifically designed for students who wish to pursue careers as wealth managers, fund managers, real estate consultants, auditors, financial analysts and related occupations.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Science in Finance degree program, the student will be able to:
The BSc. degree program in Hotel and Restaurant Management combines the teaching of business management with culinary appreciation. As a student, you will learn the concepts and techniques related to hotel and restaurant operations, food preparation and service, accounting, financial management, front and back office operations, and international marketing. You will gain a thorough foundation of national and international markets, exceptional customer service, industry standard software applications, leadership, cultural diversity, operations and management skills.
The program aims at imparting a range of attitudes, skills, knowledge and problem-solving abilities in Hotel and Restaurant Management and Hospitality Planning and Development with an emphasis on internships, case studies, simulations and research.
As a graduate, you will be prepared to reliably demonstrate the ability to effectively apply information technology in hospitality operations, application research, formulate and implement appropriate procedures in hospitality operations and create new hospitality products and services.
The International Business Administration is a three-year bachelor’s program designed to equip you for a successful career in the complex and demanding world of international business. When designing this program, the Chandaria School of Business wanted to ensure that our graduates are prepared to meet the ever changing needs of the industry. With the skills you will have obtained in the program, you will be in an advantageous position to be able to respond to necessities required for successful management of business firms, government organizations, and not-for-profit organizations throughout the world, and to enter graduate programs.
The curriculum builds up a foundation in all areas of business administration: accounting, finance, business law, economics, finance, marketing, management, statistics, entrepreneurship, etc.
The program provides a liberal and multicultural education; proficiency in selected disciplines; understanding of organizational dynamics; skills in critical thinking; competence in interpersonal, oral, written, quantitative and IT skills. Graduates will be equipped with extensive competence that corresponds to the knowledge and skills needed for acting in regional and international business.
The International Relations major stresses a global and multicultural understanding of a complex and interconnected world through close study of historical, political, economic, legal, and cultural forces. A degree in International Relations will provide students the knowledge and training important in the international business community, government, diplomacy, and private and non-governmental international organizations. It also prepares students for further graduate study in international relations, international law, political science, or policy studies.
Duration
The full-time program is expected to be completed in a minimum of four years, while part-time should be completed in at least six years.
Starting Date: Every Semester
Criminal Justice is the government-controlled, systematic practice of applying laws for the purpose of social control in society; and for the prevention and lessening of crime and for using court and legal procedures, which necessitates penalties and sanctions for law violations. The criminal justice system consists of three components; Law Enforcement (Police), Judiciary (Courts) and Corrections (Jails, prisons, probation and parole). Students receive instruction on the function of each component at the local, regional and national level.
Duration
The full-time program is expected to be completed in a minimum of four years, while part-time should be completed in at least six years.
Starting Date: Every Semester
The Psychology program at USIU-Africa is designed to provide students with the necessary background to pursue a variety of professional careers within and related to the field. Core and area related requirements have been designated to provide the integral background for further educational and professional growth. Electives and minors, both within and outside the psychology program, allow students to concentrate on their individual career goals and needs.
Duration
The full-time program is expected to be completed in a minimum of four years, while part-time should be completed in at least six years.
Starting Date: Every Semester
Philosophy of the Program
Sociology is a wide-ranging discipline that helps us study human societies more objectively. As such, the program will prepare learners for a lifetime of change by developing their appreciation of diversity, writing and study skills, and knowledge base about human behavior, social organization, culture, and social change. Furthermore, Sociology is a cornerstone discipline in the Humanities and Social Sciences and can be studied as part of a combined degree with a choice of multiple other disciplines such as Psychology, International Relations, Political Science, Criminal Justice Studies, Law, Human Resource Management and Journalism.
Goal of the Program
The goal of the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program is to provide students with conceptual and analytical skills necessary to understand the nature and dynamics of a changing society from the local and global perspectives. The world is faced with an ever increasingly complex and rapidly changing social milieu whose offshoot has been multiple social problems and challenges. These challenges include family problems, corruption, poverty, unemployment, social conflict and crime. Therefore, there is a great demand for graduates who not only have a range of personal and professional skills and the conceptual tools and methods but can also use the unique view and perspective of sociology (i.e., the sociological imagination) to study all forms of human behavior and interaction from the individual and small groups to institutions.
Expected Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program, the students will be able to:
Mode of Delivery
The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program will be delivered through face-to-face learning on full time, part-time basis and on the weekend.
Admission Requirements
To obtain admission into the program, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
Courses Offered
Distribution Table: Number of Courses/Credit Hours/Lecture Hours
Courses in the program shall be offered at levels 1000 to 4000. Consistent with USIU-Africa regulations, an Undergraduate student majoring in Sociology shall take General Education Courses (GECs) and a major or minor in a different discipline, in addition to the sociology courses. This will lead to one of the following degree options:
Single Major
A student intending to do a single major in Sociology must take and pass a total of 129 Credit Units distributed as follows:
Major-Minor (Sociology as Major)
A student intending to do a Major-Minor degree with Sociology as the MAJOR discipline must take and pass a total of 69 Sociology Credit Units distributed as follows:
In addition the student must take and pass 39 Credit Units of General Education, 9 Credit Units of non-sociology elective courses and ALL the Credit Units required for the minor discipline of study.
Major-Minor- (Sociology as Minor)
A student intending to do a Major-Minor degree with Sociology as the minor discipline must take and pass 27 Sociology credit units distributed as follows:
In addition, the student must take and pass 39 Credit Units of General Education plus ALL the Credit Units required for the major discipline of study.
Major-Major (Double Major)
A student intending to do a double major degree with Sociology as one of the major subjects must take and pass 69 Sociology Credit Units distributed as follows:
In addition, the student must take and pass 39 Credit Units of General Education plus ALL the Credit Units required for the second major discipline of study.
Employment Opportunities
Sociology offers an education that is not only diverse but also allows for flexibility in the job market. It is a universal discipline that informs practice in all other disciplines.
Sociologists can pursue employment in research institutes, the criminal justice system, public health and welfare organizations, private businesses, law firms, international agencies, medical centers, educational institutions, advertising firms, survey and polling organizations, and many more.
Jobs that sociologists can do include: social work and social services; law; criminal justice and corrections; urban and regional planning; youth services/senior services; broadcasting and journalism; government - all levels; church administration and ministry; education; entrepreneurship; personnel services (HR); crisis prevention; safety and disaster management; foreign services and international negotiation; family counseling; market research and advertising; medical and health services and assessment; management consultant; media planner and; consumer relations specialists, among others.
Indeed, some of these fields require further education. Some students in sociology may also wish to obtain an advanced degree in sociology at the graduate level and pursue research or teaching.
Applied Computer Technology is our flagship applied computing degree program at the at the school of science and Technology that addresses the integration, design, deployment and management of computing and telecommunication resources and services, as well as the development of technology infrastructures in organizations. The field of information technology is interdisciplinary, with applications to all aspects of the economy. Our program prepares students to solve complex hardware and software problems requiring fundamental knowledge and competencies with the processes of needs assessment, technology transfer, and user support.
The School of Science and Technology at USIU-Africa offers the Bachelor of Applied Computer Technology program with an array of specializations that prepare students to enter the information industry. Each program specialization requires students to understand hardware and software, but the area emphasis depends upon the student's individual interests. The program requires completion of a common IT core, specialization courses, and a capstone project or internship.
Students choosing to specialization in Networking are typically those who are interested in applying computing and telecommunication tools to a specific domain. Those who choose to specialize in distributed systems and mobile computing are typically students who are keen to join the industry as specialists in the design, development and deployment of mobile or web applications to solve day to day issues in the IT market.
The four years of the program have been carefully structured to meet the following goals: Year 1: breadth and depth of information technology alongside an appreciation of the cross disciplinary nature of the modern day IT solutions; Year 2: tools and applications of information technology; Year 3: software and hardware infrastructure of information technology; and Year 4: management and synthesis of information technology.
Students are involved in information technology club activities which amongst other things provide the student with exposure to an environment that nurtures their technical hands on ability to develop solutions for the hi-tech IT industry. Additionally, the club invites alumni and distinguished guest speakers from industry to share their experience in today’s ever changing technological world. Academic faculty alongside the Centre of Information research and informatics (CIRI) provide students with support and mentorship towards software development both within and outside the university.
The school recognizes the importance of supporting the students towards gaining a competitive edge in fast changing IT job market. It has therefore integrated certifications into the IST curriculum by offering certification courses in Linux, Certified Ethical hacker and Microsoft. Besides, USIU-Africa prides in being a Microsoft academy and a Linux partner.
Applied Computer Technology is our flagship applied computing degree program at the at the school of science and Technology that addresses the integration, design, deployment and management of computing and telecommunication resources and services, as well as the development of technology infrastructures in organizations. The field of information technology is interdisciplinary, with applications to all aspects of the economy. Our program prepares students to solve complex hardware and software problems requiring fundamental knowledge and competencies with the processes of needs assessment, technology transfer, and user support.
The School of Science and Technology at USIU-Africa offers the Bachelor of Applied Computer Technology program with an array of specializations that prepare students to enter the information industry. Each program specialization requires students to understand hardware and software, but the area emphasis depends upon the student's individual interests. The program requires completion of a common IT core, specialization courses, and a capstone project or internship.
Students choosing to specialization in Networking are typically those who are interested in applying computing and telecommunication tools to a specific domain. Those who choose to specialize in distributed systems and mobile computing are typically students who are keen to join the industry as specialists in the design, development and deployment of mobile or web applications to solve day to day issues in the IT market.
The four years of the program have been carefully structured to meet the following goals: Year 1: breadth and depth of information technology alongside an appreciation of the cross disciplinary nature of the modern day IT solutions; Year 2: tools and applications of information technology; Year 3: software and hardware infrastructure of information technology; and Year 4: management and synthesis of information technology.
Admission to undergraduate degree programs are based on academic achievement at the secondary school level. These include Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) scores of C+ and above, five (5) credits in any five (5) subjects at the Kenya Certificate of Education (KCE) or East Africa Certificate of Education (EACE).
High school graduation is required for admission to USIU-Africa. High school or secondary school students must submit an official transcript of records showing date of graduation. USIU-Africa recognizes two equivalent ways of meeting the graduation requirement: General Educational Development (GED) certificate (applicant must have a minimum score of 45 on each of the five sections and an overall score of 250 or higher) or State High School Proficiency Examination (applicant must pass this examination).
First time freshmen U.S. citizens/permanent residents must submit their SAT or ACT results. The results are evaluated in conjunction with the high school grade point average.
International applicants are considered for admission on the same basis as local applicants but must also demonstrate English proficiency. All students for whom English is not a first language are required to show English proficiency before beginning an academic program.
All international students must provide evidence of English language proficiency. Undergraduate applicants must have a score of 550 or higher (213 computer based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Applicants may also submit results of the Cambridge Test of English Proficiency. A grade of C or better is required. Students from countries where English is the official language will be exempt from the USIU-Africa English proficiency requirement unless their academic performance at USIU-Africa reveals the need for additional English language study. Academic performance at USIU-Africa may reveal the necessity for further English language study by a student. The University reserves the right to make the final determination of a student's English proficiency level in all cases.
The university offers Campus based work opportunities through initiatives like the work study program which will partly finance your program apart from giving students the skills and experience required later in life while in the workplace. For more details, see the Financial aid section.
Add link to financial aid section
Upon successful completion of their degree, students who take this program me join careers as described below:-
Networking: - students who take up specializations in networking can expect to perform tasks such as network administration, network design and deployment, web application development, network maintenance, network troubleshooting, network configuration, network security design and network management.
Software engineering: - students who take up specializations in software engineering can expect to perform tasks such as software requirements gathering, estimation and analysis, software testing and quality assurance, software process and project management, software usability design, Human Computer interaction, software design and architecture, systems analysis and design, systems development and deployment, systems maintenance, platforms and architectural design, system security design, mobile application development, web application development, backend systems design and development, systems integration, systems migration and portability
Security: - information systems security, forensic accounting and fraud investigation, systems security analysis and appraisal, IT systems security audit, IT and cybercrime, cryptography and network security, computer forensics and investigation, backend systems security design, ethical hacking.
Students get a chance to be attached to industry through internships where they spend a semester under the mentorship of a supervisor in industry and receive support from a member of faculty. Students get exposed to real-world work environments in a variety of industries and some internships convert into job opportunities.
This is a four year program that focuses on computer technologies. The Information Systems Technology degree program aims at educating students in all program levels in order to provide them with the knowledge, interest, and ethics to become productive members of the information systems profession. The IST Program is designed as per the requirements of the two accrediting bodies, the Commission for University Education (CUE) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
The Bachelor of Information Systems Technology program at USIU, offers students the opportunity to earn their degree through both theoretical and practical-based courses. Students benefit from state-of-the-art software lab, hardware lab and five teaching labs containing over 200 PCs, 5 servers 3 routers, 10 Switches, 2 Autonomous Wireless Access Points, and WLAN Controllers for stand-alone and controller-based WI-FI technologies. These facilities also boast a 20 PC Workstation lab which supports all Linux, Certified Ethical Hacker and Microsoft Academy courses, including MCSE, LPI and CEH certifications. All classes in this program are offered in a laboratory environment and all material delivered by faculty is supported by an online learning platform.
Students are involved in information technology club activities which amongst other things expose students to IT solutions as used in the business environment. The club also invites alumni and distinguished speakers from industry to deliver guest lectures on topical issues affecting the IT industry. Academic faculty alongside the Centre of Information research and informatics (CIRI) provide students with support and mentorship towards software development both within and outside the university.
The school recognizes the importance of supporting the students towards gaining a competitive edge in fast changing IT job market. It has therefore integrated certifications into the IST curriculum by offering certification courses in Linux, Certified Ethical hacker and Microsoft. Besides, USIU prides in being a Microsoft academy and a Linux partner.
Learn More about certifications.
The mission of the Bachelor of Science in IST is to prepare students for jobs in the marketplace which demand IT systems and skills. Today’s Industry technology interfaces with business tasks in every function and department. As such this course aims at preparing students for dynamic jobs in the information systems and technology industry.
When you put all the pieces of an IST education together, you will gain a formidable array of skills and knowledge, including:-
The program is supposed to produce IST specialists who are capable of solving IT oriented business problems. The students are grounded in technical specialties and also core business concepts. The specialties are in systems development, networking and security. The program delivers a blend of soft skills alongside technical abilities which are increasingly useful in today’s modern economy.
The university offers Campus based work opportunities through initiatives like the work study program which will partly finance your program apart from giving students the skills and experience required later in life while in the workplace. For more details, see the Financial aid section.
Upon successful completion of their degree, students who take this program me join careers as described below:-
Networking: - students who take up specializations in networking can expect to perform tasks such as network administration, network design and deployment, web application development, network maintenance, network troubleshooting, network configuration, network security design and network management.
Applications: - students who take up specializations in applications can expect to perform tasks such as systems analysis and design, systems development and deployment, systems maintenance, platforms and architectural design, system security design, mobile application development, web application development, backend systems design and development, systems integration, systems migration and portability.
Security: - students who take up specializations in security can expect to perform tasks such as systems security design, systems security analysis and appraisal, systems security audit, cryptography and network security, information security forensics and incidence response, backend systems security design, ethical hacking.
Students get a chance to be attached to industry through internships where they spend a semester under the mentorship of a supervisor in industry and receive support from a member of faculty. Students get exposed to real-world work environments in a variety of industries and some internships convert into job opportunities.
The Data Science and Analytics program aims to produce uniquely trained graduates with the core mathematical and computer science knowledge and skills needed to present, analyze and ultimately understand data sets. This program is designed to equip students with expertise knowledge and skills in multiple technical disciplines from computer science, mathematics, modelling (applied mathematics) and statistics.
The program inculcates in students the requisite knowledge, skills and attitudes required to unearth value and meaning from large voluminous data to help businesses and organizations make data informed decisions. Throughout the training, students will learn the essentials of data science and analytics through the study of data management, algorithmics and data analysis. Students will design and build data-driven systems for decision-making in the private or public sector, offering a thorough training in predictive, descriptive, and prescriptive analytics. Graduates of the program will develop problem-solving, critical, analytical, and computational and communication skills that will enable them to turn vast quantities of data into insight.
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
To obtain admission into the program, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
Graduates will venture into the following careers:
The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering program prepares students for successful careers as software engineers by providing them with an experiential learning opportunity that enables them to apply knowledge that can solve real-world problems.
The program strives to impart students with knowledge and skills that enable them to design, code, test and manage quality-measured software systems. Graduates should be able to design and develop solutions that are dependable, secure, reliable, and that adhere to the user requirements.
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering program, students will be expected to:
To obtain admission into the program, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
Graduates will venture into the following careers:
The USIU-Africa Pharmacy program is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in different pharmacy practice settings, management and research. In particular, both the industrial and hospital arms of our program have been so enhanced as to bring out the best of knowledge, skills, ethics, values, style and success in our graduates. The program focuses on the development, application and effective management of Pharmaceutical technology as a fundamental tool of modern healthcare. This is why USIU-Africa has invested heavily in the best equipped laboratories and library of any pharmacy program in the region.. The Bachelor of Pharmacy Program is designed as per the requirements of the two accrediting bodies, the Commission for University Education (CUE) and the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The USIU – Africa Bachelor of Pharmacy is also accredited and regulated by the Kenya Pharmacy & Poisons Board.
The B Pharm programme at USIU – Africa is delivered through face to face learning and applying multimedia teaching strategies. This enables to model holistic professional pharmacists currently desired who measure up across the entire spectra of the Pharmacy profession from Pharmacy education, Clinical Pharmacy, Industrial Pharmacy and Pharmaco-economics. This is achieved by the expansive state of the art laboratories for different specialties well equipped for analytical work in areas of Chemistry – Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, Flame photometry, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, Gas Chromatography, Elemental Analyzers, Poentiostat and Thermo-Gravimetry Analyser; Pharmaceutical Analysis – Polarimeter, digital tablet hardness tester, Disintegration/dissolution apparatus, HPLC: Physiology / Pathology/Anatomy – Kymographs, Opthamoscope, Power lab teaching system, electrocardiograms and the Langedorf among others. Additional teaching infrastructure like no other in the region entails a Pharmacy Skills Laboratory for students’ skills development in handling patients alongside a Research & Development Unit that mimics the pharmaceutical manufacturing set up.
Applicants must have met the minimum entry requirements for the pharmacy degree course in Kenya.
a. KCSE System of Education
Applicants must have obtained an average weight of B- provided that no subject in this cluster shall have a grade below C+.
Option A | Option B |
Chemistry | Biological Sciences |
Biology | Physical Sciences |
Maths/Physics | Mathematics |
English/Kiswahili | English/Kiswahili |
b. A-Level
A minimum of two principal passes in Biology and Chemistry and a subsidiary pass or credit pass at “O” level in Physics or Mathematics.
Biology | Principal |
Chemistry | Principal |
Physics/Mathematics | Subsidiary |
General paper | Pass |
c. Diploma in Biological Sciences
A minimum “O” level Division II KCE with credit in the following:
Option A | Option B | Option C |
Biology | Biology | Biological Sciences |
Chemistry | Physics with Chemistry | Physical sciences |
Physics/Mathematics | Mathematics | Mathematics |
OR
A mean grade of C in KCSE with a minimum score of C plain in each of the cluster subjects above and a credit pass in the following qualifications from training institution recognised by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
Diploma holders in
d. Holders of degree in Biological Sciences or equivalent from a recognised University.
e. The provisions of the PPB Credit Waiver Policy Guidelines shall apply.
This curriculum shall be administered in English. This means applicants from non-English speaking countries must sit and pass English assessment examination set and administered by institutions recognised by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
Applied Biochemistry focuses on knowledge and techniques in biochemistry that can be applied to solve challenges relating to improving health and nutrition, forensics, increasing agricultural and manufacturing productivity and sustaining the environment.
The program focuses on three main areas: Industrial Biochemistry which focuses on application of biological molecules for medical, industrial, environmental, agricultural for analytical purposes; Medical Biochemistry which equips students with knowledge, skills, attitude and understanding of the fundamental importance of biochemistry, with particular reference to the ways in which this relates to health issues, molecular basis of disease, biochemical basis of drug based therapy and an understanding in development of new medical treatments, and Forensic Biochemistry which equips students with knowledge and skills of how to obtain evidence from biological materials for use in law enforcement, criminal justice, homeland security and related fields.
The program is thus aligned to the University’s philosophy as articulated in the mission outcomes of higher order thinking; literacy; global understanding and multicultural perspective; preparedness for career; community service; and leadership and ethics.
The goal of the program is to develop a critical mass of graduates with biochemical knowledge, the state-of-the-art skills, and professional attitude that can match the needs of industries, health care facilities, learning and research institutions.
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Applied Biochemistry program, students will be able to:
To obtain admission into the program, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
Option A - Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics/Physics, English
Option B - Biological Sciences /Chemistry Physical Sciences /Mathematics, English
Graduates will venture into careers in research institutions, medical laboratory technicians, food and beverages and quality assurance industries, academia, pharmaceutical companies, nutritional counseling, forensic laboratory technicians and self-employment in a biochemical/ biotechnological entrepreneurship.
This program is anchored in the belief that graduates who are well equipped with appropriate knowledge, skills and values deliver excellent professional services. The program is thus designed to instill the requisite knowledge, skills and attitudes for designing, conducting and analyzing samples using analytical instrumentation, write reports and manage a laboratory.
The program objectives contribute to the University mission outcomes which are higher order thinking; literacy; global understanding and multicultural perspective; preparedness for career; community service; and leadership and ethics.
The goal of the Bachelor of Technology in Analytical Chemistry is to provide students with hands-on practical experiences in the laboratory in the core areas of analytical chemistry such as instrumentation, quality control and quality assurance of laboratory practices.
Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to conceptualize, identify and collect relevant chemical data and present findings in a scientific context.
Upon completion of the BTech. in Analytical Chemistry program, students will be able to:
To obtain admission into the program, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
or
or
or
or
Graduates should be able to launch a successful career in both public and private sectors within a broad range of scientific spectrum such as laboratory assistants, laboratory technologists and managers or pursuing various chemistry research opportunities.
The USIU-A BSc. in Epidemiology and Biostatistics is designed to teach the fundamentals of both Epidemiology and Biostatistics at undergraduate level, and the pursuit of epidemiological research knowledge in areas like population-based clinical or interventional research and analysis. The program is aimed at creating a “set to go 3-in-1” professional with dual knowledge and ability to support health research from data collection all the way to analysis and presentation.
The BSc. in Epidemiology and Biostatistics is a four-year program comprised of 58 courses with 16 practical sessions, including a practical sessions in Pharmaco-epidemiology and Drug Safety, the cornerstone of treatment of diseases. In addition, students will undertake eight (8) mini-surveys and industry attachment as a requirement to graduate. Upon graduation, they will be able to: use epidemiologic knowledge and skills to respond to a variety of practical situations that impact on public health; employ biostatistical methods to respond to public health issues; apply appropriate laws and ethics in assuring population public health; interpret research results of statistical analyses in public health; use relevant statistical software to organize, analyze, and report on life science research data; and develop plans for data management and analysis using appropriate statistical techniques.
Graduates from this dual program will have a wide range of career options: they are in high demand in Universities to research and teach health and health-related professions; in Government, especially National Health Services, to lead and/or support in all health-related areas, including the practice of public health and preventive medicine; in Non-Governmental Organizations to refine methods of measuring and evaluating disease occurrence, development and recommend public health policy; in Health Management Organizations to inform on diagnostic-related groups and management policies; and in International Healthcare Agencies and Industry for contract research related to pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medicine, health care, clinical trials, health education, software development and other specialized sciences and medical fields. One unique feature of this program is in the courses such as Biostatistical Consultancy, Strategic management and Entrepreneurial Behavior and Ethics, which will prepare graduates for leadership positions and self-employment.
Unlike the common perception, USIU-Africa programs are very affordable. Visit our website, www.usiu.ac.ke, for the latest information on fee structure and application procedures as well as the admission requirements. Like all other USIU-Africa academic programs, BSc. Epidemiology & Biostatistics has dual accreditation in Kenya and the United States of America by the Commission for University Education (CUE) and WASC Senior College and University Commission, respectively.
The BSc. in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at USIU-Africa is delivered through face to face learning and applying multimedia teaching strategies in classrooms with LCD projectors, whiteboard, marker pens, and audio visual equipment. Students use well-equipped computer laboratories with the following statistical computing software: Microsoft Excel, SPSS, EpiInfo, R-programming and NVivo (for qualitative data analysis). In addition, student are encouraged to have laptops with SPSS and other statistical/computing packages installed. Students have access to e-learning platform through the Library for peer-reviewed journals. Teaching of epidemiology and biostatistics involves data collection and analysis as well as review of articles in peer-reviewed journals.
To obtain admission into the programme, an applicant must satisfy one of the following requirements:
Application forms for admission may be obtained from the USIU-Africa website or by contacting:
Admissions Office,
United States International University-Africa,
P.O. Box 14634-00800,
Nairobi, Kenya.
Telephone: 254-20-3606000/3606300
Fax: 254-20-3606100
E-mail: admit@usiu.ac.ke
All applicants are expected to satisfy procedures and criteria for admission to USIU-Africa and to submit acceptable certified documents that verify that they have satisfactorily completed all admission requirements. Students who meet all requirements will be considered for acceptance to the University. Conditionally admitted students must present the required documents within their first semester of study. Failure to do so will prohibit further registration. The admissions office processes applications for admission on a continuous basis year-round. However, application deadlines are as follows:
Semester | Undergraduate | Graduate |
Fall (September) | June 30th | June 30th |
Spring (January) | September 30th | September 30th |
Summer (May) | March 15th | March 15th |
All applicants must complete the application for admission and submit it to the admissions office. A non-refundable processing fee must accompany the application.
Students from abroad are advised to purchase an international money order drawn on a US bank for USD 50 to pay the non-refundable processing fee. Students may also wire the non-refundable processing fee the University bank account.
Bachelor of Arts in Animation
The Bachelor of Arts in Animation program mirrors the University vision, mission, and mission outcomes. The fundamental philosophy of the program is to encourage innovation, experimentation, imagination, creativity, multi-cultural approach and critical thinking in students with a passion for visual arts, drawing and storytelling with the goal of creating animation work that stands out in the global industry. The program incorporates into its curriculum a theoretical and critical approach to the development and research of digital art forms as well as creating original content for TV, film, advertising and other media.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Bachelor of Arts in Animation program will be to prepare students for entry-level employment in the digital animation industry and/or further studies at the graduate level.
Program Learning Outcomes
In addition to the university wide outcomes of: higher order thinking; oral and written competence; scientific and technological literacy; global understanding and multicultural perspectives; and service to the community whose foundation is laid by the General Education Program (see section on General Education), the following are the Bachelor of Arts in Animation program-specific Learning Outcomes:
Key Features of the Program
The BAA program prepares students for entry-level employment in the digital animation industry and/or further studies at the graduate level. It incorporates into its curriculum a theoretical and critical approach to the development and research on digital art forms. We understand that animation is closely related to film but it’s not just about that. We expose the students to the physics, the architecture, and generally wider understanding of animation and how it can be used beyond animated film. USIU’s BAA is a first in Kenya and the region. No other university offers a BA in Animation without tagging along other courses like film, etc.
We train our students in our state-of-the -art animation labs which are spacious and well equipped with top notch range of iMacs and software. The idea is to give our students limitless opportunities for creativity.
At each level/year of study, students produce tangible outputs in terms of real animated projects so that by the time they graduate, they seamlessly fit in and actually challenge the industry.
We teach them to think outside the box to come up with solutions to industry challenges. Given the new dimensions and opportunities in the animation industry, plans are underway to develop a Gaming concentration so that our graduates are not only standing out in film animation, but also in the currently trending gaming industry. BAA graduates find relevance in basically every audiovisual platform including advertising, broadcast journalism and film making.
With a strong emphasis on both theory and practical skills, the Bachelor of Film and Production Degree seeks to create films professionals who are well versed in the aesthetics and technical aspects of film production and directing. The program aims at helping Kenya and other African countries meet the local media content demand that has been created by the exponential growth of the media industry in the continent.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Bachelor of Arts in Film Production and Directing program will be to prepare students for the rigors of the creative industry by developing their intellectual, managerial, creative, analytical and practical skills to successfully function as professionals and team players in the film creative business.
Program Learning Outcomes
In addition to the university wide outcomes of: higher order thinking; oral and written competence; scientific and technological literacy; global understanding and multicultural perspectives; and service to the community whose foundation is laid by the General Education Program (see section on General Education), the following are the Bachelor of Arts in Film Production and Directing program-specific Learning Outcomes:
Key Features:
It’s a purely film programme, not hidden under other departments like Literature, Theatre, etc. This makes students focus and specialize. We have conducted industry research and found that many film graduates go for industrial attachment or employment while still unable to perform. USIU’s Film Programme comes in to bridge the gap/disconnect between film training in universities and the industry; we want to train graduates who will not strain to fit in the industry for lack of enough practical exposure. Given the rising demand for content, will make a lot of films as they go on with the programme these can be distributed through various avenues including vlogging platforms. We offer highly practical course with very small classes to ensure one-on-one student-instructor interaction. A well-equipped programme that has enough resources for each student in terms of the latest production technologies, equipment and the latest books in the field. We don’t just view film as an art but also business. That way, our film programme prepares our students to create jobs for themselves and for others, instead of waiting to be employed. Career Options: Directors, actors, producers, cinematographers, sound engineers, broadcast industry, among other related areas.
Learning Resources
BA Film Production and Directing program is well equipped with well-furnished film post-production labs that reflect global industry standards on film production. Our high-end filming equipment and updated library and reading resources makes learning practical and pleasurable. In this program, we bring the film industry into the classroom and take classroom out there into the industry, creating a symbiotic synergy that leaves no gap between the two.
Student Clubs
Students in Cinematic Arts and beyond find space to freely experiment and express themselves through creative productions, criticisms and discussions in Film Club, Journalism club and Mchezo Africa, to mention but a few. These expressive spaces enables students to practice what they learn in their formal training outside the classroom. Through these clubs, our students have made their presence felt in major film and performing arts festivals, winning coveted awards.
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
Launched in 1999, BA Journalism is a three and a half year program for aspiring journalists hoping to gain expertise, with a focus on challenges and opportunities in the industry. Graduates emerge with a strong subject-matter grounding that enables them to situate news events in their larger context, to ask more informed questions, and to authoritatively evaluate claims made by sources. During the application process, candidates select to major in one of three concentration areas: broadcast media, print media or public relations.
The program has contributed in establishing a paradigm shift in the regional news reporting especially on television with our alumni renowned for investigative journalism. We have also penetrated the print media industry with our alumni being awarded for their exemplary work. We have an emerging class of students who have penetrated television production in the market with our own internal program of film production which has culminated to the now well publicized film pilot Usoni.
In public relations, we are proud that our alumni have been established as providing a competitive edge to existing PR bodies and their entry into the market has established them as skilled professionals in the field. Our students are renowned actors and actresses, radio personalities in the thriving entertainment market in Kenya.
Admissions
a) Application Information
Requirements for Applicants from Secondary Schools or High Schools
Admission to undergraduate degree programs are based on academic achievement at the secondary school level. These include Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) scores of C+ and above, five (5) credits in any five (5) subjects at the Kenya Certificate of Education (KCE) or East Africa Certificate of Education (EACE).
b) Requirements for Secondary/High School Graduation and Equivalent/ U.S. or International Applicants
High school graduation is required for admission to USIU. High school or secondary school students must submit an official transcript of records showing date of graduation. USIU recognizes two equivalent ways of meeting the graduation requirement: General Educational Development (GED) certificate (applicant must have a minimum score of 45 on each of the five sections and an overall score of 250 or higher) or State High School Proficiency Examination (applicant must pass this examination).
c) Secondary/High School Applicant Test Scores:
First time freshmen U.S. citizens/permanent residents must submit their SAT or ACT results. The results are evaluated in conjunction with the high school grade point average.
d) International Applicants:
International applicants are considered for admission on the same basis as local applicants but must also demonstrate English proficiency. All students for whom English is not a first language are required to show English proficiency before beginning an academic program.
e) English Language Proficiency:
All international students must provide evidence of English language proficiency.
Academic performance at USIU may reveal the necessity for further English language study by a student. The University reserves the right to make the final determination of a student's English proficiency level in all cases.
Future Careers
Where can a Journalism degree take you?
Print: Work in the newspaper and magazine industry as news editors, managing editors, staff writers, reporters, designers and correspondence and photojournalists and online content managers
Broadcast: Work as producers, directors, script writers, editors, production management, actors, news anchors, broadcast journalists, news editors, radio presenters, music directors, program directors, production managers, sales and marketing officers, commercial production for radio
Public Relations – Work as Public relations officers, strategic communication managers, publicists, external & internal relations officers, graphic designers, protocol officers, advertising account managers, copy writers, art directors, and market and communication research officers, advertising production directors, PR and advertising campaign management, event organization, speech writers.
Resources
a) The TV Studio
The TV Studio is where students practice their various TV technical operations such as; Camera Techniques, Lighting Techniques, News Anchoring using the Autocue, Directing Techniques, Vision/Sound Mixing and TV transmission. The services offered in this area encompasses setting up the area to facilitate the instruction of the afore mentioned technical operations as well as assisting students to learn how to use the various equipment available to achieve and acquire the necessary skills, knowledge and experience in operating them.
Of importance, students can book for equipment by sending an email to any of the radio and television studio technicians on the following email addresses:
a) zodera@usiu.ac.ke / ext. 514 – Zerubabbel Odera (Television Studio Technician)
b) wkidula@usiu.ac.ke / ext. 462 – Wilfred Kidula (Radio Studio Technician)
Students book and carry equipment for their use and return upon completion. This is to ensure responsibility and equality is the utilization of the equipment. At the TV studio we have the following services that are offered:
Instructing students on how to use the video cameras and still cameras; instructing students on how to use the red head and white lights and instructing students on how to use sound equipment.
Students who go through these basic instructions of studio equipment maintenance and operation have to take introductory broadcast classes such as Introduction to Broadcast Media – JRN 1105 and Radio Production 1 – JRN 3321, so as to be well equipped with the technical operation of a location camera, studio camera, teleprompter, lighting for studio and location, use of boom microphone, location sound equipment and techniques of making a program. During the Pre- production and production, students are expected to move to the third stage that’s Post Production/ editing of the final project/program.
The Video Editing Suites
The editing suites have several iMac computers which have been installed Final Cut Pro 7, Final Cut Pro X and Adobe CS6 which are used by the students for video editing, gazette and sauti production, editing of photos and website designing. Services provided to students at the editing suites include:
i) Instructing students on how to use Final Cut Pro editing software and any other supporting software such as soundtrack pro and motion.
ii) Instructing students on how to use Adobe Creative Suite 6 software that has different packages such as Adobe premiere pro, in-design, audition, dreamweaver, after effects, and photoshop.
Again the radio and television studio technicians will be there to assist students by training them on how to use these software’s. They can be reached on extension 462 or 514.
b) Radio Studios
USIU Radio has two studios; On-air Radio and Recording Studio.
In the On-air Radio, Students present as News anchors, Show hosts, DJs and producers. Presenters are available from 0800Hrs to 2100hrs.From 2100Hrs to 0800Hrs, DJ mixes and playlists play. This makes USIU 99.9FM a 24 hour Radio Station. Here, students come up with proposals for various programs to be aired live or recorded. In the On-Air Studio, students come to practice studio technical operations such as; On-Air presentations skills, sound Mixing Technique microphone Use and Handling, how to use On-Air Automation Software, how to use On-Air Telephony, Learn how to use On-Air SMS Service and how to use the On-Air Sound Console. The services offered in this area are to expose students to the real world of radio by operating a Radio Station. Students get to experience the real radio environment which gives them unmatched technical capabilities to go about radio production techniques and skills.
In the Recording Studio, Students get to produce programs, Station Ids, Station promos, News demos, preparation of Jingles, Radio drops, and other commercials/adverts. Here, students are instructed on the basics of studio operations ranging from setting up for recording, microphone positioning, use and handling. The students are also taught the Audio mixer and how to control the several channels while using different sources of sound. They are also taught on the functions of recording software such as Adobe Audition. This is where students are oriented on the basics of radio, allowing them have a lot of practical knowhow even before being admitted to the live studio. They get to do voice testing and auditions as well as program demos to properly align them to what is required.
There is also a Radio Production Room, where the Technicians get to listen through programs in the On-air studio in order to do proper adjustments to presentations done by students. Students also get to use the production room to prepare for their programs by arranging their playlists and do final touches to their presentations.
Any Student or Staff of USIU is allowed to present in the Radio Studio. One will undergo training on proposal writing, orientation and mentoring.
Content for the Radio Studio is sourced by the respective host, usually from the Content Creation room, and the checked by the Production team. The Radio and Television Studio Technician together with the Production team then offer censorship where required.
Internships
The program requires that students have a 3 month long experience with media houses, PR firms, advertising firms and any organization that has journalism related departments. Students are expected to exhibit the knowledge silks and attitude required to be a functional communication employee in those organizations. These internships are taken towards the end of the program and are expected to write an inception report and a completion report under the supervision of a faculty member and the industry expert
Alumni Testimonials
Graduates of the USIU journalism program are some of the leading journalists in Kenya today and can be found in the country’s top media houses. Among them are KTN’s John Allan Namu, a 2009 CNN African Journalist of The Year. John is an accomplished investigative reporter. Others in the electronic (TV) media include Cynthia Nyamai (formerly a business reporter with KTN), Aeleen Kinyanjui (formerly of NTV), Merceline Moraa Maroma and Lorna Gitundu and Andrew Ochieng (NTV), Christine Nderitu, Shem Oluchiri & Joel Chacha formerly of KTN.
A number of local FM stations are also staffed by USIU journalism faculty alumni, including Nick Ndeda, and Katherine Kaittany of Hot 96 FM, Tulanana Bohela of BBC, Gerphas Odipo (Hope FM), Kamau Mbote – KBC, Charmaine Mwenesi of Radio Africa, Agnes Barasa and Sheila Kamande formerly of Kiss FM.
The Journalism Program has also had an impact in PR and print. Some of its alumni include Adelaide Changole a sub-editor with the Standard Group, Lola Okulo of The Star newspaper, Amanda Gicharu, a Media Consultant with UNDP, Wangui Ireqi, an Editor with Jetlink Inflight Magazine and Gladys Moru of Ministry of information and Communication among many others.
Zeynab Wandati - “After my graduation on August 21st 2010, I started off my journalism career with an internship in September at Citizen TV, which lasted four months. By March 2011, I had joined Nation Media Group, for a one year training program called the Media Lab, and by the end of the year I was at NTV. Today, I report for NTV Business, with a keen interest in agriculture. I am grateful to USIU for shaping me into the journalist I am today, especially when it comes to ethics and code of conduct of the profession.”
Chris Sang – “The freedom and support I got from USIU and its staff and faculty to pursue my interests in film and T.V production inspired me to go ahead and start my own production company. Now I work as a freelancer in the Film and T.V industry as well as running my own production company.”
Carlos Muriithi - Correspondent -- 'Sunday Nation', Nation Media Group “USIU education prepared me for a career in journalism and beyond. It equipped me with relevant skills and it helped shape my ideas. In addition, it taught me how to confidently face the outside world.”
Student Activities
The Journalism program encourages students to get involved in a student organization such as the journalism club, public speaking to enhance their skills. However, within the program, the students will work pro bono for other departments in the school in production of videos for school events such as Mr & Miss USIU, student awards, culture week, black history month, and any other as requested by other interested parties. They also are selected at most times to take part in MC roles, DJ roles, support of PR and publicity persons for university events. Besides, the department has established an internal film internship program that recruits students to participate in project based film production activities. In a bid to combine theory and practice, faculty has embarked on a curriculum that encourages students to submit practical projects as part of their grades. Ideally, per semester, students develop documentaries, news features, and present work in photography and participate in mock PR event organization that is consumed by the USIU fraternity. Students are encouraged in their senior project course to create a portfolio based on the area of journalism they are passionate about. Over the years, some of these items in their portfolios include autobiographical books, organization of media ethics conference, organization of lifestyle events, video production on issue of their choice and photo galleries. The journalism program operate the USIU-Africa 99.9 FM station which is student ran with full administration and has programming that runs from Monday to Sunday and has a listenership that is 5kms radius from the institution.