Diploma in Food Technology
Diploma in Food Technology in Kenya: Colleges, Careers, and How to Apply
Apply today for a rewarding career in food science and processing. The Diploma in Food Technology is a practical course examined by KNEC and offered in top private and public colleges across Kenya. Learn more about what the course entails, entry qualifications, career prospects, tuition fees, and where to study. Enroll now and become part of Kenya’s growing food industry.
What is Diploma in Food Technology?
The Diploma in Food Technology is a technical course that equips learners with knowledge and skills in food processing, preservation, quality assurance, and safety. Students learn how to analyze, prepare, and package food products using both traditional and modern technology.
Role of a Food Technology Graduate: Graduates play a key role in ensuring food safety, extending shelf life, and maintaining nutrition in food production. They work in manufacturing plants, research labs, quality control departments, and food inspection agencies.
Importance in today’s world: With increasing demand for safe and nutritious food, this course is crucial in supporting Kenya’s food security, industrialization, and health goals.
How it differs from related programs:
- Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics: Focuses on health and diet planning rather than food manufacturing processes.
- Diploma in Agriculture: Concerned with crop and livestock production, not food processing.
- Diploma in Analytical Chemistry: Broader scope in chemical analysis, not limited to food science.
Overview of the Program
- Duration: 3 years (including industrial attachment)
- Examination Body: Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC)
Curriculum Overview
- Introduction to Food Technology
- Food Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Food Processing and Preservation
- Food Quality Control and Assurance
- Nutrition and Health
- Food Engineering
- Packaging and Labeling
- Entrepreneurship and Business Planning
- Industrial Attachment
Entry Requirements
- KCSE Mean Grade: C- (Minus) or higher
- Mandatory Subjects: Biology or Chemistry, English or Kiswahili
Accreditation and Regulation
- Accredited by TVETA
- Examined by KNEC
- Registered colleges regulated by the Ministry of Education
Tuition Fees and Financial Support
- Fees range: Ksh 50,000 – Ksh 90,000 per year
- HELB loans available for eligible students in approved institutions
Can the Course Be Studied Online?
Some colleges offer blended learning options, but practical units require physical attendance.
Top Colleges Offering the Course in Kenya
- Kenya Institute of Food Science and Technology – Nairobi | kifst.ac.ke
- Rift Valley Technical Training Institute – Eldoret | rvtti.ac.ke
- Mombasa Technical Training Institute – Mombasa | mtti.ac.ke
- Nyeri National Polytechnic – Nyeri | nyerinp.ac.ke
- Eldoret Polytechnic – Eldoret | eldopoly.ac.ke
Public Colleges: Affordable fees, eligible for HELB, recognized by employers, but may have fewer intakes per year.
Private Colleges: Flexible intakes, smaller class sizes, modern facilities. Slightly higher fees but more personalized training.
Career Opportunities and Job Market
Can I get a job after studying Diploma in Food Technology in Kenya? Absolutely. Kenya’s food manufacturing sector is expanding rapidly. Graduates can find employment in:
- Food Processing Companies
- Government Food Inspection Agencies
- Quality Control Laboratories
- NGOs focused on nutrition and food safety
- Supermarkets, Bakeries, Dairy, and Beverage Industries
Job Roles
- Food Technologist
- Quality Control Officer
- Production Supervisor
- Lab Technician (Food Testing)
- Food Safety Officer
Salary Expectations
Entry-level professionals earn between Ksh 25,000 – Ksh 50,000 per month. With experience and specialization, this can rise to over Ksh 100,000.
Why Choose Food Technology?
Upon completing this course, graduates should be able to:
- Apply scientific principles in food processing and safety
- Ensure quality assurance in production lines
- Develop and test new food products
- Implement hygiene and food safety procedures
- Start small-scale food processing businesses
Challenges and Considerations
- Some job roles require working in shifts or in industrial settings
- Practical coursework requires access to labs and equipment
- Must stay updated with food safety regulations and innovations
Education Progression / Upgrade
- Degree in Food Science and Technology
- Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics
- Short courses in HACCP, ISO 22000, and food safety
- Master’s or postgraduate diplomas for advanced specialization
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the minimum grade for Diploma in Food Technology in Kenya?
A KCSE mean grade of C- (Minus) - How much does the diploma cost?
Between Ksh 50,000 – Ksh 90,000 per year - Which is the best college for Food Technology in Kenya?
Kenya Institute of Food Science & Technology and RVTTI are top choices - Is this course marketable in Kenya?
Yes. It supports food security, industrialization, and safety standards - Can I upgrade to a degree?
Yes, via recognized universities offering Food Science or related courses
Conclusion
The Diploma in Food Technology is a practical and marketable course for students passionate about food production, safety, and innovation. It opens doors to employment and entrepreneurship in one of Kenya’s most essential sectors. Apply today and join a program that combines science with real-world impact.
Ready to begin? Enroll now at a top college in Kenya and take the first step toward your future in food technology!