Department of Nursing is domiciled within the School of Health Sciences and offers a rigorous and dynamic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) programme. The department was launched March 2021, as one of the departments in the School of Science and has quickly established itself as a Centre of excellence in Nursing sciences.
Students benefit from a blend of classroom instruction and hands on training made possible through strategic partnership with several Hospitals among them the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital, Kisumu County Referral Hospital, Busia County Referral Hospital, KenyanNurse Consultancies among others with formalized MOUs. This collaboration enhances clinical placements and joint research opportunities for both students and staff as well as job prospects for our students.
The Department actively organizes community and professional events that emphasize community outreach and professional growth with activities such as wellness screenings, health education for school learners, campus clean-ups, and tree planting—underlining holistic student development and social responsibility.
Situated on a serene environment within the historic Kaimosi Complex, the university environment supports immersive learning and well-being. The Department benefits from KAFU’s broader institutional commitment competency development through diverse learner engagement and support. The BScN programme is among the most competitive in KUCCPS admissions reflecting its strong demand and with robust academic teaching, community-linked service, and strategic health partnerships, the Nursing Department at KAFU stands as a leading destination for nursing education in Kenya and Beyond
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) is a comprehensive undergraduate degree that prepares individuals for a dynamic and rewarding career in healthcare. This degree not only equips students with foundational knowledge in nursing theory, clinical skills, and patient care but also opens the door to a wide array of professional opportunities across the healthcare sector.
Graduates of a BScN program are qualified to become Registered Nurses (RNs) upon successful completion of their licensing examination in Kenya and overseas. Beyond bedside care, BScN holders can pursue diverse career pathways in areas such as clinical specialization, leadership and management, education, research, and advanced practice nursing.
As healthcare continues to evolve, BScN-prepared nurses play a vital role in improving patient outcomes, shaping healthcare policies, and leading interdisciplinary teams. With further education and experience, they can advance into specialized roles.
Career Pathways in Nursing
The BScN degree thus serves as both a professional foundation and a launchpad for lifelong learning, personal development, and career growth in nursing and beyond. The pathways include but not limited to:
Hospital-Based Practice
- Registered Nurse (RN) in medical-surgical, maternity, pediatric, ICU, emergency, or surgical wards.
- Nurse-in-Charge or Unit Manager after gaining experience.
Specialty Nursing (Further Training Required)
- Critical Care Nurse (ICU, HDU)
- Neonatal Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
- Dialysis Nurse
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse\
- Community Health Nurse
- Public Health Nurse
- Maternal and Child Health Nurse (MCH)
Leadership, Management & Administration
Roles in health systems leadership:
- Nursing Officer-in-Charge (sub-county or county)
- Hospital Matron or Director of Nursing Services
- Health Facility Manager (e.g., in private hospitals or NGOs)
- Policy Analyst (Ministry of Health, SHA)
Education and Training
For nurses passionate about teaching and mentorship:
- Nurse Educator in KMTCs or universities
- Clinical Instructor
- Curriculum Developer or Trainer for CPD programs
- Simulation Lab Coordinator
Research and Academia
Involves evidence-based practice, data, and policy:
- Nursing Researcher
- Clinical Trials Coordinator
- Lecturer/Professor of NursingHealth Systems Research Analyst
Public Health and NGOs
Nurses can work with organizations like WHO, AMREF, Red Cross, MSF:
- Program Officer (HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria)
- Health Education Specialist
- Monitoring & Evaluation Officer
- Emergency Response/Disaster Nurse/ Travel Nurse
- Community Mobilization Specialist
Health Informatics and Technology
Emerging field integrating nursing with IT:
- Health Information Systems Officer
- Nursing Informatics Specialist
Entrepreneurship and Consultancy
- Home Nursing Owner
- Private MCH Clinic Operator
- Health Consultant
- Medical Supply Business
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Trainer
International Opportunities
Kenyan nurses can work abroad after certification or licensure:
- USA
- UK
- Canada
- Australia/New Zealand
- Middle East (UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia)
Policy and Advocacy
- Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK)
- Ministry of Health Policy Units
- Health NGOs and Advocacy Groups
- County Assembly Health Committees
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