The KCSE Requirements For Accounting Degree Courses Explained

Are you interested in strategic decision-making, finance, and numbers? If so, a career as an accountant may be the perfect fit for you. However, like any other course in Kenya, you must meet the requirements to pursue a career in this field. So, what are the minimum KCSE requirements for accounting degree courses?

An accountant is a qualified person who helps businesses and organizations to make critical financial decisions. They are mandated to collect, track, and correct the firms’ finances. In addition, they are responsible for reconciling bank statements, undertaking financial audits, and ensuring the accuracy of financial records throughout the year.

KCSE requirements for accounting

The requirements vary from one learning institute to another. However, for most colleges and universities, degree in accounting and finance requirements are as follows:

• Mean grade of C+ (Plus) at KCSE and at least a C (Plain) in Mathematics or Business Studies, and C+ (Plus) in English
• Or 2 Principal passes and 1 Subsidiary at A’ Level plus at least a credit in English and Mathematics at O’Level.
• Or CPA/CPS Part 1
• Or Diploma in Business related discipline
• Or CPA part I and II
• Or Higher Diploma in Business related discipline or CPA Part III.

Learning outcomes and curriculum setup for a degree in accounting

After meeting the basic minimum requirement for a degree in accounting and enrolling at the learning institute of your choice, the expected learning outcomes are:

• Ability to conduct business and managerial functions
• Prepare financial statements for all entities
• Interpret financial statements
• Conduct audit and investigation functions, including forensic audits

Below is a list of some core units you will cover at the university level to achieve all the learning outcomes outlined above.

Year 1 semester 1

• Principles Of Management
• Introduction to Microeconomics
• Introduction To Computer Studies and Internet
• Introduction To Business Studies
• Financial Accounting I
• Communication Skills
• Basic Mathematics

Year 1 semester 2

• Introduction To Macroeconomics
• Introduction To Financial Management
• Health And Wellness Management
• Financial Accounting II
• Development Studies And Ethics
• Business Law

Year 2 semester 1

• Public Finance
• Principles of Auditing
• Financial Management
• Cost Accounting
• Business Statistics I
• Accounting For Assets   

Year 2 semester 2

• Monetary Theory And Practice
• Management Accounting I
• International Finance
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Financial Institutions And Markets
• Company Law   

Year 3 semester 1

• Research Methods
• Public Sector Accounting
• Principles of Taxation
• Micro Enterprise Finance
• Financial Modeling And Forecasting
• Development Finance
• Advanced Financial Accounting I

Year 3 semester 2

• Investment Analysis And Portfolio Management
• Introduction to Computerized Business Accounting
• Advanced Taxation
• Advanced Financial Accounting II  

Year 4 semester 1

• Specialized Accounting
• Real Estate Finance       
• Financial Risk Management
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Business Statistics II
• Advanced Auditing     

Year 4 semester 2

• Research Project
• Management Decision Models
• Management Accounting II
• Industrial Attachment
• Financial Asset Management
• Contemporary Issues In Financial Management

Where to study accounting in Kenya

After meeting the minimum requirements for a KCSE accounting degree, you can enrol in either of the following learning institutes:

• Kenyatta University, Nairobi
• University of Nairobi, Nairobi
• Africa Nazarene University, Nairobi
• Kabarak University, Nakuru
• KCA University, Nairobi
• Tharaka University College, Tharaka Nithi
• Kibabii University, Bungoma
• Baraton College, Kapsabet town
• Catholic University of Eastern Africa Gaba Campus, Eldoret
• Catholic University of Eastern Africa Kisumu Campus, Kisumu
• Catholic University of Eastern Africa Faculty of Commerce, Nairobi
• Daystar University Mombasa Campus, Mombasa
• Daystar University, Nairobi Campus, Nairobi
• Rongo University, Rongo
• Pioneer International University, Nairobi
• Mount Kenya University (School of Business and Management), Thika
• Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa
• KCA University, Kitengela Campus, Kitengela
• JKUAT Nairobi CBD Campus, Nairobi
• Technical University of Kenya, Nairobi

Career opportunities for accountants in Kenya

The Bachelor of Science in Accounting offers learners an opportunity to pursue careers in several fields, such as:

• Management Accountants
• Public Finance Accountants
• Company Secretaries
• Forensic Accountants
• Stockbrokers
• Revenue Officers
• Financial Analysts
• Budget Controllers

Where can an accountant work?

As an accountant in Kenya, you have numerous options for potential workplaces. Some of the places you can thrive as an account include:

Accounting firms

A qualified accountant is eligible to work in different accounting firms. Here, you get to work with diverse clients, such as individuals and businesses of all sizes, leading to exposure to different industries. It also allows you to develop a broad skill set.

Corporations and multinational companies

Most local and multinational corporations require their in-house accounting departments. Therefore, when you land a spot in such an organization, you will enjoy career growth, job stability, and an opportunity to be part of a finance team.

Government agencies

Accountants can work in various government entities at the national and county levels. Most of these entities require finance management, regulation compliance, and accurate financial reporting.

Financial institutions

Numerous financial institutions, including banks and insurance companies, have an accounting department. As an accountant, your role in such places includes handling internal auditing, financial analysis, and regulatory compliance.

Non-profit organizations

Numerous non-profit organizations and charities also require accountants. These firms require skilled personnel to manage their finances and ensure proper fund allocation.

Advantages of being an accountant in Kenya

Once you embark on a career as an accountant, you will be prone to various advantages. Here are some compelling reasons why many people consider this profession a rewarding choice:

• High demand - Accountants are always in high demand in public and private sector organizations. Therefore, this career guarantees a good job.
• Job security - As long as firms require financial management, there will always be a constant demand for accountants, which equates to job stability and security.
• Wide range of opportunities - Accountants have endless career possibilities, including accounting firms, government agencies, and banks.
• Professional growth - Accounting provides remarkable opportunities for professional growth because you climb the career ladder as you enhance your skills and gain experience.

Disadvantages of being an account

Like any other career, working as an accountant has disadvantages, which are important to consider before settling on. Some of them include:

• Continuous learning due to its ever-evolving and dynamic nature.
• Demanding workloads, especially during peak seasons such as financial reporting deadlines and tax seasons.
• Responsibility and pressure, since handling finances is critical, come with lots of pressure.
• It is detail-oriented since oversights or small errors can have significant financial implications.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can you do accounting with D Plain? You can do accounting with D Plain at the certificate level.
2. What do you need to be an accountant in Kenya? You need a degree from a recognized university or Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE) with at least two Principal passes.
3. What are the requirements for a KCSE accounting degree? A mean grade of C+ (Plus) at KCSE and at least a C (Plain) in Mathematics or Business Studies, and C+ (Plus) in English
4. Are accountants in demand in Kenya? Yes. Accountants are always in high demand due to the constant need for qualified professionals.
5. Is accounting a marketable course? Yes. It is one of Kenya's best-paying and most marketable business courses today.
6. What qualification is best for accounting? ACCA is a widely recognized and respected accountancy qualification.
7. How much do qualified accountants earn? The amount varies from one job description to another.

Final word

The above are the minimum KCSE requirements for accounting. Learners who undertake the course can work in various firms, including management, accounting, investment, and other financial firms. Additionally, they can work in the banking, capital markets, and insurance sectors.

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