BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BIOLOGY)

Programme Code    1470111

PHILOSOPHY OF THE PROGRAM
The Bachelor of Science in Biology programme is founded on the principle that biological sciences are central to understanding life processes and addressing global challenges in health, agriculture, environment and biotechnology.
The Department of Physical, Biological & Agricultural Sciences is committed to developing highly skilled graduates through quality teaching, research and community engagement in alignment with the University’s vision and mission.

The programme integrates:

1. Theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills;
2. Field-based experiential learning;
3. Application of modern technologies, including ICT and biotechnology tools;
4. Interdisciplinary approaches linking biology with health, agriculture and environmental sciences.

The programme fosters a student-centered, inquiry-based learning environment that promotes critical thinking, innovation and problem-solving, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to scientific advancement and societal development.

Objectives (Key Goals and Learning Outcomes)

Goal of the Programme
To produce graduates with comprehensive knowledge, practical competencies and research skills in biological sciences, capable of addressing contemporary challenges in health, agriculture, environment and biotechnology.

Specific Objectives
The programme aims to:
i. Provide a strong foundation in core biological disciplines.
ii. Equip students with laboratory, field and analytical skills.
iii. Develop graduates capable of conducting research, innovation and consultancy.
iv. Prepare graduates for employment in biological science-related sectors.
v. Promote critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving abilities.
vi. Instil ethical standards, environmental responsibility and professionalism.
vii. Prepare graduates for postgraduate studies and lifelong learning.

Expected Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:
i. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge across major biological disciplines, including botany, zoology, microbiology, physiology, ecology, parasitology, molecular biology, entomology, immunology and biochemistry.
ii. Apply biological principles to solve problems in health, agriculture, industry and environmental management.
iii. Conduct laboratory and field investigations, analyze data and interpret results scientifically.
iv. Utilize modern laboratory techniques and ICT tools in biological research and applications.
v. Engage in research, innovation and extension services in biology-related fields.
vi. Communicate scientific findings effectively through reports, presentations and publications.
vii. Demonstrate ethical practice, environmental stewardship and professional responsibility.
viii. Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and diverse professional environments.

Mode of Delivery
The programme is delivered through:

1. Face-to-face lectures and tutorials
2. Laboratory practical sessions
3. Field visits and excursions
4. Assignments, seminars and student presentations
5. Blended and e-learning (where applicable)

Duration

Four (4) academic years for full-time students, subject to University Senate regulations.

Admission Requirements
Candidates must satisfy the following:

a) Minimum Entry Requirements

1. Meet University admission requirements with a minimum KCSE mean grade of C+ (Plus)

b) Subject Requirements

1. At least:
   i. C+ in Biology
   ii. C+ in English or Kiswahili
   iii. C+ in Mathematics
   iv. C+ in Chemistry
   v. C+ in Geography or Agriculture

c) KUCCPS Placement

Must meet cut-off points set by Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service, based on subject cluster:
i. Mathematics
ii. Biology
iii. Physical Sciences
iv. Group V (Technical subjects)
(Cluster requirements may vary annually.)

d) Diploma Entry

Diploma holders in Biology or related fields:
i. Credit/Distinction: Direct entry into Second Year
ii. Pass: Admission into First Year

e) Equivalent Qualifications
Equivalent qualifications recognized by the University Senate.

Schedule of Intakes (Admission Periods in Academic Year)

Every September of the year.

How to Apply (Application Process and Platforms)

Government-Sponsored Students (KUCCPS Way)
Step 1: Apply through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) during the national placement window.
Step 2: Select BSc Biology in KAFU.
Step 3: KUCCPS places students based on KCSE results, cluster points and available slots.
Step 4: Once placed, the University issues an admission letter with reporting instructions.
Step 5: Student registers online or physically during orientation, submits required documents and pays fees.

Admission Procedure
Sign Up on Jiunge
Key in your personal details and verify your email address

Programme application
Apply to Kaimosi Friends University on https://kafu.jiunge.com/

Pay Fees

Application review and feedback
Check email for a notification from Jiunge after Kaimosi Friends Registry department has reviewed your application.

Required Documents: KCSE result slip, birth certificate, national ID, passport photos and KUCCPS placement letter.

Privately Sponsored Students (Direct University Application)
Step 1: Visit the University’s official website or admissions office.
Step 2: Fill out the online or manual application form for BSc Biology.
Step 3: Pay the application fee through JIUNGE APP.
Step 4: Submit scanned copies of KCSE certificate/result slip, ID, birth certificate and passport photos.
Step 5: University reviews eligibility (minimum C+ in KCSE, with Biology and related sciences).
Step 6: Successful applicants receive an admission letter with fee structure and reporting dates and instruction.
Step 7: Student registers online or physically during orientation, submits required documents and pays fees.

Programme application
Apply to Kaimosi Friends University on https://kafu.jiunge.com/

Pay Application Fees
Pay KES 1000 for the Bachelor’s degree

Application review and feedback
Check email for a notification from Jiunge after Kaimosi Friends University Registry department has reviewed your application.

Career Opportunities (Potential Career Paths)

1. Research and academia – Laboratory research, teaching, or postgraduate studies (MSc).
2. Healthcare and Biomedical Fields – Clinical laboratory technologist, public health officer, biomedical research assistant.
3. Environmental and conservation work – Wildlife conservation, forestry services, environmental consultancy, NGOs.
4. Agriculture and Biotechnology – Agricultural extension, crop science, genetic engineering, biotech firms.
5. Government and regulatory agencies – Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Ministry of Health, KEFRI.
6. Industry and private sector – Pharmaceutical companies, food and beverage quality control, bioinformatics, ecological consultancy.
7. Science communication and policy – Scientific writing, policy advisory roles, NGOs focusing on sustainability and biodiversity.

Industrial Attachment Opportunities (Available Internships and School Support)

1. The Department of PBAS coordinates placements and ensures students are attached to relevant institutions.
2. Involves agreements with institutions for collaborative research and training through official requests by the Dean School of Science through the DVC ASA&R.
3. KAFU also offers attachment to its own students.

Government and Public Sector

1. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) – Conservation, biodiversity monitoring, ecological research.
2. National Museums of Kenya (NMK) – Taxonomy, biodiversity documentation, natural history collections.
3. Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) – Forestry, plant sciences, environmental biology.
4. National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) – Environmental impact assessments, policy support.
5. Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) – Biomedical and public health research.
6. County governments – health, environment sections.

NGOs and International Organizations

1. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Kenya) – Conservation biology, community-based projects.
2. African Conservation Centre (ACC) – Wildlife ecology, biodiversity monitoring.
3. International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) – Genetics, microbiology, agricultural biology.
4. Nature Kenya – Ornithology, biodiversity advocacy.
5. ICIPE – International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology – human health section.

Private Sector and Industry

1. Pharmaceutical companies – Quality control, microbiology labs.
2. Food and beverage industries – Biochemistry, food safety and quality assurance.
3. Biotech firms – Genetic engineering, molecular biology.
4. Environmental consultancies – Ecological surveys, environmental audits.

Attachment Eligibility and Duration (When Students Qualify and Placement Length)

1. For bona fide students.
2. Often between May – August.
3. Mandatory 12-week industrial attachment in the third year.
4. Usually at the end of semester two.

Attachment Application Requirements (Procedures and Requirements)

Required Documents

1. Formal application letter (addressed to the organization, endorsed by the University).
2. Introduction/Recommendation letter from the Dean confirming student status.
3. Student ID copy and sometimes National ID.
4. Curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting academic background.
5. Insurance Cover provided by KAFU.
6. Log book for weekly reporting of assignment/covered tasks.
7. A section of assessors to sign is in the log book – for the University supervisor and attachment provider.
8. Grade/marks are awarded separately.

Procedure

1. Identify host organization (government agencies, NGOs, private companies, or university-industry programs) at least three months early.
2. Submit application package (letter + CV + ID copies + recommendation letter).
3. Await confirmation (organization issues acceptance/placement letter).
4. Report to organization with acceptance letter and university endorsement.
5. Complete attachment period (usually 8–12 weeks).
6. Submit attachment report to university for assessment.

Assessment

1. Attachment is assessed out of 100 marks.
2. Field assessment (30%) – performance evaluated at the place of attachment.
3. Attachment report (70%) – written technical report submitted by the student.

Contacts of Support Persons (Active Phone Numbers and Emails of Departmental Reps)

Head of Department’s contact details:
Name: Dr. Felix Saouma
Email: fsaouma@kafu.ac.ke
Mobile: 0741403078 and 0736317697