Bachelor of Science in Applied Statistics with Information Technology

Programme : 1470164

Philosophy

• The Synergy of “Data + Technology”: The core principle is that modern statistics cannot exist in a vacuum. The program is built on the philosophy that computational power (IT) and mathematical rigor (Statistics) must be integrated. This ensures that graduates are not just “number crunchers” but “data architects” who can navigate the digital landscape.

• Evidence-Based Transformation: The program is guided by the belief that societal and economic challenges in Kenya—from food security to healthcare—can only be solved through evidence-based decision-making. The philosophy emphasizes producing professionals who provide objective truths through data to drive national development (aligned with Kenya Vision 2030).

• Ethical Stewardship and Integrity: A fundamental guiding principle is statistical integrity. Given the power of data to influence policy and public opinion, the program instills a philosophy of ethics, accuracy, and social responsibility. It focuses on:
• Objectivity: Presenting data without bias.
• Transparency: Clearly communicating the limitations of statistical models.
• Privacy: Respecting the rights of data subjects.

• Innovation and Adaptive Learning: The field of Data Science and AI moves rapidly. The program’s philosophy embraces lifelong learning and innovation, encouraging students to be adaptable problem-solvers who can master new programming languages (like Python or Julia) and emerging technologies as they arise.

Objectives

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Statistics with Information Technology program aims to bridge the gap between theoretical mathematical principles and practical, technology-driven data analysis. In the Kenyan context, these programs are designed to meet Commission for University Education (CUE) guidelines by fostering professionalism, research integrity, and technical competence.

Program Key Goals
• Breadth of Knowledge: To equip students with a broad foundation in statistical theory and methods.
• Interdisciplinary Application: To train graduates who can apply statistical techniques to various sectors, such as health, agriculture, finance, and industry.
• Technological Integration: To produce graduates capable of managing and analyzing large datasets using modern Information Technology (IT) tools.
• Professional Readiness: To prepare statisticians for direct employment in both public and private sectors or for advanced postgraduate studies.

Core Learning Outcomes
By the end of the program, a graduate should be able to:
• Statistical Modeling: Explain and apply fundamental principles of statistical theory to build models that describe relationships between variables and predict outcomes.
• Data Computing: Analyse voluminous datasets using specialized Statistical Computing techniques and programming languages like R or Python.
• Evidence-Based Decision Making: Use statistical findings to make informed, data-driven decisions for organizations.
• Design & Research: Design rigorous methods for data collection, including surveys and experimental designs, to ensure data integrity.
• Communication: Effectively present complex statistical results to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ethical Practice: Demonstrate high levels of professionalism and recognize the ethical implications of data collection and analysis.

Mode of Delivery: Full-time
Duration: 4 years

Admission Requirements

• Mean grade of C+ (plus) for Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) holders or its equivalent as determined by the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC);
• KNEC diploma or its equivalent

Schedule of Intakes

September (Beginning of each academic year)

1. How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions (Online vs. Manual)
KAFU offers applicants two main application pathways: the quicker online method and the traditional manual submission method.

A. Online Application (Recommended)
This is the preferred and most direct method for submitting your application.

• Visit the Portal: Go to the official KAFU admissions platform: https://kafu.jiunge.com/
• Sign Up: Create an account on the Jiunge platform by entering your personal details and verifying your email address.
• Programme Application: Log in and navigate to the program application section. Select the course you wish to apply for.
• Pay Application Fee: Pay the required non-refundable application fee through Jiunge App directly through the platform.
• Review & Feedback: The application will be reviewed. Check your email for official feedback and next steps from the KAFU Registry department.

B. Manual Application (Download, Print, & Submit)
Applicants may also choose to download the relevant application form from the KAFU website, fill it out manually, and submit it physically:

• Complete: Fill out the form completely and accurately.
• Attach Documents: Attach certified copies of all necessary academic certificates, national ID/birth certificate, and transcripts.
• Pay Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee via Jiunge app
• Submit: Submit the completed form, required documents, and bank deposit slip to the Registrar (Academic Affairs) at Kaimosi Friends University.

2. Application Deadlines/Intakes
KAFU typically conducts admissions for its programs based on the main academic year cycle.

Major Intake: The primary intake for new students (including KUCCPS-placed students) is generally in September (e.g., the beginning of the Academic Year).

Career Opportunities (Potential Career Paths)

• Data Analyst/Scientist: Mining and interpreting large datasets to help businesses make informed strategic choices. Major employers include Safaricom and various tech hubs.
• Statistician: Designing data collection methods and analyzing results for government bodies or NGOs.
• Biostatistician/Medical Researcher: Applying statistical methods to health data at institutions like the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) or FHI 360.
• Financial/Risk Analyst: Assessing financial risks and market trends for banks like Equity Bank or Absa, and insurance firms like CIC Group.
• Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist: Tracking the performance of projects, a common role in NGOs like World Vision and Amref Health Africa.

Outstanding Alumni (Distinguished Graduates)

1. Michael Mungai – Lecturer at Zetech University
2. Esther Ogetange
3. Oliver Wamani

Industrial Attachment Opportunities

Public Sector & Government Agencies: Government institutions are the primary employers for statisticians and often have structured quarterly intakes e.g. Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), KIPPRA, Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC): among others.

1. Private Sector & Tech Companies: These roles often blend statistics with heavy IT and software requirements (Data Science), e.g.
   a. Safaricom
   b. Financial Institutions: Banks like Equity and insurance firms like Jubilee Insurance or CIC Group.
   c. Research & Advisory Firms like Busara Center for Behavioral Economics and Cytonn Investments.
2. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs frequently seek students for Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) roles to track project impact. E.g. Amref Health Africa, One Acre Fund and World Food Programme (WFP) among others.

Attachment Eligibility and Duration

• Duration: The attachment is a mandatory 8 to 12-week (two to three months) program.
• Eligibility: Students must have completed their core academic coursework to qualify for placement.

Attachment Application Requirements

1. Academic & Administrative Requirements
• Course Completion: Students must have successfully completed all core units leading up to the attachment period.
• Field Relevance: The host organization must provide a work environment specifically focused on Statistics or data analysis.
• Insurance & Paperwork: Students must obtain a formal Introduction Letter from the Department and ensure they are covered by the University’s personal accident insurance.

2. Application Procedures
• Placement Identification: The student/department identifies a potential host station (e.g., KNBS, research firms, or corporate data departments).
• Request for Attachment: Submit the University’s introductory letter to the selected organization.
• Task Approval: Once a position is offered, the student must have their specific work plan vetted and approved by the department lecturer.
• Registration: Formally register the attachment with the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, providing the contact details of the on-site supervisor for future assessment scheduling.

3. Pre-Departure Requirements
• Software Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with current statistical packages (e.g., SPSS, R, STATA, or Python) as these are expected tools in the field.
• Logbook Collection: Obtain the official department logbook to record daily activities and technical skills developed.

Contacts of Support Persons

1. Dr. Samuel Apima – Mobile Number: 0714 295 941, Email: sapima@kafu.ac.ke
2. Dr. Amos Wanjara – Mobile Number: 0729 212 387, Email: awanjara@kafu.ac.ke
3. Dr. John Chibayi – Mobile Number: 0712 498 360, Email: jchibayi@kafu.ac.ke

Finance: Fees and Funding

The tuition fee is Ksh 244,800 per year.

Students can access Higher Education Financing (HEF), which includes HELB loans and Government Scholarships, as well as various bursaries provided by constituencies (NG-CDF), counties, and NGOs.