Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Programme Code: 1470513

Philosophy of the Programme
The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry programme is founded on the principle that chemistry is a central science that underpins innovation, industrial development, environmental sustainability, and human well-being.

The programme is designed to provide students with:
• A strong foundation in core areas of chemistry (analytical, organic, inorganic, physical, and materials chemistry);
• Extensive laboratory training and practical skills for experimental investigation;
• Opportunities to apply chemical knowledge to real-world challenges in health, energy, environment, and industry.

The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge, laboratory experimentation, fieldwork, and industrial exposure, enabling graduates to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation skills.

Flexibility is built into the programme to allow students to explore emerging and interdisciplinary areas, ensuring alignment with national development priorities and global scientific trends.

Programme Objectives
The overall objective is to produce graduates with sound knowledge in chemistry, strong practical and analytical skills, and the capacity to contribute to scientific, industrial, and societal development.

Specific Objectives
The programme aims to:
i. Provide a broad and rigorous foundation in fundamental and applied chemistry.
ii. Equip students with laboratory, analytical, and instrumental techniques used in modern chemical practice.
iii. Develop graduates capable of conducting research, innovation, and consultancy in chemistry-related fields.
iv. Prepare graduates for employment in industry, government, and research institutions.
v. Instil professional ethics, environmental responsibility, and safety awareness in chemical practice.
vi. Promote entrepreneurship and value addition in chemical-based industries.
vii. Prepare graduates for postgraduate studies and lifelong learning.
viii. Enhance students’ ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate scientific information effectively.

Expected Learning Outcomes of the Programme
Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:
i. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of core chemistry disciplines (organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry).
ii. Perform laboratory experiments safely and accurately, and interpret experimental results.
iii. Apply chemical principles to solve industrial, environmental, and societal problems.
iv. Utilize modern analytical instruments and computational tools in chemical analysis.
v. Conduct independent research projects and present findings in written and oral formats.
vi. Communicate scientific information effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
vii. Demonstrate professional ethics, environmental stewardship, and safety compliance.
viii. Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and diverse professional environments.

Mode of Delivery
The programme is delivered through:
• Face-to-face lectures and tutorials
• Laboratory practical sessions
• Assignments, seminars, and student presentations
• Field visits and industrial attachments
• Blended and e-learning (where applicable)

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

Admission Requirements
A candidate must satisfy any of the following:
• A minimum KCSE mean grade of C+ (Plus) with:
o C+ (Plus) in Chemistry (or Physical Sciences)
o C+ (Plus) in Mathematics
o At least C (Plain) in English

OR

• Two (2) principal passes in relevant science subjects at A-Level, one of which must be Chemistry, plus a subsidiary pass.

OR

• Equivalent qualifications recognized by the University and approved through Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service guidelines.

Schedule of Intakes

• One intake annually in August, or as approved by Senate.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through:
• Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS)
• Direct application via the KAFU Admissions Office or official university website

Applicants must:
• Complete the prescribed application form
• Attach certified academic documents
• Pay a non-refundable application fee as specified by the University

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry are prepared for diverse and high-impact careers, including:

Industrial and Manufacturing Sector
• Chemical Production Officer
• Process Chemist
• Quality Control and Assurance Analyst
• Industrial Research and Development Officer

Health and Pharmaceutical Sector
• Pharmaceutical Analyst
• Laboratory Technologist
• Drug Development and Quality Assurance Specialist

Energy and Petroleum Sector
• Petrochemical Analyst
• Refinery Process Specialist
• Energy and Fuel Quality Analyst

Environmental and Sustainability Sector
• Environmental Chemist
• Pollution Control and Monitoring Officer
• Water Quality Analyst
• Climate and Sustainability Specialist

Food and Agricultural Industries
• Food Safety and Quality Assurance Officer
• Agrochemical Analyst
• Product Development Specialist

Government and Regulatory Agencies
• Standards and Compliance Officer
• Forensic Analyst
• Public Health Laboratory Scientist

Education and Research
• Secondary School Teacher (with pedagogical training)
• Laboratory Instructor / Technologist
• Research Scientist

Entrepreneurship
• Chemical product manufacturing (e.g., soaps, detergents, cosmetics)
• Laboratory services and consultancy
• Agrochemical and environmental services

Further Studies
The programme provides a strong foundation for postgraduate studies in:
• Chemistry (all specializations)
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Environmental Science

Outstanding Alumni
To be updated as graduates of the programme distinguish themselves in academia, industry, and innovation.

Industrial Attachment Opportunities
Industrial attachment is a core and mandatory component of the programme.

Students are placed in:
• Chemical and pharmaceutical industries
• Food processing industries
• Research laboratories and institutions
• Government agencies and regulatory bodies

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

• Students become eligible after completing core coursework (typically in third year)
• Duration: Minimum of 8–12 weeks, as per University guidelines

Attachment Application Requirements (Procedures and Requirements)

Students are required to:
• Apply through the Department
• Obtain an official introduction letter from the University
• Secure placement in an approved organization
• Maintain a logbook and submit a final report for assessment

Contacts of Support Persons
Department of Physical, Biological & Agricultural Sciences
Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU)

• Chairperson of Department
• Programme Coordinator

(+254741403078 and fsaouma@kafu.ac.ke )

Finance: Fees & Funding (KSHS)
SEMESTER 1: 121,650
SEMESTER 2: 102,750
TOTAL: 224,400

• Fees are structured in accordance with University Senate-approved rates.
• Students may access funding through:
o Government sponsorship
o Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans
o Scholarships and bursaries (where available)