Is construction management marketable in Kenya?

Last updated on July 27th, 2023 at 04:08 pm

A quick question: is construction management marketable in Kenya?

Well, that is the question I will be answering in this article.

I will also share more information about the course including a list of universities offering construction management in Kenya.

Is construction management marketable in Kenya?

I’m going to be blunt: construction management is just not marketable in Kenya..

There is no other way of putting it really because the truth is very few construction related jobs require a qualification in construction management (I did not find many construction management jobs in Kenya).

Well, it seems that the institutions that started the course intended it to have a course that is similar to project management but that is tailor-made for construction projects but employers do not seem to have understood the course hence the glaring lack of opportunities for graduates of construction management courses in Kenya.

The fact is what construction companies hire in large numbers are professionals with construction courses in Kenya like Building Technology, Civil Engineering, and other related fields.

Okay, there are a few jobs here and there but the point is that this course is little known in the Kenyan construction industry so you will need to work harder to get a meaningful job with it.

But what if you feel confident about your job prospects and you want to go ahead and do the course?

If you’re really into it, read on for some important information about construction management courses in Kenya..

What is construction management course all about?

The objective of the course is to educate and train you in all aspects of construction management.

To put it in simpler language, the programme prepares you to work as a specialized Construction Project Manager.

Consequently, you study everything that affects the success of projects in the construction sector from choosing proper construction technology, construction law (and contract procedures), principles of managing the construction of buildings to methods of ensuring the safety of site workers and assets.

Overall, a graduate of construction management is involved in the planning, organizing, coordinating and the supervision of the production(building) of buildings.

You will be also equipped to oversee the contracting process of a construction project.

Don’t forget that your main duty is to oversee the project entirely to make sure client’s money ends up being spent prudently(you’re more of the general manager of projects).

Remember that throughout the course, a lot of emphasis is placed on proper evaluative as well as communication skills since construction managers have to be good in these skills to properly cooperate with other professionals/operatives as construction work is going on.

Typical duties and responsibilities

• Carry out required site measurements accurately and in a timely manner (in line with established guidelines).
• Draft clients contracts (and discuss and agree the contract terms with clients to ensure closure). Create programs of works for every project and ensure timely communication to clients.
• Initiate the procurement of what is needed for each project.
• Ensure mobilization of human resources(workers) for each project.
• Ensure high productivity as well as engagement in teams.
• Inspect on-going construction to ensure everything is conforming to the drawings and instructions.
• Monitor projects to ensure they are completed within set timelines and within the set cost.
• Ensure timely payments for materials and workers involved in a project.
• Attend all site meetings with customers and consultants.
• Prepare correspondences /reports in time.
• Ensure compliance to defined health and safety standards/guidelines.
• Carry out required project valuations for the purposes of receiving the certificate of completed works and subsequently pursuing payments.
• Confirm and sign-off completed works with clients and issue completion certificates.

Requirements for construction management (minimum entry requirements)

Diploma in construction management in Kenya

KCSE Mean Grade:   C (Plain)

Additional requirements

C- (minus) in Mathematics, Physics, and one of English/Kiswahili

Degree in Construction Management in Kenya

Here are the grades you need to pursue a Bachelor of Construction Management including construction management in Kenyatta university.

K.C.S.E. mean grade: C+ (and mostly you need to have a grade better than C+ because the course is a bit competitive)

Required Cluster subjects

ALTERNATIVE A

• Mathematics
• Physics
• English/Kiswahili
• Geography or Building
• Design /Economics / Commerce or Accounting
• Construction or Drawing

ALTERNATIVE B

• Mathematics
• Physical science
• English/Kiswahili
• Building or Geography AND
• Design /Economics / Commerce or Accounting/ Construction or Drawing

Please note that the mean grade (of the cluster) must be B- (at least)

Now, the cluster points for construction management keep on changing every year so the best way to be sure is by checking on KUCCPS portal here(you have to log in first).

Alternative qualifications

You can also be admitted if you hold a Diploma(or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline( with credit / distinction).

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Key skills and interests required to pursue a career in this field

• Imagination and creativity
• Ability to see the big picture, as well as give attention to the smallest detail
• A methodical and logical approach
• Analytical skills
• Excellent mathematical skills
• Effective communication and negotiating skills
• Good vision
• Customer service skills
• Solid work ethic
• Good diagnostic skills
• Strong technical aptitude

Where to study construction management in Kenya

Diploma in technology(construction management)

• Technical University of Kenya
• Meru University

Bachelor of Built Environment(Construction Management)

• Technical University of Kenya

Bachelor of Construction Management

• JKUAT University
• University of Nairobi

Bachelor of Construction Management

• Kenyatta University (the course is offered under the School of Architecture & Built Environment)

Career Prospects in Building and Construction Technology

• Real estate agent
• Urban planner
• Project manager
• Site controller

 

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