Top 10 Marketable Courses for 2025 KCSE Students Who Scored Below D+

In the 2025 KCSE, the majority of candidates fell within the D+ to E range. A total of 126,915 students scored D+, 145,557 got a D plain, 161,724 scored D-, and 47,798 received an E.

For these students who did not qualify for degree courses, the big question is what courses they can pursue in colleges and TVETs to give them an opportunity in the job market.

Notably, the modern job market is shifting in a way that makes technical and vocational skills more valuable than ever.

According to the 2025 World Economic Forum, the future of work will be defined not just by degrees but by practical, adaptable skills. The Future of Jobs Report highlights both fast-growing digital careers and large-scale essential jobs that will continue to employ millions globally.

Based on the report, here are the 10 courses and the minimum grade requirement.

Also Read: Most Marketable Careers in 2026 Based on Advertised Vacancies

Tech Industry

Certificate in IT

Courses like Certificate in IT (whose minimum requirement is D plain) are one of the clearest pathways into the fastest-growing job sectors globally.

Institutions such as Eldoret Polytechnic, Kabete National Polytechnic, and Kenya Industrial Training Institute offer these programmes.

The World Economic Forum identifies roles like software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and AI specialists among the fastest-growing globally.

With an IT background, students can specialise in web development, cybersecurity, and data analysis.

Also Read: 10 Most Marketable Short Courses in Kenya

Energy Sector

Electrical Engineering (D+)

For students with a D+ and above, Electrical Engineering courses offered at institutions like Kisumu Polytechnic and Kitale National Polytechnic open doors to one of the most practical and in-demand fields.

Automotive Engineering (E)

At the same time, artisan-level courses such as Automotive Engineering (E) provide entry into transport and mechanical work — a sector that continues to expand.

The World Economic Forum highlights growing demand for renewable energy engineers, electric vehicle specialists, and infrastructure technicians.

In Kenya, this translates to opportunities in solar installation and maintenance, electrical wiring and repairs, and vehicle diagnostics and servicing.

Also Read: Top Courses for Students Who Scored D+, D, and D- in KCSE 2024

Agriculture & Food

Certificate in Agriculture and Certificate in Food Science (D plain)

For students with D and D plain grades, courses like Certificate in Agriculture and Food Science offer direct access to some of the fastest-growing job categories globally.

Institutions such as Baringo National Polytechnic and Bunyala Technical and Vocational College provide training in agribusiness, food processing, and agricultural production.

The World Economic Forum lists farmworkers and food processing workers among the largest employment sectors worldwide, and in Kenya, this is even more relevant.

But today’s agriculture is no longer just manual labour. It is evolving into an agribusiness venture, value addition (processing and packaging), supply chain, and distribution.

In a country where food demand is constantly growing, this is one of the most reliable career paths.

Construction

Artisan in Building (E), Artisan in Masonry (E), and Artisan in Plumbing (E)

For students with D-, D, and E grades, artisan and certificate courses in building, masonry, and plumbing provide immediate entry into the workforce.

Institutions like Meru National Polytechnic and Nairobi National Polytechnic offer artisan-level training that equips students with hands-on skills from day one.

The World Economic Forum identifies construction workers as one of the largest job categories globally. In Kenya, this industry is marketable given the Affordable Housing Programme, in addition to the private housing projects undertaken by Kenyans.

Also Read: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Job Seekers

Business and Caregiving

Certificate in Business Management (D plain), Counselling Psychology (D plain), and Caregiving (E)

At the same time, courses like Certificate in Business Management (D plain), Counselling Psychology (D plain), and Caregiving (E) prepare students for roles in small business management, community and social work, and healthcare support services.

Caregiving, in particular, is becoming a major opportunity area as demand for personal care aides continues to grow both locally and internationally.