Engineering and Surveying

If you are looking to pursue a career in engineering or surveying, then the University of Nairobi is the best place for you. Our curriculum is designed to provide sound professional education in engineering and surveying. Students are encouraged to take part in applied and theoretical research, as well as in practical professional training.

The syllabus takes into account recent scientific and technical advances in the education and training of engineers. It is relevant and broad based in line with the requirements of the engineering profession. To improve on its utility, the programme has been and will continue to be re-aligned to be consistent with the changing needs of the society.

Engineering

Bachelor programmes

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Course code - F16

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering are take courses in applied mechanics, hydraulics, surveying, materials, structures, engineering management, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering and engineering and environmental health and water resources engineering. Courses in mathematics, computer programming and non-technical subjects are also obligatory in the programme. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to take part in applied and theoretical research, as well as in practical professional training.

Each semester courses, except for structural design, has 45 contact hours including lectures and tutorials and comprise one course unit. There are practical assignment terms lasting for eight weeks at the end of the third year of study.

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Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Course code - F17

The course has taken into account the latest developments in this field of engineering and the national requirements. Each semester course shall have a total of 45 contact hours including lectures and tutorials and shall comprise one course unit. Laboratories shall have 60 hours per semester and shall comprise one course unit, except in the first year of study when they shall have 45 hours. There shall be a practical assignment term lasting for eight weeks at the end of the third year of study. There shall also be industrial attachment of undergraduate students during the long vacation of the fourth year of study.

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Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Course code - F18

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering programme is a 5-year programme that is structured to emphasize both engineering theory and practical skills. These skills will enable students to solve practical problems and analyze different situations by converting concepts into reliable and cost-effective designs of devices and processes.

The programme includes a practical assignment term lasting for eight weeks at the end of the third year of study and industrial attachment of at least eight weeks at the end of fourth year of study.

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Bachelor of Science in Geospatial Engineering

Course code - F19

Geospatial Engineering is the art and science of collecting, storing, analyzing, managing and disseminating geospatial information to facilitate rational and optimum use of land resources. With the broadening of applications and growth in technology, Geospatial Engineering now includes analysis of deformation of engineering structures, industrial metrology, analysis of earth deformation due to geodynamic phenomena, and monitoring of satellite orbits within the broad framework of space science and technology. It also extends to the analysis and integration of multi-dimensional geospatial phenomena to facilitate informed decision making by various professionals.

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Bachelor of Science in Biosystems Engineering

Course code – F21

Biosystems Engineers are expected to provide efficient engineering solutions to technical problems involving living things and the natural environment. Students receive a broad exposure to engineering through courses such as mechanics, materials, thermodynamics, electronics and circuits, transport processes, unit operations, instrumentation and design.

They study “life” sciences and ways biological systems interact with the environment. This diverse background makes them capable of understanding the engineering aspects of projects and enables them to operate well through a multidisciplinary approach. The programme includes biosystems and other biology-based production systems, the environment, food and processing systems in agro-industries, energy, machinery systems and structures.

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Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering

Course code – F22

The Petroleum Engineering undergraduate program at the University of Nairobi is primarily concerned with the economic extraction of oil, gas, and other natural resources from the earth. Producing oil and gas is accomplished through the design, drilling and operation of wells and well systems, and the integrated management of the underground reservoirs in which the resources are found. A minor emphasis of the petroleum engineering programme is the study of transportation of crude and refined petroleum products as well as downstream activities such as storage and distribution of petroleum products.

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Survey

Bachelor of Quantity Surveying

Course code – B66

The Bachelor of Quantity Surveying is a 4 year full time programme that aims at equipping the students with skills to apply basic principles in measurements, management, technology, economics, and law in the construction industry. Students will acquire skills practical and specialized technical skills relating to the cost engineering, critical analysis, interpretation and discussion of information and data relating to construction projects. The program produces graduates who help to improve the efficiency of the building construction process. It prepares learners for careers in the construction industry in the areas of building and engineering construction, cost modeling, construction cost consultancy and quantity surveying, project management, and dispute resolution, among others.

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Master programmes

MSC IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND BIOSYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Course code: - F535

The syllabus takes into account recent scientific and technical advances in the education and training of engineers. It is relevant and broad based in line with the requirements of the engineering profession. To improve on its utility, the programme has been and will continue to be re-aligned to be consistent with the changing needs of the society. It has been developed from a programme of five options to the current five distinct areas of study: Environmental Engineering, Irrigation and Water Resource Engineering, Power and Machinery Engineering, Process and Food Engineering and Structures Engineering, each one addressing a unique engineering need in the society. The programme is targeted towards those graduates who would like to practice at a higher level in industry, research and education.

The course aims to give additional knowledge and necessary skills to the engineering graduates to enable them practice at a higher level in industry, research and education

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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

Course code: - F537

The course is intended for engineers with suitable qualifications and/or professional experience who wish to study further or expand their range of expertise in specified field of civil engineering. The options offered are tailored to the requirements of the civil engineering industry. The course contents will enable participants to specialize in any of the five following options. Not all these options will be available in any one year.

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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Course code: - F538

The proliferation of numerous applications in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has generated a great demand for well trained personnel, especially in developing countries like Kenya where the GIS industry is still young but growing fast. In response to this demand, University of Nairobi, has been offering short(certificate) courses in GIS for the last three years. Experience gained from this CPD programme indicates that most of the professionals currently working in the local GIS industry lack formal GIS training and the required capacity to effectively manage GIS projects. The above factors provide the impetus for launching the proposed Master of Science in Geographic Information Systems [MSc. (GIS)]. This programme is designed to accommodate the diverse interests of professionals from different backgrounds currently working or aspiring to work in the GIS industry.

The course aims to: Equip students with the relevant skills and knowledge to pursue careers in the GIS industry as GIS practitioners and educators; Provide students with comprehensive knowledge of the functionality and applications of GIS technology; Expose students to the design and implementation of GIS projects; Equip students with the relevant skills and knowledge to carry out research in GIS.

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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Course code: - F540

The course is intended for engineers with suitable qualifications and/or professional experience who wish to study further or expand their range of expertise. The course contents will enable students to specialize in any one of the following options: a) Advanced Thermo-Fluids Engineering b) Advanced Applied Mechanics) Industrial Engineering d) Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering.

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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Course code: - F542

The high cost of energy is one of the most serious constraints to economic growth in Kenya. Currently, it is estimated to account for up to 50% of the production costs in the manufacturing sector. This has resulted in diminished prize competitiveness of locally produced goods and reduced profits for investors. It is anticipated that as the economy grows, demand for energy will increase and this may keep the energy cost high for the next several years.

Energy management is an effective means of reducing energy cost; principally by utilizing energy in the most efficient manner. Energy efficiency is beneficial not only to the economy but also to the environment. The availability of well-trained persons in the different aspects of energy efficiency is a limiting factor to the effective development and implementation of energy efficiency programmes. Master of Science degree course in Energy Management will provide appropriate knowledge and skills for energy management within manufacturing sector, service industries and business enterprises. This will enable the economy to cut energy cost, heighten competitiveness and minimize adverse effects on the environment. In addition, the course will promote entrepreneurship in energy utilization and can lead to Energy Manager certification.

The programme is designed to train on current practical methods and technologies for efficient use of energy.

The course aims to equip graduates with: Knowledge in energy, sources, availability and use; Knowledge and skills required for development, acquisition and application of improved methods and analysis in process design, operations and management to minimize energy costs, improve productivity and reinforce environmental responsibility; Technical as well as financial skills and ability to carry out research in energy management as well as develop and implement energy management projects.

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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING

Course code: - F546

The course offers opportunities to candidates with suitable qualifications who want to pursue further studies in electrical and electronic engineering. The course has taken into account the latest developments in this field of engineering and the national requirements. The course is offered in two fields; Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Options in these two fields have been carefully grouped into clusters, which define areas of further specialization.

The Master of Science degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering shall be done by coursework, examinations and thesis.t here shall be two fields of specialization:

Electrical Engineering; and Electronic Engineering. The course shall be full time and shall extend for at least two academic years; one academic year for coursework and one academic year for thesis research and writing.

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MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Course code: - S56

The University offers MSc. Degrees in Nuclear Science. To promote globally competitive quality education and training in peaceful applications of nuclear science techniques and associated technologies. The program is designed to enhance multidiscipline research capacity towards building a knowledgeable resource base for sustainable development in line with the aspirations of Kenyans as pronounced in the short and long-term strategic plans of the country and the University of Nairobi. The goal of this programme is to enable learners to assimilate knowledge and acquire competency in current and evolving technologies in peaceful applications of nuclear and associated science techniques in research. Thus, contributing to the development of research capacity and a knowledgeable human resource for sustainable economic and socioeconomic development.

This course aims to help the graduate: Apply knowledge of radiation techniques in the investigation of problems affecting society and development; Illustrate the ability to disseminate scientific knowledge to stakeholders and policymakers; Demonstrate the potential to specialize in the field of nuclear energy production; Produce innovations using nuclear science and associated technologies for the benefit of society.

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Doctoral Programmes

Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Nuclear Science and Technology

Course code: S95

To promote globally competitive quality education and training in peaceful applications of nuclear science techniques and associated technologies. The program is designed to enhance critical reasoning, problem-solving, and in-depth analysis through independent research. It is an important aspect of capacity building of a knowledgeable resource base for sustainable development in line with the aspirations of Kenyans as pronounced in the short- and long-term strategic plans of the country and the University of Nairobi. 

The goal of this programme is to produce independent thinkers and highly skilled human reason to support sustainable higher education and to promote Kenyan and regional manpower able to compete in the competitive local and global job market.

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Environmental & Biosystems Engineering

Course code: F801

Graduates of Doctor of Philosophy in environmental and biosystems engineering are prepared to design engineering solutions and to use technology and data to solve real-world problems in the biological fields of precision agriculture, remote sensing, water management, statistical informatics, data mining, and cyberinfrastructure development.

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Civil Engineering

Course code: F802

The course is intended for engineers with suitable qualifications and/or professional experience who wish to contribute to new knowledge or expand their range of expertise in specified field of civil engineering. The research are tailored to the requirements of the civil engineering industry. The course will enable participants to specialize in any of the five thematic areas for civil engineering.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Geographical Information System

Course code: F803

The curriculum of this course is designed to provide the learner with a broad and deep understanding of geographic theory and research methods.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Course code: F804

This PhD program prepares the professionals that the Electrical Engineering industry requires, from engineers and entrepreneurs who will develop new electrical systems and businesses to researchers and theoreticians who will advance the science and technology that underpins these systems.

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Geospatial Engineering

Course code: F806

This program is intended to train professionals in research, innovation, teaching, and policy. The program will teach students how to clearly define problems and then apply what they've learned to come up with new solutions.

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Course code: F807

The program aims to prove a student's ability to conduct independent, creative research. Graduates of this program usually go on to work as professors in universities or as researchers in industry or government research labs.

The duration of the degree programme is 3 academic years (6 Semesters).

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Higher Doctorate Degrees

Those eligible for the award of a Higher Doctorate of the University of Nairobi must among other requirements be holders of the Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Medicine degree of the University of Nairobi or the Doctor of Philosophy degree from any other recognized university of at least five years standing.

The Common Regulations for Higher Doctorates of the University of Nairobi other than Honorary Degrees are set out in the University Calendar. The Higher Doctorate, the regulations stipulate, shall only be awarded for the original published work such as would give a candidate authoritative international standing in his/her particular field of research.