Cost of studying fashion design in Kenya

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Fashion design is one of the most exciting and fast-growing skill-based careers in Kenya. More young people are becoming interested in creating clothes, designing accessories, and expressing creativity through fabric and style. Fashion is no longer just about sewing. It is now a full industry offering jobs in design, styling, branding, and production.

But before starting this creative journey, one of the most common questions students and parents ask is: What is the cost of studying fashion design in Kenya?

This article breaks down the tuition fees, course requirements, duration, and additional costs involved. It also highlights the best institutions offering fashion design and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Why Study Fashion Design in Kenya?

Fashion design offers many career opportunities. From working with big clothing brands to starting your own label or boutique, the possibilities are wide.

Benefits of a Career in Fashion Design

• You can express your creativity and build your own style

• You can start a fashion business and earn income

• The course is hands-on and industry-focused

• Fashion design allows for freelance work or employment

• You can work with celebrities, fashion shows, or retail brands

With the rise of events, weddings, media, and online fashion stores in Kenya, skilled fashion designers are in demand.

What Is Taught in a Fashion Design Course?

Fashion design courses in Kenya cover both theory and practical training. Depending on the level, students learn:

• Garment construction

• Fashion illustration

• Pattern drafting and cutting

• Fabric and textile selection

• Fashion history and marketing

• Sewing techniques and finishing

• Entrepreneurship and branding

Courses often include a project or portfolio to help students showcase their skills to future clients or employers.

Types of Fashion Design Courses and Their Costs

The cost of studying fashion design in Kenya depends on several factors:

• Type of institution (public or private)

• Level of the course (certificate, diploma, or degree)

• Duration of study

• Location of the college

Let us explore each level in more detail.

1. Short Courses in Fashion Design

These are beginner-level courses that introduce students to basic sewing, design, and garment construction. They usually last between 3 to 6 months.

Cost Range: KES 15,000 to KES 50,000
Who Can Apply: Anyone interested, even without KCSE
Where Offered: Private fashion schools or youth training centers

Examples:

• Darling Hair & Beauty College

• Vera Beauty and Fashion College

• Africa Digital Media Institute (ADMI) – Nairobi

2. Craft Certificate in Fashion Design

This is a one-year course offered in accredited TVET institutions and private colleges. It covers garment making, fabric work, and introductory fashion design.

Admission Requirement: KCSE mean grade of D plain or higher
Duration: 1 year
Cost Range:

• Public TVETs: KES 25,000 to KES 45,000 per year

• Private colleges: KES 40,000 to KES 80,000 per year

Additional costs may include sewing kits, materials, and exam fees.

Institutions offering Craft Certificates:

• Kenya Coast National Polytechnic

• Rift Valley Technical Training Institute

• Vera Beauty and Fashion College

• NITA-approved training centres

3. Diploma in Fashion Design and Garment Making

This course is ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of fashion. Students learn professional design skills, textile science, digital design tools, and business management.

Admission Requirement: KCSE mean grade of C minus
Duration: 2 to 3 years
Cost Range:

• Public polytechnics: KES 30,000 to KES 60,000 per year

• Private colleges: KES 70,000 to KES 120,000 per year

Examples of institutions offering diplomas:

• Kenyatta University (Department of Fashion Design and Marketing)

• Mcensal School of Fashion

• Nairobi Technical Training Institute

• Design School Kenya

4. Degree in Fashion Design

This is a more academic approach to fashion. It combines design, theory, and business. It is suitable for students who want to become fashion lecturers, industry leaders, or brand developers.

Admission Requirement: KCSE mean grade of C plus
Duration: 4 years
Cost Range:

• Public universities: KES 100,000 to KES 180,000 per year

• Private universities: KES 200,000 to KES 350,000 per year

Offered at:

• Kenyatta University

• Technical University of Kenya

• University of Nairobi (under design or textile-related courses)

Additional Costs to Consider

Besides tuition fees, students need to budget for:

• Sewing tools (needles, scissors, machines): KES 5,000 to KES 20,000

• Fabrics and materials for assignments: KES 1,000 to KES 5,000 per term

• Textbooks and sketchbooks: KES 2,000 to KES 5,000

• Exam fees (especially for KNEC or NITA): KES 3,000 to KES 8,000

• Portfolio printing or fashion shows (optional): Varies

Some institutions provide shared equipment, but owning your own tools is a big advantage.

Financial Support and HELB Loans

TVET and university students can apply for HELB loans and bursaries. This support can help cover tuition, materials, and living expenses.

Students in public TVET institutions also benefit from government capitation of KES 30,000 per year.

Other financial aid options include:

• County bursaries

• Constituency development funds (CDF)

• Private scholarships

• Work-study programs in some colleges

How to Choose the Right Fashion Design School

When selecting a college, consider the following:

• Accreditation: Is the college registered with TVETA or recognized by the Ministry of Education?

• Facilities: Does it have sewing machines, design software, and practical space?

• Tutors: Are the trainers experienced in fashion design?

• Location: Can you easily attend classes? Are there boarding options?

• Reputation: Check reviews, alumni success, and job placements

Always visit the campus or attend open days before making your decision.

Conclusion

The cost of studying fashion design in Kenya depends on the course level, type of institution, and duration. Whether you choose a short course, certificate, diploma, or degree, there is an option to fit your budget.

Fashion design is not only about learning to sew. It is about understanding the industry, developing creativity, and building a career in a fast-changing world. With the right training, tools, and mindset, you can turn your passion into profit.

Practical Tip: If you are starting and unsure of your path, take a short course to test your interest. You can then upgrade to a craft certificate or diploma based on your goals and finances.

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