Diploma in Community Health
Unit Overview
Community health focuses on preventing illness before it reaches the hospital. This course prepares you to work directly with people — in homes, schools, and communities — helping them understand health risks and take practical steps to stay well. In many parts of Kenya, this is where the biggest impact is made.
At St. Mary’s, the training connects classroom learning with real situations on the ground. You learn how health issues show up in everyday life — from sanitation and nutrition to maternal and child health. Instead of only focusing on theory, the course builds your ability to engage with people, ask the right questions, and respond in a way that is practical and respectful.
The program follows the TVET CDACC competency-based approach, so you are trained to actually carry out community health activities. This includes conducting home visits, supporting outreach programs, and working with different groups in the community. You are assessed based on what you can do, not just what you can explain.
This diploma suits students who are interested in working with people, especially at grassroots level, and those who want a role that combines health knowledge with real community engagement.
Unit Objectives
By the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- Equip learners with practical skills for community-based healthcare
- Promote disease prevention and health education
- Build competence in community engagement and outreach
- Develop skills in data collection and reporting
- Prepare learners for roles in public and community health systems
Unit Content
Key areas of study include:
- Community health principles and practices
- Human anatomy and basic health concepts
- Hygiene, sanitation, and environmental health
- Disease prevention and control
- Maternal and child health
- Nutrition and health promotion
- Community mobilization and health education
- Data collection and reporting
- Workplace safety and ethics
- Field attachment / community practicum
Career Opportunities
Graduates can work in:
- Hospitals and health centers
- Schools and training institutions
- NGOs and community organizations
Entry Requirements
KCSE Mean Grade C- (Minus) Or relevant Level 5 qualification
Duration of the Unit
2 - 3 Years
Why Study This Unit?
- High market demand
- Hands-on practical learning
- Pathway to further professional growth
