Kenya is a tourism powerhouse, attracting visitors with its wildlife, coastlines, and diverse cultures. The industry contributes significantly to national income and offers thousands of employment opportunities every year. For students eager to join this booming field, the Diploma in Tourism Management from Bridge College Kenya provides comprehensive, career-focused training designed to shape tomorrow’s travel professionals.
About the Diploma in Tourism Management
This is a two-year course split into six academic terms.
Duration: 6 Terms (approx. 2 years)
Entry Requirement: KCSE C- (Minus) or a pass in Certificate in Tourism
Exam Body: Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC)
The diploma focuses on building both the theoretical foundation and practical competencies needed to succeed in the tourism sector.
Skills and Knowledge Areas Covered
Students will develop advanced competencies in:
Tourism Product Development
Destination Marketing & Promotion
Travel Agency Operations
Cultural and Eco-Tourism
Tour Guiding Techniques
Tourism Policy & Planning
They also gain interpersonal skills such as:
Effective communication
Time management
Conflict resolution
Multilingual customer service basics
Who Should Enroll?
This diploma is ideal for:
Certificate holders in tourism or travel
School leavers with a KCSE C- or above
Individuals passionate about travel and cultural engagement
People looking to work in international travel, tourism boards, or start their own business
Why Choose Bridge College Kenya for Tourism Studies?
Bridge College provides a hands-on learning experience, industry alignment, and mentoring that sets it apart.
Industry-Specific Curriculum: Constantly updated to reflect trends
Qualified Trainers: Professionals with real-world experience
Internship Linkages: Attachment with tour operators, national parks, and airlines
Modern Learning Resources: Booking systems, destination simulation tools, maps
Program Structure & Learning Approach
The course is structured to alternate between classroom instruction and real-world practice:
Term | Content Focus |
---|---|
Term 1 | Introduction to Tourism, Communication Skills |
Term 2 | Travel Agency Management, Ticketing Basics |
Term 3 | Tourism Economics, Eco-Tourism Principles |
Term 4 | Tour Guiding, Geography in Tourism |
Term 5 | Customer Service, Policy and Legal Issues |
Term 6 | Research Project & Industrial Attachment |
Career Options After the Diploma
With this diploma, you can confidently apply for positions in:
Tour Companies: Travel consultant, tour planner
Airlines and Airports: Ground staff, reservations agent
Hotels & Resorts: Guest relations, front desk
Government and NGOs: Tourism promotion officer
Self-Employment: Start your travel business or agency
Further Study Opportunities
Once you complete your diploma, you can pursue:
IATA Certification Courses
Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism or Hospitality
Specialized Diplomas (e.g., Airport Operations, Cabin Crew, Travel Geography)
Field Work and Experiential Learning
The program includes multiple excursions and site visits:
Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Parks
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)
Cultural heritage sites
Travel expos and trade shows
Graduate Success Stories
“I joined the Diploma program after high school. Today, I work as a tour coordinator for a major travel firm in Nairobi.” – Kevin M., Class of 2021
“The exposure at Bridge College helped me get an internship at KTB. I’ve since moved into a full-time tourism marketing role.” – Sandra L., Class of 2020
Enrollment Process
Applying is quick and easy:
Collect your KCSE or certificate academic results
Complete the Bridge College Kenya application form
Attach ID and passport-size photo
Submit online or physically at the college office
Receive your admission letter and payment schedule
FAQs About Diploma in Tourism Management
Q1: Is the course available for part-time students?
Currently, classes are full-time. Part-time options may be introduced soon.
Q2: Will I get practical exposure?
Yes, including fieldwork and an industrial attachment.
Q3: Is KNEC certification recognized internationally?
Yes. It’s accepted by employers and academic institutions across the region.
Q4: Can I get a job abroad after graduating?
Yes, many roles abroad value Kenya’s tourism graduates.
Q5: How long is the industrial attachment?
Usually 2-3 months in the final term.
Q6: Is it possible to specialize within this diploma?
Yes, electives and research projects allow specialization in areas like eco-tourism or travel consultancy.