Professional Certificate in Certified Secretaries
Certified Secretaries (CS) Program in Kenya: KASNEB-Accredited Courses
The Certified Secretaries (CS) program offered by KASNEB is a premier professional qualification for corporate governance experts in Kenya. With increasing corporate regulations and compliance requirements, certified secretaries are essential for all registered companies. This comprehensive guide explores the KASNEB examination structure, top colleges offering the program, career opportunities, and why this certification commands respect in boardrooms across East Africa. Whether you aspire to become a company secretary or corporate governance consultant, this program provides the perfect foundation. Enroll now to begin your journey to corporate leadership!
What Is the Certified Secretaries Program?
The Certified Secretaries program by KASNEB is a three-part professional course that equips students with expertise in corporate law, governance, and company secretarial practice. Graduates qualify to serve as company secretaries, governance officers, or compliance managers. Unlike administrative secretarial courses, this program focuses on legal and strategic aspects of corporate management. Compared to CPA, it specializes in governance, while being more comprehensive than diploma programs. Related qualifications include CPS (KASNEB) and Bachelor of Commerce (Corporate Governance option).
Overview of the Program
Key Details:
- Duration: 2-3 years (3 examination stages)
- Exam Body: Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examination Board (KASNEB)
- Accreditation: Institute of Certified Secretaries (ICS)
Curriculum Structure:
Section 1:
- Business Law
- Financial Accounting
- Management Information Systems
Section 2:
- Company Law
- Public Finance and Taxation
- Corporate Governance
Section 3:
- Advanced Company Law and Practice
- Corporate Secretarial Practice
- Strategic Management
Entry Requirements:
- KCSE C+ (Plus) with C in English and Maths
- Diploma holders may get Section 1 exemptions
- Degree holders exempt from Section 1 and some Section 2 papers
Cost: KSh 70,000-150,000 per section. HELB loans available for qualified students.
Study Mode: Full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend classes available at most colleges.
Top Colleges Offering CS Program in Kenya
Public Institutions:
- Kenya School of Government (KSG) - Nairobi (www.ksg.ac.ke)
- Technical University of Kenya (TUK) - Nairobi
- Kisumu National Polytechnic - Kisumu
Private Institutions:
- Strathmore University - Nairobi
- KCA University - Nairobi
- Nairobi Institute of Business Studies (NIBS) - Nairobi
Public vs Private: Public institutions offer lower fees (KSh 70,000-100,000 per section) with government-sponsored slots, while private colleges provide flexible schedules and better facilities (KSh 100,000-150,000 per section). All listed institutions are KASNEB-approved. Apply today to secure your professional qualification!
Career Opportunities and Job Market
Certified Secretaries are employed by:
- Listed companies at Nairobi Securities Exchange
- Government parastatals and regulatory bodies
- International organizations and NGOs
- Corporate governance consultancies
Job Roles: Company Secretary, Corporate Governance Officer, Compliance Manager, Board Administrator
Salary Range: KSh 100,000-300,000 for entry-level, rising to KSh 700,000+ for experienced professionals.
With experience, graduates qualify for regional positions in COMESA and East African Community organizations.
Why Choose Certified Secretaries Program?
Upon completion, graduates can:
- Serve as qualified company secretaries under Kenyan law
- Advise boards on governance best practices
- Ensure regulatory compliance for organizations
- Facilitate effective board operations
The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical corporate applications. Enroll now to gain these elite professional skills!
Challenges and Considerations
Prospective students should note:
- Rigorous KASNEB examination process
- Continuous professional education requirements
- High responsibility in governance roles
- Need to stay updated with changing regulations
Education Progression
Certified Secretaries can:
- Pursue Bachelor of Laws (LLB) for legal specialization
- Advance to Master's in Corporate Governance
- Obtain international certifications (ICSA UK)
- Register as Certified Public Secretaries (CPS)
Many universities offer direct entry to postgraduate programs for CS holders. Apply today to elevate your corporate career!
Student Testimonials
"The CS program at KSG gave me the credentials to become Company Secretary at a top NSE-listed company by age 30." - Wanjiru M., Nairobi
"After certification, I joined a pan-African corporate governance consultancy with clients across 5 countries." - James K., Regional Consultant
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the minimum grade for CS program?
KCSE C+ (Plus) with C in English and Maths.
How much does the program cost?
KSh 70,000-150,000 per section depending on institution.
Which college is best for CS program?
Kenya School of Government (public) and Strathmore University (private) are top choices.
Is CS certification marketable in Kenya?
Extremely - all registered companies require qualified secretaries by law.
Can degree holders get exemptions?
Yes, relevant degrees exempt from Section 1 and some Section 2 papers.
Conclusion
The Certified Secretaries program by KASNEB offers a prestigious pathway to elite corporate careers in Kenya and beyond. With KASNEB accreditation, ICS recognition, and comprehensive training in corporate governance, graduates enjoy exceptional career prospects. Whether you aim to work in blue-chip companies, regulatory bodies, or establish your own consultancy, this qualification provides the ultimate professional foundation. Ready to become a corporate governance expert? Compare CS programs at accredited colleges and enroll today to start your journey as a Certified Secretary!