Information Technology courses that'll prepare you for high-demand jobs
The top marketable information technology courses include cloud computing, database management, mobile app development, web design, and cybersecurity. Gaining expertise in these courses is one of the best ways to secure employment, especially in today's tech-driven world.
Source: UGC
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Key takeaways
- The highest paying jobs in IT with salaries reaching six figures include roles in engineering manager, principal software engineer, and machine learning engineer.
- The world is experiencing rapid growth in IT's market value, thanks to the evolving technology driven by various IT sub-specialities, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, among others.
- Enrolling in technical courses like data science, product management, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and DevOps can lead to high-paying jobs in the Information technology field.
- IT professionals are in high demand, earning twice the average annual wage of other occupations.
- Top IT employers include companies like Google, Adobe, Apple, Intel, Meta, Accenture, Cisco, Citrix Systems, Microsoft, Nvidia, Workday, and Salesforce, among others.
List of Information Technology courses
The list below provides information on some of the best Information technology courses in Kenya that can lead to high-paying occupations in the IT sector. We used sources like SimpliLearn and Coursera to compile this list of IT courses. Technological advances, qualifications, career advancement opportunities, salaries, and reliance on digital solutions were considered when identifying the top areas in IT.
1. Cyber Security
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As technology continues to advance daily, the digital space experiences an increasing frequency of cyber threats, including data breaches, which makes cybersecurity a critical field in the online security job market. Pursuing a diploma in cybersecurity equips you with essential skills that entail risk management, ethical hacking, and network security.
Several institutes in Kenya offer certificate, degree, and diploma programs in cybersecurity. With a minimum KCSE grade of C- or equivalent, you can enrol for a diploma. In contrast, a minimum grade of C+ in KCSE is required to pursue a bachelor's in cyber security & digital forensics. In Kenya, the following institutions offer IT courses in cybersecurity;
- KCA University
- Kibabii University
- Zetech University
Graduates can work as ethical hackers, cybersecurity analysts, and information security managers. The salary for cybersecurity jobs varies depending on the skill and the type of job. On average, they earn as follows:
- Cyber security analyst(166k)
- Cyber security engineer (240k)
- Certified ethical hacker(100k)
2. Data Science
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Data Science is one of the best ICT courses in Kenya, recognised for its integration of data analysis, statistics, and machine learning. The course enables learners to properly analyse and interpret complex data, aiding in informed decision-making. This is achieved through data visualisation, predictive modelling, and statistical analysis.
Data science students can work in various roles due to the current prevalence of data-driven decision-making. They can work in roles such as:
- Business intelligence analysts
- Data scientists
- Data analysts
3. Software engineering
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Software Engineering is an excellent IT course that primarily focuses on developing and maintaining software applications. Learners acquire a wide range of skills, including software development methodologies, programming languages, and project management techniques.
Additionally, the course ensures that students are well-equipped for the job market, as it emphasises practical experience in creating and managing software projects. Some of the career opportunities graduates can pursue include:
- Software developer
- Application engineers
- Systems architects
- Software project managers
- Video game designers
- SQA engineers
4. Networking and IT support
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Networking and IT Support is one of the most-demanded courses in Information Technology. The course revolves around managing and troubleshooting network systems. To acquire these skills, learners cover a wide range of topics, including network security, networking fundamentals, and IT support techniques.
After pursuing a course in Networking and IT Support, students become knowledgeable in configuring and maintaining network infrastructure. They also become competent in offering technical support. Some of the career paths for graduates include:
- IT support technicians
- Network administrators
- System engineers
- Field service engineers
- Computer system analysts
- Network technicians
5. Cloud computing
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Cloud computing is one of the high-demand jobs, thanks to the increasing demand for digital services by small and medium-sized enterprises. Learners are equipped with the skills to deploy models and manage various cloud platforms, including Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud.
Upon undertaking the course, students gain the ability to deliver various computing services across storage, analytics, software, and databases. Cloud computing graduates can pursue the following career opportunities:
- Cloud consultants
- Cloud engineers
- Cloud architects
- Cloud developers
- Cloud support engineers
- Cloud security analysts
6. Artificial intelligence and robotics
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The artificial intelligence and robotics course is one of the top-paying and in high demand IT courses. The course educates learners on various concepts, including machine learning algorithms, AI, and neural networks. While AI focuses on creating intelligent machines, robotics combines AI with mechanical engineering to create intelligent machines.
Graduates from this course gain expertise in developing AI systems, designing complex robotic solutions, and using machine learning. Some of the possible career paths include:
- Robotics engineers
- Machine Learning Researcher
- Software development engineer
- Research scientist
- AI Engineers
- AI specialist
7. Database management
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A database management course revolves around the principles and practices of designing, implementing, and managing databases. The course covers a wide range of IT-related topics, including Structured Query Language, data modelling, and database design.
Upon completing the course, graduates become competent in handling various tasks, such as organising and managing data efficiently, improving data retrieval, storage solutions, and security practices. Some of the possible career opportunities include:
- Database administrator
- Computer programmers
- Database manager
- Data analyst
- Information security analyst
- Data modeler
- Data scientist
8. Mobile App Development
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Mobile devices have become a vital component in people's daily lives, resulting in a surge in mobile app development. As such, a course in mobile app development is becoming one of the most sought-after IT courses. The course covers the entire cycle of developing a mobile app from the setup to programming and API integration.
After undertaking the course, students are equipped with the knowledge to design, build, and deploy mobile device applications. They are also able to use different programming languages, tools, and frameworks. Graduates can pursue the following career paths:
- Web developer
- Mobile app developer
- Full-stack developer
- UI/UX developer
- Front-end developer
- Back-end developer
9. Graphic design
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Graphic design is one of the best Information Technology courses that will prepare you for high-demand jobs. The course is ideal for individuals seeking to refine their creative skills, as it teaches visual design, programming, colour theory, and more.
Upon completing the course, learners can build print and digital brands, compose and enhance images, and design websites. Graduates can dive into a wide array of well-paying jobs, such as:
- Graphic design
- Web design & development
- Illustration and art directing
- Digital marketing specialists
- Software Development
- Marketing management
- Creative directing
10. Web design
Source: UGC
Web design is one of the best IT courses for learners who want to prepare for high-demanding jobs. The courses revolve around creating the visual layout and user experience of websites. To gain this knowledge, students cover various topics, including user experience, typography, and prototyping tools.
Web design graduates acquire the skills to create websites that are user-friendly, visually appealing, and accessible. They also gain a better understanding of design tools and UI/UX best practices. Graduates can pursue the following career paths,
- Web designer
- Applications developer
- Digital marketer
- Game developer
- Multimedia programmer
- Multimedia specialist
- SEO specialist
- UX designer
Conclusion
Above are some of the best Information Technology courses for anyone who wants to prepare for high-demand jobs. Pursuing any of these courses is one of the most innovative ways to prepare for the rapidly growing digital media industry. Also, the courses are available at degree, diploma, and certificate levels, making them suitable for a diverse range of learners.
Are you looking for more information about the most marketable courses? Tuko.co.ke shared an informative article about the top-ranked degrees in Kenya in 2025.
The most marketable courses in Kenya include agriculture, computer science, medicine, and marketing. With most of these courses, one can work in different economic sectors or venture into self-employment.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
