Microorganisms have an enormous impact on the life of mankind. They are both beneficial and harmful with their activities contributing immensely to the survival of all other organisms. They are primarily responsible for replenishing the supply of oxygen in the global ecosystem. They break down a wide variety of materials that no other forms of life can degrade. They convert nitrogen in air into a chemical form that plants can use. In addition to their crucial roles of maintaining all life on earth, they have made life comfortable for humans over the centuries. The science of biotechnology is geared towards solving practical problems and producing useful products economically. Similarly the practice of genetic engineering has expanded the power of biotechnology enormously. Microorganisms are genetically engineered to produce a wide variety of medically important products, pest and disease resistant plants as well as the use of viruses in gene therapy. Microorganisms are therefore widely used to promote human welfare.
By the end of the programme, the learner should be able to:
All candidates admitted to the degree programme of Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biotechnology must satisfy the minimum entrance requirements stipulated in the Tharaka University Statutes. In addition, applicants MUST have passed the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with a minimum grade of C+ in Biology or Biological Sciences, Physics, Chemistry or B- in Physical Sciences and C+ in Geography or Agriculture. Those holding qualifications equivalent to the above from institutions recognized by Tharaka University Senate may also be admitted. Admission may be offered to outstanding diploma holders in Biological Sciences passed with a credit or above or their equivalent. Such cases will be treated on individual merit. Transfer of credit factors from the diploma programmes or their equivalent may be considered and in such a case a credit transfer a maximum of 30% of the curricula will be allowed for those who qualify based on the guidelines stipulated by the Senate.
The B.Sc. in Microbiology and Biotechnology programme extends over four academic years. Every academic year consists of two semesters. There is, therefore, a total of 8 semesters during the four-year academic years. The weighting of courses is in terms of semester units where a semester unit is equivalent to 45 lecture hours. The B.Sc. in Microbiology and Biotechnology requires the student to complete a minimum of 56 courses inclusive of elective courses which are offered only in the third and fourth years of study. The electives are aimed at enabling the student to specialize in a particular area. The specialization area selected and the related electives must be adhered to throughout the two-year period.
Full Time Ksh – 72,500 per Semester
Online Learining (Odel) – Ksh – 54,500 per Semester
Applications should be on official forms available at Tharaka University College in Gatunga; Non-refundable fee of KES 2,000 for postgraduate courses degree, and diploma programmes and KES 1,000 for certificate courses to be deposited in the following accounts:
Bank Name Account Name: Branch Account Tharaka University
College
Co-operative Fees Collection
Bank Account Chuka 0112972400000
Equity Bank Fees Collection Chuka 021 0277753588
Account
KCB Bank Fees Collection Chuka 1240985967
Account