Program Overview

Build the hands-on skills to assist in the assessment, stabilization, and basic management of musculoskeletal injuries. This KNEC-aligned certificate prepares you for orthopedic clinics, plaster rooms, theatres, emergency units, and outreach.

Duration & Weekly Rhythm

• Duration: 2 academic years (6 terms); ~1,800–2,000 total contact hours
• Term format: ~12 teaching weeks + 2 assessment weeks
• Weekly plan: Mon–Wed theory & skills lab • Thu–Fri clinical placement • 2hrs tutorials/OSCE

Learning Methods

• Lectures & seminars for foundations
• Skills lab (casting, splinting, traction demos, asepsis)
• Case-based learning & theatre observation
• Clinical rotations with competency logbook

Indicative Modules

Year 1

• Anatomy & Physiology (MSK focus); Medical Terminology; Communication
• Infection Prevention & Control; Basic Life Support; Patient Safety
• Orthopedics I (fracture principles, immobilization, POP & splints)
• Trauma Care I (triage, ABCDE, bleeding control)
• Radiography Principles I (positioning & safety); ICT for Health
• Clinical Placement I–II (OPD/plaster room; theatre/ward)

Year 2

• Orthopedics II–III (upper & lower limb, traction, pediatric basics)
• Trauma Care II (head & spinal precautions – assistant role)
• Theatre Techniques I–II (asepsis, trays, counts; minor procedures assist)
• Rehabilitation Basics; Community Orthopedics & Outreach
• Radiography II (common fracture views); Entrepreneurship & Employability
• Clinical Placement III–IV; Internship block; Capstone OSCE prep

Clinical Placements

• Orthopedic OPD & Plaster Room – casting, splinting, follow-up care
• Trauma/Emergency – triage & stabilization support
• Theatre – sterile technique, instrument assistance (minor ortho)
• Orthopedic Ward – documentation, patient education & discharge planning

Logbook: minimum required procedures (backslab, cylinder cast, sling, buddy taping, traction assist) signed by preceptors.

Assessment (KNEC)

• Coursework (40%) — CATs, skills checklists, case write-ups, logbook
• Finals (60%) — KNEC written papers + OSCE/OSPE practicals
• Pass rule: must pass Theory and Practical separately; complete all clinical hours

Entry Requirements

• KCSE Mean Grade C- (Minus) or higher
• C- in Biology and English/Kiswahili
• D+ in one of: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Agriculture, Geography (or equivalent)

We welcome applicants with related prior training for consideration on a case-by-case basis.

Frequently Asked

Who examines this program?
VMTC delivers the certificate aligned to current KNEC guidelines. Unit codes/titles are updated per circulars.

Where will I practice?
Approved partner facilities in Nakuru and surrounding counties (OPD, plaster room, ER, theatre, ward).

Progression?
Graduates can progress to the Diploma in Orthopedic & Trauma Medicine or other related diplomas (subject to entry rules).