Jobs for Diploma in Human Resource Management Graduates

Starting an HR career at diploma level

A Diploma in Human Resource Management teaches the core of personnel work: recruitment and selection, employee records, labour law, payroll basics, training, occupational health and safety, and industrial relations. It is offered by national polytechnics, technical institutes, KSG-type government training institutions and private colleges, typically over two years. It is a sensible route if you want to work in HR but did not get a university place, or want to start earning before a degree.

Roles to target

• HR assistant and HR clerk, handling files, leave records and onboarding paperwork
• Payroll clerk or payroll assistant in companies and outsourcing firms
• Recruitment assistant in staffing agencies, a frequent first job
• Office administrator roles that combine HR and admin duties in smaller organisations

Entry requirements

Public institution places are applied for through KUCCPS, usually with a KCSE mean grade of C- (minus); certificate holders can progress. Check that the institution is accredited and that the course is recognised by employers in your target sector.

Professional registration

The Human Resource Management Professionals Act, 2012 regulates HR practice in Kenya. The Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) offers membership grades for practitioners at different levels, and the HRM Professionals Examination Board runs the CHRP exams that most diploma holders eventually sit to progress. Joining IHRM early, even as a student or associate, shows commitment and gives access to training events.

Building practical knowledge

Employers want HR assistants who understand the Employment Act well enough to answer staff questions accurately. Our guides on probation and terminal dues are a good start, and the terminal dues calculator lets you practise the calculations HR staff do when someone leaves.

Progression

With experience and CHRP, diploma holders commonly move to HR officer within a few years. Many later complete a degree in HR or business through part-time study, which is often needed for HR manager posts.