Microfinance Diploma (MDP) SMC_MDP A5.indd 1
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The Course
The School of Management and Commerce offers the Microfinance Diploma Programme (MDP), which was developed as a result of a tripartite agreement between Strathmore University, Swisscontact and the Association of Microfinance Institutions (AMFI). The MDP aims at providing participants with the basic skills in microfinance and exposing them to effective ways of managing microfinance operations and meets individual and corporate training needs.The lecturers for the programme are drawn from staff members in the University and pr actitioner s from the microfinance industry.
• Completion and submission of the comprehensive Assignments is of paramount importance and determines the student’s ability to sit for exams. • To qualify for the Microfinance Diploma, the student must complete all modules, sit all exams and submit a complete research project.
MDP Objective The curriculum has been developed to meet the specific needs of the Kenyan microfinance industr y with input from practitioners and var ious industr y stakeholder s to ensure relevance. The objective of the programme is: • To expose participants to the basic and technical skills of microfinance operations; • To help enhance professionalism and build capacity in the microfinance industry; • Give employees of the MFI’s the opportunity to acquire formal qualifications to build a professional foundation for a career in the field.
Career
Duration and Structure • This programme is offered on a part time basis in Saturday only classes or via distance learning • It is offered in 9 modules taught over a period of 3 semesters, which run over a minimum period of 1 year. • Examinations consist of Comprehensive Assignments and University Examinations.
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The programme targets employees of microfinance organisations as well as other people interested in developing a professional career in microfinance.
Learning Facilities E-Learning Strathmore University is a pioneer in the use of ICT. Our e-learning system enables students to view the coursework material that lecturers have posted, submit their finished assignments, update their calendars, interact and chat with fellow students, participate in various fora and communicate with their lecturer. Students have access to numerous computer laboratories, unlimited Internet, a wide range of software and e-mail. A wireless network enables students with laptops access to the network from various locations around the campus. Library The library complex and reading room are spacious, with an atmosphere that is highly
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Education Financing To help you manage your education financing, Strathmore has partnered with Commercial Bank of Africa and the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation to offer low-interest loans to students pursuing degrees and diplomas at the University. Students can also get loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
conducive to private study and research. The wide range of material contributes to the university’s excellent academic performance. The library system is available online.
Entry Requirements The following will be eligible for admission into the Micro Finance Diploma Programme: • Be a holder of a professional certificate in a relevant discipline form an Institution recognised by the Academic Council of the University AND • Be a holder of KCSE (or equivalent examination) certificate with a minimum of C+ or be a holder of KACE certificate with a minimum of two Subsidiary Passes, and a minimum of a Credit Pass in Mathematics at KCE; AND • Have worked in an MFI, SACCO, Bank, and Financial Institution OR Non-bank financial Institution for a minimum of two years Exemptions • Exemptions are granted at the discretion of the Academic Council. • Unless exempted, a candidate is required to take all modules. • Exemption procedures are available from the microfinance program coordinator. Entrance Examinations Candidates are required to sit a General
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Entrance Examination (GEE), which shall consists of: Mathematics, English and finally an Oral interview. • Applicants should report to the University by 8.00am on the day of the interview and should bring: • Three (3) passport-size photographs • Original and photocopies of all relevant academic and professional certificates • Copy of the national ID/ Birth Certificate/ Passport • Entrance Examination fee of KShs 600. • Letter from your employer indicating work experience of a minimum of two years.
Other Information • Students will be expected to comply with existing University regulations. • The University is recognised by the Directorate of Industrial Training for the purpose of reimbursement of fees. The names of students sponsored must be submitted to the Directorate before the commencement of the course. • The University offers snacks, drinks and hot meals to students and staff at reasonable prices. • The Library is open on weekdays from 7.30am to 9.00pm and on Saturdays from 8.00am to 7.30pm and Sundays 1.00pm6.00pm • The University has a dress code, which we kindly request course participants to respect.
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At Strathmore University, we are open to everyone, as felt in our warm family atmosphere and the simplicity and confidence with which we engage one another. We encourage open, lively and responsible interaction based on the respect for the freedom and opinion of others. Our culture and reputation for outstanding excellence has deep roots. We are driven by the desire to enable you recognise the dignity and worth of self and of others and to make that fact propel you to achieve the greatest possible excellence in what you do and to do it for the service of others. Strathmore University is for those seeking to be that peerless professional, revolutionary entrepreneur, inspirational manager or exemplary leader who wants to make an impact and transform our society.
How to reach us The University is located on Ole Sangale Road (off Langata Road) accessible by private means or public transport from the Central Bus Station with signboard 14A – Strathmore. For more details contact: Admissions Office, Strathmore University PO Box 59857-00200 City Square, Nairobi, Kenya Tel (020) 6006155 Mobile 0733 618135, 0722 205428 Fax (020) 6007498 Email admissions@strathmore.edu www.strathmore.edu
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