WASSCE Requirements for Health Science Programmes in Ghana -- 2026 Guide

## Understanding WASSCE Grading for Health Science Admissions

Before you compare your results against any admission requirements, you need to understand how WASSCE grades translate into qualification. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) grades WASSCE papers on a scale from A1 (Excellent) to F9 (Fail). For health science admissions in Ghana, the critical threshold is C6 or better. Grades A1 through C6 are considered passes for admission purposes. Grades D7 and E8 are weak passes that most institutions do not accept. F9 is a fail. When an institution says it requires a "credit" or a "pass" in a subject, it means C6 or better unless stated otherwise.

Aggregate scores matter too. Your WASSCE aggregate is calculated by adding up your best six subject grades, including the three core subjects (English Language, Core Mathematics, Integrated Science) and three elective subjects. The lower the aggregate number, the better your result. A student with grades of A1, B2, B3, B3, C4, C5 has an aggregate of 18. Most health science programmes at KCoHAS require an aggregate of 36 or better for WASSCE applicants, and 24 or better for SSSCE applicants. This means the sum of your six best grades must not exceed 36.

One common source of confusion is the difference between WASSCE and SSSCE grading. The SSSCE, which was phased out but whose results some mature applicants still hold, used a different grading scale (1-9 with lower being better, and a pass threshold of 6). If you hold SSSCE results, the aggregate requirement is typically 24. If you hold WASSCE results, the aggregate requirement is 36. These are equivalent standards expressed in different grading systems.

## General Entry Requirements for Health Science Programmes

Across all undergraduate health science programmes in Ghana, a baseline set of WASSCE requirements applies. You must have a credit pass (C6 or better) in three core subjects: English Language, Core Mathematics, and Integrated Science. These three are non-negotiable. Without passing all three, you will not qualify for any health science programme, regardless of how well you performed in your elective subjects.

Beyond the core three, you need credit passes in three relevant elective subjects. This is where programme-specific requirements come into play. Programmes in the biological and clinical sciences (Medical Laboratory Science, Clinical Dietetics, Community Nutrition, Public Health) typically require Biology and Chemistry as two of the three electives. Programmes in the physical and imaging sciences (Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Imaging/Radiography, Ophthalmic Dispensing) typically require Physics and Mathematics as two of the three electives. The third elective is usually flexible but must be a science subject.

It is worth noting that KCoHAS, as a private health sciences institution affiliated with the University of Cape Coast, accepts both WASSCE and SSSCE results. The aggregate cut-off of 36 (WASSCE) or 24 (SSSCE) is a firm minimum. Students with stronger aggregates are admitted first, so aiming for the best possible grades in your relevant subjects improves your chances significantly.

## Programme-Specific WASSCE Requirements

Each programme at KCoHAS has specific elective subject requirements beyond the core three. Here is the full breakdown for all nine BSc programmes.

BSc Medical Laboratory Science requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Chemistry and Biology. The third elective can be Physics or Elective Mathematics. This programme trains students to perform diagnostic tests in haematology, microbiology, clinical chemistry, and blood banking. Graduates earn an average of GHS 3,800 to GHS 6,000 per month, with a 96% employment rate. Medical laboratory science is one of the most in-demand allied health professions in Ghana, and the combination of Biology and Chemistry ensures students have the foundation for understanding biochemical processes and diagnostic methodologies.

BSc Diagnostic Medical Sonography requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Physics and Mathematics. The third elective can be Chemistry or Biology. Sonography is a physics-intensive discipline because ultrasound imaging relies on sound wave physics, transducer technology, and image formation principles. KCoHAS is one of the pioneer institutions in Ghana offering a dedicated BSc in sonography, and graduates enjoy a 97% employment rate with starting salaries of GHS 4,000 to GHS 7,000 per month.

BSc Medical Imaging Science (Radiography) requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Physics and Mathematics. The third elective can be Chemistry or Biology. Like sonography, radiography is grounded in physics -- X-ray production, radiation interaction with matter, and image quality all depend on physical principles. Radiographers at KCoHAS train on X-ray, CT, MRI, and fluoroscopy equipment during clinical placements at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and 37 Military Hospital.

BSc Clinical Dietetics requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Chemistry and Biology. The third elective can be Physics, Elective Mathematics, or Food and Nutrition. Clinical dietitians develop therapeutic diets for patients with conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, sickle cell disease, and kidney disease. KCoHAS is one of the few institutions in Ghana offering this programme, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about nutrition and patient care.

BSc Community Nutrition requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Chemistry and Biology. The third elective can be Physics, Elective Mathematics, or Food and Nutrition. Community nutrition focuses on population-level nutrition interventions rather than individual patient care. Graduates work with Ghana Health Service, WHO, UNICEF, and NGOs addressing malnutrition and food security across the country.

BSc Ophthalmic Dispensing requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Physics and Mathematics. The third elective can be Chemistry or Biology. This programme trains dispensing opticians who fit spectacles and contact lenses. KCoHAS offers one of the few dedicated ophthalmic dispensing degrees in West Africa, and the growing optical retail market in Ghana creates strong demand for graduates.

BSc Public Health accepts students from all educational streams, including Science, Business, and General Arts. You need credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science. For electives, science students can present Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. Business and General Arts students can present subjects such as Geography, Economics, Government, or Social Studies. The aggregate requirement is 36 or better. This is one of the most accessible health science programmes because public health draws on social sciences, policy, and community engagement as much as laboratory science. Graduates specialise in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, health promotion, and environmental health.

BSc Health Services Management accepts students from ALL educational streams: Science, Business, General Arts, and Home Economics. You need credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science. For electives, any combination is accepted, including Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Geography, Government, or science subjects. The aggregate requirement is 36 or better. This programme is designed for students who want to lead healthcare institutions rather than provide direct clinical care. You do not need a science background to excel in health management. Graduates manage hospitals, health insurance schemes, and public health organisations.

BSc Health Informatics requires credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Chemistry and Biology, or Mathematics and ICT. This programme sits at the intersection of healthcare and technology. Graduates design and manage electronic medical records, health information systems, and data-driven solutions for healthcare organisations. With Ghana investing heavily in digital health infrastructure, this is a high-growth field.

## Postgraduate Entry Requirements (MPH, MPhil, MSc, MPhil Sonography)

KCoHAS offers four postgraduate programmes for health professionals seeking advanced qualifications. The Master of Public Health (MPH) requires a first degree in a health-related field from a recognised university, with a minimum second class lower division. Applicants must also have at least one year of relevant professional experience. The MPhil Public Health has similar requirements but may require a stronger academic record (second class upper or above) and a research proposal.

The MSc Diagnostic Medical Sonography and MPhil Diagnostic Medical Sonography are advanced programmes for practising sonographers and imaging professionals. Applicants need a first degree in sonography, radiography, or a related imaging field, with professional experience in ultrasound practice. These programmes are among the few postgraduate sonography qualifications available in West Africa, making them significant for career advancement in the imaging sciences. KCoHAS also offers a PhD in Diagnostic Medical Sonography for candidates with an MPhil who wish to pursue research-level study.

## HND and Diploma Requirements

For students who prefer a shorter pathway into the health workforce, KCoHAS offers two sub-degree programmes. The HND Dispensing Technology (Pharmacy Assistant) is a three-year programme that requires WASSCE credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus three science electives including Chemistry and Biology. The aggregate requirement is 36 or better. Graduates work alongside pharmacists in hospitals, community pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies.

The Diploma in Dispensing Technology is a two-year programme with slightly more flexible requirements. Applicants need WASSCE credit passes in Core Mathematics, English Language, and Integrated Science, plus at least two science electives. The aggregate requirement remains 36 or better. This diploma provides a fast track into pharmaceutical dispensing work, and graduates can later upgrade to the HND or pursue further study.

## What If Your WASSCE Results Don't Meet the Requirements?

If your WASSCE results fall short of the admission requirements, you have several options. The most straightforward is to re-sit specific WASSCE papers through the WAEC private candidates examination (November/December registration). You do not need to rewrite all your subjects -- only the ones where you did not achieve C6 or better. Many students improve one or two grades through targeted revision and re-sitting, and KCoHAS accepts results from multiple WASSCE sittings as long as the required grades are achieved.

Another option is to enrol in an access or pre-health science programme. Some institutions offer bridging courses that prepare students for health science admissions. These are particularly useful if you are missing prerequisites in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, or Physics that you did not take during SHS. A bridging programme can fill those gaps within one to two semesters.

You might also consider starting with the Diploma in Dispensing Technology at KCoHAS, which has slightly more flexible entry requirements. After completing the diploma, you can upgrade to the HND and potentially progress to a BSc programme, building your qualifications step by step. This pathway is popular with students who want to start their health career while continuing to improve their academic credentials.

## Mature Student Entry (25+ Years)

If you are 25 years or older and do not meet the standard WASSCE requirements, KCoHAS offers a mature student entry pathway. Mature entry applicants must be at least 25 years old at the time of application and have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience in a health-related or science-related field. Applicants must pass a mature entry examination, which typically covers English, Mathematics, and a science component relevant to the chosen programme.

Mature entry is particularly valuable for working professionals in the health sector who gained experience without a formal degree. Pharmacy assistants, lab technicians, health records officers, and community health workers who have been practising for years can formalise their qualifications through this pathway. KCoHAS evaluates mature entry applications holistically, considering work experience, professional references, and examination performance alongside academic history.

## How to Apply to KCoHAS

Applying to KCoHAS is straightforward. Visit klintapscohas.edu.gh and navigate to the Admissions section. You can apply online or collect a physical application form from the campus. You will need to submit your WASSCE results slip or certificate, a completed application form, passport-sized photographs, and the application fee. For mature entry applicants, include your CV, work experience letter, and professional references.

Applications for the 2026/2027 academic year are currently open. KCoHAS operates a rolling admissions process, which means applications are reviewed as they are received rather than after a single deadline. However, popular programmes fill up quickly, so applying early gives you the best chance of securing a place. The admissions team is available to answer questions about your specific situation, whether you are a recent WASSCE graduate, a mature student, or an international applicant.

## Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum WASSCE grade for health science programmes? You need C6 or better in English Language, Core Mathematics, and Integrated Science, plus C6 or better in three relevant elective subjects. The total aggregate must be 36 or better.

Can I combine WASSCE results from different sittings? Yes, KCoHAS accepts results from multiple WASSCE sittings. You can combine your best grades across different examination years to meet the admission requirements.

Does KCoHAS offer nursing or physician assistantship programmes? No. KCoHAS does not offer nursing or physician assistantship. The institution specialises in nine BSc programmes (Medical Laboratory Science, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Imaging/Radiography, Clinical Dietetics, Community Nutrition, Ophthalmic Dispensing, Public Health, Health Services Management, and Health Informatics), four postgraduate programmes (MPH, MPhil Public Health, MSc/MPhil/PhD Diagnostic Medical Sonography), and two dispensing technology programmes (HND and Diploma).

Are KCoHAS degrees recognised? Yes. All KCoHAS programmes are accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and awarded by the University of Cape Coast (UCC). Professional programmes are also accredited by the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC). These qualifications are recognised nationally and provide a strong foundation for international career pathways.

What are the tuition fees? Tuition for BSc programmes ranges from GHS 5,500 per year (regular/weekday) to GHS 7,500 per year (weekend). International students pay approximately $1,000 per year. KCoHAS offers flexible payment plans to make fees manageable.

What is the employment rate for KCoHAS graduates? KCoHAS reports a 95% overall graduate employment rate across all programmes. Individual programme rates range from 91% to 97%, with sonography and medical laboratory science at the top.

## Next Steps

If your WASSCE results meet the requirements outlined above, the next step is to apply. Visit klintapscohas.edu.gh/admissions/apply to submit your application for the 2026/2027 academic year. If you are unsure whether you qualify, contact the KCoHAS admissions team directly -- they can assess your results and advise you on the best programme fit. For students still preparing for WASSCE, use this guide as your target. Focus on achieving C6 or better in the core three (English, Mathematics, Integrated Science) and in the specific electives required for your chosen programme. A strong WASSCE performance is the foundation of your health science career, and programmes at KCoHAS are designed to take you from those results to a rewarding profession in healthcare.