Choosing the right course to study in Nigeria can shape your entire future. In today’s world, where job opportunities are getting more competitive, picking a good course is more important than ever. The course you choose should not only match your passion but should also offer good career prospects, job opportunities, and relevance in Nigeria and across the globe.
In this blog post, we will show you the 8 best courses to study in Nigerian schools. These courses are highly respected, in demand, and offer graduates a higher chance of success both in Nigeria and abroad.
1. Medicine and Surgery
Why it’s one of the best:
Medicine and Surgery remains one of the most prestigious and respected courses in Nigeria. Doctors are always in high demand, and the health sector is one of the most vital in any country. In Nigeria, there is a shortage of medical professionals, which makes this course a wise and impactful choice.
Job Opportunities:
- Medical Doctor
- Surgeon
- Specialist (e.g. Cardiologist, Pediatrician)
- Medical Researcher
- Lecturer or Educator in Medical Schools
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Medicine and Surgery:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Duration: 6 years plus 1 year of housemanship
Bonus Tip: If you are passionate about saving lives and ready to study hard, Medicine is a great choice.
2. Law
Why it’s one of the best:
Law is a highly respected course in Nigeria. Lawyers play a major role in shaping society and defending justice. If you love debating, reading, and standing up for people’s rights, then studying Law might be your best decision.
Job Opportunities:
- Legal Practitioner
- Judge
- Legal Adviser in companies
- Politician
- Human Rights Activist
- Lecturer
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Law:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
Duration: 5 years in the university + 1 year in Law School
Bonus Tip: Law is a course that requires a lot of reading and good communication skills. It’s perfect for students who enjoy arguments and analysis.
3. Engineering
Why it’s one of the best:
Engineering is a course that builds the modern world. From roads, buildings, machines, power supply, to software, engineers are responsible for creating solutions to real-life problems. In Nigeria, engineers are needed in every sector — oil and gas, power, transport, construction, ICT, and more.
Popular Engineering Fields:
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical/Electronics Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Job Opportunities:
- Construction Engineer
- Project Manager
- Oil and Gas Engineer
- Software/Hardware Developer
- Telecommunications Engineer
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Engineering:
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria (UNN)
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Duration: 5 years
Bonus Tip: Engineering is best for students who love mathematics, physics, and solving technical problems.
4. Accounting
Why it’s one of the best:
Accounting is the language of business. Every organization, big or small, needs accountants to manage money and keep records. In Nigeria, accountants are well-respected and always in demand in the public and private sectors.
Job Opportunities:
- Chartered Accountant
- Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Tax Consultant
- Accountant in Banks or Firms
Professional Certifications to Boost Career:
- ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria)
- ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Accounting:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Covenant University
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Babcock University
Duration: 4 years
Bonus Tip: If you are good with numbers and like managing money, Accounting is a smart and reliable course to study.
5. Computer Science
Why it’s one of the best:
In today’s digital age, Computer Science is one of the fastest-growing and most important fields. With technology advancing every day, skills in programming, software development, cybersecurity, and data science are in high demand both in Nigeria and abroad.
Job Opportunities:
- Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Data Analyst
- Cybersecurity Expert
- Mobile App Developer
- IT Consultant
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Computer Science:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Covenant University
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Federal University of Technology Minna (FUTMINNA)
Duration: 4 years
Bonus Tip: Computer Science offers high-paying remote jobs. With skills in coding, you can work for Nigerian or international companies from anywhere.
6. Pharmacy
Why it’s one of the best:
Pharmacy is a health-related course that is equally respected like Medicine. Pharmacists are responsible for preparing and dispensing medications. They also educate patients about how to use their medications safely. The pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria is growing fast, which creates more job opportunities.
Job Opportunities:
- Pharmacist
- Drug Manufacturer
- Hospital Pharmacist
- Researcher
- Pharmacology Lecturer
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Pharmacy:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Duration: 5 years
Bonus Tip: Pharmacy requires a strong background in chemistry and biology. If you love health sciences but prefer not to be a doctor, Pharmacy is a great option.
7. Mass Communication
Why it’s one of the best:
Mass Communication is perfect for students who enjoy speaking, writing, and creating content. With the rise of social media, blogging, digital marketing, and online journalism, this course is more relevant than ever. Nigeria’s media space is booming with opportunities.
Job Opportunities:
- Journalist
- Broadcaster (Radio/TV Presenter)
- Public Relations Officer
- Digital Marketer
- Blogger/YouTuber
- Social Media Manager
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Mass Communication:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Covenant University
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Babcock University
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Duration: 4 years
Bonus Tip: Mass Communication allows you to build a strong personal brand. If you’re creative, love media, and enjoy connecting with people, this course is a great pick.
8. Business Administration
Why it’s one of the best:
Business Administration teaches students how to manage a business successfully. Whether you want to run your own company or manage someone else’s, this course equips you with vital skills. It is also one of the most flexible and broad courses, making it easy to branch into other fields like marketing, human resources, and entrepreneurship.
Job Opportunities:
- Business Manager
- Human Resources Officer
- Entrepreneur
- Operations Manager
- Business Analyst
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Business Administration:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Covenant University
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ilorin
- Babcock University
Duration: 4 years
Bonus Tip: Business Administration is ideal for students with leadership skills and entrepreneurial ambition. It also opens the door for MBAs and other postgraduate business degrees.
In conclusion
Choosing a course is not just about what’s trending, it should be about passion, strength, and job prospects. The 8 best courses to study in Nigerian schools we’ve listed above are popular, relevant, and offer strong career opportunities in today’s world.
Here’s a quick summary of the best courses and why they stand out:
| Course | Key Advantage |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Surgery | High respect, saves lives, job security |
| Law | Promotes justice, wide career options |
| Engineering | Problem-solving, technical relevance |
| Accounting | Financial control, global demand |
| Computer Science | Digital age relevance, remote work |
| Pharmacy | Health-related, pharmaceutical growth |
| Mass Communication | Media & content creation boom |
| Business Administration | Entrepreneurial and managerial skills |
When choosing a course, always consider:
- Your personal interests and passion
- Your strengths in certain subjects (like math, science, or arts)
- The availability of good schools offering the course
- Job prospects after graduation
- Opportunities for professional growth
You can speak with guidance counselors, alumni, or career experts before making your final decision.
Remember, the course you choose can open many doors. So take your time, do your research, and pick what’s best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best courses to study in Nigeria for job opportunities?
Courses like Medicine, Law, Engineering, Computer Science, and Accounting offer excellent job opportunities in Nigeria.
2. Which course is best for art students in Nigeria?
Law, Mass Communication, and Business Administration are great choices for art students.
3. Can I switch my course after getting admission?
Yes, many Nigerian universities allow students to change their course after their first year, depending on their grades and availability.
4. Which course is best for science students?
Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering, and Computer Science are ideal for science students.
5. What is the easiest course to study in Nigeria?
It depends on your strengths. For some, Mass Communication or Business Administration might be easier, but it’s important to pick what you enjoy and can handle.
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Good luck in your academic journey!
