Nursing is one of the most respected and in-demand medical professions in Nigeria and around the world. Nurses play a critical role in healthcare by assisting doctors, caring for patients, administering treatments, and educating people about health and wellness.
Because of the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, many Nigerian universities now offer Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) programs. However, admission into nursing programs is highly competitive. Only candidates who meet specific JAMB cut-off marks, O’Level requirements, and post-UTME screening standards are admitted each year.
In this guide, you will discover:
- The best universities for nursing in Nigeria
- Their admission requirements
- JAMB cut-off marks
- Tips to increase your chances of admission
- Career opportunities for nursing graduates
If you are planning to study nursing in Nigeria, this article will help you choose the right university.
Why Study Nursing in Nigeria?
Before choosing a university, it is important to understand why nursing is one of the best courses to study.
1. High Demand for Nurses
Healthcare systems constantly need trained nurses. Hospitals, clinics, NGOs, and international health organizations employ thousands of nurses every year.
2. Opportunities Abroad
Many Nigerian nurses work in countries such as:
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- United States
- Australia
- Saudi Arabia
The global shortage of nurses makes the profession highly valuable internationally.
3. Diverse Career Opportunities
Nursing graduates can specialize in:
- Pediatric nursing
- Mental health nursing
- Public health nursing
- Emergency nursing
- Midwifery
- Oncology nursing
4. Job Stability
Healthcare is an essential sector. Nurses rarely face unemployment because hospitals and healthcare centers constantly require trained professionals.
General Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria
Before applying to any university offering nursing, candidates must meet certain requirements.
1. O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
Most Nigerian universities require five credit passes in the following subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These results must usually be obtained in not more than two sittings.
2. JAMB Subject Combination
Candidates applying for nursing must register for the following subjects in JAMB:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These subjects are essential because nursing is a science-based medical course.
3. JAMB Cut-Off Mark
The minimum JAMB score for nursing usually ranges between 180 and 200 depending on the university, although competitive universities often require much higher scores.
However, due to high competition, many universities admit students with scores above 220 or even 250.
4. Post-UTME Screening
Most universities conduct a Post-UTME screening or aptitude test after JAMB.
Admission is usually based on:
- JAMB score
- Post-UTME performance
- O’Level grades
Best Universities for Nursing in Nigeria
Below are some of the best universities offering nursing programs in Nigeria.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s oldest university and one of the most prestigious institutions in Africa. Its nursing program is highly respected and produces some of the best healthcare professionals in the country.
Why UI is Good for Nursing
- Strong academic reputation
- Well-equipped teaching hospital
- Experienced lecturers
- High professional standards
Admission Requirements
Candidates must have:
- Five credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Correct JAMB subject combination
Cut-Off Mark
Typical cut-off mark for nursing:
- JAMB: 200+
- Competitive admission score: 240+
Due to its reputation, admission into UI’s nursing program is extremely competitive.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos is another top university known for academic excellence and modern learning facilities.
Its College of Medicine and nursing faculty are among the best in Nigeria.
Why UNILAG is Popular for Nursing
- Located in Lagos (major healthcare hub)
- Excellent medical training facilities
- High employment rate after graduation
Admission Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Five O’Level credits including science subjects
- JAMB subject combination (English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
Cut-Off Mark
Typical requirement:
- JAMB: 200+
- Competitive score: 240+
Due to the large number of applicants each year, candidates must score very high to gain admission.
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka is one of the most respected universities in Nigeria. It offers a strong nursing science program with a good balance of theory and clinical practice.
Advantages of Studying Nursing at UNN
- Modern nursing training
- Access to teaching hospitals
- Strong research culture
Admission Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Five science credits
- Correct JAMB subject combination
Cut-Off Mark
Typical cut-off:
- JAMB: 200+
- Departmental: 230+
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
The Obafemi Awolowo University is known for academic discipline and high educational standards.
Its nursing program focuses heavily on clinical practice and patient care.
Why OAU is Good for Nursing
- High academic standards
- Well-structured curriculum
- Strong medical faculty
Admission Requirements
Candidates must have:
- Five science credits
- Correct JAMB subjects
Cut-Off Mark
Typical range:
- JAMB: 200+
- Competitive score: 220–240
5. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin has one of the best nursing faculties in southern Nigeria.
The university’s teaching hospital provides strong clinical training.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Five O’Level science credits
- JAMB subject combination
Cut-Off Mark
Typical requirement:
- JAMB: 200+
- Departmental: around 230
6. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
The University of Port Harcourt is another top university offering nursing science in Nigeria.
It is particularly popular among students in southern Nigeria.
Why Students Choose UNIPORT
- Strong medical faculty
- Modern healthcare training
- Good teaching hospital
Cut-Off Mark
Typical range:
- JAMB: 200+
- Competitive score: 220+
7. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
The Ahmadu Bello University is one of the largest universities in Nigeria.
It offers a well-structured nursing science program with strong clinical exposure.
Admission Requirements
Candidates must have:
- Five O’Level science credits
- JAMB subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
Cut-Off Mark
Typical requirement:
- JAMB: 200+
- Departmental: 220+
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin is known for its stable academic calendar and disciplined learning environment.
Why Students Prefer UNILORIN
- No frequent strikes
- Well-organized academic system
- Strong medical training
Cut-Off Mark
Typical requirement:
- JAMB: 200+
- Competitive score: 230+
9. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University offers one of the most competitive nursing programs in southeastern Nigeria.
Admission Requirements
Candidates must have:
- Five credits in science subjects
- JAMB subject combination
Cut-Off Mark
Typical range:
- JAMB: 200+
- Departmental: around 230
10. Babcock University
The Babcock University is one of the best private universities offering nursing in Nigeria.
Advantages
- Modern facilities
- Smaller class sizes
- Quality education
Admission Requirements
Candidates must have:
- Five science credits
- JAMB score above 180
Private universities usually have slightly lower cut-off marks than federal universities.
Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria
Several universities offer nursing science programs including:
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria Nsukka
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Benin
- University of Port Harcourt
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Ilorin
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- Babcock University
Most universities require a minimum JAMB score between 180 and 200, although competitive institutions demand higher scores.
Tips to Gain Admission to Study Nursing
Because nursing is competitive, students must prepare carefully.
1. Aim for High JAMB Scores
Although the minimum requirement may be 200, students should aim for 240 or above to increase their chances.
2. Prepare for Post-UTME
Many universities conduct screening exams. Studying past questions can help improve performance.
3. Choose the Right University
If your JAMB score is low, consider universities with lower cut-off marks.
4. Have Strong O’Level Results
High grades in science subjects can improve admission chances.
Career Opportunities for Nursing Graduates
Graduates of nursing science have many career options.
Hospital Nursing
Working in:
- Public hospitals
- Private hospitals
- Specialist clinics
Public Health Nursing
Working with organizations such as:
- Government health departments
- NGOs
- International health agencies
Teaching and Research
Nurses can become lecturers or researchers in universities.
International Nursing
Many Nigerian nurses migrate abroad for better salaries and working conditions.
Conclusion
Nursing is one of the most respected and rewarding courses to study in Nigeria. With the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, nursing graduates have excellent employment opportunities both locally and internationally.
Some of the best universities for nursing in Nigeria include:
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria Nsukka
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Benin
- University of Port Harcourt
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Ilorin
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- Babcock University
However, gaining admission into these universities requires excellent academic performance, high JAMB scores, and strong preparation for post-UTME screening.
Students who are passionate about healthcare and patient care will find nursing a highly fulfilling and impactful career.
