Top-Rated Universities In Nigeria: Tuition Fees, Courses, And Requirements
Nigeria, often referred to as the "Giant of Africa," is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant economy. One of the key pillars supporting its growth and development is its education system, particularly its higher education institutions. Nigerian universities are recognized not only for their academic excellence but also for their role in shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. In this blog post, we will delve into the top-rated universities in Nigeria, highlighting their tuition fees, courses, and admission requirements.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan, established in 1948, is Nigeria's premier university and has consistently been ranked among the top institutions in the country. Known for its extensive research output and comprehensive academic programs, UI is a beacon of excellence in higher education.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees at the University of Ibadan vary depending on the program and the level of study. For undergraduate programs, Nigerian students typically pay between ₦30,000 and ₦50,000 per session, while international students pay significantly higher fees, often ranging from ₦450,000 to ₦650,000.
Courses
UI offers a wide range of courses across various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Arts: English, History, Philosophy, Religious Studies
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Faculty of Science: Biochemistry, Botany, Chemistry, Physics
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Faculty of Social Sciences: Economics, Geography, Political Science, Sociology
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Faculty of Medicine: Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Dentistry
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Faculty of Engineering: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate admission, prospective students need to meet the following requirements:
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A minimum of five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A good score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)
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Passing the Post-UTME screening conducted by the university
Postgraduate admission requirements typically include a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum of a second-class lower division, along with other specific departmental criteria.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Founded in 1961, Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife is another leading institution in Nigeria. OAU is renowned for its beautiful campus, robust academic programs, and strong emphasis on research and innovation.
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate tuition fees for Nigerian students range from ₦20,000 to ₦60,000 per session, depending on the course of study. For international students, the fees are higher, generally between ₦500,000 and ₦800,000.
Courses
OAU offers a diverse array of courses across its numerous faculties, including:
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Faculty of Agriculture: Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Crop Production
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Faculty of Environmental Design and Management: Architecture, Estate Management, Urban and Regional Planning
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Faculty of Education: Educational Management, Guidance and Counselling, Science Education
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Pharmacy: Pharmacy
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate programs, the basic requirements include:
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At least five credits in O'Level examinations (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Success in the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, candidates typically need a relevant first degree with at least a second-class lower division, alongside any additional departmental requirements.
3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos, commonly referred to as UNILAG, was established in 1962 and has grown to become one of Nigeria's most prestigious universities. Located in the heart of Lagos, it boasts a dynamic urban environment conducive to learning and research.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for undergraduate programs at UNILAG are relatively affordable, ranging from ₦14,500 to ₦60,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students pay higher fees, which can be between ₦500,000 and ₦800,000.
Courses
UNILAG offers a comprehensive selection of courses across various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Arts: Creative Arts, English, History and Strategic Studies, Philosophy
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Faculty of Business Administration: Accounting, Business Administration, Finance
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Faculty of Engineering: Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
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Faculty of Medicine: Medicine and Surgery, Medical Laboratory Science, Physiotherapy
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Faculty of Science: Biochemistry, Microbiology, Physics
Admission Requirements
To gain admission into undergraduate programs, students must:
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Obtain at least five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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Achieve a good score in UTME
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Pass the university's Post-UTME screening
Postgraduate candidates must have a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum of a second-class lower division and meet any additional criteria set by the department.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Ahmadu Bello University, located in Zaria, Kaduna State, was established in 1962. Named after the Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, ABU is known for its comprehensive academic programs and strong focus on research.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for undergraduate programs at ABU are generally between ₦25,000 and ₦50,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students' fees are higher, typically ranging from ₦450,000 to ₦700,000.
Courses
ABU offers a wide array of courses in its numerous faculties, including:
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Faculty of Administration: Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration
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Faculty of Agriculture: Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Crop Production
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Faculty of Engineering: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Medicine: Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Physiotherapy
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate admission, the following requirements must be met:
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A minimum of five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, a relevant first degree with at least a second-class lower division is required, along with any additional departmental criteria.
5. Covenant University
Covenant University, located in Ota, Ogun State, was founded in 2002 by the Living Faith Church Worldwide. It is a private Christian university known for its strong academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and emphasis on character development.
Tuition Fees
Covenant University's tuition fees are higher than those of public universities, reflecting its private status. Undergraduate fees range from ₦817,500 to ₦882,500 per session, depending on the course of study.
Courses
The university offers a diverse range of courses across various disciplines, including:
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College of Business and Social Sciences: Accounting, Business Administration, Economics
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College of Engineering: Civil Engineering, Electrical and Information Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
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College of Leadership Development Studies: International Relations, Policy and Strategic Studies, Political Science
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College of Science and Technology: Biochemistry, Computer Science, Industrial Chemistry
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate admission, Covenant University requires:
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At least five credits in O'Level examinations (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Successful completion of the Covenant University Scholastic Aptitude Screening (CUSAS)
For postgraduate programs, candidates must have a relevant bachelor's degree with at least a second-class lower division, alongside additional criteria as specified by the department.
6. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, established in 1960, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria. It is renowned for its comprehensive academic programs and strong emphasis on research and innovation.
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate tuition fees at UNN range from ₦40,000 to ₦60,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students pay higher fees, typically between ₦500,000 and ₦750,000.
Courses
UNN offers a wide range of courses across its various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Agriculture: Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Crop Science
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Faculty of Arts: English, History, Philosophy, Theatre and Film Studies
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Faculty of Engineering: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Medical Sciences: Medicine and Surgery, Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate programs, the admission requirements include:
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At least five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
Postgraduate candidates need a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum of a second-class lower division, along with any additional departmental requirements.
7. Lagos State University (LASU)
Lagos State University, located in Ojo, Lagos, was established in 1983. It is a public university known for its robust academic programs and vibrant campus life.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for undergraduate programs at LASU vary depending on the course of study but generally range from ₦150,000 to ₦250,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students' fees are higher, typically between ₦500,000 and ₦700,000.
Courses
LASU offers a diverse array of courses across its various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Arts: English, History, Philosophy
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Faculty of Management Sciences: Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration
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Faculty of Social Sciences: Economics, Political Science, Sociology
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Science: Biochemistry, Computer Science, Microbiology
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate admission, the following requirements must be met:
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A minimum of five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, candidates must possess a relevant first degree with at least a second-class lower division, in addition to meeting any specific requirements set by the department.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Established in 1975, the University of Ilorin is located in Kwara State. It is known for its stable academic calendar, robust academic programs, and a commitment to providing quality education.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for undergraduate programs at UNILORIN are relatively affordable, ranging from ₦25,000 to ₦50,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students are required to pay higher fees, typically between ₦450,000 and ₦750,000.
Courses
UNILORIN offers a wide range of courses across various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Arts: English, History, Islamic Studies, Performing Arts
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Faculty of Education: Adult Education, Educational Management, Science Education
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Faculty of Engineering and Technology: Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Science: Biochemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate programs, the admission requirements include:
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At least five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, candidates need to have a relevant bachelor's degree with at least a second-class lower division, along with any additional departmental requirements.
9. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
The Federal University of Technology, Minna, was established in 1983 and is located in Niger State. It is known for its focus on technological education and research.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for undergraduate programs at FUTMINNA range from ₦27,000 to ₦40,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students pay higher fees, typically between ₦450,000 and ₦700,000.
Courses
FUTMINNA offers a variety of courses across its faculties, with a strong emphasis on science and technology, including:
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School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology: Agricultural Economics and Extension, Animal Production, Crop Production
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School of Environmental Technology: Architecture, Building, Estate Management
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School of Engineering and Engineering Technology: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
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School of Information and Communication Technology: Computer Science, Cyber Security Science, Telecommunication Engineering
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School of Physical Sciences: Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate programs, prospective students need to meet the following requirements:
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A minimum of five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A good score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum of a second-class lower division, along with any additional departmental criteria.
10. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin, founded in 1970, is located in Edo State. UNIBEN is known for its diverse academic programs, strong emphasis on research, and vibrant student life.
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate tuition fees at UNIBEN range from ₦14,000 to ₦50,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students' fees are higher, typically between ₦450,000 and ₦650,000.
Courses
UNIBEN offers a wide range of courses across its various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Arts: English, History, Linguistics, Theatre Arts
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Faculty of Education: Adult Education, Educational Management, Science Education
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Faculty of Engineering: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Medical Sciences: Medicine and Surgery, Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate admission, the following requirements must be met:
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At least five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, candidates must have a relevant bachelor's degree with at least a second-class lower division, alongside any additional departmental requirements.
11. University of Jos (UNIJOS)
The University of Jos, established in 1975, is located in Plateau State. It is known for its conducive learning environment, diverse academic programs, and strong research culture.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for undergraduate programs at UNIJOS range from ₦45,000 to ₦65,000 per session for Nigerian students. International students pay higher fees, typically between ₦450,000 and ₦700,000.
Courses
UNIJOS offers a diverse array of courses across its various faculties, including:
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Faculty of Arts: English, History, Mass Communication, Theatre and Film Arts
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Faculty of Education: Educational Foundations, Science and Technology Education
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Faculty of Environmental Sciences: Architecture, Building, Urban and Regional Planning
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Faculty of Law: Law
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Faculty of Natural Sciences: Biochemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics
Admission Requirements
For undergraduate programs, the admission requirements include:
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At least five credits in O'Level results (including English and Mathematics)
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A satisfactory score in UTME
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Passing the university's Post-UTME screening
For postgraduate programs, candidates need a relevant bachelor's degree with at least a second-class lower division, along with any additional departmental requirements.
Conclusion
Nigeria's top-rated universities are renowned for their academic excellence, diverse programs, and commitment to research and innovation. Each of these institutions offers unique opportunities and experiences, catering to a wide range of academic interests and career aspirations. Understanding the tuition fees, available courses, and admission requirements is crucial for prospective students as they plan their academic journeys.
Choosing the right university involves considering various factors such as the cost of education, the courses offered, and the specific admission criteria. With careful planning and informed decision-making, students can find the institution that best aligns with their academic goals and personal aspirations, paving the way for a successful and fulfilling educational experience.