Top 10 Most Competitive Courses For Jamb 2025
As the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) 2025 draws closer, thousands of Nigerian students are preparing to secure admission into universities nationwide. Every year, certain courses attract a large number of applicants due to their prestige, career prospects, and relevance in today’s job market. These courses are often labeled as the most competitive, requiring exceptional preparation and outstanding performance to secure admission.
This article delves into the Top 10 Most Competitive Courses for JAMB 2025, highlighting their appeal, entry requirements, and reasons for their popularity.
1. Medicine and Surgery
Medicine and Surgery is the most sought-after course in Nigeria, with thousands of applicants vying for limited slots in universities. This field is revered for its life-saving impact, prestige, and potential for financial stability.
Why It’s Competitive:
Medicine requires high academic performance and passion for the healthcare field. The rigorous nature of the course and limited number of accredited medical schools make it highly competitive.
- Entry Requirements:
- Minimum of five credits in O'level subjects, including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- High scores in UTME (preferably above 280).
- Popular Universities Offering Medicine and Surgery:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
2. Law
Law has consistently ranked as one of the most competitive courses due to its role in shaping societal frameworks and offering diverse career opportunities in legal practice, politics, and corporate governance.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The prestige associated with being a lawyer, coupled with the versatility of the degree, attracts thousands of applicants yearly.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in English Language, Literature in English, and Government.
- High UTME score (above 270 is advisable).
- Popular Universities Offering Law:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Babcock University
3. Engineering
Engineering remains a top choice for students with strong technical and analytical skills. Specializations like Mechanical, Civil, Petroleum, and Electrical Engineering are particularly competitive.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The course’s relevance in infrastructure, energy, and technological development makes it appealing to students.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
- High UTME score (preferably above 260).
- Popular Universities Offering Engineering:
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
4. Nursing Science
The demand for skilled healthcare professionals has led to a surge in the popularity of Nursing Science. Nurses are critical in patient care, making the field both noble and rewarding.
- Why It’s Competitive:
Nursing combines compassion and technical expertise. It’s also one of the few fields with high employability rates both locally and internationally.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- UTME score above 250.
- Popular Universities Offering Nursing Science:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
5. Pharmacy
Pharmacy offers a blend of healthcare, science, and business, making it a desirable choice for students interested in the development and dispensation of drugs.
- Why It’s Competitive:
With the rising demand for medications and pharmaceutical services, this course guarantees career stability and opportunities for entrepreneurship.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in Mathematics, English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- UTME score above 270.
- Popular Universities Offering Pharmacy:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
6. Computer Science
As the world becomes more digital, Computer Science is among the most in-demand courses. This program equips students with skills in software development, artificial intelligence, and data science.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The global demand for tech professionals ensures that this course remains popular among students who want to explore careers in technology.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in Mathematics, English Language, Physics, and any other science subject.
- UTME score above 260.
- Popular Universities Offering Computer Science:
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- Covenant University
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
7. Accounting
Accounting continues to be a competitive course due to its relevance across all sectors. Accountants are indispensable in financial management and business strategy.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The global need for financial professionals and the opportunity for career growth drive its popularity.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in Mathematics, English Language, Economics, and Financial Accounting.
- UTME score above 250.
- Popular Universities Offering Accounting:
- Covenant University
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
8. Economics
Economics remains a favorite among students interested in business, finance, and policy-making. The program trains students to analyze markets, forecast trends, and make informed decisions.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The versatility of the course and its relevance in both public and private sectors make it a top choice for many.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in Mathematics, English Language, Economics, and any other social science subject.
- UTME score above 260.
- Popular Universities Offering Economics:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
9. Mass Communication
Mass Communication has evolved with the rise of digital media, making it a relevant and competitive course. It prepares students for careers in journalism, public relations, advertising, and digital marketing.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The growing demand for media professionals ensures that this program remains in high demand.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in English Language, Literature in English, and any other two subjects.
- UTME score above 250.
- Popular Universities Offering Mass Communication:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Covenant University
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
10. Architecture
Architecture is a unique blend of art and science, allowing students to design and construct buildings. It’s a top choice for creative individuals with an interest in engineering and aesthetics.
- Why It’s Competitive:
The exclusivity of the course, coupled with its role in urban development, makes it appealing to ambitious students.
- Entry Requirements:
- Credits in Mathematics, Physics, and any technical drawing subject.
- UTME score above 260.
- Popular Universities Offering Architecture:
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Conclusion
The Top 10 Most Competitive Courses for JAMB 2025 are shaped by their relevance in today’s world, job market demands, and societal prestige. Aspiring students must prepare rigorously for the UTME and post-UTME exams to increase their chances of admission.
Success in gaining admission to any of these courses requires a combination of passion, discipline, and determination. If you aim to enroll in one of these competitive programs, start preparing early, focus on your strengths, and leverage available resources to excel. Good luck!