When it comes to choosing a career in the sciences, Nigerian universities offer a wide variety of science-based courses across federal, state, and private institutions. Whether you’re interested in environmental sciences, medical sciences, physical sciences, or technology-related sciences, there is a place for you in Nigeria’s growing academic ecosystem.
This comprehensive guide covers all science courses offered in Nigerian universities, grouped by faculties, with their average JAMB cut-off marks and WAEC/NECO subject requirements. This article is especially helpful for students planning to write UTME or apply for university admission through direct entry.
Faculties Offering Science Courses in Nigerian Universities
Science courses are housed under several major faculties in Nigerian universities. These include:
- Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences
- Faculty of Life Sciences
- Faculty of Physical Sciences
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Engineering and Technology
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences.
Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences
Popular Courses:
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Industrial Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Physics
Average JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- 180 – 200 (Federal and State Universities)
- 150 – 180 (Private Universities)
WAEC/SSCE Subject Requirements:
- Compulsory: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Optional: Further Mathematics for some courses like Computer Science and Statistics, though not all school request for this.
Faculty of Life Sciences / Biological Sciences
Popular Courses:
- Botany
- Zoology
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Biology
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
Average JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- 160 – 200 depending on university
SSCE Subject Requirements:
- English Language
- Maths
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- One other science subject
Faculty of Physical Sciences
Popular Courses:
- Geology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Geophysics
- Material Science
JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- 160 – 200
SSCE Subject Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- One other science subject.
Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Popular Courses:
- Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
- Nursing Science
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Public Health
- Dentistry
- Radiography
- Pharmacy
- Optometry
Average JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- Medicine and Pharmacy-related Courses: 220 – 280
- Others (e.g., Anatomy, Physiology): 180 – 200
SSCE Subject Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics (may be required or optional depending on course).
Faculty of Environmental Sciences
Popular Courses:
- Environmental Management and Toxicology
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Estate Management
- Architecture
- Surveying and Geoinformatics
- Geography
JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- 160 – 200
SSCE Subject Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Physics or Chemistry
- One relevant science or social science subject.
Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
Popular Courses:
- Agricultural Economics
- Animal Science
- Crop Science
- Soil Science
- Agronomy
- Agricultural Extension
- Food Science and Technology
JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- 160 – 190
WAEC Subject Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology/Agricultural Science
- Chemistry
- One other science subject.
Faculty of Engineering and Technology
Though engineering is sometimes viewed separately, it’s still a science-intensive discipline.
Popular Courses:
- Electrical & Electronics Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Mechatronics
JAMB Cut-Off Marks:
- 180 – 250
SSCE Subject Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Further Mathematics (optional but preferred).
Also read: Cheapest Private Universities in Nigeria 2025/2026
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Science Courses
Here are some top Nigerian universities that offer the full range of science courses:
Federal Universities:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
State Universities:
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Rivers State University
- Ekiti State University
- Imo State University
- Kaduna State University
Private Universities:
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Afe Babalola University
- Bowen University
- Redeemer’s University
These institutions are known for their strong science faculties, modern laboratories, and well-trained lecturers.
Career Opportunities for Science Students in Nigeria
Studying a science course in Nigeria opens doors to diverse careers, including:
- Medical Professionals: Doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists
- Technologists and Engineers
- Data Analysts and Statisticians
- Environmental Scientists
- Researchers and Academics
- IT Professionals and Programmers
- Agronomists and Animal Scientists.
Tips to Gain Admission for Science Courses in Nigeria
- Choose your science course based on your strengths.
- Target a JAMB score of 200+, especially for competitive courses like Medicine and Engineering.
- Ensure you have the right SSCE subject combination.
- Apply early and correctly during UTME registration.
- Prepare well for post-UTME screenings.
FAQs About Science Courses in Nigerian Universities
Which science course is the best in Nigeria?
Courses like Medicine, Pharmacy, Computer Science, and Engineering are highly rated due to career demand and high salaries.
Can I study science without Physics?
Yes, some courses like Biology, Microbiology, or Agricultural Science may not require Physics, but Chemistry is usually compulsory.
Is Mathematics compulsory for all science courses?
Mathematics is essential for most science courses, especially those in Physical Sciences, Engineering, and Computer Science.
How many years does it take to study science courses in Nigeria?
- 3 – 4 years for most B.Sc. courses
- 5 – 6 years for courses like Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering.
Final Thoughts on All Science Courses Offered in Nigerian Universities
Choosing the right science course in a Nigerian university can shape your academic and career path. Whether you’re leaning toward health sciences, engineering, biological sciences, or pure sciences, Nigeria’s institutions have excellent options. Always research the cut-off mark, SSCE subject requirement, and career opportunities before making your decision.
A science degree is not only prestigious but highly marketable, especially as Nigeria and the world move deeper into technology, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.