Choosing the right course and university in Nigeria is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a student. It’s not just about what’s popular or what your parents want—it’s about your future.
A wrong decision can leave you frustrated, wasting years on a course you don’t enjoy or struggling in a school that doesn’t suit you. That’s why this guide is here—to help you choose wisely, confidently, and with purpose.
Let’s break it down.
1. Know Yourself First
Before you even start checking JAMB brochures or cut-off marks, ask yourself:
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
- What subjects do I enjoy most?
- Am I a science, arts, or commercial student?
- Do I enjoy working with people, numbers, machines, or ideas?
You must first understand who you are. Your career should match your personality and interests—not just your WAEC subjects.
2. Don’t Choose a Course Because It’s Popular
Courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering are often seen as “big” courses. But don’t let hype control your decision.
Ask yourself:
- Can I cope with the academic pressure?
- Do I genuinely like the course content?
- What kind of jobs can I do with this course after school?
There’s no “small” course—only the wrong fit.
Courses like Mass Communication, Computer Science, Agriculture, Education, and Statistics also have powerful career potential when studied with passion.
3. Research Course Requirements
Every course has specific requirements in JAMB and WAEC.
For example:
- Medicine requires Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and English.
- Law requires Literature, Government, CRS, and English.
- Accounting requires Mathematics, Economics, and English.
If you didn’t write the right combination of subjects in WAEC or JAMB, you might not qualify for the course—even if you pass well.
👉 Use the official JAMB Brochure to confirm subject combinations.
4. Consider Career Opportunities
Some courses have broader job opportunities. Others may require extra skills or qualifications to succeed after school.
Before choosing a course, ask:
- What can I do with this course after graduation?
- Are there job opportunities in Nigeria?
- Can I apply the knowledge in business or self-employment?
For example:
- Studying Education? You can teach, write, train, or even start a school.
- Studying Computer Science? You can become a developer, data analyst, or tech entrepreneur.
- Studying English? You can be a writer, editor, broadcaster, or lecturer.
Don’t just chase certificates. Think ahead.
5. Choose a School That Matches Your Goals
Not every school is right for every course. Some universities are better known for certain fields than others.
For example:
- UNILAG is strong in Mass Comm, Law, and Creative Arts.
- UI is respected for Medicine, Arts, and Sciences.
- FUTA is great for Engineering and Technology.
- UNN has strength in Education, Medicine, and Social Sciences.
- Covenant University is strong in Engineering, Business, and ICT.
Also, consider:
- Location: Can you afford to live there?
- Strike frequency: Are they always going on strike?
- Facilities: Does the school have good labs, libraries, or hostels?
6. Check Admission Requirements & Cut-Off Marks
Each school has its own admission policy. Some accept low JAMB scores. Others have strict cut-offs.
Types of universities to consider:
- Federal universities: Often competitive but affordable (e.g. UNILAG, UI, ABU)
- State universities: Less competitive but may cost more
- Private universities: Very expensive but offer stable calendars and good facilities
- Polytechnics/Colleges of Education: Great for practical skills, less admission pressure
Don’t apply blindly. Check their:
- Cut-off marks
- Catchment area policies
- Post-UTME requirements
7. Ask Questions from Students and Graduates
Before you apply to any school or course, talk to:
- Current students
- NYSC corps members
- Recent graduates
Ask them:
- How is the course workload?
- Are the lecturers helpful or harsh?
- What is life like in that school?
- Is the course employable in Nigeria today?
Their answers can help you avoid costly mistakes.
8. Don’t Let Pressure Choose for You
Family may push you toward a course you don’t like. Friends may be going to a school you’re not sure about.
In the end, it’s your life.
You’ll be the one attending the lectures. You’ll write the exams. You’ll build a career from it.
Respect advice, but make your own decision based on research, reflection, and reality.
Summary Checklist Before You Choose
✅ What are my strengths and interests?
✅ What course fits my WAEC/JAMB subjects?
✅ What career path can I follow after the course?
✅ What schools are best for this course?
✅ What are the requirements and cut-off marks?
✅ What’s the school’s environment like?
✅ Have I prayed and thought carefully about it?
Final Words
Choosing the right course and university is not just about passing exams. It’s about shaping your future.
So, take it seriously.
Do your research. Think deeply. Ask questions. Then choose a path that matches your passion, purpose, and potential.
Remember, your success in life starts with the decision you make now. Choose wisely, and the future will thank you.