List of Professional Courses to Study in Nigerian

 
Nigeria’s university system offers a broad range of academic programs designed to equip students with the theoretical and practical skills needed for professional success. Many of these programs not only lead to a degree but also provide opportunities for students to pursue professional certifications or licenses after graduation, making them highly valuable in today’s competitive job market.

In this blog post, we explore the top professional courses offered by Nigerian universities that can help students build successful careers in diverse fields. Whether you’re just beginning your academic journey or considering a career change, this list will provide valuable insights into which courses are in demand and what career opportunities they offer.

##1. Law (LL.B) – Barrister and Solicitor
Law remains one of the most prestigious and sought-after professions in Nigeria. Nigerian universities offer the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree, which is the first step toward becoming a lawyer in the country. After completing the LL.B, students must attend the Nigerian Law School to become qualified barristers and solicitors.

.Why Study Law?:
Lawyers in Nigeria work in various settings, including law firms, government agencies, corporations, and international organizations. The legal profession offers significant job security and opportunities to specialize in fields such as corporate law, criminal law, and family law.

.Top Universities Offering Law:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

##2. Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
The Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program is one of the most prestigious professional courses in Nigeria. After completing an MBBS degree, students must undergo a year of mandatory internship followed by the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) before they can register with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to practice as doctors.

.Why Study Medicine?:
A career in medicine offers both financial rewards and personal fulfillment. Doctors are highly respected in Nigerian society, and there is a high demand for medical professionals in hospitals, clinics, and the public health sector.

.Top Universities Offering Medicine:

University College Hospital, University of Ibadan (UI)

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

##3. Accounting (ICAN, ACCA)
A degree in Accounting can lead to various professional certifications, including Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Many Nigerian universities offer accounting programs designed to prepare students for these professional qualifications.

.Why Study Accounting?:
Accountants are needed in every industry for managing financial records, audits, tax planning, and advising businesses on financial strategies. Professionals who have obtained ICAN or ACCA certifications are highly sought after both locally and internationally.

.Top Universities Offering Accounting:

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Lagos State University (LASU)

Covenant University

##4. Engineering (Various Disciplines)
Engineering programs are among the most popular and well-respected professional courses in Nigerian universities. There are various branches of engineering, including civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, petroleum, and computer engineering, each offering unique career opportunities.

.Why Study Engineering?:
Engineers play a critical role in infrastructure development, technology, and innovation. With Nigeria’s growing industrial and infrastructure needs, engineers are in high demand, especially in sectors such as construction, oil and gas, and telecommunications.

.Top Universities Offering Engineering:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

University of Benin (UNIBEN)

##5. Architecture
The Bachelor of Science in Architecture prepares students for a career as professional architects. Students learn to design buildings, plan urban spaces, and consider factors such as sustainability, cost, and aesthetics in their designs.

.Why Study Architecture?:
Architecture offers a rewarding career in the construction and design industry. Graduates often work in architectural firms, real estate, urban planning, and even government agencies involved in building and infrastructure projects.

.Top Universities Offering Architecture:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

University of Jos (UJ)


##6. Pharmacy
The Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) degree equips students with the knowledge and skills required to become professional pharmacists. Graduates must also pass licensing exams and register with the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria to practice as pharmacists.

.Why Study Pharmacy?:
Pharmacists play a key role in healthcare by advising patients on medications, overseeing drug distribution, and ensuring the safe use of pharmaceuticals. This profession offers job stability and opportunities in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and the pharmaceutical industry.

.Top Universities Offering Pharmacy:

University of Ibadan (UI)

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

##7. Mass Communication
Mass communication is a broad field encompassing journalism, broadcasting, public relations, and advertising. A degree in Mass Communication provides students with the skills to work in media, communication, and public relations industries.

.Why Study Mass Communication?:
With the rise of digital media, professionals in mass communication are in high demand. Graduates can pursue careers in journalism, public relations, media management, advertising, and digital marketing.

.Top Universities Offering Mass Communication:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK)

Bayero University Kano (BUK)

##8. Social Work
A degree in Social Work prepares students for careers that involve helping individuals, families, and communities navigate social challenges. The program typically covers areas such as mental health, child welfare, and community development.

.Why Study Social Work?:
Social work is a fulfilling and impactful career that offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Social workers are in demand in healthcare, NGOs, schools, and government agencies.

.Top Universities Offering Social Work:

University of Ibadan (UI)

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

##9. Nursing
The Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) is the professional degree required to become a registered nurse in Nigeria. Nurses are essential to healthcare delivery, providing direct care to patients, promoting health, and supporting the work of doctors.

.Why Study Nursing?:
Nursing is a highly respected profession with a strong demand for qualified nurses, particularly in hospitals, clinics, and community health programs. It is also a highly mobile profession with opportunities to work globally.

.Top Universities Offering Nursing:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

##10. Business Administration
A degree in Business Administration prepares students for management roles in various sectors. The program covers key business concepts such as marketing, human resources, finance, and entrepreneurship.

.Why Study Business Administration?:
Business administration graduates are well-positioned to take leadership roles in companies, government institutions, and startups. The course provides foundational knowledge for running a business, managing people, and improving organizational performance.

.Top Universities Offering Business Administration:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Covenant University

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

##11. Education (Various Disciplines)
Education degrees prepare students to become teachers in various disciplines, including primary, secondary, and tertiary education. There are also specialized fields such as special education, guidance counseling, and educational management.

.Why Study Education?:
A career in education offers the opportunity to shape future generations and make a lasting impact on society. Teachers are always in demand, and those with specializations in educational leadership or counseling have additional opportunities.

.Top Universities Offering Education:

University of Ibadan (UI)

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

##Final Thought
Nigerian universities offer a diverse range of professional courses that provide students with the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in various high-demand fields. Whether you’re drawn to law, medicine, engineering, business, or education, there is a professional course to suit your interests and career goals.

Before making a decision, consider the skills required in your desired field, the potential for job growth, and the opportunities for further specialization or professional certification.