Nursing Schools in Nigeria & Requirements
Nursing is a very gratifying and indispensable career in the health care industry. As the number of skilled healthcare professionals required is increasing, Nigeria has many prospects regarding providing future nurses with a good education and making a valuable contribution to the healthcare service of this country. Should you intend to pursue a career in nursing in Nigeria, then you should be able to select a school that presents a well-rounded program with a good foundation on theoretical and practical nursing.
In this paper, the best nursing schools in Nigeria have been elaborated with details on the available programs, admission requirements and the reason why these schools are the best place to be in case one wants to venture into a career in nursing. You are either a high school graduate or a mature student desiring to change their career, either way this guide will help you weed out the options and make a well-informed choice.
Introduction: Why Choose Nursing as a Career in Nigeria?
Nursing is a diverse and powerful profession and has numerous career opportunities. Nurses are an important part of patient care both in terms of medical care given directly to patients or through emotional support and helping advance the needs of patients. The increasing population of Nigeria with its growing needs in healthcare coupled with the growing attention in enhancing the healthcare facilities implies that the number of qualified nurses in demand is more than ever.
Moreover, nursing is a job that is well-paid, provides career growth and development, as well as the possibility to work both domestically and abroad. The level of recognition of nurses in Nigeria is increasing and some even desire to work in other nations where experienced nurses are highly demanded.
The path to being a qualified nurse in Nigeria is usually through enrolment in a certified nursing school, undertaking a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) course and successful experience in a hospital or other medical institutions. Some of the best nursing schools in Nigeria and the admission requirements are discussed below.
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Top Nursing Schools in Nigeria
Choosing the right nursing school is a crucial first step in your nursing career. In Nigeria, several universities and specialized institutions offer excellent nursing programs that meet international standards. Below are some of the top nursing schools in Nigeria, known for their quality education, modern facilities, and experienced faculty members.
1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Location: Nsukka, Enugu State
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- About the School:
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, is one of the most prestigious universities in Nigeria. Founded in 1948, UNN is known for its academic excellence and comprehensive nursing program. The university’s nursing school is equipped with modern classrooms, well-equipped nursing simulation labs, and an affiliated teaching hospital where students gain hands-on clinical experience.
The nursing program at UNN emphasizes both theoretical learning and clinical skills, with courses covering subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, public health, and community nursing. UNN also offers students the opportunity to participate in various research projects, preparing them for leadership roles in the healthcare system.
- Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- A high UTME score, especially in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Post-UTME screening or interview process may be required.
- Evidence of medical fitness (some schools may require a medical examination).
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
- Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- About the School:
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most well-respected universities. The nursing school at OAU is renowned for its excellent teaching methods, modern facilities, and highly experienced lecturers. OAU’s nursing program is designed to prepare students to meet the dynamic needs of the healthcare sector in Nigeria and abroad.
The program is comprehensive, covering various aspects of nursing such as health promotion, disease prevention, clinical nursing, and research. The university’s teaching hospital, the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), provides students with the opportunity to engage in clinical rotations across multiple specialties, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
- Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 O’Level credits, including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- A competitive UTME score with strong performance in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Post-UTME screening or interview may be part of the selection process.
- Evidence of health clearance or fitness for study.
3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Location: Akoka, Lagos State
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- About the School:
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is another top-tier institution known for its high-quality nursing program. As one of Nigeria’s leading universities, UNILAG offers a robust nursing program that prepares students to provide high-quality care in both hospital and community settings. The nursing school benefits from access to some of the best healthcare facilities in Lagos, as well as strong connections with various healthcare organizations.
The nursing program at UNILAG is both challenging and rewarding. It combines theoretical courses with intensive clinical training. The university also emphasizes leadership, research, and evidence-based practice in nursing, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in their careers.
- Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits in relevant subjects, including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- High UTME scores in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Post-UTME screening or interview may be conducted.
- Medical screening may be required before admission.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- About the School:
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is one of Nigeria’s premier institutions for higher learning, and its nursing program is highly regarded in the country, especially in northern Nigeria. The nursing school at ABU combines rigorous academics with clinical training, producing nurses who are well-equipped to handle the healthcare challenges in Nigeria and other parts of the world.
Students at ABU benefit from access to the ABU Teaching Hospital, where they gain hands-on experience in various nursing specialties. The nursing curriculum covers diverse areas of study, including medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and public health.
- Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits, including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- UTME score in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Post-UTME or an interview may be required, depending on the specific year and intake.
5. Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB)
- Location: Biu, Borno State
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
- About the School:
The Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB) is a unique institution that provides specialized nursing education for those interested in pursuing careers in the military health services. The school offers a BNSc program that is tailored to the needs of the Nigerian Army, with a focus on military healthcare and emergency response.
NAUB’s nursing school is equipped with modern learning facilities, and students receive training in military healthcare, combat medicine, and other specialized areas of nursing. Graduates of NAUB often go on to serve in the Nigerian Army or in other military health sectors.
- Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- UTME score in relevant subjects.
- Interview or military screening may be part of the admission process.
Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools in Nigeria
Admission into nursing schools in Nigeria can be highly competitive. Each institution has specific requirements, but generally, the following criteria are common across most schools:
- O’Level Qualifications:
Most nursing schools require applicants to have at least 5 credits in O’Level subjects, including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The subjects may vary slightly based on the university, but the core requirements are generally the same. Students should have completed their senior secondary education and obtained a minimum of a 5-credit pass in their WAEC, NECO, or GCE exams. - Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME):
All applicants must sit for the UTME organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). For nursing programs, the relevant subjects for the UTME are usually Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Some schools may also require Mathematics. A competitive score is essential, as admission into nursing programs is highly competitive. - Post-UTME Screening or Interview:
Many universities conduct a post-UTME exam or interview to further assess applicants’ readiness for the nursing program. These screenings may focus on general knowledge, scientific aptitude, and a candidate’s motivation to pursue nursing as a career. - Medical Fitness:
Given the physical and emotional demands of the nursing profession, most nursing schools require applicants to submit proof of medical fitness. This includes medical examinations to ensure that students are in good health and able to handle the challenges of the nursing profession. - Age Limits:
Some nursing schools have an age limit for applicants, usually between 16 and 30 years, to ensure that students are physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of the nursing program. While age requirements may vary by institution, it’s important to check specific guidelines for each nursing school you’re interested in. - Character and Background Check:
Given the nature of the nursing profession, some schools also conduct background checks or require applicants to provide evidence of good character. This may include a recommendation letter from your previous school or community leader, as well as a clean criminal record.
Curriculum and Program Structure
Nursing programs in Nigerian universities generally follow a structured curriculum that spans over 4 to 5 years, depending on the school and the specialization. The nursing program typically involves a combination of classroom lectures, laboratory work, clinical placements, and hands-on training in various healthcare settings. Below is an overview of what students can expect in a typical nursing curriculum.
Year 1: Foundation in Nursing
In the first year, nursing students are introduced to the fundamentals of nursing. Courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medical terminology, and an introduction to the nursing profession. Students also learn about the role of nurses in patient care, ethics in nursing, and the importance of professional development.
Practical training begins in the first year, and students are introduced to basic nursing skills such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and patient communication. This foundation year is essential for building the knowledge required for more specialized training in later years.
Year 2: Core Nursing Skills and Clinical Practice
By the second year, students begin to specialize in different aspects of nursing, such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, and psychiatric nursing. This is also when students start spending more time in clinical settings. They may be assigned to hospitals and clinics where they can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world practice under the supervision of experienced nurses and doctors.
In addition to continuing their clinical placements, students also learn more about pharmacology, nursing research, and health promotion. This year serves as a bridge between the foundational knowledge learned in year one and the more advanced, specialized nursing practices that will be taught in year three and beyond.
Year 3: Specialized Nursing Areas
During the third year, nursing students start paying more attention to such specialization as maternal and child health, geriatric care, community health nursing, and mental health nursing. At this point, the students should receive a better insight into the medical conditions and treatment of these fields. Clinical rotations are also more specialized as students have the chance of rotating to various departments of the hospital such as the emergency room, labor and delivery, pediatrics and intensive care units (ICU).
My students also start studying leadership and management in nursing. The healthcare policies, nursing leadership, ethics, and research methods become part of the curriculum that assist the students to acquire the skills that can enable them lead nursing teams in different health care organizations.
Year 4: Advanced Nursing Practice and Research
By the fourth year, students are expected to have developed the skills necessary for advanced nursing practice. They undertake more challenging clinical placements, often working independently or leading smaller teams under supervision. Students are also required to conduct research projects, either as part of a thesis or as part of a research seminar, to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the nursing field.
Some programs may offer opportunities for students to specialize in areas like anesthesia nursing, midwifery, or critical care nursing. The final year focuses on consolidating students’ learning and preparing them for graduation and the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) equivalent in Nigeria, the licensing exam required to practice as a registered nurse.
Career Opportunities for Nursing Graduates in Nigeria
After completing a nursing program in Nigeria, graduates have numerous career options. Some of the most common career paths for nurses in Nigeria include:
1. Registered Nurse (RN):
Becoming a Registered Nurse is the primary career path for nursing graduates. RNs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and health centers. They are responsible for patient care, administering medications, assisting with procedures, and providing education and emotional support to patients and their families.
2. Nurse Practitioner (NP):
Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice nurses who have specialized training beyond the standard nursing education. NPs are qualified to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions, prescribe medications, and offer comprehensive healthcare services. Nurse Practitioners typically work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or private practice.
3. Midwifery:
Midwives are specialized nurses who focus on the care of pregnant women, childbirth, and postpartum care. They work in hospitals, maternity clinics, and community health settings, offering both medical and emotional support to women during labor and delivery.
4. Nurse Educator:
Nurse Educators work in nursing schools, training the next generation of nurses. They are responsible for designing and delivering educational programs, conducting research, and mentoring nursing students. Nurse Educators may also work in healthcare institutions, providing ongoing education to staff.
5. Nurse Administrator/Manager:
Nurse administrators or managers oversee nursing departments in hospitals or healthcare facilities. They are responsible for managing nursing staff, ensuring patient care standards are met, and handling administrative tasks such as budgeting, scheduling, and compliance with healthcare regulations.
6. Public Health Nurse:
Public health nurses focus on community health and disease prevention. They work in government health programs, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, and public health agencies, providing services like vaccination, health education, and outreach programs.
7. Nurse Researcher:
For those with an interest in research, nursing offers the opportunity to become a nurse researcher. These professionals focus on investigating health issues, nursing practices, patient care, and other related topics. Nurse researchers often work in academic institutions or healthcare research organizations.
Conclusion: The Path to a Rewarding Nursing Career in Nigeria
Nursing is a noble and essential profession that offers numerous career opportunities in a rapidly evolving healthcare system. Whether you aspire to work in hospitals, clinics, or community health settings, nursing education in Nigeria equips you with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
The top nursing schools in Nigeria, including the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), and Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB), offer excellent programs designed to produce highly qualified nurses who are ready to take on the challenges of healthcare.
As you embark on your nursing journey, remember that the road may be challenging, but it is incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re caring for patients, advocating for better healthcare policies, or teaching the next generation of nurses, your contributions to healthcare will be invaluable.
By choosing one of Nigeria’s top nursing schools and meeting the admission requirements, you’re taking the first step toward a fulfilling and impactful career in nursing.
