The pandemic of 2019 highlighted the crucial role of health scientists in society. These dedicated professionals, trained through rigorous health science courses, stepped up to safeguard public health during a challenging time.
If you aspire to join their ranks, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the landscape of health science courses in Nigeria, detailing the best programs, associated costs, admission requirements, and more.
What is Health Science?
Health science encompasses the study of applied science focused on human health and well-being. It prepares graduates for diverse careers in healthcare, research, and health administration. Students typically earn a bachelor’s degree, providing them with foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for addressing public health challenges.
Official List of Health Science Courses in Nigeria
The following are core health science courses available in Nigeria, each designed to meet specific healthcare needs:
- Nursing Science
- Focuses on health promotion and patient care across the lifespan.
- Public Health
- Aims to improve community health through disease prevention and health education.
- Environmental Health Science
- Addresses environmental factors affecting health and promotes sustainable practices.
- Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)
- Trains professionals in laboratory diagnostics and patient testing.
- Optometry
- Prepares graduates to diagnose and manage eye health and vision problems.
- Pharmacy
- Involves drug formulation, management, and patient care.
- Veterinary Medicine
- Focuses on animal health and the prevention of zoonotic diseases.
- Biochemistry
- Studies chemical processes within living organisms, vital for medical research.
- Microbiology
- Explores microorganisms and their roles in health and disease.
- Radiography
- Involves the use of imaging technologies for diagnosis.
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Focuses on the impact of nutrition on health and disease management.
- Medical Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
- Utilizes physical therapies to aid recovery from injuries and illnesses.
- Dental Studies
- Prepares professionals for oral health diagnosis and treatment.
- Biomedicine
- Applies biological sciences to clinical practice and research.
- Health Administration
- Trains leaders to manage healthcare facilities and services.
These programs are offered at various universities across Nigeria, tailored to the evolving healthcare landscape.
Health Science Course Requirements
Admission requirements may vary by university and specific course. Here’s a breakdown of typical prerequisites for some popular health science courses:
1. Nursing Science
- Educational Requirements: Five credits in O’level exams (WAEC/NECO) including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- UTME Subjects: English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.
- Duration: 5 years for a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc).
2. Public Health
- Educational Requirements: Five credits in O’level exams, including relevant science subjects.
- UTME Subjects: Biology and two of Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
- Professional Insights: Further certifications may enhance career opportunities.
3. Environmental Health Science
- Educational Requirements: Similar O’level requirements as other courses.
- UTME Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
- Certification: Licensing as an environmental health practitioner may be required.
4. Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)
- Educational Requirements: Five credits in relevant subjects.
- UTME Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Certification: Must be certified by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria.
5. Optometry
- Educational Requirements: Similar O’level requirements as other courses.
- UTME Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Licensing: Examination by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria.
6. Pharmacy
- Educational Requirements: Five credits in relevant subjects.
- UTME Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Licensing: Must pass the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria examination.
7. Veterinary Medicine
- Educational Requirements: Five credits in O’level exams.
- UTME Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
- Professional Certification: Licensing by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria.
See: 5 Best Scholarships for Nursing Students in the US
8. Biochemistry
- Educational Requirements: Five credits in relevant subjects.
- UTME Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
These requirements ensure that graduates are well-prepared for their professional roles.
Top 10 Schools for Health Science Courses in Nigeria and Their Fees
Here are the leading universities for health science courses in Nigeria, along with their approximate tuition fees:
- University of Ibadan, College of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 to ₦700,000 per session.
- University of Lagos, College of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦600,000 per session.
- Ahmadu Bello University, College of Health Sciences
- Tuition Fee: ₦120,000 to ₦450,000 per session.
- Obafemi Awolowo University, College of Health Sciences
- Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 to ₦600,000 per session.
- University of Nigeria, College of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦100,000 to ₦400,000 per session.
- Lagos State University, College of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 per session.
- University of Benin, School of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 to ₦600,000 per session.
- University of Ilorin, College of Health Sciences
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 per session.
- University of Port Harcourt, College of Health Sciences
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦400,000 per session.
- Bayero University, Kano, Faculty of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦400,000 per session.
Top 3 Best Medical Health-Related Courses
The most sought-after health-related courses in Nigeria include:
- Nursing Science
- Pharmacy
- Medicine and Surgery
See: Best 10 Nursing School Without JAMB in Nigeria
Health Worker Salaries in Nigeria
Salaries for health workers vary significantly based on factors such as experience, specialization, and location. Here’s a glimpse of average monthly salaries:
- Nursing Officer: ₦160,000 – ₦320,000
- Medical Laboratory Scientist: ₦160,000 – ₦320,000
- Radiographer: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000
- Pharmacist: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000
See: Top 5 Certified Nursing Assistant Online Classes
National Open University of Nigeria Health Courses
Yes, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers health courses, including Nursing, Public Health, and Environmental Science. This initiative aims to bridge the educational gap in health sciences.
See: List of Schools of Nursing in Abuja
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Public Health or Nursing?
If you prefer direct patient interaction, nursing may be the better choice. Conversely, public health focuses on broader community health issues and disease prevention.
What is the best medical course to study in Nigeria?
Nursing remains one of the most marketable medical fields in Nigeria, with numerous opportunities for graduates.
What is the easiest health science degree?
Fields like Phlebotomy and Health Information Management are often considered less demanding in terms of educational requirements.
What is the most straightforward job in the health field?
Medical assistants typically have straightforward roles, performing both administrative and clinical tasks under supervision.
Conclusion
Health science courses in Nigeria offer promising career paths for aspiring health professionals. With various options available, including top universities and competitive salaries, students can make informed choices about their futures in the health sector.
For those looking to make a difference in public health, pursuing a degree in health science is a commendable path. Explore your options, meet the requirements, and embark on a rewarding career that positively impacts lives.
