List of Health Science Courses in Nigeria

The global health crisis in 2019 highlighted the critical role of health scientists. As the world faced unprecedented challenges, these dedicated professionals emerged as vital players in the fight against the pandemic, armed with extensive training and knowledge gained from rigorous health science education. If you’re considering a career in health sciences in Nigeria, this comprehensive guide will help you explore various health science courses in Nigeria, the institutions that offer them, admission requirements, and associated costs.

What is Health Science as a Course?

Health science encompasses the study of applied sciences that focus on improving individual and community health through various disciplines. Graduates often receive a degree in health science, which typically includes extensive coursework in biology, chemistry, and healthcare practices. Those who pursue this path can work in diverse roles, from research to healthcare administration, directly impacting patient care and public health initiatives.

Official List of Health Science Courses in Nigeria

Here is the official list of health science courses available in Nigeria, each tailored to meet the needs of the evolving healthcare landscape:

Nursing Science: Focuses on health promotion and patient care across the lifespan.
Public Health: Trains professionals to prevent diseases and enhance community health.
Environmental Health Science: Addresses environmental issues affecting public health and sustainability.
Medical Laboratory Science (MLS): Prepares students for laboratory analysis and diagnostics.
Optometry: Teaches eye health examination, disease management, and refractive correction.
Pharmacy: Covers drug formulation, patient care, and therapeutic management.
Veterinary Medicine: Involves the care and treatment of animals.
Biochemistry: Explores chemical processes in living organisms and their implications for health.
Microbiology: Studies microorganisms and their interactions with humans and the environment.
Radiography: Focuses on imaging techniques for diagnosis.
Nutrition and Dietetics: Addresses dietary impacts on health and well-being.
Medical Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy: Utilizes physical therapy techniques for recovery and health maintenance.
Dental Studies: Prepares students for diagnosing and treating oral diseases.
Biomedicine: Applies biological principles to clinical practice.
Health Administration: Focuses on the management and operational aspects of healthcare facilities.

These courses are offered at various universities across Nigeria, each with a unique curriculum and specialization.

Health Science Course Requirements

To enroll in health science courses in Nigeria, students must meet specific academic requirements, which may vary by institution. Below are the general requirements for popular health science courses:

1. Nursing Science

Educational Requirements: Five credit passes in O’level exams (WAEC/NECO) including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
UTME: Must pass the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) with a focus on relevant subjects.
Duration: Typically 5 years for a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc).

2. Public Health

Educational Requirements: Five credit passes in relevant subjects at O’level.
UTME: Good scores in Biology and two other science subjects.
Professional Insights: Graduates may pursue further specialization.

3. Environmental Health Science

Educational Requirements: Similar to public health, with an emphasis on environmental subjects.
Professional Pathways: Licensure as environmental health practitioners may be required.

4. Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)

Educational Requirements: Five credit passes including Biology and Chemistry.
Certification: Required to be certified by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria post-graduation.

5. Optometry

Educational Requirements: O’level requirements with focus on science subjects.
Licensing: Must pass a licensing examination to practice.

6. Pharmacy

Educational Requirements: Similar O’level requirements as above.
Certification: Passing the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria exam is essential.

7. Veterinary Medicine

Educational Requirements: Similar to other health courses with a focus on biological sciences.
Certification: Licensing is required to practice.

8. Biochemistry

Educational Requirements: Standard science subjects required at O’level.
Career Pathways: Further studies may be necessary for specialized fields.

Top 10 Schools for Health Science Courses in Nigeria and Their Fees

Here are some of the top institutions offering health science courses in Nigeria, along with their tuition fees:

University of Ibadan College of Medicine
- Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 to ₦700,000 per academic session.
College of Medicine, University of Lagos
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦600,000 per academic session.
Ahmadu Bello University College of Health Sciences, Zaria
- Tuition Fee: ₦120,000 to ₦450,000 per academic session.
Obafemi Awolowo University College of Health Sciences, Ile-Ife
- Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 to ₦600,000 per academic session.
University of Nigeria College of Medicine, Enugu
- Tuition Fee: ₦100,000 to ₦400,000 per academic session.
Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 per academic session.
University of Benin School of Medicine, Benin City
- Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 to ₦600,000 per academic session.
University of Ilorin College of Health Sciences, Ilorin
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 per academic session.
Health Sciences College, University of Port Harcourt
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦400,000 per academic session.
Kano Faculty of Medicine at Bayero University
- Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 to ₦400,000 per academic session.

Among the most sought-after health courses in Nigeria, the top three are typically Nursing, Pharmacy, and Medicine and Surgery. These fields not only provide extensive career opportunities but also allow graduates to make significant contributions to public health.

See: List of Schools of Nursing in Abuja

How Much Do Health Workers Get Paid in Nigeria?

Salaries for health workers in Nigeria can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, and specific roles. On average, junior certified health workers earn approximately ₦80,000 per month, while specialized roles offer higher salaries:

Nursing Officer: ₦160,000 – ₦320,000 monthly
Medical Laboratory Scientist: ₦160,000 – ₦320,000 monthly
Radiographer: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000 monthly
Pharmacist: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000 monthly

Does the National Open University of Nigeria Offer Health Courses?

Yes, the National Open University of Nigeria has recently established a faculty dedicated to health sciences, offering courses in Nursing, Public Health, and Environmental Science to cater to the growing demand for flexible education in the health sector.

See: Best 10 Nursing School Without JAMB in Nigeria

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Public Health or Nursing?

If you prefer direct patient interaction, nursing may be a better fit. However, if you’re interested in broader public health issues and disease prevention, a career in public health could be more suitable.

What is the best medical course to study in Nigeria?

Nursing is often regarded as one of the most marketable medical courses in Nigeria, providing essential care to patients and their families.

What is the easiest health science degree?

Programs like Phlebotomy or Medical Billing and Coding typically have shorter training periods and less intensive prerequisites.

What is the most straightforward job in the health field?

Medical Assistants often have more accessible educational requirements and a balanced workload, making it a good entry-level option in healthcare.

Conclusion

Health science courses in Nigeria present numerous opportunities for aspiring students. With various programs and institutions to choose from, the potential for a fulfilling career in health sciences is significant. This guide aims to equip you with the information necessary to embark on your journey in this essential field.

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What is Health Science as a Course?

Official List of Health Science Courses in Nigeria