Studying for a Postgraduate Programme in Nigeria

A Postgraduate education can be extremely important, depending on your life choices. A postgraduate study programme can significantly improve your career prospects and open doors to new opportunities in today’s competitive job market. Individuals who pursue advanced education gain specialised knowledge, research skills, and critical thinking abilities, all of which are highly valued in the professional world.

Nigeria, with its diverse range of higher education and research institutions, provides an environment conducive to academic growth and professional development. Moreover, postgraduate study offers the chance to delve deeper into a specific field of interest, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and innovation. There are at least 20,000 doctoral students in Nigeria.

Are you considering a postgraduate programme in Nigeria? This blog post discusses the educational resources, scholarship opportunities, and career opportunities available in the country. Continue reading!

Nigeria’s Postgraduate Education System and Quality Assurance

The National Universities Commission (NUC) is responsible for ensuring quality and standardization across tertiary institutions, providing a reliable framework for pursuing higher education. From renowned federal universities to state and private institutions, Nigeria offers diverse options to suit various academic interests and preferences.

List of NUC Approved Postgraduate Universities in Nigeria

Don’t fall for fake or fathom postgraduate study programs advertised on different media. Here is a list of approved PG schools in Nigeria.

Federal Universities with Postgraduate study approval

1. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi

 2. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

 3. Bayero University, Kano

 4. Federal University of Technology, Akure

 5. Federal University of Technology, Minna

 6. Federal University of Technology, Owerri

 7. Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike

 8. Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola

 9. National Open University of Nigeria, Lagos https://spgs.nou.edu.ng

 10. Nigeria Defence Academy, Kaduna

 11. Nnamdi Azikwe University, Akwa

 12. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife

 13. University of Abuja, Gwagwalada

 14. University of Agriculture, Abeokuta

 15. University of Agriculture, Makurdi

 16. University of Benin, Benin City

 17. University of Calabar, Calabar

 18. University of Ibadan, Ibadan

 19. University of Ilorin, Ilorin

 20. University of Jos, Jos

 21. University of Lagos, Akoko

 22. University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri

 23. University of Nigeria, Nsukka

 24. University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt

 25. University of Uyo, Uyo

 26. Usmanu Dan Fodio University, Sokoto

 27. Federal University, Lafia

 28. Federal University, Ndufu-alike

 29. Federal University, Dutse

 30. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurum

 31. Federal University, Oye- Ekiti

 32. Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna

State Universities with Postgraduate Approval

 1. Abia State University, Uturu

 2. Adamawa State University, Mubi

 3. Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko

 4. Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma

 5. Anambra University, Uli

 6. Benue State University, Makurdi

 7. Cross River University of Technology, Calabar

 8. Delta State University, Abraka

 9. Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki

 10. Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti

 11. Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu

 12. Imo State University, Owerri

 13. Kogi State University, Anyigba

 14. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso

 15. Lagos State University, Ojo

 16. Nasarawa State University, Keffi

 17. Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island

 18. Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye

 19. Rivers State University of Science and Technology

 20. Umar Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina

 21. Gombe State University, Gombe

 22. Ibrahim Babangida University, Lapai

 23. Kano State University of Science and Technology

 24. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology

 25. Kwara State University, Malete

 26. Kaduna State University, Kaduna

 27. Bauchi State University, Gadau

 28. Yobe State University, Damaturu

 29. Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni

 30. Tai Solarin University of Education

 31. Osun State University, Osogbo

Private Universities with Postgraduate Approval

1. Achievers University, Owo

 2. Adeleke University, Ede

 3. African University of Science and Technology, Abuja

 4. Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State

 5. Al-hikmah University, Ilorin (MSc. Only)

 6. Al-Qalam University, Katsina

 7. American University of Nigeria, Yola

 8. Babcock University, Ilishan Remo

 9. Baze University, Abuja

 10. Benson Idahosa University, Benin City

 11. Bells University of Technology, Ota

 12. Bingham University, Karu

 13. Bowen University, Iwo

 14. Caleb University, Lagos

 15. Covenant University, Ota

 16. Crawford University, Igbesa

 17. Crescent University, Abeokuta

 18. Fountain University, Osogbo

 19. Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike, Enugu state

 20. Igbinedion University, Okada

 21. Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji

 22. Landmark University, Omu-Aran

 23. Lead City University, Ibadan (MSc. Only)

 24. Madona University, Okija

 25. Nigerian Turkish Nile University, Abuja

 26. Novena University, Ogume

 27. Pan-African University, Lekki

 28. Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State

 29. Salem University, Lokoja

 30. University of Mkar, Mkar (MSc. Only)

 31. Veritas University, Abuja

Variety of Postgraduate Study Programs

Postgraduate study programs in Nigeria cover a broad spectrum of disciplines, ranging from arts and humanities to engineering, sciences, social sciences, and business. Whether you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree or a doctoral program, Nigerian universities provide a multitude of options to cater to your academic aspirations.

Furthermore, universities often collaborate with international institutions, offering joint and dual-degree programs that provide exposure to global perspectives and enhance cross-cultural understanding.

Postgraduate Diploma Programmes

The postgraduate diploma PGD programme is designed as a make-up programme for candidates that did not make the minimum pass grade at bachelor’s degree. A postgraduate diploma is also to qualify for admission into the Master’s programme in cases where a graduate is crossing to a course at the Master’s degree level without a sufficient bachelor’s degree foundation.

Master’s Degree

A master’s degree is an advanced degree, normally after a bachelor’s degree in a relevant course of study. 

 This postgraduate programme goes into a niche of academic study. In Nigeria, a master’s degree takes about two years to complete at full-time study. Part-time master’s can take between two to four years.

There are different Master’s degree programs, with acronyms. Master of Science M.Sc., Master of Art M.A, Master of Pharmacy M.pharm., Masters in Law, LL.M, Masters in Business Administration MBA, The Master of Philosophy M.Phil is a special master’s that is a direct link for continuing a PhD.

In general, all master’s degrees are divided into two. Research masters and professional.

The research master’s degree involves in-depth academic studies and a quality thesis or dissertation after thorough research. For the professional, the aim is the industrial applicability of knowledge. It doesn’t need a thesis to graduate. The minimum CGPA for admission to a master’s degree is 3.0/5. Few universities can accept lower. Check this list for a master’s degree course search. Admission by the respective school of postgraduate studies is yearly.

Doctoral Program

A doctoral study program aka Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D is the highest academic degree obtainable by study. A PhD is awarded after a dutiful study by a qualified student with a master’s degree.

In Nigeria, like most parts of the world, a PhD is a research degree. A few times, there may be a little coursework component. At least 80% of the grade is awarded through a long dissertation and research.

A PhD in full-time is for a three-year minimum. This time can be longer. In Nigeria, many PhD students spend longer than usual in getting a PhD. There have been instances of students taking up to 10 years before completing their dissertations or thesis. The long delay for a PhD is a result of different factors, some from the students, research advisor or university institution.

For admission for a PhD, a candidate should have a grade point of about 4.0/5 or at least 3.0/5. In addition, a research proposal on a topic of interest should be prepared. To make the PhD admission concrete, it is better to visit the faculty and engage with professors who would be ready to take on the PhD student in supervision. For a list of PhD, check 

Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities

Financing postgraduate education can be a concern for many individuals. However, Nigeria provides several scholarship and financial aid opportunities to support deserving students. The Nigerian government, through agencies such as the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), offers scholarships for postgraduate study in various fields. Additionally, universities and research institutions often provide internal scholarships and assistantships, easing the financial burden and enabling talented individuals to pursue their academic goals.

Career Prospects and Networking Opportunities

Completing a postgraduate study program in Nigeria opens up exciting career prospects both within the country and internationally. Nigerian universities have strong industry connections and collaborations, providing opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking with professionals in diverse fields. These connections can significantly enhance your career trajectory and increase employment prospects upon graduation. Additionally, Nigeria’s growing economy and entrepreneurial culture offer numerous possibilities for postgraduate students to contribute to the country’s development and innovation.

Final Thoughts on Postgraduate Study in Nigeria

Nigeria provides an ideal environment for individuals seeking to further their education. With a robust education system, a variety of study programs, scholarship opportunities and strong industry connections. Immersing yourself in Nigeria’s rich academic and cultural milieu, will offer postgraduate students valuable skills, broaden their horizons and make significant contributions to their chosen fields. for a Postgraduate Programme in Nigeria.