Top Science Courses in Nigeria: Careers, JAMB Subjects & Requirements
Are you planning to study a science course in Nigeria and wondering which path to choose? Below is a comprehensive guide on science courses in Nigeria including UTME subject combinations, O’Level requirements, and potential careers. This guide will help you make informed decisions for your future.
1. Computer Science
Computer Science deals with computer systems, software development, programming, and solving technology problems.
UTME Subjects:
- Mathematics (Compulsory)
- Physics (Compulsory)
- One of Chemistry, Biology, or Economics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Two other relevant subjects such as Chemistry, Biology, or Economics
Careers:
- Software Developer
- Data Scientist
- Web Developer
- Cybersecurity Expert
- IT Consultant
Contact us for more guidance on Computer Science admissions.
2. Microbiology
Microbiology focuses on tiny organisms like bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and their effects on humans, animals, and the environment.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry (Compulsory)
- One of Physics or Mathematics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Medical Microbiologist
- Food Microbiologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Lab Technologist
Explore more on common diseases in Nigeria schools.
3. Nursing Science
Nursing involves caring for patients, giving medications, and supporting doctors in healthcare delivery.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry (Compulsory)
- Physics or Mathematics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Registered Nurse
- Midwife
- Community Health Nurse
- Nurse Educator
Read more about Nursing career paths in university or college of Nursing.
4. Estate Management
Estate Management involves valuation, buying, selling, and managing land and properties.
UTME Subjects:
- Mathematics (Compulsory)
- Economics (Compulsory)
- One of Geography, Physics, Chemistry, or Technical Drawing
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Two other relevant subjects like Geography, Physics, Chemistry
Careers:
- Estate Surveyor
- Property Manager
- Urban Planner
- Valuation Officer
Find more on Things Every Student Should Know Before Starting University in Nigeria
5. Biochemistry
Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes in living organisms, from DNA to metabolism.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Biochemist
- Research Scientist
- Pharmaceutical Scientist
- Lab Technologist
6. Medical Laboratory Science
This course trains professionals who perform medical tests to diagnose diseases.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Medical Lab Scientist
- Haematologist
- Microbiologist
- Pathologist Assistant
7. Geology
Geology is the study of rocks, minerals, and the Earth’s structure.
UTME Subjects:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- One other Science subject
Careers:
- Geologist
- Mining Engineer
- Environmental Consultant
- Petroleum Geoscientist
8. Physics
Physics is the study of matter, energy, motion, and the laws of the universe.
UTME Subjects:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry or Biology
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology or other Science subject
Careers:
- Physicist
- Lecturer
- Research Scientist
- Technical Consultant
9. Environmental Science
Environmental Science focuses on protecting nature and solving problems like pollution and climate change.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Geography or Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics or Geography
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Environmental Scientist
- Ecologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Climate Change Analyst
10. Agricultural Science
This course focuses on crop production, animal farming, and agricultural technology.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology or Agricultural Science
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology/Agricultural Science
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Physics or Economics
Careers:
- Agricultural Scientist
- Farm Manager
- Soil Scientist
- Extension Officer
11. Industrial Chemistry
Industrial Chemistry focuses on chemical processes used in industries like pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, food, and manufacturing. It combines science and engineering to produce useful materials at a large scale.
UTME Subjects:
- Chemistry (Compulsory)
- Mathematics
- Physics or Biology
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Biology or another science subject
Careers:
- Industrial Chemist
- Quality Control Analyst
- Production Manager
- Research Scientist
12. Botany
Botany is the scientific study of plants, including how they grow, reproduce, and contribute to the environment and medicine.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Botanist
- Plant Geneticist
- Conservation Scientist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
13. Zoology
Zoology is the study of animals—their biology, habitats, and how they interact with humans and the environment.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Zoologist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Ecologist
- Environmental Educator
14. Radiography
Radiography involves using medical imaging tools like X-rays and MRI to help doctors diagnose illnesses.
UTME Subjects:
- Physics (Compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Physics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Radiographer
- Medical Imaging Technologist
- Radiology Administrator
- Researcher in Imaging Technology
15. Medical Rehabilitation (Physiotherapy)
This field focuses on helping patients regain movement and strength after injury, illness, or surgery.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Physics
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Physiotherapist
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Occupational Therapist
- Sports Therapist
16. Food Science and Technology
Food Science studies how to process, preserve, and improve the safety and taste of food products for consumers.
UTME Subjects:
- Chemistry (Compulsory)
- Biology/Agricultural Science
- Mathematics or Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Chemistry
- Biology or Agricultural Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
Careers:
- Food Technologist
- Quality Assurance Officer
- Nutrition Consultant
- Research and Development Scientist
17. Environmental Health Science
This course trains professionals to monitor and control environmental factors that affect public health, such as water quality, waste management, and sanitation.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics or Geography
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Environmental Health Officer
- Sanitarian
- Public Health Inspector
- Environmental Consultant
These are some of the most popular science courses in Nigeria for students aiming for university or polytechnic admission. Whether you love working in labs, hospitals, industries, or the environment, there’s a science career waiting for you. For personalized guidance, contact us here.
18. Anatomy
Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body. It’s a foundational course for medical and health-related careers.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Medical Anatomist
- Lecturer or Researcher
- Biomedical Scientist
- Health Technician
19. Physiology
Physiology is the study of how the human body functions. It is crucial for understanding diseases and developing treatments.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Physiologist
- Health Research Officer
- Biomedical Scientist
- Pharmacology Assistant
20. Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Medicine is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases in animals.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Veterinarian
- Animal Health Inspector
- Zoological Specialist
- Pet Clinic Manager
Related: Explore more health Activities.
21. Optometry
Optometry is a medical science that involves the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of eye disorders and vision problems.
UTME Subjects:
- Physics (Compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Careers:
- Optometrist
- Eye Clinic Consultant
- Vision Therapist
- Lens and Optical Technician
22. Dentistry (Dental Surgery)
Dentistry involves the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases and disorders. Dentists perform oral surgeries and educate patients on oral hygiene.
UTME Subjects:
- Biology (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Physics
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Careers:
- Dentist
- Oral Surgeon
- Dental Technologist
- Orthodontist
Final Tip: Whether you’re aiming for university or polytechnic, choosing the right science course is the first step. Consider your interests, subjects you enjoy, and career goals before applying. If you need help, reach out to us here.
These science courses offer excellent career prospects in Nigeria. Always check the specific requirements of your chosen institution or contact us for personalized guidance.
