Top 15 Most Popular Courses in Nigerian Universities

Top 15 Most Popular Courses in Nigerian Universities

1. Medicine and Surgery

Medicine remains one of the most competitive and highly demanded courses in Nigeria. Thousands of students choose it because of:

• High career prestige
• Strong job prospects
• The need for healthcare professionals nationwide

It consistently tops JAMB’s most applied courses list.

2. Nursing Science

As the healthcare sector expands, Nursing Science has become one of the fastest-growing programs. The opportunity for international employment also makes it very attractive.

3. Law

Law remains a prestigious course with high social value. Admission is extremely competitive in federal and state universities. Many students choose it for:

• Career options in legal practice
• Politics, advocacy, and corporate roles

4. Accounting

One of the most popular business-related courses in Nigeria. It is highly demanded because:

• Almost all companies need accountants
• Clear professional paths (ICAN, ACCA, ANAN)
• High employability

5. Business Administration

Widely chosen because it offers broad career opportunities in:

• Management
• HR
• Finance
• Entrepreneurship

It is one of the most offered courses across public and private universities.

6. Computer Science

Tech growth has skyrocketed interest in this course. Students are attracted to:

• Software development
• Cybersecurity
• Data science
• Remote/international job opportunities

7. Mass Communication

This is a top choice for students who want careers in:

• Journalism
• Broadcasting
• PR/Advertising
• Digital media

Many Nigerian celebrities and influencers have Mass Communication backgrounds.

8. Economics

Economics is one of the most enrolled courses in Nigeria due to its flexibility and relevance. Graduates work in:

• Banking
• Government
• International agencies
• Business and research

9. Mechanical Engineering

A highly popular engineering field, especially among students who want technical or industrial careers. Mechanical Engineering is in demand because:

• Engineering sector is growing
• It offers versatile employment opportunities

10. Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Chosen by students interested in:

• Power systems
• Telecommunications
• Electronics
• Renewable energy

It is one of the core engineering programs in almost all universities with strong STEM departments.

11. Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering remains popular because of the constant need for infrastructure development:

• Roads
• Bridges
• Buildings
• Water systems

Students view it as a stable career with nationwide opportunities.

12. Architecture

A competitive and creative course chosen by students with interest in:

• Building design
• Housing development
• Urban planning

It is an attractive option due to the growth of the real estate sector.

13. Pharmacy

Pharmacy is extremely competitive in federal universities. Students choose it for:

• Strong international relevance
• High employability
• Opportunities in clinical, community, and industrial pharmacy

14. Political Science

Many students choose this course because:

• It leads to careers in governance, public policy, NGOs
• It is connected to Nigeria’s political landscape
• Admission is more accessible compared to Law

15. Computer Engineering

Interest in this course continues to rise with the global demand for tech professionals. Students study:

• Hardware systems
• Networking
• Embedded systems
• Robotics

It combines engineering with high-demand digital skills.

Summary of Why These Courses Are Popular

These top courses are consistently chosen because of:

• High job market demand
• Prestige and societal value
• Opportunities for international migration (especially tech and health courses)
• Availability across many universities
• Clear professional career paths