Are you interested in studying political science in Nigeria? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring the top universities offering political science programs for the 2024/2025 academic year.
Political science is a fascinating field that delves into the structures, theories, and practices of governments and political systems. It is an essential discipline that helps individuals understand the political landscape, policy-making, and international relations. As such, it is no surprise that political science is a popular major for students in Nigeria who aspire to make a difference in their country’s political sphere.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of the best universities in Nigeria that offer political science programs. From world-renowned institutions to local universities with excellent academic programs, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of universities that can help you achieve your academic and career goals in political science. So, whether you’re a Nigerian student or an international student looking to study political science in Nigeria, keep reading to find out more!
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Top universities in Nigeria offering political science programs 2024/2025
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG):
UNILAG is one of the top-ranked universities in Nigeria for political science programs. The university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, and the program covers a wide range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration.
2. University of Ibadan (UI):
UI is another highly-ranked university in Nigeria for political science programs. The university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, and the program emphasizes political theory, political behavior, and public policy.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU):
OAU is a top-rated university in Nigeria for political science programs. The university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, and the program focuses on political theory, comparative politics, and international relations.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU):
ABU is a renowned university in Nigeria for political science programs. The university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, and the program covers a range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, and public administration.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN):
UNN is a top-ranked university in Nigeria for political science programs. The university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, and the program covers a wide range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, and international relations.
These universities are just a few of the top-rated institutions in Nigeria offering political science programs for the academic year. Other universities to consider include Bayero University Kano (BUK), Lagos State University (LASU), and Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA).
Admission requirements for studying political science in Nigeria
Admission requirements for studying political science in Nigerian universities may vary depending on the institution. However, here are some general admission requirements that are commonly required by Nigerian universities offering political science programs:
1. Educational qualifications:
Applicants must possess a Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent, with a minimum of five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
2. UTME:
Applicants must sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and obtain a minimum score of 180. The UTME subjects must include English Language, Government or History, and any other two relevant subjects.
3. Post-UTME:
Some Nigerian universities also require applicants to sit for a post-UTME screening exercise. The screening may include a written test, oral interview, and/or verification of credentials.
4. Direct entry:
For applicants seeking admission through direct entry, they must possess a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) from a recognized institution. They can also possess an A-level certificate or its equivalent, with at least two passes in relevant subjects.
5. Age requirements:
Applicants must meet the age requirement of the university they are applying to. Some universities may have a minimum age requirement, while others may not have a maximum age limit.
6. Other requirements:
Some universities may also require applicants to provide additional documents, such as birth certificates, passport photographs, and academic transcripts.
It is important to note that admission requirements may vary among universities in Nigeria, and applicants are advised to check the specific requirements of the university they are interested in before applying.
Cost of studying political science in Nigerian universities
The cost of studying political science in Nigerian universities may vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study. Here are some of the common expenses that students may incur when studying political science in Nigerian universities:
- Tuition fees: Tuition fees for political science programs in Nigerian universities can range from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000 per academic session, depending on the university and level of study.
- Accommodation: Students who live on-campus will have to pay for accommodation, which can cost between ₦30,000 to ₦100,000 per academic session, depending on the university and type of accommodation.
- Books and study materials: Students will need to purchase textbooks and other study materials, which can cost between ₦10,000 to ₦50,000 per academic session, depending on the university and program.
- Transportation: Students who commute to campus will need to budget for transportation costs, such as bus fares or fuel for personal vehicles.
- Miscellaneous expenses: Students may also incur additional expenses such as medical fees, sports fees, and other charges, which can vary depending on the university.
It is important to note that the cost of studying political science in Nigerian universities can be significantly lower for students who qualify for scholarships or financial aid. Students are advised to research and apply for scholarship opportunities offered by the government, private organizations, and the universities themselves to offset the cost of tuition and other expenses
Scholarship opportunities for political science students in Nigeria
There are various scholarship opportunities available for political science students in Nigeria. Here are some of the scholarships that students can consider:
1. Federal Government Scholarships:
The Federal Government of Nigeria offers scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate students in various fields, including political science. The scholarships are open to Nigerian citizens and cover tuition, accommodation, and other academic expenses.
2. Nigeria LNG Scholarship:
The Nigeria LNG Scholarship is offered to undergraduate and postgraduate students in various fields, including political science. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
3. NNPC/Total Scholarship:
The NNPC/Total Scholarship is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students in various fields, including political science. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
4. MTN Foundation Scholarship:
The MTN Foundation Scholarship is offered to undergraduate and postgraduate students in various fields, including political science. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
5. Shell Nigeria University Scholarship:
The Shell Nigeria University Scholarship is open to undergraduate students in various fields, including political science. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
6. PTDF Scholarship:
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Scholarship is open to Nigerian citizens who are pursuing postgraduate studies in various fields, including political science. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and other academic expenses.
7. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship:
The Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students in various fields, including political science. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
Students are advised to research and apply for scholarships early to increase their chances of being selected. The application processes and requirements for each scholarship may vary, and students should check the specific requirements before applying.
Job prospects for graduates of political science in Nigeria
Political science graduates in Nigeria have various job prospects in both the public and private sectors. Here are some of the common career paths that political science graduates can consider:
- Government Agencies: Political science graduates can work in various government agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Assembly, Federal and State Civil Service, and other agencies. They can work as policy analysts, researchers, lobbyists, or administrative officers.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Political science graduates can work in various NGOs that focus on issues such as human rights, governance, democracy, and peace-building. They can work as project officers, program coordinators, or policy analysts.
- Journalism and Media: Political science graduates can work in journalism and media as reporters, analysts, or commentators. They can work in print media, broadcast media, or online media.
- Academia: Political science graduates can pursue an academic career by teaching political science in universities or conducting research in political science-related fields.
- Corporate Organizations: Political science graduates can also work in corporate organizations, particularly in the areas of corporate social responsibility, public relations, and government relations.
- International Organizations: Political science graduates can work in various international organizations such as the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS. They can work as policy analysts, researchers, or program coordinators.
It is important to note that political science graduates may need to acquire additional skills, such as communication, research, and analytical skills, to be competitive in the job market. Additionally, networking, internships, and volunteering can help graduates gain practical experience and build connections in their desired fields.
Rankings of Nigerian universities for political science programs
There are several ranking organizations that rank Nigerian universities based on various criteria, including quality of education, research output, faculty expertise, and student satisfaction. Here are some of the ranking organizations and their rankings of Nigerian universities for political science programs:
1. Webometrics:
Webometrics is a Spanish research organization that ranks universities based on their web presence and online visibility. According to their latest ranking, the top five Nigerian universities for political science programs are University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria, and Obafemi Awolowo University.
2. Times Higher Education (THE):
THE is a UK-based organization that ranks universities based on their teaching, research, and international outlook. According to their latest ranking, the top three Nigerian universities for social sciences (including political science) are University of Ibadan, Lagos State University, and Covenant University.
3. National Universities Commission (NUC):
NUC is a Nigerian regulatory body that monitors the quality of higher education in Nigeria. According to their latest ranking, the top five Nigerian universities for political science programs are University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, and University of Nigeria.
4. UniRank:
UniRank is a directory that ranks universities based on their web popularity and research output. According to their latest ranking, the top five Nigerian universities for political science programs are University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, and University of Nigeria.
It is important to note that rankings are subjective and can vary depending on the criteria used by the ranking organizations. Students should conduct their own research and consider other factors, such as location, facilities, and cost, when choosing a university for political science programs.
Postgraduate programs in political science in Nigerian universities
There are several postgraduate programs in political science available in Nigerian universities. These programs are designed for students who want to further their education in political science and specialize in specific areas of the field. Here are some of the postgraduate programs in political science available in Nigerian universities:
1. Master of Science in Political Science (M.Sc.):
This is a postgraduate program designed to provide advanced training in political science. It is a two-year program that covers areas such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public administration.
2. Master of Arts in Political Science (M.A.):
This is a postgraduate program that provides in-depth training in political science. It is a two-year program that covers areas such as political behavior, political economy, political culture, and political methodology.
3. Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science (Ph.D.):
This is a postgraduate program that is designed to provide advanced research training in political science. It is a three to five-year program that focuses on developing research skills and producing original research in political science.
4. Postgraduate Diploma in Political Science (PGD):
This is a one-year program that provides foundational training in political science. It is designed for students who want to acquire basic knowledge and skills in political science before pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in the field.
Some of the universities in Nigeria that offer postgraduate programs in political science include the University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria, and Obafemi Awolowo University. The admission requirements and program structures may vary depending on the university and the specific postgraduate program. Students should conduct research and consult with the universities to determine the best postgraduate program for their academic and career goals
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Specializations and courses available in political science programs in Nigeria.
Political science is a broad field that covers various aspects of government, politics, and public policy. Nigerian universities offer political science programs that provide students with a broad knowledge base in the field, as well as the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of interest. Here are some specializations and courses available in political science programs in Nigerian universities:
1. Political Theory:
This specialization focuses on the study of political ideas, ideologies, and theories. It covers topics such as democracy, liberalism, socialism, and conservatism.
2. Comparative Politics:
This specialization focuses on the study of political systems and institutions in different countries. It covers topics such as political culture, electoral systems, and political parties.
3. International Relations:
This specialization focuses on the study of the relations between nations and the global political system. It covers topics such as diplomacy, international law, and global governance.
4. Public Administration:
This specialization focuses on the study of public sector organizations and management. It covers topics such as public policy, budgeting, and human resource management.
5. Political Economy:
This specialization focuses on the study of the interplay between politics and economics. It covers topics such as economic development, globalization, and trade policies.
Some of the courses that students can expect to take in a political science program in Nigerian universities include:
- Introduction to Political Science
- Research Methods in Political Science
- Nigerian Government and Politics
- Political Sociology
- Political Behavior and Public Opinion
- Gender and Politics
- Political Parties and Elections
- Public Policy Analysis
- Globalization and International Relations
- African Politics
The specific courses offered may vary depending on the university and the level of the program (undergraduate or postgraduate). Students should consult with the universities to determine the courses and specializations available in their political science programs.
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