Nursing is one of the most respected and in-demand careers in Nigeria and around the world. Whether you want to work in public hospitals, private clinics, or even internationally, becoming a nurse requires more than just passion—it demands proper qualifications. In this guide, we’ll break down the subjects you need to study in secondary school, the best courses to pursue in higher education, and alternative pathways like online diplomas to help you reach your nursing goals.
Understanding the Pathway to Nursing in Nigeria
Nurses play a critical role in healthcare delivery. They care for the sick, provide emotional support, and work closely with doctors to improve patient outcomes. To become a nurse in Nigeria, you must complete either a basic nursing programme or earn a degree in nursing from an accredited university. Regardless of the route you choose, there are foundational subjects and qualifications you must have.
Core Subjects Required for Nursing
If you’re planning to apply for a nursing degree or nursing school in Nigeria, here are the minimum subject requirements:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Most institutions require five credit passes in your O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB) including the above subjects, obtained in not more than two sittings.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing
To secure admission into a university for a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc), JAMB requires a specific subject combination:
- Use of English (compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Make sure to score competitively in UTME, as nursing is a high-demand course and cut-off marks tend to be higher in federal and state universities.
Alternative Route: Nursing Schools and Colleges of Health
If you’re not entering through JAMB, you can consider accredited nursing schools or colleges of health technology, which offer:
- Basic Nursing Programme (3 years)
- Post-Basic Midwifery (1½ years, for trained nurses)
- Community Health Extension Work (CHEW)
These institutions may conduct their own entrance exams, but still require strong grades in the key science subjects mentioned earlier.
What if You Don’t Have Science Background?
If you didn’t take all the right science subjects in secondary school, you still have options:
- Enroll in a pre-degree science programme
- Apply for a diploma in health or nursing-related course
- Take online Access to Nursing courses, which are becoming more acceptable by some foreign universities (especially in the UK) if you’re aiming for international study.
These routes can help you build the academic foundation needed for full admission into a nursing programme.
Types of Nursing and Subject Focus Areas
1. Mental Health Nursing
If you want to specialise in mental health nursing, courses in Psychology, Biology, and Health Science are valuable. Some institutions offer mental health-specific nursing degrees.
2. Paediatric (Child) Nursing
Interested in working with children? Early childhood education, Biology, and Communication Skills are useful. You must also have strong interpersonal skills to connect with young patients.
3. Learning Disability Nursing
This path involves helping individuals with developmental challenges. Relevant subjects include Sociology, Biology, and Special Needs Education.
Online Learning: Can I Study Nursing Online in Nigeria?
While the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) currently does not approve fully online nursing degrees, you can still take online health courses to improve your knowledge. These may be helpful if you plan to study abroad or want to build a portfolio for competitive university applications.
Whatever stage you’re at—SSCE, JAMB, or even a career switch—it’s never too late to pursue nursing. Focus on getting the right subjects and qualifications. Whether through traditional education or an alternative route, your journey to becoming a nurse can begin today.
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