If you are searching for the List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria for the 2026/2027 academic session, one important thing to understand is that not every university that advertises Nursing Science has the same accreditation status.
Nursing is a highly regulated professional programme in Nigeria. The National Universities Commission (NUC) regulates universities and their academic programmes, while the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) plays a central role in regulating nursing education and professional training.
The NMCN’s latest published approved-schools information states that Nigeria had 290 nursing training institutions as of December 2025, including 43 Departments of Nursing Sciences. The Council also maintains a separate list of university nursing departments that were still undergoing accreditation.
This distinction is important for candidates because a university having a Nursing Science programme does not automatically mean that every aspect of its professional accreditation status is identical to another university.
In this guide, we provide a detailed List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria, explain the major admission requirements, discuss JAMB and O’Level requirements, examine likely school fees, and show what prospective students should check before accepting an admission offer.
List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria 2026/2027
There are many Nigerian universities with Nursing Science programmes. However, their accreditation status can change as the NUC and NMCN conduct accreditation exercises.
The table below highlights universities that have been associated with university-based Nursing Science programmes and provides a practical guide for 2026/2027 admission seekers.
| University | State | Type | Nursing Programme |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Oyo | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Enugu | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Edo | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | Cross River | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | Kwara | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | Borno | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Rivers | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | Akwa Ibom | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Kaduna | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUSOK) | Sokoto | Federal | Nursing Science |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Plateau | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Osun | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | Anambra | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) | Oyo | State | Nursing Science |
| Lagos State University (LASU) | Lagos | State | Nursing Science |
| Rivers State University (RSU) | Rivers | State | Nursing Science |
| Edo State University Uzairue | Edo | State | Nursing Science |
| Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | Edo | State | Nursing Science |
| Kaduna State University (KASU) | Kaduna | State | Nursing Science |
| Kebbi State University of Science and Technology | Kebbi | State | Nursing Science |
| Federal University, Lokoja | Kogi | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Zamfara State University | Zamfara | State | Nursing Science |
| PAMO University of Medical Sciences | Rivers | Private | Nursing Science |
| Igbinedion University | Edo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Ajayi Crowther University | Oyo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Lead City University | Oyo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Achievers University | Ondo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Wellspring University | Edo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Skyline University Nigeria | Kano | Private | Nursing Science |
| Veritas University | FCT | Private | Nursing Science |
| National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) | FCT | Federal | Nursing Science |
| Rhema University | Abia | Private | Nursing Science |
| Gregory University | Abia | Private | Nursing Science |
| Clifford University | Abia | Private | Nursing Science |
| Atiba University | Oyo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Koladaisi University | Oyo | Private | Nursing Science |
| Madonna University | Rivers | Private | Nursing Science |
| University of Ilesa | Osun | Private | Nursing Science |
| Fountain University | Osun | Private | Nursing Science |
| McPherson University | Ogun | Private | Nursing Science |
| Novena University | Delta | Private | Nursing Science |
This table should be used as a starting point rather than a substitute for checking the latest NMCN and NUC status before applying. The NMCN itself says its approved-school list is subject to periodic review.
READ ALSO – List of Science Courses in Nigerian Universities 2026/2027
Important: NUC Approval and NMCN Accreditation Are Not the Same
One of the biggest mistakes prospective Nursing students make is assuming that university approval and professional nursing accreditation mean exactly the same thing. They do not.
The NUC regulates Nigerian universities and academic programmes, while the NMCN is responsible for professional nursing education and related regulatory matters.
For example, NUC accreditation records show full accreditation for Nursing Science at institutions such as the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Lagos, Federal University Lokoja and Federal University Birnin Kebbi.
The NUC’s accreditation database also shows that accreditation status can differ from one university to another. For example, its published record shows full accreditation for Nursing Science at Skyline University, while Kaduna State University’s Nursing Science was listed with interim status in the accreditation database.
This is why candidates should not simply choose a university because a blog says it “offers Nursing.”
Universities With Nursing Science Under Accreditation Process
The NMCN also publishes information about university Nursing departments that are undergoing the accreditation process. Some institutions appearing in the Council’s published materials include the University of Uyo, Abundance Wisdom University, Topfaith University, Federal University of Health Sciences Azare, Bauchi State University, Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa Medical University, Benue State University, Gombe State University, Claretian University, Federal University Dutse and Kaduna State University, among others.
The list has changed over time as universities complete regulatory requirements. Therefore, candidates applying for the 2026/2027 session should confirm the current status of their preferred university before paying acceptance fees or tuition.
The NMCN states that full accreditation lasts five years, provisional accreditation lasts two years, while an embargo on student intake remains in place until identified deficiencies are addressed and the relevant decision is made by the Council.
Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigerian Universities 2026/2027
The admission requirements for Nursing Science vary slightly from one university to another, but most candidates should expect the following:
- Five relevant O’Level credit passes.
- English Language.
- Mathematics.
- Biology.
- Chemistry.
- Physics.
- A suitable UTME score.
- Correct JAMB subject combination.
- Participation in the university’s screening exercise where applicable.
- Meeting the university’s departmental or competitive admission requirements.
The NMCN’s published minimum entry requirements for nursing-related programmes specify five O’Level credit passes in Mathematics, English Language, Physics, Chemistry and Biology at not more than two sittings from WAEC, NECO or NABTEB.
However, university admission requirements may be more competitive than the basic regulatory minimum.
O’Level Requirements for Nursing
A prospective Nursing student should normally have credits in:
| Subject | Requirement |
|---|---|
| English Language | Credit |
| Mathematics | Credit |
| Biology | Credit |
| Chemistry | Credit |
| Physics | Credit |
Candidates should carefully check whether their preferred university accepts two sittings and whether there are additional conditions.
NMCN’s published entry requirements specifically allow the five required credits to be obtained at not more than two sittings from WAEC, NECO or NABTEB.
Nevertheless, universities can publish their own admission conditions, so applicants should always check the current admission brochure of their chosen institution.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing 2026/2027
Candidates seeking admission through UTME should generally register relevant science subjects required for Nursing Science.
A common combination is:
| JAMB Subject | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Compulsory |
| Biology | Required |
| Chemistry | Required |
| Physics | Required |
Before completing JAMB registration, candidates should confirm the current subject combination for their chosen university and programme on the official JAMB admission system or the institution’s admission requirements.
A wrong subject combination can create serious admission problems even when a candidate has a good UTME score.
What JAMB Score Do I Need to Study Nursing in Nigeria in 2026?
There is no single JAMB score that guarantees admission into Nursing Science in every Nigerian university. The minimum UTME score announced by JAMB or a university is not necessarily the same as the score needed to obtain competitive admission into Nursing.
Nursing is one of the most competitive health-related programmes in Nigeria. Universities may receive many more qualified applicants than the number of available places.
For this reason, students should avoid choosing a university solely because a website claims that Nursing candidates can gain admission with a particular score.
A better approach is to consider:
- Your UTME score.
- Your O’Level grades.
- The university’s admission policy.
- The number of available spaces.
- The competitiveness of the programme.
- The institution’s screening process.
- The current departmental requirements.
How Many Years Does It Take to Study Nursing in Nigeria?
A university Nursing Science degree generally involves several years of academic and clinical training. The programme combines classroom education with practical and clinical experience.
Students study subjects related to anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, community health nursing, mental health nursing, maternal and child health, nursing research and other areas.
The exact programme structure and duration should be confirmed from the university’s current academic handbook.
Students should also understand that becoming a professional nurse involves more than simply receiving a university degree. Professional registration and licensing requirements are regulated by the NMCN.
The Council’s indexing division is responsible for profiling nursing students and ensuring that their admission qualifications comply with approved requirements.
School Fees for Nursing in Nigerian Universities 2026/2027
Nursing school fees vary widely depending on the institution.
Federal universities generally have lower tuition and academic charges than many private universities, although the total amount a student pays can change from one academic session to another.
Private universities may charge significantly higher fees because of their institutional fee structures and additional charges.
Below is a general planning guide rather than an official fee schedule.
| University Type | Estimated Tuition/Academic Charges | Other Possible Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Federal universities | Often lower than private institutions | Acceptance, accommodation, registration, clinical and other charges |
| State universities | Varies significantly | Acceptance, registration, accommodation and other charges |
| Private universities | Often substantially higher | Tuition, accommodation, medical, registration and other charges |
Because fees change frequently, candidates should not rely on an old fee figure published online.
The correct figure should come from the university’s official fee schedule for the 2026/2027 session.
Why Nursing Fees Can Be Higher Than Other Courses
Nursing students require practical training, laboratories, clinical postings, professional materials and other resources.
Depending on the institution, students may encounter charges associated with:
- Laboratory use.
- Clinical training.
- Medical screening.
- Registration.
- Accommodation.
- ICT services.
- Library services.
- Examination fees.
- Practical equipment.
- Uniforms or clinical clothing.
- Students’ association charges.
- Acceptance fees.
Not every university charges all of these separately.
Estimated Nursing Fees by University Category
For budgeting purposes, students can use the following broad guide:
| Institution Category | General Fee Expectation |
|---|---|
| Federal university | Low to moderate compared with private universities |
| State university | Low to high depending on institution |
| Private university | Moderate to very high |
| Medical-specialist private university | Often among the higher fee ranges |
These figures are deliberately presented as categories rather than fabricated exact amounts. University charges can change annually, and publishing an old amount as the official 2026/2027 fee could mislead admission seekers.
Additional Costs Nursing Students Should Budget For
Tuition is only one part of the cost of studying Nursing.
A student may also need money for accommodation, feeding, transportation, textbooks, internet access, uniforms, clinical materials and other academic expenses.
Parents and guardians should therefore prepare a complete education budget instead of looking only at tuition.
For example:
| Expense | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Acceptance fee | Usually paid after admission |
| Tuition/school charges | Main academic payment |
| Accommodation | Hostel or private accommodation |
| Feeding | Daily food expenses |
| Transportation | Especially during clinical postings |
| Textbooks | Nursing and medical textbooks |
| Clinical materials | Items required for practical training |
| Medical screening | Institution-specific |
| Registration | Academic and departmental registration |
| Examination charges | Institution-specific |
| Internet/data | Research and online learning |
| Uniforms | Depending on university requirements |
Best Federal Universities to Consider for Nursing in Nigeria 2026
Federal universities are popular because they generally have lower tuition than many private institutions.
Some well-known universities with Nursing Science programmes include the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, University of Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, University of Calabar, University of Ilorin, University of Maiduguri, University of Port Harcourt, University of Uyo, University of Jos and Obafemi Awolowo University.
Several of these programmes have appeared in NUC accreditation records with full accreditation. For instance, NUC records show full accreditation for Nursing Science at the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University.
However, “best” should not be based only on popularity.
Students should also compare:
- Current accreditation status.
- Teaching hospital access.
- Clinical training opportunities.
- School fees.
- Hostel availability.
- Location.
- Admission competitiveness.
- Academic resources.
- Student support.
- Recent institutional announcements.
Private Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria 2026/2027
Private universities have become increasingly important in Nursing education because they provide additional options for students who may not secure admission into highly competitive federal institutions.
Examples include PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Igbinedion University, Ajayi Crowther University, Achievers University, Lead City University, Wellspring University, Skyline University and other private institutions.
NUC accreditation records show, for example, full accreditation for Nursing Science at PAMO University of Medical Sciences and Skyline University.
Ajayi Crowther University’s Nursing Science programme has also received full accreditation in a NUC accreditation report.
Private university applicants should pay particular attention to the total cost of attendance. A school with a relatively affordable tuition figure may still have additional charges for accommodation, meals, registration and other services.
Can I Study Nursing Without JAMB?
For a regular undergraduate Nursing Science admission route into a Nigerian university, UTME/JAMB is normally an important part of the admission process.
Candidates should be careful with websites or agents claiming that they can secure regular university Nursing admission without following the institution’s approved admission process.
If a university advertises an alternative admission route, candidates should verify it directly with the university and relevant regulatory authorities.
Do not pay an individual simply because they promise to “upgrade” your JAMB score or secure Nursing admission.
Direct Entry Admission for Nursing 202/2027
Some universities may offer Direct Entry opportunities subject to their current admission rules.
Direct Entry requirements are not identical across universities.
A candidate considering Direct Entry should check:
- Whether the university accepts Direct Entry for Nursing Science.
- Which qualifications are accepted.
- Whether the applicant must already possess a nursing qualification.
- Whether professional registration is required.
- The appropriate JAMB Direct Entry process.
- The university’s departmental requirements.
Do not assume that a qualification accepted for Direct Entry into one university will automatically be accepted by another.
Important Difference Between Nursing Science and Basic Nursing
Another common source of confusion is the difference between university Nursing Science and Basic Nursing.
University Nursing Science generally leads to a university degree such as a Bachelor of Nursing Science, subject to the programme’s structure and professional requirements.
Basic Nursing is a professional nursing training route offered through approved nursing institutions.
The NMCN distinguishes between different categories of nursing education, including Departments of Nursing Sciences, Schools of Nursing, Schools of Midwifery and post-basic nursing programmes. Its December 2025 statistics listed 43 Departments of Nursing Sciences among the approved institutions.
Therefore, a student searching for a university degree should make sure the institution actually offers the university Nursing Science programme they intend to study.
How to Choose the Right University for Nursing
Choosing a Nursing university should involve more than looking at school fees.
- First, check the current regulatory status of the Nursing programme.
- Second, examine the university’s admission requirements.
- Third, compare the total cost of studying there.
- Fourth, consider clinical training opportunities.
- Fifth, check accommodation and transportation.
- Sixth, consider the competitiveness of admission.
- Seventh, confirm that the institution is admitting students into Nursing Science for the intended academic session.
The NMCN itself advises parents and guardians to use its approved-school information as a guide when seeking nursing education.
How to Confirm a University’s Nursing Accreditation
Before paying an acceptance fee, follow these steps:
- Visit the university’s official website.
- Confirm that Nursing Science is listed among its current programmes.
- Check the latest admission advertisement.
- Check the NMCN approved-schools information.
- Check the NUC accreditation information where applicable.
- Confirm that the programme is accepting new students.
- Ask the university for its current fee schedule.
- Pay only through official payment channels.
This is particularly important because the regulatory status of programmes can change.
The NMCN states that its approved-school list is periodically reviewed.
Career Opportunities After Studying Nursing
Nursing offers several career paths.
A graduate may work in areas such as:
- General hospital nursing.
- Community health.
- Public health.
- Mental health.
- Paediatric nursing.
- Maternal and child health.
- Surgical nursing.
- Emergency care.
- Intensive care.
- Occupational health.
- School health.
- Research.
- Nursing education.
- Healthcare administration.
Additional professional education can also allow nurses to develop specialist interests.
However, students should understand that studying Nursing is demanding. It requires academic work, practical training, clinical exposure and professional examinations.
What Subjects Should I Be Good At Before Studying Nursing?
Students interested in Nursing should take their science subjects seriously.
- Biology helps students understand living systems and human anatomy.
- Chemistry provides a foundation for understanding substances, medications and biochemical processes.
- Physics is relevant to several concepts involving the human body and medical equipment.
- Mathematics is important for calculations and other academic tasks.
English Language is essential because nurses must communicate effectively with patients, colleagues and other healthcare professionals.
Common Mistakes Nursing Admission Seekers Make Yearly
- One common mistake is applying to a university without checking the current programme status.
- Another is choosing a course combination without confirming JAMB requirements.
- Some candidates also focus entirely on the advertised school fees without calculating accommodation, feeding and other costs.
- Another mistake is paying admission agents who promise guaranteed admission.
- Candidates should also avoid relying on screenshots from social media as proof of accreditation.
- The safest approach is to verify important information through official university, NUC and NMCN channels.
Final Advice for 2026/2027 Nursing Applicants
If Nursing is your preferred career, start preparing early. Make sure your O’Level subjects meet the requirements. Prepare seriously for UTME. Select appropriate JAMB subjects. Research several universities rather than depending on one institution.
Most importantly, verify the current regulatory status of the programme before making financial commitments.
The NMCN’s published information confirms that the nursing education landscape is regularly reviewed, and the Council maintains different accreditation categories.
The List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria can therefore change as universities receive, renew, improve or lose accreditation status.
For the 2026/2027 admission cycle, students should treat the list in this article as a research guide and confirm final admission, accreditation and fee information directly with the relevant institution before payment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria?
The List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria includes federal, state and private universities with Nursing Science programmes. Examples include UI, UNILAG, UNN, ABU, BUK, UNIBEN, UNICAL, UNILORIN, UNIPORT, OAU, UNIJOS, LAUTECH, LASU, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Igbinedion University and several others.
2. How many university Nursing departments are approved by NMCN?
The NMCN’s December 2025 summary listed 43 Departments of Nursing Sciences among its approved nursing training institutions. The Council also separately lists departments undergoing accreditation.
3. What are the O’Level requirements for Nursing?
The standard requirements include five credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. NMCN states that these can be obtained at not more than two sittings from WAEC, NECO or NABTEB.
4. What JAMB subjects are required for Nursing?
The commonly required combination is Use of English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Candidates should confirm the exact combination with their chosen university before registering.
5. Is Nursing difficult to study?
Nursing is academically and practically demanding. Students study science and clinical subjects and participate in practical training.
6. How much is Nursing school fees in Nigeria?
There is no single Nursing school fee for all Nigerian universities. Federal universities generally have lower academic charges than many private universities, while private universities can be considerably more expensive.
7. Can I study Nursing in a private university?
Yes. Several private universities offer Nursing Science, although candidates should confirm the institution’s current NUC and NMCN status before applying.
8. Is Nursing a good course to study in Nigeria?
Nursing can provide opportunities across hospitals, community health, public health, education, research and specialist areas. However, students should choose it because they are genuinely interested in healthcare and patient care, not only because of employment prospects.
9. Can I study Nursing with two O’Level sittings?
NMCN’s published entry requirements permit the required five O’Level credits at not more than two sittings. However, individual universities may publish additional admission conditions, so candidates should verify their preferred institution’s current requirements.
10. Does every university advertising Nursing have full accreditation?
No. Accreditation status can differ between institutions and can change over time. The NMCN maintains a distinction between approved departments and departments undergoing accreditation, while NUC accreditation records can also show different statuses.
11. What should I check before paying Nursing acceptance fees?
Confirm your admission on the university’s official platform, verify the Nursing programme’s current status, obtain the official fee schedule and make payments only through authorised university channels.
12. Which is better, federal or private university for Nursing?
Neither category is automatically better for every student. Compare accreditation, clinical training, academic facilities, fees, accommodation, location, admission competitiveness and the university’s current Nursing programme status.
13. How can I avoid fake Nursing admission offers?
Use official university admission portals and verify programme information with the university and relevant regulatory authorities. Avoid individuals promising guaranteed admission, fake JAMB upgrades or unofficial admission letters.
14. Does NMCN accreditation change?
Yes. The NMCN states that its approved-school information is subject to periodic review. Full accreditation lasts five years and provisional accreditation lasts two years according to the Council’s published guidance.
15. What is the best way to use this list?
Use this List of Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria to identify possible universities, then confirm the latest 2026/2027 admission requirements, fees and accreditation status directly from the institution and relevant regulatory bodies before making your final choice.
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