20 Best Professional Courses in Nigeria

A professional course is a sort of education that is tailored to the needs of a certain sector. The emphasis of these courses, among many other things, is on skill development, career progress, and self-improvement. A lot of factors are considered before picking a course among the best professional courses in Nigeria and as expected, it is simpler to get a job after studying any professional course due to widespread acceptability.

The Best Professional Courses to Study in Nigeria

From engineering to medical sciences, there are a variety of options to choose from if you want to study a professional course in Nigeria.

Best Science Professional Courses in Nigeria

Here is a list of some of the best professional courses in the science discipline.

1. Medicine and Surgery

Among students in Nigeria, medicine and surgery has emerged as one of the top choices for science-based students. A student that successfully studies medicine and surgery in Nigeria has a secured job opportunity in the health sector. In Nigeria, the course is not just listed as one of the best professional courses, a lot of dedication is required of a student to get a degree in medicine and surgery.

Areas to Specialize in Medicine and Surgery

It is a course with a wide range of areas of specialization. Graduates who wish to practice the course can venture into any of the areas outlined below:

Thoracic Surgery

The thoracic surgeon’s practice includes the management of the airway and injuries to the chest.

Colon and Rectal Surgery

Through thorough training and experience, colon and rectal surgeons gain the knowledge and experience necessary to treat medical conditions of the intestine, colon, rectum, anal canal, and perianal area through medical and surgical means.

Neurological Surgery

The diagnosis and treatment of pathological processes that alter the functionality or activity of the neurological system, including the pituitary gland, is the focus of a neurosurgical surgeon.

Ophthalmic Surgery

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are educated to diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses, injuries, and deformities affecting the head, neck, face, jaws, and hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial area.

Other areas include:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery
  • Urology
  • Vascular Surgery
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Medicine and Surgery
  • University of Ilorin
  • University of Ibadan
  • University of Lagos
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka

2. Pharmacy

Pharmacy is a clinical health discipline that connects medical science with chemistry. It is in charge of the development, production, disposal, safe and effective use, and control of prescriptions and medications. A complete grasp of drugs, their modes of action, side effects, interactions, mobility, and toxicity is required for pharmacy practice.

Among all the factors that might motivate a person to pursue a career in pharmacy in Nigeria, job stability is the most important. Pharmacists are in high demand. There are always new medications and therapies on the market, as well as prescriptions to be written. This implies that you will have no trouble finding work following graduation.

Pharmacists in Nigeria can find a specialty in the following areas:

  • Clinical pharmacy
  • Pharmaceutics
  • Pharmaceutical chemistry
  • Drug discovery
  • Pharmaceutical enterprise
  • Pharmaceutical technology

Pharmacists in Nigeria can practice in the following sectors or organizations:

  • Hospitals
  • Pharmaceutical research institutions
  • Community health care organizations
  • Quality organizations (like SON)
  • Legal compliance (NAFDAC)
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Pharmacy
  • Kaduna State University
  • Gombe State University
  • Delta State University, Abraka

3. Chemical and Petroleum Engineering

Chemical and petroleum engineering give you a competitive advantage, whether you want to specialize in one field or broaden your chances across industries. The drilling, extraction, production, and distribution of oil and natural gas are all aspects of petroleum engineering. Petroleum engineers apply their understanding of fluid and rock characteristics in subterranean settings to develop techniques for producing oil and gas in a safe and cost-effective manner.

Food goods, fuels and lubricants, medications, fertilizers, synthetic fibers, microelectronic components, and plastics are examples of materials used in the design, development, manufacture, and purification of materials deemed important to human existence. Chemical engineers are interested in minimizing energy use in order to produce these goods in a safe and sustainable manner.

Industries Available For Chemical and Petroleum Engineers

The following are some of the areas where anybody with certification in chemical and petroleum engineering can work:

  • Oil and Gas sector
  • Academics
  • Maritime Sector
  • Private Manufacturing Firms
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
  • University of Benin (UNIBEN)
  • University of Ibadan
  • Federal University of Technology Owerri

4. Civil Engineering

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Civil engineering covers the planning and construction of structures such as dams, bridges, aqueducts, canals, roads, power plants, sewage systems, and other infrastructure. The nice thing about civil engineering in real life is that it is a profession that is always adapting to societal expectations and wants.

This is one of the best professional courses that apply mathematical and scientific knowledge (especially physics) to real-life circumstances and issues that occur during the creation and maintenance of structures while taking environmental, economic, legal, and ethical factors into account. Although admission standards for civil engineering degrees vary by school, most universities require high academic marks in mathematics and scientific areas.

Areas of Specialization in Civil Engineering
  • Environmental engineering
  • Construction engineering
  • Structural engineering
  • Water resources engineering
  • Real Estate development
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Civil Engineering
  • Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
  • University of Ibadan
  • Enugu State University of Science and Technology
  • The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

5. Nursing

Nursing is a part of the health care sector that covers health promotion, sickness prevention, and care for the sick, disabled, and dying. This is not just one of the best professional courses in Nigeria, but one of the noblest practices in the world. Nurses are essential in protecting public health because they assist the doctors and continue to educate the public about crucial health concerns.

All nurses must undergo a rigorous program of comprehensive education and study before working closely with patients, families, and communities while adhering to the basic principles of the profession.

Areas of Specialization in Nursing

In Nigeria, a layman sees all nurses as the same, with the same practice. But in real practice, nurses have different areas of specialization. Below are some of the areas of specialization for nurses:

  • Cardiac nurse
  • Critical care nurse
  • Clinical nurse
  • ER nurse
  • Family nurse
  • Geriatric nursing
  • Mental health nurse
  • Midwife nursing
  • Oncology nurse
  • Orthopedic nurse
  • Pediatric nurse
  • Public health nurse
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Nursing
  • University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
  • University of Ibadan (UI)
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
  • University of Calabar (UNICAL)

6. Architecture

Architecture, as distinct from construction skills, is the art and method of designing and building. Architecture is used to meet both practical and creative needs, and therefore it serves both utilitarian and artistic purposes. These two goals can be recognized, but they cannot be separated, and the comparative weight assigned to each can vary greatly.

In Nigeria, architecture is one of the best professional courses. It is globally respected and takes rigorous studies to obtain a degree in the course. Architects design facilities suited for human use and are thus mainly responsible for their safety and dependability, so students must be prepared to study for a somewhat lengthy amount of time before becoming licensed architects.

Students enrolled in architectural courses will also attend lectures on history, theory, and technology, as well as computer-aided modeling tutorials aimed at providing students with competency in various design programs to assist them in completing specific projects.

Areas of Specialization in Architecture
  • Architectural engineering
  • Architectural technology
  • Architectural history
  • Architectural design
  • Landscape architecture
  • Interior architecture
  • Urban planning
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Architecture
  • Imo State University, Owerri (IMSU)
  • Nnamdi Azikiwe Univesity, Awka (UNIZIK)
  • University of Benin (UNIBEN)
  • Univesity of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

7. Medical Laboratory Science

A medical laboratory scientist (MLS), often known as a medical technologist or clinical laboratory scientist, analyzes biological specimens in a medical laboratory. They are in charge of doing scientific tests on patient samples and communicating the results to doctors.

Microscopes, hematological analyzers, and incubators are among the advanced tools used by medical laboratory scientists. The information they discover is critical in diagnosing and treating illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and other medical disorders. The outcome of the medical laboratory scientist’s work is used to make 60–70 percent of the choices about sickness diagnosis, treatment, hospital admission, and release.

Medical lab sciences cover the following areas in their functions:

  • Hematology
  • Chemistry
  • Immunology
  • Microbiology
  • Molecular diagnostic toxicology
  • Transfusion medications
Areas of Specialization in Medical Laboratory Sciences
  • Clinical biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Bacteriology
  • Cytopathology
  • Genetics
  • Histopathology
  • Immunohematology
  • Electron microscopy
  • IVF labs
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Medical Laboratory Sciences
  • University of Lagos
  • Babcock University Ilisan-Remo
  • Ladoke Akintola University, Oshogbo
  • Madonna University Nigeria, Elele

8. Quantity Survey

Quantity surveying studies give you specialized expertise in cost estimation, procurement procedures, and construction project management. This is an active course that even allows practice in the process of learning.

Quantity surveying studies give you specialized expertise in cost planning, procurement procedures, and construction project management. You will also understand health and safety issues, as well as legal, financial, political, and economic obstacles and how they impact the construction process, ethical standards, and sustainable development.

Along with your schooling, gaining real industrial experience may considerably improve your job prospects. Some quantity surveying degrees involve a year-long work experience that might lead to employment opportunities after graduation.

Quantity surveyors get employment in the following areas or firms:

  • Construction companies on consultancy terms
  • Architecture Firms
  • Property management firms
  • Legal authorities
  • Government ministries, agencies, and departments
  • Real estate firms
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Quantity Survey
  • Abubakar Tafawa Belewa University, Bauchi
  • Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
  • Bayero Univesity, Kano
  • Caleb University, Imota
  • Federal University of Technology Minna

9. Dentistry

Dentistry is the profession that deals with both the detection and care of oral illnesses, which include disorders of the teeth and supporting structures, as well as diseases of the mouth’s soft tissues. Dentistry also includes the treatment and repair of jaw malformations, tooth misalignment, and congenital defects of the oral cavity, such as cleft palate.

Below are some of the values of practicing dentistry in Nigeria:

Achieve self-employment 

Dentists have the chance to start their own practice as soon as they graduate from dental school. This provides them with a great deal of autonomy and allows them to create their own business and professional goals.

A variety of career options

While 80 percent of dental school graduates go on to work in dental treatments, the profession offers a diverse range of clinical, research, and educational opportunities for new graduates, as well as dentists at all stages of their careers.

Comfortable income

Dentists are fortunate to have a variety of income channels from practice and other aspects of dentistry. A dentist can earn from having a private dental clinic, and at the same time earn from lecturing at a university. This should provide a comfortable stream of income.

Areas of Specialization in Dentistry
  • Endodontics
  • Dental public health
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery
  • Oral and Maxillofacial radiology
  • Oral medicine and pathology
  • Pediatric dentistry
  • Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
  • Prosthodontics
  • Periodontics
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Dentistry
  • Bayero University Kano
  • Obafemi Awolowo University
  • University of Benin
  • University of Jos
  • Lagos State University

10. Marine Engineering

The field of marine engineering deals with the design, invention, building, and maintenance of seagoing boats and navigation equipment. Marine engineers are primarily concerned with the design and manufacturing of computer processes for boats, ships, and submarines.

A candidate is qualified to work aboard ships after completing a four-year marine engineering degree program. A recent marine engineering graduate will serve as a trainee or junior engineer on a ship for a six-month agreement.

Based on his or her previous knowledge and expertise, a marine engineer can choose from the following types of vessels:

  • Foreign-going dry ships
  • Tanker ships that travel abroad (oil, gas, chemical, etc)
  • Coastal commercial ships, both dry and tanker
  • Passenger ships
  • Providing assistance to boats and ships at the port (Tugs, barges, etc)
Some of the Benefits of Studying Marine Engineering
  • The course contributes immensely to the economic growth and development of the country
  • The practical aspect of the course comes with interesting challenges that broaden knowledge
  • The course in practice offers a comfortable pay package
  • It also offers a wide range of career options
Areas of Specialization in Marine Engineering
  • Design and logistics
  • Technology management
  • Software and material science
  • Mechanics
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Marine Engineering
  • Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot-Akpaden
  • Niger Delta University
  • Federal University of Petroleum Resources
  • Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt

11. Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary medicine, sometimes called veterinary science, is a specialized area that plays important role in the prevention, management, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the health of wild and domestic animals, as well as prophylactic procedures for the transfer of animal disease to humans. The significance of veterinary medicine has grown over time as even more students pursue it.

In the same way the health of human beings matters to doctors, veterinary doctors value the health of animals. Being one of the best professional courses in Nigeria, veterinary medicine provides a wide area of practice and benefits.

The profession provides numerous benefits, which include the following:

  • It is very lucrative to practice in Nigeria
  • The profession helps one understand the value of the life of animals
  • It also provides complete job security
  • The practice also gives room for veterinary research
Five types of veterinarians
  • Veterinary specialists
  • Companion-animal veterinarians
  • Food safety and inspection veterinarians
  • Food-animal veterinarians
  • Research veterinarians
Areas of Specialization in Veterinary Medicine
  • Animal welfare
  • Emergency and critical care
  • Dermatology
  • Clinical pharmacology
  • Anesthesia and analgesia
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Veterinary Medicine
  • Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
  • Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi
  • Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
  • Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
  • University of Jos

12. Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Psychologists put forth a lot of time and effort to comprehend, as well as understand mental states, brain function, and behavior. Psychology is recognized as a “hub science,” with strong links to biology, social sciences, and learning.

Psychology in Nigeria is seen as one of the best professional courses to study because of its numerous advantages in practice. One of the major advantages of studying psychology is that it provides a variety of job options. A certification in psychology offers a tangible stream of income.

Areas of Specialization in Psychology
  • Cognitive and perceptual psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Counseling psychology
  • Environmental Psychology
  • Health psychology
  • Forensic psychology
  • Social psychology
  • Sports psychology
  • Industrial and organizational psychology
Universities in Nigeria That Study
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Psychology
  • Adekunle Ajasin University
  • Olabisi Onabanjo University
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  • Renaissance University
  • Nasarawa State University

13. Geology and Mining

Mining geology is an area of applied science that applies commercial geology and mining engineering concepts to the development of a specific mineral resource. This is one of the best professional courses in Nigeria, as it projects rapid development in the country.

As a geology undergraduate, you will study more about the history and development of ecosystems, earthquakes, volcanoes, sustainable development, glaciation, water composition and processes, floods, groundwater movement, human planet connection, and dinosaur evolution.

The course covers the following areas:

  • Mineralization forecast
  • Identification of natural abnormalities; map construction (geological, tectonic, geomorphological, ecological, and other)
  • An analysis of the formations of both the lithosphere
  • Investigation of the distribution of combustible and ore resource reserves
  • Contemporary geodynamic mechanisms are being monitored
  • Geological system requirements
Areas of Specialization in Geology and Mining
  • Environmental geology and mining
  • Geochronological geology and mining
  • Geochemistry
  • Geophysics
  • Hydrogeology
  • Metamorphic petrology
  • Natural resources
  • Oceanography
  • Planetary science
  • Unconventional energy
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Geology and Mining
  • Federal University of Technology, Akure
  • Enugu State University of Science and technology
  • Bauchi State University
  • Nassarawa State University

14. Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is among the most diversified branches of engineering. Mechanical engineers create, develop, produce, and test products. They work with anything that moves, from parts to systems. Below are some of the benefits of studying mechanical engineering:

  • Develop and gain wide technical knowledge
  • Achieve transferable skills that can be monetized
  • The course has a wide range of career opportunities available
  • It provides the opportunity to contribute to the development of new technologies through innovations
  • Practical mechanical engineering in Nigeria pays no matter the level
Areas of Specialization in Mechanical Engineering
  • Machine design and development
  • Automation and control mechanism
  • Robotics
  • Mechatronics
  • Energy Engineering
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Mechanical Engineering
  • Federal University of Technology, Owerri
  • Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK)
  • Imo State University, Owerri (IMSU)
  • University of Jos
  • University of Benin (UNIBEN)

Best Arts/Social Science/Management Professional Courses in Nigeria

Below are some of the best professional courses in the area of social sciences, and management sciences.

15. Accounting

Accounting is the practice of documenting financial transactions. The field entails the process of compiling, evaluating, and reporting these transactions to supervision, regulatory, and tax collecting bodies. Accounting is one of the finest professional degrees since there are so many different sectors one can get into. There are several branches of accounting, and they include the following:

  • Management accounting
  • Financial accounting
  • Cost accounting
  • Public sector accounting
  • Taxation

As a course under the management science faculty of some Nigerian universities, the function of accountants is needed in all sectors of the economy. Other universities in Nigeria include the course under the faculty of social sciences. Some of the sectors that require the services of an accountant include:

  • Banking sectors
  • Manufacturing / Production industries
  • Service providers
  • Entertainment Industries
  • Hospitality industries
  • Health care providers

Another aspect that made way for accounting as one of the professional courses studied in Nigeria is the widespread of its job opportunities. Accountants can work in different capacities in any office.

Below are some of the job opportunities for an accountant in Nigeria:

  • Internal / External Auditor
  • Accounting Officer
  • Chief Financial Officer
  • Procurement Manager
  • Financial Analyst
  • Tax Consultant
  • Environmental Accountant
  • International Accounting Expert
  • Risk Manager / Analyst
  • Tax Comptroller
  • Cashier / Bookkeeper

To study accounting in Nigeria one must have the basic required subjects at the O level, especially English, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics, and any other art subject.

Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Accounting
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  • Ebonyi State University
  • Ahmadu Bello University

16. Banking and Finance

Banking and Finance is one of the best professional courses in management sciences as it deals with all aspects of banking and finance generally. All aspect of an economy centers on finance which is the pillar of any country.

Many companies, firms, and people require assistance with financial management, which is where bankers and financial managers come in. Banks and investment managers are seeking graduates with more than just technical skills as financial automation grows. They are looking for individuals who can think under pressure, individuals with innovation, leadership, and sound business abilities.

Graduates with certificates in banking and finance can venture into any of the following areas of specialization:

  • Financial Risk Advisor
  • Investment Banking
  • Investment Analyst
  • Credit Analyst
  • Financial Adviser
  • Stockbroker
  • Merger and Acquisition Specialist
  • Stock market trading
  • Security broker
  • Tax agent

The course provides opportunities to work in the following firms or organizations:

  • Financial management firms
  • Accounting firms
  • Financial planning firms
  • Investment advisory organizations
  • Government agencies or departments
  • Self-employment
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Banking and Finance
  • Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma
  • Babcock University
  • Madonna University Nigeria
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka

17. Law

The ploy to use rules to control our personal, social, commercial, and political interactions are known as the law. To study law, one must first gain an understanding of all those interactions.

Below are some of the benefits that come from studying law which made the course one of the best professional courses in Nigeria:

A variety of career options

Aside from being a lawyer, law graduates are sought after in a variety of professions, including media and law, academia, trade and industry, social work, politics, and others. You will discover that studying law can take you almost anywhere.

Logical thinking, reasoning, and analytical abilities

Law students learn information and abilities that enable them to analyze all sides of difficult situations or issues and design the best answer based on strong reasoning and critical thinking.

Financial Stability

A law degree does not guarantee immediate success or a large monetary base, but it gets close. When compared to individuals who do not have this professional certification, you will have better work stability and higher compensation.

Areas of Specialization in Legal Studies

Legal practitioners have a large variety of areas to specialize in and build up their careers. Some of these areas of specialization include:

Property Law

This field of study is also known as Land Law.

Criminal Law

Practitioners in this area of law are well-versed in the legal elements of homicide, terrorism, crimes perpetrated by mentally ill people, the death penalty, victimization, and all other types of crime.

Commercial and Business Law

This area of study is concerned with the actions and individual rights, as well as businesses in the commercial and industrial sectors.

Environmental Law

It is the branch of law that governs the interaction of persons with their immediate surroundings.

Family Law

Family law is a subfield of law that deals with family-related concerns.

Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Law
  • University of Benin
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  • Nasarawa State University, Keffi
  • Imo State University, Owerri

18. Estate Management

Estate management is considered as a systematic planning phase, organizing, managing, and regulating a stake in land or landed property in order to maximize advantages. Estate is commonly associated with a home or a group of buildings, but to real estate management scholars and practitioners, the term “estate” refers to a stake in land or landed assets. This interest could be further defined as a leasehold interest or freehold interest.

However, it is a dangerous sector that necessitates extreme caution. Its practitioners must uphold high standards of ethics. After all, you will regularly be involved in high-value dealings that may represent your customers’ most significant financial decisions ever, so respect the dignity. The course provides the following job opportunities for practitioners:

  • Real estate agency
  • Estate valuer
  • Estate Auctioneer
  • Buyers agent
  • Business broker
Areas of Specialization in Estate Management

Below is some area of specialization that those with a degree in estate management in Nigeria can focus on and build a career:

  • Residential Real Estate
  • Commercial Real Estate
  • Property Management
  • Rural Real Estate
Universities in Nigeria that Study Estate Management
  • Nnamdi Azikiwe University
  • University of Benin
  • University of Jos
  • Federal University of Technology Minna

19. Economics

Economics is a social science that studies the creation, distribution, and consumption of products and services. It investigates how people, corporations, governments, and nations distribute resources. Economics focuses on human activities, assuming that individuals operate rationally, seeking the highest amount of gain or usefulness.

Economics is one of the best professional courses in Nigeria. The field stands as part of the foundation of any nation, as it touches virtually all aspects of governance. Economics is divided into two branches: macroeconomics, which studies the behavior of the economy generally, and microeconomics, which studies private individuals and enterprises.

In some universities in Nigeria, the course is under the faculty of management sciences while others recognize it as part of the social science course. The course comes with vast job opportunities in the country as it has opportunities in many sectors of the nation’s economy. Some of these sectors include the following:

  • Banking sector
  • Agricultural sector
  • Oil and Gas sector
  • Energy sector
  • Human capital
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Economics
  • University of Lagos
  • University of Ibadan
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  • Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti

20. Political Science

Politics is a social science that investigates governance and power systems, as well as political processes, concepts, attitudes, and associated constitutional protections and legislation.

Political science is a beneficial degree since it may lead to different professional prospects in a variety of industries, based on one’s personality, interests, and abilities. It is a field that promotes human development by improving social skills, as well as analytical and problem-solving abilities.

The following are some of the opportunities available for students with political science degrees in Nigeria:

  • Community service manager
  • Overseas Diplomat
  • Political analyst
  • Political scientist
  • City administration
  • State legislator
Areas of Specialization in Political Science
  • Comparative politics
  • Political economy
  • International relations
  • Political philosophy
Some of the universities in Nigeria where you can study Political Sciences
  • Federal University Lafia, Nasarawa State
  • Anambra State University, Uli
  • Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti
  • Benue State University, Makurdi
  • Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State

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