JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing Science
The exact JAMB UTME subjects and O'Level credits you need to study Nursing Science in Nigeria, plus the mistakes that get candidates screened out.
Nursing Science is one of the most competitive courses to get into in Nigeria, and plenty of candidates lose their chance before the exam even starts by registering the wrong JAMB subjects. Here is exactly what to choose, and the O'Level grades you need to study Nursing.
JAMB UTME subject combination for Nursing Science
You sit four subjects in the UTME. For Nursing Science they are:
- Use of English (compulsory for every candidate)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
That is the full list. English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Register any other mix and most schools will not consider you for Nursing, no matter how good your score is.
| UTME Subject | Status |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Compulsory |
| Biology | Required |
| Chemistry | Required |
| Physics | Required |
O'Level requirements for Nursing Science
You need five credit passes in your SSCE (WAEC, NECO or NABTEB), and for most universities they should come in not more than two sittings. The five are:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Credits in Biology and Chemistry are not optional. Some schools are strict about Physics as well, so do not count on a plain pass carrying you. Aim for credits in all five.
Direct Entry into Nursing
Coming in through Direct Entry, you will usually need one of the following on top of the O'Level credits above:
- A' Level passes in Biology and Chemistry, or
- A registered nursing qualification such as RN or RM, or
- A relevant diploma from a recognised institution.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Picking Agricultural Science instead of Biology. Nursing wants Biology, and Agric will not count in its place.
- Ignoring Physics at O'Level. A lot of candidates focus on Biology and Chemistry, forget Physics, and get screened out later.
- Assuming the cut-off is fixed. Nursing cut-off marks are high and move almost every year. Check your school's departmental cut-off once the UTME is over.
Universities that offer Nursing Science
Nursing Science is offered at many Nigerian universities, including the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, and several state and private universities. Course titles differ a little, so check whether your school lists it as Nursing, Nursing Science, or Nursing and Midwifery.
Frequently asked questions
Is Physics compulsory for Nursing in JAMB?
Yes. The standard UTME combination for Nursing Science is English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics, so Physics is one of your four subjects.
Can I study Nursing without Chemistry?
No. Chemistry is required in both the UTME and at O'Level. There is no route into Nursing without it.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing?
It changes from school to school and usually climbs each year because demand is so high. Treat 200 and above as a sensible target, then confirm the exact departmental cut-off your school releases after the exam.
Before you register, always check the current JAMB brochure and your chosen school's admission page. These requirements can shift from one year to the next.