Pharmacology may not be the name that is usually heard in the science field. but it is also a good course for any student with a passion for the field. It is also important to confuse it with Pharmacy as they are different fields. Pharmacy involves dispensing medications and patient care, while pharmacology studies how drugs affect living organisms on a molecular level.
The opportunities are almost endless for the course, Pharmacology, making it a valuable course to consider. Admission can be very competitive, which is why it is important to go through the requirements with a clear view.
The course is available to O’Levels and Direct Entry Students. For O’Level Students, you will need your WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, while Direct Entry Students can apply using a higher qualification.
What is Pharmacology?
In a simple explanation, Pharmacology is the study of how drugs work in the body and their effects on health.
Why Should I Study Pharmacology as a Course?
Studying pharmacology provides a deep understanding of how drugs interact with the body, helping to develop safe and effective medications, and contributing to advancements in healthcare and medicine. It could take different processes including studying the toxic effects of drugs which could also play a part in improving and developing drugs.
Note: Please be aware that the requirements listed below may vary in some schools. In such cases, referring to the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for accurate information is recommended.
O’Level Requirements to Study Pharmacology
To pursue Pharmacology, you need to have obtained five SSCE credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Direct Entry Requirements to Study Pharmacology
- Two (2) ‘A’ level passes in any of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology plus UTME entry requirements.
Jamb Subject Combination for Pharmacology
- English
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Universities that Offer Pharmacology
- ABUAD – Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
- BASU – Bauchi State University, Gadau, Bauchi State
- LAGOS – University of Lagos, Lagos State
- OOU – Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State
- DELSU – Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State (Offered the course as PHARMACOLOGY AND
THERAPEUTICS)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Pharmacology a Science course?
Yes, Pharmacology is basically a Science course. In most Nigerian Universities, it falls under the Faculty of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Health Sciences.
Can Commercial or Arts Students Study Pharmacology?
No, Commercial or Art Students will not be able to study Pharmacology due to the requirements in relevant science subjects. Nevertheless, students aspiring to pursue the course, regardless of whether they come from a commercial or arts background, should review the university’s unique entry criteria to which they intend to apply to. Some institutions may stipulate specific subject requirements for admission, and candidates may meet these criteria in the special consideration tab.
What Jobs can I apply for after studying Pharmacology?
After completing a degree in Pharmacology, you can pursue careers such as Pharmacologist, Clinical Research Associate, Drug Safety Specialist, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Sales Representative in the Pharmaceutical Industry, and other roles in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.
How many years does it take to Study Pharmacology?
It takes a minimum of 4 years to earn a degree in Pharmacology. However, if you are a direct entry student, this should take at least 3 years since you are more likely to start from the 200 Level.
How challenging is it to gain admission to study Pharmacology at Nigerian universities?
Pharmacology is highly competitive. Admission into these programs is usually based on a combination of high academic performance, particularly in the relevant science subjects, as well as success in entrance examinations like the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and sometimes post-UTME screenings conducted by the individual universities.
What is the cut-off mark for Pharmacology?
Students who score at least 140 in the JAMB UTME are eligible to participate in the POST UTME as part of the requirements for applying to study Pharmacology in their chosen universities.
Note: Understand that the conditions mentioned above might differ in some universities. In such instances, it is advisable to check the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for precise details. You can also access Jamb Subject Combination for other courses.
