Pharmacy needs no introduction, especially among Science students, as the course is one of the highly rated courses. The opportunities are many, making it a valuable course that any student who has a passion for the course can 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’Level and Direct Entry Students. For O’Level Students, you will need your WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, while Direct Entry Students can apply using a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or Bachelor’s degree.
What is Pharmacy?
Pharmacy is a field of study and profession that involves the science and practice of preparing and dispensing drugs and medications. Pharmacists, who are professionals in this field, ensure that medicines are used safely and effectively to help patients. They work in places like pharmacies and hospitals, collaborating with healthcare providers to make sure patients get the best results from their medications.
Pharmacists also educate people on how to use medicines, watch out for possible interactions between drugs, and contribute to overall patient well-being.
Why Should I Study Pharmacy as a Course?
Studying Pharmacy as a course offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on healthcare, providing diverse career options, continuous learning, and the chance to contribute globally to patient well-being.
Pharmacists benefit from flexible working hours, allowing for a better work-life balance, and their profession is in high demand due to an aging population and advancements in healthcare.
They also make a meaningful impact in healthcare, ensuring safe medication use and contributing to disease treatment, providing a fulfilling career choice. Additionally, a pharmacy degree offers diverse career paths.
Note: Please be aware that the requirements listed below may vary in some schools. In such cases, it is recommended to refer to the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for accurate information.
O’Level Requirements to Study Pharmacy
To study Pharmacy in Nigeria, you need to have obtained Five (5) SSCE credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Direct Entry Requirements to Study Pharmacy
- Three (3) ‘A’ level passes in Chemistry, Biology/Zoology, and Physics or Mathematics plus UTME requirements
- National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant programmes with at least upper credit.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with a minimum of Lower Credit.
Jamb Subject Combination for Pharmacy
- English
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Universities that Offer Pharmacy
- ABU – Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State
- BAYERO – Bayero University, Kano, Kano State
- BENIN – University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State
- DELSU – Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State
- ESUTECH – Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Enugu State
- GSU – Gombe State University, Tudun Wada, Gombe State
- IBADAN – University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State
- IGBINEDION – Igbinedion University Okada, Okada, Edo State
- ILORIN – University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State
- JOS – University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State
- KASU – Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Kaduna State
- LAGOS – University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State
- MADONNA – Madonna University, Okija, Anambra State
- MAIDUGURI – University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State
- NDU – Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State
- OAU – Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State
- OOU – Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State
- PHC – University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
- UDU – Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
- UNIZIK – Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State
- UNN – University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State
- UYO – University of Uyo, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Pharmacy a Science course?
Yes, Pharmacy is a Science course. In most Nigerian Universities, it falls under the Faculty of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Health Sciences.
Can Commercial or Arts Students Study Pharmacy?
No, Commercial or Art Students will not be able to study Pharmacy 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 Pharmacy?
After studying Pharmacy, you can pursue diverse career opportunities, such as working as a Pharmacist in hospitals, clinical settings, or the community. Additionally, you may explore roles as a Research Scientist, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, Regulatory Affairs Officer, Drug Information Specialist, and Compounding Pharmacist.
How many years does it take to Study Pharmacy?
It takes a minimum of 5 years to earn a degree in Pharmacy. However, if you are a direct entry student, this should take at least 4 years since you are more likely to start from the 200 Level.
How challenging is it to gain admission to study Pharmacy at Nigerian universities?
Pharmacy 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 Pharmacy?
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 Pharmacy 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.
