If you are searching for the best universities to study Nursing in Nigeria for 2026? Choosing the right university is an important decision for students who want to build a career in nursing, healthcare, patient education, clinical practice, or nursing research.
Nursing Science is a professional programme that combines classroom teaching, laboratory work, clinical experience, and supervised healthcare training. A good university should therefore offer more than a recognised degree. Students should also consider the quality of teaching, clinical training opportunities, learning facilities, admission requirements, school fees, accommodation, and the programme’s current accreditation status.
Nigeria has federal, state, and private universities offering Nursing Science. However, not every university has the same facilities, admission requirements, tuition structure, or accreditation status. Applicants should verify the particular Nursing Science programme rather than relying only on a university’s reputation.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) publishes a list of approved nursing training institutions, while the National Universities Commission (NUC) publishes information about university programme accreditation. These are important resources when comparing institutions.
This guide discusses universities worth considering, the factors that make a nursing programme attractive, admission requirements, estimated budgeting considerations, and practical steps for choosing the right institution.
Important note: This is an educational shortlist, not an official national ranking. No single university is automatically the best choice for every student. Programme approval, accreditation, admission availability, and fees should be checked against the latest official information before applying.
Quick Overview: Best Universities to Study Nursing in Nigeria
Students researching Nursing Science can begin by investigating the following universities and verifying their current programme status and admission requirements.
| University | Ownership | Location | What prospective students should investigate |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Federal | Ibadan, Oyo State | Nursing Science accreditation, clinical training, admission competition and fees |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Federal | Lagos State | Programme accreditation, clinical facilities, living costs and admission requirements |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Federal | Enugu State | Nursing curriculum, clinical placements, accommodation and admission conditions |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Federal | Benin City, Edo State | Programme status, teaching facilities, admission requirements and costs |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Federal | Ile-Ife, Osun State | Nursing programme status, academic requirements and clinical training arrangements |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | Federal | Ilorin, Kwara State | Admission requirements, programme approval and total student expenses |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Federal | Jos, Plateau State | Nursing Science admission conditions, screening requirements and fees |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Federal | Zaria, Kaduna State | Programme availability, accreditation and clinical training opportunities |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | Federal | Calabar, Cross River State | Current programme status, accommodation and school fees |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Federal | Port Harcourt, Rivers State | Nursing programme approval, clinical placements and admission requirements |
| Babcock University | Private | Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State | Private-university fees, clinical training and programme accreditation |
| Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | Private | Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State | Programme status, total cost of attendance and clinical training |
| Bingham University | Private | Karu, Nasarawa State | Nursing programme accreditation, admission requirements and accommodation |
| Bowen University | Private | Iwo, Osun State | Programme availability, tuition and clinical training arrangements |
| Madonna University | Private | Anambra and other campuses | Exact campus, approved programme, fees and admission conditions |
Before using this table to make an application decision: verify the exact university, campus, and Nursing Science programme against the current NMCN approved-institutions list and the university’s official admission notice. The table is a research shortlist, not confirmation that every listed programme is admitting students in 2026. The NMCN notes that its approval list is subject to periodic review.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan is a federal university located in Ibadan, Oyo State. It is an institution prospective nursing students may wish to investigate when comparing established Nigerian universities.
When considering UI for Nursing Science, applicants should examine the programme’s current accreditation status, admission requirements, clinical training arrangements, and overall student expenses.
The NUC published an accreditation report for the university’s Nursing Science programme following a December 2024 assessment. The report recorded a score of 96.80% and full accreditation status at that assessment. Prospective students should still confirm the latest programme status before applying.
Why Consider UI?
Students may wish to investigate:
- The current structure of the Nursing Science curriculum.
- Clinical placement arrangements.
- Available laboratories and learning resources.
- Admission requirements and selection procedures.
- Accommodation and living expenses in Ibadan.
- Opportunities for postgraduate education and research.
Who Should Consider UI?
UI may be worth researching if you want a federal university and are prepared to investigate its academic requirements, admission competition, and total cost of attendance.
Official website: University of Ibadan
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos is a federal university located in Lagos State. Prospective students comparing universities for Nursing Science should consider the university’s programme status, academic requirements, and access to appropriate clinical learning opportunities.
The NUC published an accreditation report for UNILAG’s Nursing Science programme following a December 2024 assessment. The report recorded a score of 83.60% and full accreditation status at that assessment. Applicants should verify the current status before making an admission decision.
Factors to Consider
Before choosing UNILAG, investigate:
- The current UTME and O’Level requirements.
- The programme’s latest accreditation status.
- The arrangements for clinical training.
- Tuition and other approved charges.
- Accommodation availability.
- The cost of transportation and living in Lagos.
Who Should Consider UNILAG?
UNILAG may be worth considering if you want to study in Lagos and can plan for the financial and practical demands of living in a large city.
Official website: University of Lagos
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, is a federal university in Enugu State. Students interested in Nursing Science should review its current programme requirements and clinical training arrangements before deciding whether to apply.
What to Check Before Applying
Prospective applicants should confirm:
- Whether Nursing Science is available for their intended admission session.
- The current programme accreditation status.
- The required UTME subject combination.
- The minimum score and screening procedure.
- The O’Level credits required.
- Tuition, accommodation, and other approved charges.
Do not assume that an admission requirement published for a previous session will remain unchanged for 2026/2027.
Who Should Consider UNN?
UNN may be worth investigating if you prefer a federal university in southeastern Nigeria and want to compare its academic and financial requirements with those of other institutions.
Official website: University of Nigeria, Nsukka
4. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin is a federal university located in Benin City, Edo State. It is another institution prospective students may investigate when comparing university options for Nursing Science.
What Makes a Nursing Programme Worth Considering?
When researching UNIBEN, look beyond the university’s general reputation. Confirm the specific Nursing Science programme’s current approval and accreditation status, admission requirements, practical training arrangements, and fee schedule.
You should also determine whether the programme is accepting applicants for the 2026/2027 session.
Who Should Consider UNIBEN?
UNIBEN may be worth investigating if you want to compare federal-university options in southern Nigeria.
Official website: University of Benin
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University is a federal university located in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
Students interested in studying Nursing Science at OAU should confirm the current programme availability, entry requirements, and regulatory status before applying.
Important Things to Investigate
- The latest Nursing Science admission notice.
- Required O’Level subjects and grades.
- UTME subject combination.
- Minimum score and screening procedure.
- Current accreditation status.
- School fees and accommodation.
- Available clinical training arrangements.
A university’s overall academic reputation should not replace programme-specific verification.
Official website: Obafemi Awolowo University
6. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin is a federal university in Kwara State. Prospective students can investigate its Nursing Science programme when comparing admission requirements, costs, and academic arrangements.
What Should Applicants Confirm?
Before choosing UNILORIN, check:
- The current admission requirements for Nursing Science.
- The required UTME subjects and minimum score.
- The programme’s current regulatory status.
- The latest school-fee schedule.
- Hostel availability and accommodation costs.
- The school’s screening and admission procedures.
Who Should Consider UNILORIN?
Students looking for a federal-university option in North Central Nigeria may wish to compare UNILORIN with other universities in the region.
Official website: University of Ilorin
7. University of Jos (UNIJOS)
The University of Jos is a federal university located in Plateau State.
For the 2026/2027 admission cycle, the university published a post-UTME screening notice listing 220 as the cut-off point for Nursing Sciences. This was an institution-specific requirement, not a universal cut-off mark for all Nigerian universities. The published screening registration deadline was 12 September 2026, which has passed. Candidates should check the university’s website for subsequent announcements before applying.
What Should Prospective Students Know?
If you are considering UNIJOS, confirm:
- Whether a new application window has been announced.
- The current cut-off mark and screening requirements.
- The required O’Level credits.
- The latest programme accreditation status.
- The applicable fees and accommodation arrangements.
Who Should Consider UNIJOS?
UNIJOS may be worth researching if you want a federal university in North Central Nigeria and meet the programme’s current entry requirements.
Official website: University of Jos
8. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Ahmadu Bello University is a federal university located in Zaria, Kaduna State.
Students considering ABU should verify its current Nursing Science programme details, entry conditions, and approval status.
What to Check
- The current programme and campus details.
- Required UTME subjects.
- Minimum score for Nursing Science.
- O’Level subject and grade requirements.
- Screening and admission procedures.
- Current fees and accommodation options.
The availability of a course and its requirements should be confirmed through the university’s current official admission information.
Official website: Ahmadu Bello University
9. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
The University of Calabar is a federal university located in Cross River State.
Prospective Nursing Science students should verify the current programme status and admission requirements rather than relying solely on older lists of universities offering Nursing.
What to Compare
- Programme approval and accreditation.
- Admission cut-off mark.
- Required O’Level subjects.
- Screening arrangements.
- Tuition and other institutional charges.
- Accommodation and daily living costs.
These details can help you decide whether UNICAL fits your academic goals and budget.
Official website: University of Calabar
10. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
The University of Port Harcourt is a federal university in Rivers State.
Students considering UNIPORT should review the current Nursing Science admission notice and confirm the programme’s approval status.
Important Admission Checks
Before applying, confirm the minimum UTME score, required subject combination, O’Level credits, screening procedure, and application deadline.
Also consider accommodation, transportation, and the total cost of attendance.
Official website: University of Port Harcourt
11. Babcock University
Babcock University is a private university located in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.
Students comparing private universities for Nursing Science should investigate the programme’s current regulatory status, teaching arrangements, clinical training, and total fees.
Advantages to Investigate
When assessing Babcock University, consider:
- The current programme accreditation status.
- The nursing curriculum and practical training arrangements.
- Tuition and other compulsory charges.
- Accommodation and feeding costs.
- The availability of financial support, if any.
- The university’s admission requirements.
Private-university fees may be substantially different from those of public universities, so obtain a complete fee breakdown before applying.
Official website: Babcock University
12. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
Afe Babalola University is a private university located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
Prospective students should check the current availability and regulatory status of its Nursing Science programme before making an application decision.
What Should You Compare?
- The exact Nursing Science programme offered.
- Current accreditation status.
- UTME and O’Level requirements.
- Tuition and additional compulsory charges.
- Accommodation and feeding.
- Clinical training arrangements.
- Payment deadlines and instalment policies.
Do not compare universities using tuition alone. Include accommodation, transport, clinical materials, and other expenses in your calculations.
Official website: Afe Babalola University
13. Bingham University
Bingham University is a private university located in Karu, Nasarawa State.
The institution has previously announced Nursing programme accreditation, but prospective students should verify the latest status and approved intake before applying. Older accreditation announcements are not a substitute for the current official regulatory list.
What to Consider
Applicants should compare:
- Current Nursing Science programme status.
- Entry requirements and minimum UTME score.
- Tuition and other compulsory charges.
- Accommodation and student services.
- Clinical training arrangements.
- The availability of the programme for the intended session.
Official website: Bingham University
14. Bowen University
Bowen University is a private university located in Iwo, Osun State.
If you are considering Bowen University for Nursing Science, check the institution’s current course list, programme approval status, and admission requirements.
What to Investigate
Before applying, obtain information about tuition, registration, clinical training, accommodation, and other approved charges.
Also confirm that the exact programme and campus are covered by the relevant approval and accreditation arrangements.
Official website: Bowen University
15. Madonna University
Madonna University is a private university with campuses in Nigeria. Applicants should be careful to confirm the exact campus and programme they intend to attend.
Before Applying
Check the current Nursing Science programme status, admission requirements, campus details, tuition, accommodation, and clinical training arrangements.
Do not assume that information published for one campus automatically applies to another.
Official website: Madonna University
Federal vs State vs Private Universities: Which Is Best for Nursing?
There is no ownership category that is automatically best for every nursing student. The right choice depends on the quality and current status of the programme, affordability, location, and the student’s circumstances.
| Factor | Federal university | State university | Private university |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Federal Government | State government | Private organisation |
| Fees | Institution-specific | Institution-specific | Institution-specific; may be higher |
| Admission competition | Varies by university and course | Varies by university and course | Varies by university and course |
| Accommodation | Depends on availability | Depends on availability | Depends on university policy |
| Clinical training | Must be verified for the programme | Must be verified for the programme | Must be verified for the programme |
| Best for | Students comparing federal institutions | Students considering state-owned options | Students considering private education and its cost |
Rather than assuming that all federal universities are cheaper or all private universities have better facilities, compare the actual programme and total cost of attendance.
How to Choose the Best University for Nursing in Nigeria
Use the following criteria when comparing your options.
1. Verify Programme Approval and Accreditation
This should be one of your first checks.
The NMCN publishes a list of approved nursing training institutions, including departments of Nursing Science. Its published list is subject to periodic review, and it explains that full accreditation lasts five years while provisional accreditation lasts two years.
The NUC also publishes accreditation information for university degree programmes. Check the status of the exact Nursing Science programme rather than relying only on the university’s general reputation.
Official resources:
- Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria — Approved Schools
- National Universities Commission — Accreditation
2. Compare Admission Requirements
Check the exact UTME score, subject combination, O’Level subjects, number of sittings allowed, and screening process.
A university’s general cut-off mark may not be the same as its Nursing Science requirement.
3. Examine Clinical Training Opportunities
Nursing students need appropriate practical and clinical learning experiences.
Ask how clinical placements are arranged, which facilities are used, and how students are supervised during clinical training.
4. Compare Total Costs
Do not consider tuition alone.
Your budget may need to cover acceptance fees, registration, accommodation, feeding, textbooks, uniforms, clinical materials, and transportation.
5. Consider Location and Living Arrangements
Think about distance from home, transport expenses, hostel availability, personal support, and the cost of living in the university’s location.
6. Confirm the Course Structure
Check the curriculum, length of the programme, practical training arrangements, and requirements for progression and completion.
7. Review Official Admission Information
Use the university’s own admission portal and current notices to confirm that Nursing Science is available for the 2026/2027 session.
Avoid relying on old blog posts or social media advertisements as your only source of information.
Nursing Science Admission Requirements in Nigeria for 2026
Requirements vary by university, so candidates must consult the current admission notice for their chosen institution.
Applicants are commonly expected to meet the following conditions:
- Obtain the required O’Level credits.
- Register for and sit the appropriate UTME where required.
- Select the correct UTME subject combination.
- Meet the university’s Nursing Science score requirement.
- Complete post-UTME or other screening procedures where applicable.
- Provide the requested documents.
- Meet any additional programme-specific conditions.
The NMCN’s published entry requirements for the basic and post-basic programmes covered by its guidance specify five O’Level credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in no more than two sittings from accepted examination bodies. Candidates should check the precise requirements applicable to their university degree programme.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing Science
Nursing Science commonly requires the following UTME subjects:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Candidates should verify the current subject combination through JAMB’s official brochure and the university’s admission notice.
Official website: Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board
How Much Does It Cost to Study Nursing at a Nigerian University?
There is no single fee for studying Nursing Science across Nigeria.
The amount depends on the university, ownership, academic level, and approved charges for the session. Private universities may have different fee structures from public universities, while public universities also differ from one another.
Before selecting a university, obtain its current fee schedule and check whether the stated amount includes:
- Tuition or academic charges.
- Acceptance and registration.
- Laboratory and clinical training charges.
- Examination and other institutional fees.
- Accommodation.
- Feeding.
- Uniforms and practical materials.
If fees are not published online, contact the university’s bursary or admissions office through its official website.
For a realistic comparison, calculate the total cost for one academic session rather than comparing only the headline tuition figure.
Career Opportunities After Studying Nursing Science
A Nursing Science degree can prepare graduates for a range of nursing and healthcare roles, subject to professional registration, licensing, and any additional qualifications required.
Possible career directions include:
- Clinical nursing.
- Community and public health nursing.
- Paediatric nursing.
- Maternal and child healthcare.
- Mental health nursing.
- Nursing education.
- Healthcare administration.
- Nursing research.
- Further specialist nursing education.
The precise roles available to a graduate depend on professional registration, licensing requirements, relevant experience, and any additional training.
Students interested in specialisation should investigate the relevant postgraduate or post-basic training requirements after qualifying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Nursing University
Choosing Based Only on Reputation
A well-known university may not automatically be the best fit for your academic, financial, or personal needs.
Ignoring Accreditation
Do not pay fees before verifying the status of the exact programme and campus.
Using an Old Cut-Off Mark
Admission requirements can change from one session to another. Always check the current official notice.
Comparing Tuition Without Other Expenses
Accommodation, transport, clinical materials, and feeding can significantly affect the total cost of attendance.
Trusting Unofficial Admission Agents
Use official application portals and avoid individuals who promise guaranteed admission in exchange for unofficial payments.
Assuming Every Listed University Is Currently Admitting Nursing Students
The availability and approval status of a programme must be checked for the intended session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best university to study Nursing in Nigeria in 2026?
There is no single official ranking that establishes one university as the best for every student. Compare current programme accreditation, clinical training, admission requirements, fees, facilities, and location before deciding.
Which federal universities should I consider for Nursing Science?
Students may investigate institutions such as the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, University of Nigeria, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, University of Jos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Calabar, and University of Port Harcourt. Verify each programme’s current approval and admission availability before applying.
Are private universities good for studying Nursing?
A private university may be a suitable choice if its exact Nursing Science programme has the required approval, provides appropriate training, and fits your budget. Verify the programme’s current status and fees before making a decision.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in 2026?
The required score varies by institution and programme. Candidates should check the university’s current Nursing Science admission notice instead of relying on a single score for every institution.
What are the O’Level requirements for Nursing?
The NMCN’s published entry requirements for the relevant programmes specify credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Confirm the exact requirements for your chosen degree programme.
How many years does it take to study Nursing Science?
The duration depends on the programme structure and the applicable academic and professional requirements. Check the current curriculum and admission information of the university you intend to attend.
Are university Nursing Science programmes accredited by the NUC?
The NUC publishes accreditation information for university degree programmes. Candidates should verify the current status of the exact Nursing Science programme and also check the relevant professional approval information from the NMCN.
Can I choose a university because it has low school fees?
Affordability is important, but it should not be the only consideration. Check the programme’s current approval, training arrangements, total cost of attendance, and admission requirements.
Where can I find approved nursing universities in Nigeria?
Start with the NMCN’s official approved-schools page and the NUC’s accreditation resources. Then check the selected university’s official website for the latest admission notice.
Are all universities listed in online articles currently approved to offer Nursing Science?
Not necessarily. Online lists may be outdated or may include programmes whose status has changed. Verify the exact institution, campus, and programme against the latest official regulatory information.
Conclusion
Choosing among the best universities to study Nursing in Nigeria for 2026 requires more than looking at university names or reputation. Students should compare programme approval, accreditation, clinical training arrangements, admission requirements, fees, accommodation, and the total cost of attendance.
Universities such as UI, UNILAG, UNN, UNIBEN, OAU, UNILORIN, UNIJOS, ABU, UNICAL, and UNIPORT may be useful starting points for research, alongside private institutions such as Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, Bingham University, Bowen University, and Madonna University.
However, always verify the current status of the exact Nursing Science programme before applying. A university’s reputation alone does not prove that a particular programme is approved or admitting students in 2026.
Use official NMCN and NUC resources, review the latest university admission notice, compare the complete fee schedule, and select the institution that best matches your academic qualifications, financial situation, and career plans.
