Political Science is an interesting field that studies political institutions, government systems, political behavior, public policies, and political ideas. If you’re interested in politics, making policies, international relations, or public administration, studying Political Science might be a good choice.
In Nigeria, a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science usually takes four years. It provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for many careers. With this degree, you can work in government, international organizations, private sector policy roles, journalism, teaching, or research.
Overview of Political Science Programs in Nigeria
Political Science programs in Nigeria cover a wide range of topics related to politics and governance. Some key areas of study include:
- Political Theory and Philosophy: Learning about the basic principles and ideas behind politics and governance.
- Nigerian Government and Constitutions: Understanding how Nigeria’s government works and its legal framework.
- Comparative Politics and Institutions: Comparing political systems and institutions in different countries.
- Public Policy and Administration: Studying how policies are created and put into action.
- International Relations and Diplomacy: Exploring the relationships between countries and global politics.
Subject Requirements for Political Science Programmes
To be eligible for admission into Political Science programs in Nigerian universities through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), candidates must meet specific subject combinations. Here are the requirements:
1. O’Level Subjects:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Government/History (compulsory)
- Two other Social Sciences or Arts subjects
2. UTME Subjects Combination:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Mathematics
- Government
- Economics
What’s the Best University to Study Political Science in Nigeria
Here are the top 10 universities in Nigeria to study political science:
1. University of Ibadan
2. University of Lagos
3. Obafemi Awolowo University
4. Ahmadu Bello University
5. University of Nigeria Nsukka
6. University of Abuja
7. University of Ilorin
8. Covenant University
9. Babcock University
10. Lagos State University
Where Can I work with Political Science Degree
There are several potential career paths and jobs you could pursue after graduating with a political science degree in Nigeria:
Government/Public Sector
- Work in government agencies and departments like foreign affairs, immigration, education, health, etc.
- Join the civil service and work your way up to senior positions.
- Aim for careers in local, state, or federal government.
Politics
- Work for political parties, campaigns, or elected officials.
- Run for political office yourself.
- Become a political analyst, consultant, or pollster.
Law
- Pursue law school and become a lawyer focusing on areas like constitutional law or human rights.
- Work in a legal advocacy role for NGOs and nonprofits.
International Relations
- Seek careers with NGOs, nonprofits, or think tanks focused on foreign policy, development, and global issues.
- Work for international organizations like the UN, World Bank, or African Union.
Academia
- Pursue a master’s or PhD to become a professor and researcher in political science.
- Teach politics and government courses at universities.
Journalism/Media
- Become a political journalist, commentator, columnist, or broadcaster.
- Do investigative reporting on political issues.
Corporate Jobs
Admission Requirements for Political Science Programmes in Nigeria
To be eligible for admission into Political Science programs at Nigerian universities, candidates need to meet specific requirements:
O’Level Requirements:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Government/History (compulsory)
- Two other Social Science or Arts subjects.
UTME Subject Combinations:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Mathematics
- Government
- Economics
Cut-Off Marks
Each university sets its own cut-off mark for Political Science programs, which may vary depending on the institution and the competition for spots. It’s important to check the specific cut-off mark for each university you’re interested in.
Past Questions
To increase your chances of success in the UTME for Political Science, it is highly recommended to practice with past questions from previous years. This helps in understanding the exam format and identifying the most frequently asked topics.
School Fees
The school fees for Political Science programs vary depending on the university. Public universities typically have lower fees, while private universities tend to charge higher tuition. Always check the specific university’s fee schedule.
Subject Combinations for Political Science in JAMB
To gain admission into Political Science programs through JAMB, the required subject combinations are:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Mathematics
- Government
- Economics
What’s the Best University to Study Political Science in Nigeria?
Here are the top universities in Nigeria to study Political Science:
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Nigeria Nsukka
- University of Abuja
- University of Ilorin
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Lagos State University
Where Can I Work with a Political Science Degree?
A Political Science degree opens up a range of career opportunities in various sectors:
Government/Public Sector:
- Work in government agencies and departments (foreign affairs, immigration, education, etc.)
- Join the civil service and aim for senior positions at local, state, or federal levels.
Politics:
- Work for political parties, campaigns, or elected officials.
- Run for political office.
- Become a political analyst, consultant, or pollster.
Law:
- Pursue a law degree and specialize in constitutional law or human rights.
- Work in legal advocacy for NGOs and non-profits.
International Relations:
- Work with NGOs, think tanks, or international organizations like the UN or World Bank.
Academia:
- Pursue a master’s or PhD and become a professor or researcher in Political Science.
- Teach politics and government at universities.
Journalism/Media:
- Become a political journalist, commentator, or broadcaster.
- Engage in investigative reporting on political matters.
Corporate Jobs:
- Work in research, consulting, compliance, and related fields, using your analytical skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Alternate Subjects for Political Science?
It’s important to stick to the recommended subjects for the UTME. However, some universities may accept minor alternatives, so always check with the specific institution.
Can You Use Biology, Chemistry, or Further Mathematics for Political Science?
No, Biology, Chemistry, and Further Mathematics are not required for Political Science programs. Stick to the Social Science and Arts subjects listed above.
Subject Combinations to Avoid for Political Science
Avoid combinations that don’t align with the core political science focus, such as:
- Sciences like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Mathematics-heavy combinations that do not include Government or Economics.
Conclusion
Pursuing a degree in Political Science in Nigeria opens up a range of career options in government, law, international relations, academia, media, and beyond. Ensure you meet the subject requirements, practice past questions, and research universities with strong Political Science programs to make informed decisions.
