Choosing to study Accounting in Nigeria is a strategic move for any student aiming for a stable and lucrative career. As the "language of business," accounting is the backbone of every economy, providing the essential data needed for decision-making, transparency, and growth. Whether you are a secondary school leaver or looking to advance your career with a postgraduate degree, understanding the landscape of universities in Nigeria that offer accounting degree (BSc, MSc, PhD, ND, HND) is crucial.
This guide explores everything from entry requirements and JAMB combinations to the best institutions and career paths available in the Nigerian financial sector.
Is Accounting a Science or Art?
One of the most common debates among prospective students is: is accounting a science or art? The truth is that accounting is both. It is an art because it requires creative judgment and skills in organizing and interpreting financial data. However, it is primarily regarded as a social science because it follows a systematic body of knowledge, relies on objective principles (like the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles or GAAP), and involves rigorous mathematical analysis. In most Nigerian universities, it is housed under the Faculty of Administration or Social Sciences.
Admission Requirements: Starting Your Journey
To secure a spot in any reputable program, you must meet specific academic benchmarks.
What are the Subjects Needed for Accounting in WAEC?
Before sitting for your Senior Secondary Certificate Examination, you must ensure your accounting subjects list is complete. To avoid admission delays, you need at least five credits in your O'Level results.
What are the compulsory subjects for accounting?
- Mathematics (Strictly compulsory)
- English Language (Strictly compulsory)
- Economics
- Financial Accounting (Highly recommended, though some schools accept Commerce)
- One Social Science Subject (Government or Geography)
Important Note: A frequent question is, can I study accounting without maths in JAMB? The answer is a firm no. Mathematics is a core pillar of the profession. Every accredited university and polytechnic in Nigeria requires Mathematics in both WAEC and JAMB.
JAMB Subject Combination for Accounting in University
Your UTME (JAMB) performance is the biggest hurdle. You must select the correct four subjects to write in jamb for accounting in Nigeria.
|
Subject |
Status |
|---|---|
|
English Language |
Compulsory |
|
Mathematics |
Compulsory |
|
Economics |
Compulsory |
|
Commerce or Government |
Recommended |
What subjects will I write in JAMB for accounting? For a competitive edge, the standard combination is English, Maths, Economics, and Commerce.
Understanding Cut-Off Marks and Scores
Navigating the "Cut-off Mark" era can be stressful. Your score determines which list of universities that offer accounting in Nigeria you should target.
Can I Study Accounting with 140?
Can I study accounting with 140? While 140 is below the threshold for most Federal Universities, you are not out of options. With a score of 140-150, you can gain admission into:
- Polytechnics: For a National Diploma (ND) program.
- Private Universities: Some have flexible entry requirements.
- Colleges of Education: For those interested in accounting education.
Which University Accepts 160 for Accounting in Nigeria?
If you scored 160, your chances improve. Several state universities that offer accounting in Nigeria may accept 160 depending on the yearly performance statistics. Examples often include:
- Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
- Bauchi State University (BASU)
- Various North-Central state universities.
However, for top-tier schools, the stakes are higher. For instance, is accounting in OAU? Yes, but Obafemi Awolowo University is highly competitive, often requiring a JAMB score of 250+ and a very strong post-UTME performance.
Top 10 Best Universities to Study Accounting in Nigeria
If you are looking for prestige, quality of faculty, and alumni networks, here is the top 10 best universities to study accounting in Nigeria:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): Renowned for its proximity to Nigeria’s financial hub.
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): A pioneer in academic excellence.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU): Known for producing top-tier chartered accountants.
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria: A powerhouse in the North.
- Covenant University: Leading the private sector with world-class facilities.
- University of Ibadan (UI): Exceptional for postgraduate research.
- University of Benin (UNIBEN): Highly competitive and respected.
- Babcock University: Famous for its integration of professional exams into the curriculum.
- Lagos State University (LASU): The top choice among state-owned institutions.
- Bayero University Kano (BUK): A center for excellence in accounting and finance.
Degree Types and Academic Progression
What is accounting called in university? Most undergraduate programs lead to a BSc (Bachelor of Science) in Accounting. However, the path isn't strictly four years of university.
What is a 2-Year Accounting Degree Called?
In the Nigerian polytechnic system, a 2-year accounting degree is called a National Diploma (ND). After completing an ND and a year of industrial training, students proceed for another two years to earn a Higher National Diploma (HND).
Accounting Subjects in University
Once you are in, the curriculum becomes specialized. The accounting subjects in university move from basics to complex financial systems.
- Year 1-2: Principles of Accounting, Business Mathematics, Introduction to Finance.
- Year 3: Intermediate Financial Accounting, Cost Accounting, Taxation, Management Accounting.
- Year 4: Auditing and Investigations, Public Sector Accounting, Financial Management, Accounting Ethics.
Professional Certification: The ICAN Factor
A degree is great, but becoming "Chartered" is the goal. A common question is: can I do ICAN without studying accounting?
Yes, you can. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) allows graduates of any discipline to write their exams. However, those who studied Accounting are granted "exemptions" from certain foundation-level papers, making their journey faster.
Detailed Table: Universities and Estimated Cut-off Marks
Below is a table showing some universities that offer accounting and their cut-off mark (Note: These are estimates based on previous years and are subject to change).
|
University |
Type |
Estimated Cut-off |
Degrees Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UNILAG |
Federal |
250+ |
BSc, MSc, PhD |
|
OAU |
Federal |
240+ |
BSc, MSc, PhD |
|
UNN |
Federal |
220+ |
BSc, MSc, PhD |
|
LASU |
State |
200+ |
BSc, MSc, PhD |
|
Delta State University |
State |
180+ |
BSc |
|
Covenant University |
Private |
180+ |
BSc, MSc, PhD |
|
Yaba Tech |
Polytechnic |
150+ |
ND, HND |
Summary for Prospective Students
To help you decide what is the best university for accounting in Nigeria for your specific situation, use this checklist:
- Step 1: Confirm your O'Level credits (Maths, English, Economics are non-negotiable).
- Step 2: Aim for a JAMB score above 200 to keep federal and state options open.
- Step 3: Decide on the route—University (BSc) or Polytechnic (ND/HND).
- Step 4: Research the specific list of universities that offer accounting in Nigeria that match your score.
Reader Prompt: Take a moment to look at your mock JAMB results. If you are scoring below 180, would you prefer to change your institution to a Polytechnic for an ND, or a Private University to secure a BSc?
Final Thoughts
The journey to becoming a professional accountant in Nigeria is rigorous but rewarding. From understanding the accounting subjects list in secondary school to choosing between state universities that offer accounting in Nigeria or federal giants like OAU, every decision counts. Remember, whether you start with an ND or a BSc, your ultimate success in the field will often depend on your ability to eventually sit for and pass professional exams like ICAN or ACCA.
🎓 MORE BLOG POSTS: