List of Universities Offering Islamic Studies in Nigeria

Islamic Studies is a highly respected academic discipline in Nigeria, reflecting the country’s rich Islamic heritage and cultural diversity. This field of study focuses on the teachings of Islam, Islamic history, jurisprudence (Fiqh), theology, and the Arabic language. It also explores the moral, spiritual, and legal systems within the Islamic tradition. The program is designed to equip students with knowledge applicable to education, religious leadership, research, and conflict resolution within multi-religious societies.

Many Nigerian universities, both federal, state and private, offer Islamic Studies at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These institutions are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and provide a comprehensive curriculum that blends traditional Islamic knowledge with contemporary academic learning.

The course prepares graduates for careers as teachers, religious leaders, counselors, and researchers in both public and private sectors. The universities offering this course provide a conducive learning environment, access to rich Islamic literature, and qualified scholars who guide students in both theoretical and practical aspects of Islamic knowledge.

Numerous universities across Nigeria offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Islamic Studies. As an aspiring student hoping to study Islamic Studies in Nigeria, having a grasp of the list of universities Offering Islamic Studies in Nigeria is the best choice of action for you. The article below will help you achieve this. Read carefully.

Table of Contents

Universities Offering Islamic Studies In Nigeria

Here is a comprehensive list of accredited universities in Nigeria that offer Islamic Studies as a course of study:

Federal Universities

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State
Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUSOK), Sokoto
University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Borno State
Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State
Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State
Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State
Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State

State Universities

Kaduna State University (KASU), Kaduna
Gombe State University (GSU), Gombe
Yobe State University (YSU), Damaturu
Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA), Aliero
Sokoto State University (SSU), Sokoto
Adamawa State University (ADSU), Mubi
Bauchi State University (BASUG), Gadau
Kogi State University (KSU), Anyigba
Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State
Nasarawa State University (NSUK), Keffi

Private Universities

Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State
Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State
Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State
Summit University, Offa, Kwara State
Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
Skyline University, Kano

Admission Requirements for Islamic Studies

To gain admission into a Nigerian university to study Islamic Studies, candidates are expected to meet certain academic and entry requirements. These requirements may slightly vary depending on the university but generally follow the guidelines set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the individual university’s admission policies.

Below are the typical admission requirements for Islamic Studies in Nigerian universities:

O’Level Requirements (SSCE, WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)

Applicants must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, obtained in not more than two sittings. The compulsory subjects often include: Islamic Religious Studies (IRS), Arabic Language (optional in some universities), English Language (Compulsory), Mathematics (Compulsory in most universities), and any other two subjects from History, Government, Literature in English, Civic Education, Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo

JAMB UTME Requirements

Candidates must register and sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organized by JAMB. They are required to meet the minimum cut-off mark set by the university of their choice.

Recommended JAMB Subject Combination:

Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
Arabic Language or Literature in English
Government or History
Use of English (Compulsory for all candidates)

Direct Entry Requirements

Candidates seeking admission through Direct Entry (DE) must have one of the following qualifications:

At least two (2) A-Level passes in relevant subjects including Islamic Studies or Arabic
NCE with a minimum of Merit pass in Islamic Studies or related subjects
Diploma in Islamic Studies from a recognized institution with good grades
IJMB or equivalent qualification

Post-UTME Screening

Most universities conduct a Post-UTME screening exercise where candidates are assessed based on their UTME scores and O’Level results. The format and requirements vary by institution.

Additional Requirements

Some universities, particularly Islamic-oriented institutions, may require candidates to demonstrate proficiency in Arabic or Quranic recitation during screening or interview stages.

Career Opportunities for Islamic Studies Graduates

A degree in Islamic Studies opens doors to several careers, including:

Teaching and Lecturing (in schools, universities, and Islamic institutions)
Imam or Islamic Scholar
Sharia Law Advisor
Diplomatic and Government Roles (for those involved in religious affairs)
Islamic Banking and Finance
Media and Journalism (writing on Islamic affairs)

Conclusion

It is advisable for prospective students to check the specific admission requirements of their chosen university, as some institutions may have additional conditions or specific subject combinations for Islamic Studies. Early preparation and ensuring all necessary documents are in place will enhance the chances of successful admission.