10 Best Universities To Study Nursing Science in Nigeria

Nurses are the backbone of healthcare. They are often the first people patients meet when they visit a hospital, and their role is crucial in providing care and support. In Nigeria and worldwide, the demand for skilled nurses is proliferating. If nursing is the career you want to pursue, getting the right education is the first step to becoming great at it and this begins with choosing the right university.

As someone interested in studying nursing, you have probably wondered, “Which universities in Nigeria are the best for nursing?” This is an important question because the school you attend can shape the quality of training you receive, the skills you develop, and the opportunities you’ll have after graduation. A great nursing school gives you the knowledge and the confidence to stand out in this rewarding profession.

In this article, we will look at the 10 Best Universities to Study Nursing Science in Nigeria. These schools aren’t just about lectures and theory, they offer the hands-on experience and training that every great nurse needs. Join us as we explore these top universities and what makes them the best choice for aspiring nurses like you.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Great Nursing University?

Not all nursing schools are the same, and if you are serious about excelling in your career, choosing the right university is non-negotiable. But what makes a nursing university truly stand out? Here are some key factors to help you decide:-

Accreditation: Before you even consider a university, check if it’s accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Accreditation is proof that the school meets the required standards for nursing education, ensuring your degree is recognized and respected both at home and abroad.
A Balanced Curriculum: A great nursing school doesn’t just fill your head with theory; it balances that knowledge with hands-on training. You will be exposed to real-world clinical experiences, simulations, and practical sessions that prepare you to handle any kind of crisis when you encounter them in real life.
Top-Notch Facilities: Imagine learning in a university with outdated equipment or limited access to hospitals, it just wouldn’t work. The best nursing schools invest in modern laboratories and have strong partnerships with teaching hospitals to give you the practical experience you need to succeed.
A Reputation for Success: One way to know a great nursing university? Look at its graduates. The best schools have a track record of producing nurses who excel in their fields. When you graduate from such a school, doors of opportunity naturally open for you.

Now that we have covered the basis of what makes for a great nursing school in Nigeria, let us look at the best universities for studying nursing science in Nigeria.

10 Best Universities To Study Nursing in Nigeria

Here are the top ten universities for Nursing Science in Nigeria. Some of the universities on this list may not come as a surprise to you, as they are well-known for offering stellar nursing programs. Choose a school from this list and take the first step toward starting your journey as a nurse.

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

The University of Lagos, located in the city of Lagos, offers a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) program that spans five years. This program combines theoretical instruction with practical clinical exposure. This blend ensures students graduate as well-rounded professionals ready to excel in the healthcare field.

Students enjoy access to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) which helps them students gain invaluable hands-on experience, working alongside seasoned professionals in a state-of-the-art medical environment. This list would have been considered incomplete if this university didn’t make an appearance.

2. University of Ibadan (UI)

UI as it is popularly called is located in Ibadan, Oyo State. It is known as Nigeria’s premier university. It is also known as one of the best universities for nursing in Nigeria because it offers a nursing program that emphasizes research, critical thinking, and clinical excellence. The program spans five years, culminating in a BNSc degree.

UI has a history of producing outstanding healthcare professionals. The university’s affiliation with the University College Hospital (UCH) provides nursing students with access to diverse clinical cases and training opportunities.

3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

OAU located in Ile-Ife, Osun State offers a nursing program structured to develop students into competent and compassionate caregivers. It offers robust training in community health and advanced nursing practices over five years.

The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) serves as an excellent training ground for nursing students. OAU is also renowned for its emphasis on academic excellence and leadership development.

4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), located in Enugu State, offers a well-rounded nursing program that prepares students for a variety of healthcare roles. The five-year program combines strong academic coursework with hands-on clinical training.

UNN is recognized for its commitment to excellence, with a Faculty of Health Sciences that boasts modern facilities and a team of experienced lecturers. Students also gain practical experience at the university’s teaching hospital, one of the top hospitals in the region.

5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, Kaduna State, offers a nursing program designed to develop both practical skills and ethical standards in healthcare. This five-year program provides a well-rounded education, covering areas such as clinical nursing, public health, and research.

Students benefit from hands-on experience at the ABU Teaching Hospital, where they are exposed to real-world healthcare challenges. With its strong reputation for academic excellence, ABU is a top choice for students pursuing a career in nursing.

6. The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) in Kwara State offers a nursing program that is recognized for its disciplined approach and focus on innovation. The five-year BNSc degree combines classroom learning with extensive hands-on training.

What sets UNILORIN apart is its dedication to academic excellence and its connection to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, which provides students with a top-notch environment to learn and gain practical experience.

7. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), located in Awka, Anambra State, offers a nursing program that focuses on both academic excellence and community health. The five-year program equips students with the skills needed to tackle healthcare challenges in various environments.

What makes UNIZIK stand out is its strong focus on practical training. Students gain valuable hands-on experience at the university’s teaching hospital and community health centers, preparing them for real-world healthcare roles.

8. Babcock University

Babcock University, situated in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, offers a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) program designed to foster both professional expertise and ethical healthcare delivery. The five-year program combines solid academic training with practical nursing skills.

As a private institution, Babcock provides a more tailored learning experience with smaller class sizes and state-of-the-art facilities. The university places a strong emphasis on instilling moral values alongside advanced global healthcare practices, making its approach to nursing education both unique and impactful.

9. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), located in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, offers a nursing program designed to produce highly skilled professionals in both clinical and community nursing. The five-year program combines in-depth academic studies with practical training.

LAUTECH stands out for its hands-on approach to learning. The practical-focused curriculum, paired with modern facilities, ensures that students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the nursing profession.

10. Covenant University

Covenant University, located in Ota, Ogun State, offers a unique nursing program that blends professional training with faith-based values. The program is structured to produce nurses who are not only academically strong but also uphold high ethical standards.

What makes Covenant University stand out is its state-of-the-art facilities, committed faculty, and focus on research and innovation in healthcare. The university’s strong reputation for excellence makes it a top choice for students pursuing a career in nursing.

Conclusion

Here are the best nursing universities in Nigeria. They have been arranged in no particular order, so take your time to explore each one. When choosing a university, consider what fits best with your personal and career goals.

Hope you found this post helpful. Best of luck in finding the right fit for your nursing journey.