Studying Pharmacy In Nigeria: Duration, Requirements Explained
Pharmacy, often underrated in Nigeria, is a crucial field contributing significantly to healthcare. This article aims to address common questions about studying pharmacy in Nigeria, covering topics such as its suitability, requirements, subjects needed, costs, duration, recommended schools, advantages, and potential career paths.
About Studying Pharmacy In Nigeria
Is Pharmacy a Good Course to Study in Nigeria?
Yes, pharmacy is an excellent choice in Nigeria, offering lucrative career opportunities. Career options include community pharmacy, industrial pharmacy (in pharmaceutical giants), and hospital pharmacy.
Requirements for Studying Pharmacy in Nigeria:
- SSCE results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or GCE)
- UTME/Post UTME: A high JAMB score (240 and above)
- Direct Entry: A’level passes in chemistry, physics or mathematics, biology or zoology
Subjects Needed to Become a Pharmacist in Nigeria:
- English language
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- Mathematics
- JAMB Subjects: Use of English, Physics, Biology, Chemistry
- Direct Entry: A’level passes in Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology/Zoology
Cost of Studying Pharmacy in Nigeria: Varies by university. Public universities are generally more affordable, ranging from 100,000 Naira to over a million Naira per semester in some cases.
Is Pharmacy Difficult to Study? Yes, pharmacy is challenging and demands dedication, commitment, and time. Courses like pharmacology and pharmacotherapy make it one of the most demanding courses globally.
Duration of Pharmacy Studies: Five years for UTME candidates, four years for direct entry candidates.
Best Schools for Studying Pharmacy in Nigeria
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Federal University, Oye Ekiti
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- MADONNA University
Advantages of Studying Pharmacy in Nigeria
- High earning potential
- International career opportunities
- Entrepreneurship options (owning a pharmacy or manufacturing company)
- Professional growth
JAMB Score for Pharmacy
JAMB cut-off mark is 200 and above, but a score of 240 and above is recommended for a competitive edge.
Where do Nigerian Pharmacists Work?
- Universities
- Health organizations (private and public)
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Community pharmacies
- Hospitals
- Government agencies
Salary of Nigerian Pharmacists
Varies with experience:
- Beginner (1-4 years): Not less than one million Naira per annum
- Mid-level (5-10 years): Around three million Naira per annum
- Top earners (11 years and above): Approximately six million Naira per annum.
FAQs
How long does it take to study Pharmacy in Nigeria?
The standard duration to complete a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) degree in Nigeria is five years if you are admitted through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). For students admitted through Direct Entry, it typically takes four years. After completing the academic program, graduates must undergo a one-year internship and one year of the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), bringing the total duration to around seven years before full professional registration.
What are the basic admission requirements to study Pharmacy in Nigeria?
To gain admission into a Pharmacy program in Nigeria, candidates must have at least five O’Level credits, including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. For UTME, prospective students need to pass subjects such as English, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. Direct Entry candidates should have a relevant science-related diploma or A-Level passes in Chemistry and Biology or a related discipline. Meeting the specific university’s cut-off mark in UTME is also crucial for consideration.
Is it necessary to complete any professional exams after studying Pharmacy in Nigeria?
Yes, after completing a B.Pharm degree, graduates are required to pass the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) professional exams to become licensed pharmacists. This process includes one year of internship under the supervision of a registered pharmacist in an approved facility. Afterward, they must also complete the NYSC before they are eligible for full professional practice in Nigeria.
Conclusion
Despite its challenges, studying pharmacy in Nigeria opens doors to rewarding career paths. Aspiring pharmacists should be prepared for rigorous academic work and dedication.