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.
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.
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.