Nursing, a noble profession that plays a critical role in healthcare, requires a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The School of Nursing, Ogbomoso (SONO), established in the early 1981, has been a beacon of excellence in addressing the shortage of qualified nurses in the region. In this blog post, we explore the rich history, courses offered, admission process, dedicated faculty, school fees, and scholarships available at SONO.
Historical Journey of SONO:
Founded with a vision to transform healthcare delivery, SONO has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of the healthcare industry. Its establishment marked the beginning of a journey that has significantly impacted Ogbomoso and beyond.
Courses Offered:
SONO offers a comprehensive range of courses covering various aspects of nursing practice. From Anatomy and Physiology to Community Health Nursing, the curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for modern nursing practice.
Admission Requirements and Process:
Aspiring students must meet specific requirements, including a minimum of five credits in relevant subjects and success in the entrance examination and interview. The admission process involves the submission of an application form, entrance examination, and interview.
Dedicated Faculty and Staff:
SONO boasts a highly qualified faculty with experienced professionals in the field of nursing. The faculty members bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom, ensuring a well-rounded education for the students. The support staff, from administrative personnel to laboratory technicians, plays a crucial role in creating a conducive learning environment.
School Fees and Financial Aid:
Investing in education at SONO is an investment in one’s future. The reasonable fees, including tuition, accommodation, feeding, and miscellaneous expenses, make quality nursing education accessible. Payment can be made in installments, and SONO provides various scholarships and financial aid options to deserving students, ensuring inclusivity.
(FAQs) about the School of Nursing (formerly SONO) at Bowen University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) in Ogbomoso:
What is the duration, purpose, and accreditation status of the program?
The institution, originally known as the Baptist School of Nursing and now recognized as the College of Nursing Sciences, offers a 3-year Basic Nursing Programme designed to train Christian young men and women to sit for the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) Final Examination, making them eligible to register as qualified Registered Nurses (RNs).
The college is fully accredited by both the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). Upon completing the ND/HND Nursing programme (typically covering a 4-year curriculum), students can proceed toward professional registration and obtaining the HND qualification. cono.buth.edu.ng
What are the admission requirements and application process?
For ND/HND Nursing programmes (2025/2026 academic session), the requirements are:
Minimum of 5 credit passes in O’Level subjects—English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics—from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, obtained in not more than two sittings. Acceptable combinations include WAEC/NECO or NABTEB/NABTEB.
Minimum age: 16 years or older.
For UTME applicants, a UTME score of at least 180 is required.
How to Apply:
Visit the application portal at cono.buth.edu.ng.
Pay a non-refundable application fee of ₦20,000 (excluding bank charges) into the official Wema Bank account:
Account Name: College of Nursing, Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso
Account Number: 0124181421Upload required documents: receipt of payment, passport photo, academic results, UTME score (if applicable).
Complete registration steps such as verification via OTP, profile setup, and document submission.
After verification by the Accounts Office, log in to print your School Payment Receipt, Examination Slip, and Screening Invitation Letter.
Note: Applicants not meeting UTME requirements may still apply for the 3-year RN programme before the institution fully transitions to the college model.
What are the available courses and their respective fees?
Based on information from a similar nursing admission portal (though not BUTH specifically), here’s a breakdown:
Nursing (ND/HND) – Duration: 4 Years; Fee: ₦20,000
Basic Midwifery – Duration: 3 Years; Fee: ₦20,000
Post Basic Nursing – Duration: 18 months; Fee: ₦25,000
Post Basic Midwifery – Duration: 18 months; Fee: ₦25,000
Regarding the total yearly school fees for ND/HND (including tuition, hostel, development fees, uniforms, registration, etc.)—one source suggests ₦650,000 per year. Payments may be split in installments:
50% at session commencement
20% before first semester exams
20% at start of second semester
10% before second semester exams
However, these figures seem preliminary or from secondary commercial sources. For the latest official breakdown, it’s best to consult the college’s Fees section or contact their admissions office directly.
How is the transition from School of Nursing to College of Nursing Sciences being handled?
The institution is in the process of transitioning from a School of Nursing (offering 3-year Basic RN programmes) to a fully-fledged College of Nursing Sciences. This includes offering ND/HND programmes over a minimum of 4 years, aligned with NBTE and NMCN requirements.
To ensure no academic session is lost:
The 2024/25 cohort continued through the traditional 3-year RN path.
From 2025/26 onwards, full ND/HND structure is expected to roll out—pending accreditation finalization.
Where can I get help or contact the school for further enquiries?
Contact Details:
Phone:
+234 803 376 1321
+234 808 216 8063
Email:
Support for application portal:
BUTH ICT Unit
WhatsApp (chat only): 08035551849
Call Only: 08082168063
For official updates—fees, admission status, and training details—check the “Fees” and “FAQs/E-Library” sections on their website.
Conclusion:
the School of Nursing, Ogbomoso, stands as a prestigious institution committed to providing a holistic nursing education. Its rich history, experienced faculty, and reasonable fees make it an excellent choice for individuals aspiring to pursue a rewarding career in nursing. SONO’s emphasis on practical training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern nursing practice. For those seeking a fulfilling and impactful nursing education, SONO emerges as a beacon of opportunity and excellence.