Over the years, the dynamics of higher education in Nigeria have undergone a significant transformation. Today, private universities have emerged as the preferred choice for many students, challenging the conventional dominance of public institutions. One key factor contributing to this shift is the avoidance of academic disruptions caused by strikes, a persistent issue in public universities due to the activities of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
The Cost Factor:
While private universities in Nigeria come with a heftier price tag, with tuition fees often reaching ten times those of public universities, their popularity persists. This financial commitment, though substantial, is often viewed as an investment in a higher quality of education and increased employability upon graduation.
Top 20 Private Universities and Their Tuition Fees:
Here’s a glimpse into some of the leading private universities in Nigeria and their respective tuition fees:
- Achievers University, Owo – N500,000
- Adeleke University, Ede
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti – Ekiti State – N1,000,000
- African University of Science & Technology, Abuja – N1,000,000
- Ajayi Crowther University, Ibadan – N500,000
- Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin – N487,000
- Al-Qalam University, Katsina
- American University of Nigeria, Yola – N1,590,000 – N3,000,000
- Augustine University
- Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo – N860,000
- Baze University – N1,000,000
- Bells University of Technology, Otta – N600,000 – N700,000
- Benson Idahosa University, Benin City – N500,000
- Bingham University, New Karu – N500,000 – N600,000
- Bowen University, Iwo
- Caleb University, Lagos – N505,000
- Caritas University, Enugu – N248,000
- Chrisland University – N500,000 – N600,000
- Covenant University, Ota – N432,000
- Crawford University, Igbesa – N480,000 – N600,000
Quality Education and Accessibility:
Beyond the financial aspect, private universities prioritize students’ ability to afford the high tuition fees, enhancing the chances of admission for those aspiring to pursue specific courses. Additionally, these institutions boast well-equipped learning environments and facilities, ensuring a conducive atmosphere for academic excellence.
Related Article: List Of 50 Accredited Schools Of Nursing In Nigeria
FAQs
What private institutions offer nursing programs in Nigeria?
Several private universities operate Schools of Nursing (degree-awarding BNSc programs), including Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, Bowen University, Madonna University, Igbinedion University, Lead City University, Achievers University, Bingham University, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Eko University of Medical and Health Sciences, Caleb University, Spiritan University, Redeemer’s University, Covenant University, and more.
How much are the tuition fees per session for these private nursing programs?
Tuition fees vary widely, typically ranging from ₦500,000 to over ₦1,000,000 per session depending on the institution. For example:
Babcock University: ₦600,000–₦800,000
Afe Babalola University: ₦700,000–₦1,000,000 (or higher)
PAMO University: ₦700,000–₦950,000
Which private schools are among the more affordable options?
Institutions like Lead City University (₦450,000–₦700,000), Achievers University (₦600,000–₦850,000), and Madonna University (₦500,000–₦800,000) offer relatively lower tuition fees compared to others MySchool GuildEducylopedia. Some sources estimate even lower ranges for a few schools—such as Madonna University and Bowen University around ₦300,000–₦450,000—but these may reflect older or more limited fee components.
Are there significantly cheaper private nursing schools?
Yes. There are smaller, faith-based private institutions and mission-based schools with much lower annual fees. Examples include:
ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe: ₦150,000–₦300,000
Bowen University School of Nursing: ₦200,000–₦400,000
Madonna University (School of Nursing): ₦200,000–₦400,000
Igbinedion University School of Nursing: ₦200,000–₦450,000
Is JAMB required for admission into private nursing programs?
For degree-awarding BNSc programs at private universities, admission typically requires JAMB UTME, O-Level credits in core science subjects, and sometimes a Post-UTME screening. However, some hospital-affiliated or college-level nursing programs (often non-degree or diploma-based) may accept admission via school-specific exams and O-Level results without JAMB.
Conclusion
The landscape of higher education in Nigeria is evolving, and private universities have become instrumental in providing a stable and quality education environment. Despite the higher costs, the investment is often seen as worthwhile, given the increased chances of immediate employment for graduates. As students weigh their options, private universities continue to redefine the educational experience in Nigeria, offering a promising alternative to traditional public institutions.