5 Best Universities to Study Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria | Fees | Cut-Off Mark

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Selecting the right university for your veterinary medicine studies is a crucial step to shaping your future in animal health and care. 

In Nigeria, certain universities stand out for their exceptional veterinary programmes, which offer a well-rounded combination of rigorous academic training, state-of-the-art facilities, and practical experience. 

Making an informed choice about where to study is vital for acquiring the expertise and skills necessary to excel in this important field.

This discussion focuses on the top five universities in Nigeria for pursuing veterinary medicine. These institutions have been carefully selected based on their academic excellence, the expertise of their faculty, the quality of research opportunities they offer, and the impressive achievements of their graduates. 

By examining these leading universities, you gain a deeper understanding of what sets them apart and how they help you reach your academic and career goals in veterinary medicine.

As you consider your options, it’s important to look beyond just academics. 

Think about the overall learning environment, the range of support services available, and the opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development. 

The universities highlighted in this article not only provide strong academic foundations but also foster a supportive atmosphere that nurtures innovation and critical thinking. 

Let’s explore what makes these institutions ideal for aspiring veterinarians in Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY: We ranked these universities based on their global and national ranking from websites such as Webometrics,  Edurank, and so on. We also considered the institutions’ accreditation status for some courses.  Scroll down to the DISCLAIMER section to learn more.

5 Best Universities to study Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria

1. University of Ibadan (UI)
2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
3. Lagos State University (LASU)
4. Rivers State University (RSU)
5. Babcock University

1. University of Ibadan (UI) – Best for Extensive Research Output

Embarking on your journey in Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan (UI) lays a robust foundation for your career. 

With guidance from experienced professionals, access to modern facilities, and immersion in a dynamic learning environment, you are prepared for success.

UI’s Veterinary Medicine programme provides comprehensive knowledge in animal health, disease management, and veterinary research. 

You gain expertise in clinical practice, veterinary public health, and animal production, equipping you to excel in the profession.

As a UI graduate, you emerge as a skilled, innovative, and compassionate veterinarian. Poised to improve animal health, enhance food security, and make a meaningful impact in the veterinary field, you are well-positioned for a successful career in veterinary medicine, research, or public health.

School Fees	₦100,000+
Address	Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Email	ugadmissions@stu.ui.edu.ng
Website	ui.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Offers a strong reputation and alumni network.
• Provides experienced faculty members.
• Boasts modern facilities and equipment.
• Fosters a diverse academic community.

Cons:

• Limits progress with intense academic competition.
• Disrupts academics with occasional strikes.
• Lacks flexibility in adapting to Ibadan’s busy environment.

2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – Best for Strong Innovation Focus

Nurturing your Veterinary Medicine ambitions at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) fosters excellence from the start. Guided by distinguished experts, supported by state-of-the-art facilities, and inspired by a vibrant academic community, you are well-prepared for success.

ABU’s Veterinary Medicine programme provides in-depth knowledge in animal science, veterinary pathology, and pharmacology. 

You acquire skills in clinical diagnostics, veterinary surgery, and animal health management, positioning you to lead in the veterinary field.

As an ABU graduate, you emerge as a confident, innovative, and compassionate veterinarian. 

Ready to revolutionize animal healthcare, advance veterinary research, and make a lasting impact, you are well-equipped for a successful career in practice, research, or academia, shaping the future of animal health and welfare.

School Fees	₦100,000+
Address	Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Email	registrar@abu.edu.ng
Website	abu.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Specializes in Veterinary Medicine with a strong reputation.
• Provides renowned faculty members.
• Equips students with modern facilities and equipment.
• Nurtures a vibrant academic environment.

Cons:

• Demands high academic expectations.
• Constraints learning with large class sizes.
• Isolates students in Zaria’s remote location.

3. Lagos State University (LASU) – Best for Practical Industry Applications

Launching your Veterinary Medicine journey at Lagos State University (LASU) sets you on a path to excellence. 

With guidance from seasoned professionals, access to modern facilities, and immersion in a dynamic learning environment, you’re prepared for success.

LASU’s Veterinary Medicine programme provides you with a solid foundation in animal health management, veterinary microbiology, and epidemiology. 

You gain expertise in clinical practice, veterinary public health, and animal production, positioning you to excel in the veterinary field.

As a LASU graduate, you emerge as a skilled, innovative, and dedicated veterinarian.

Ready to improve animal welfare, enhance food security, and make a meaningful impact?

LAUS prepares you for a successful career in veterinary practice, research, or industry where you have the opportunity of transforming the lives of animals and humans alike.

School Fees	₦113,000 to ₦120,000 per session
Address	Badagry Expressway, Ojo, Lagos State, Nigeria
Email	mailsupport@lasu.edu.ng
Website	lasu.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Offers affordable tuition fees.
• Provides modern Veterinary Medicine facilities.
• Leverages industry partnerships.
• Thrives in Lagos’ dynamic environment.

Cons:

• Faces occasional strikes and disruptions.
• Navigates bureaucratic challenges.
• Adapts to a diverse student body.

4. Rivers State University (RSU) – Best for Comprehensive Curriculum

Embarking on your Veterinary Medicine journey at Rivers State University (RSU) sets you on a path to distinction. 

Under the guidance of experienced professionals and with access to modern facilities, you thrive in a dynamic learning environment.

RSU’s Veterinary Medicine programme offers you comprehensive insights into animal physiology, veterinary microbiology, and epidemiology. 

You acquire expertise in clinical practice, veterinary public health, and animal production, equipping you to excel in the field.

As a graduate of RSU, you emerge as a skilled, innovative, and dedicated veterinarian. Prepared to enhance animal welfare, improve food security, and make a significant impact, you are ready for a successful career in veterinary practice, research, or industry, transforming the lives of animals and humans alike.

School Fees	₦80,000 to ₦100,000 per session
Address	Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, P.M.B. 5080, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Email	info@ust.edu.ng
Website	rsu.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Grows a reputation in Veterinary Medicine.
• Supports students with faculty members.
• Fosters a serene academic environment.
• Develops skills in modern facilities.

Cons:

• Limits job opportunities.
• Challenges adaptation to Port Harcourt’s busy environment.
• Manages occasional infrastructure challenges.

5. Babcock University (BU) – Best for Modern Facilities

Elevating your Veterinary Medicine aspirations at Babcock University reaches new heights.

Surrounded by visionary experts, equipped with cutting-edge facilities, and supported by a vibrant academic community, you’re positioned for success.

Babcock’s Veterinary Medicine programme provides in-depth knowledge in animal health, veterinary research, and clinical practice. 

You gain expertise in veterinary diagnostics, surgery, and public health, preparing you to excel and lead in the profession.

As a Babcock graduate, you emerge as a confident, innovative, and compassionate veterinarian. 

Ready to revolutionize animal healthcare, advance research, and make a significant impact, you are well-prepared for a successful career in veterinary medicine, research, or public health, positively affecting both animals and humans.

School Fees	₦625,688 to ₦1,439,990 per session
Address	Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Email	info@babcock.edu.ng
Website	babcock.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Boasts state-of-the-art Veterinary Medicine facilities.
• Provides experienced faculty members.
• Nurtures a vibrant academic community.
• Leverages strong industry connections.

Cons:

• Demands high tuition fees.
• Pressures students with intense academics.
• Isolates students in Ilishan-Remo’s remote location.

OVERVIEW OF THE BEST 5 UNIVERSITIES TO STUDY VETERINARY MEDICINE IN NIGERIA

Nigeria’s animal health sector benefits from exceptional Veterinary Medicine programmes at five leading universities. 

University of Ibadan (UI), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Lagos State University (LASU), Rivers State University (RSU), and Babcock University stand out.

These institutions offer comprehensive education, combining theoretical foundations with practical clinical training in veterinary sciences, animal health, and welfare. 

Each university excels in unique areas: UI leads in veterinary research, ABU pioneers livestock production, LASU focuses on veterinary public health, RSU emphasizes aquatic veterinary medicine, and Babcock University integrates veterinary medicine with business management.

By graduating from these programmes, you are equipped to address Nigeria’s animal health challenges, promote food security, and advance veterinary medicine practices.

OTHER UNIVERSITIES THAT OFFER VETERINARY MEDICINE IN NIGERIA

Top 12 Federal Universities to Study Veterinary Medicine

1. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Nsukka
2. Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM) – Makurdi
3. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) – Maiduguri
4. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Ilorin
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Ile-Ife
6. University of Calabar (UNICAL) – Calabar
7. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Lagos
8. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Akure
9. University of Jos (UNIJOS) – Jos
10. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) – Port Harcourt
11. Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS) – Sokoto
12. University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) – Abuja

Top 10 State Universities to Study Veterinary Medicine

1.  Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) – Ago-Iwoye
2. Rivers State University (RSU) – Port Harcourt
3. Ambrose Alli University (AAU) – Ekpoma
4. Delta State University (DELSU) – Abraka
5. Kwara State University (KWASU) – Malete
6. Osun State University (UNIOSUN) – Osogbo
7. Benue State University (BSU) – Makurdi
8. Kaduna State University (KASU) – Kaduna
9. Ebonyi State University (EBSU) – Abakaliki
10. Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) – Enugu

Top 10 Private Universities to Study Veterinary Medicine

1. Madonna University (MU) – Elele
2. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) – Ado-Ekiti
3. Bowen University (BU) – Iwo
4. Bingham University (BHU) – Karu
5. Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) – Ikeji-Arakeji
6. Crescent University (CU) – Abeokuta
7. Lead City University (LCU) – Ibadan
8. Veritas University (VU) – Abuja
9. Wellspring University (WU) – Benin City
10. Renaissance University (RNU) – Ugbawka

How to Choose the Best University to Study Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria

• Confirm the university’s accreditation status to ensure it meets educational standards.
• Analyze the curriculum to ensure it covers essential areas like animal health, surgery, and diagnostics.
• Investigate the qualifications and experience of the faculty members in the Veterinary Medicine department.
• Inspect the availability of modern facilities such as veterinary clinics, labs, and access to diagnostic equipment.
• Evaluate the university’s reputation and ranking, especially in the field of Veterinary Medicine.
• Explore internship and job placement opportunities provided by the university.
• Assess the availability of student support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
• Review the cost of tuition and the availability of scholarships or financial aid.
• Examine the strength of the university’s alumni network and its connections with the veterinary industry.
• Consider the location of the university, taking into account proximity to veterinary clinics, cost of living, and overall environment.

Based on these factors, here’s a brief comparison:

• Opt for UI due to its long-standing reputation for academic excellence, comprehensive curriculum, and extensive clinical training opportunities.
• Choose ABU for its strong research performance, experienced faculty, and well-equipped veterinary teaching hospital.
• Select LASU for its strategic location in Lagos, offering numerous internship opportunities and practical exposure in the veterinary field.
• Consider RSU for its affordable tuition fees and supportive learning environment, making it a cost-effective option for Veterinary Medicine studies.
• Choose Babcock University for its state-of-the-art facilities, emphasis on holistic education, and strong alumni network, which provides valuable career opportunities.

Course Combination for Studying Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria

Veterinary Medicine requires you to prepare for English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry in your JAMB exams.

Eligibility Criteria for Studying Veterinary Medicine in Nigeria

• Obtain five credit passes including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
• Score a minimum of 180 in UTME with required subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
• Achieve a good score in the university’s Post-UTME screening exercise.
• Possess advanced qualifications like A’ levels or a diploma in related fields.
• Be at least 16 years old

General Cut off Mark for Veterinary Medicine

If a Veterinary Medicine degree in Nigeria is what you’re after, target a cut-off mark of 200 or above, though it’s important to recognize that different universities might set their own standards. To be on the safe side, always confirm the exact cut-off with your preferred institution.

Veterinary Medicine Duration

The standard duration for the Veterinary Medicine programme is 5 – 6 years.

Pro Tips

• Research universities like the University of Ibadan, Lagos State University, and Babcock University.
• Check for experienced lecturers and modern veterinary facilities.
• Look into internship opportunities and industry connections.
• Evaluate the curriculum for comprehensive coverage.
• Attend open days or virtual tours.
• Review the alumni network for successful graduates.
• Consider the university’s location and proximity to veterinary clinics.
• Check accreditation and reputation.
• Look for scholarship opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Animal health is crucial for human well-being, food security, and economic growth. 

The esteemed Veterinary Medicine programmes at UI, ABU, LASU, RSU, and Babcock University are nurturing skilled veterinarians, equipped to tackle animal health challenges, promote public health, and drive agricultural development. 

With state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and hands-on training, these institutions excel in veterinary education.

Graduates from these universities play a vital role in Nigeria’s livestock industry, disease control, and conservation efforts. 

By choosing UI, ABU, LASU, RSU, or Babcock University, aspiring veterinarians unlock rewarding careers, contribute to animal welfare, and shape the future of veterinary medicine in Nigeria. Join the mission to protect animal health, promote food safety, and enhance human well-being.

DISCLAIMER!!!

This article is based on the author’s research and the university selection is based on the institution’s ranking from reputable websites such as Edurank, Webometrics, and so on. 

To rank universities for professional courses like Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, Law, and so on, the author visited the websites of the bodies that regulate and accredit such professions in the country. For example, The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria for Pharmacy, the
Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria for Medicine and Dentistry, and so on. 

Consider every detail in this article as merely informational. Make sure you speak with a certified educational consultant if you need help with choosing the best university for your course. 

You can read this article for a step-by-step guide on choosing the best institution for your course.

If you have any questions or want to book an appointment with any of our consultants, kindly contact us!

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