5 Best Universities to Study Forestry in Nigeria | Fees | Cut-Off Marks

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Nigeria’s vast forests hold immense ecological, economic, and social significance, making sustainable forestry practices crucial for the country’s development. 

As a Forestry professional, you play a vital role in managing these resources, balancing human needs with environmental conservation.

To excel in this field, you need a solid education that combines theoretical foundations with practical skills. 

This article presents the top universities in Nigeria for studying Forestry, distinguished by their comprehensive programmes, experienced faculty, and hands-on training.

These leading institutions equip you with expertise in forest management, conservation, and utilization, preparing you to address Nigeria’s forestry challenges and opportunities. 

This guide highlights each university’s unique strengths and resources, enabling you to make informed decisions and pursue successful careers in Forestry.

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 Forestry in Nigeria

1. University of Ibadan (UI)
2. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
3. Lagos State University (LASU)
4. Delta State University (DELSU)
5. Crescent University, Abeokuta.

1. University of Ibadan (UI) – Best for Experienced Faculty and Well Equipped Research Facilities

Embark on a journey to shape the future of forestry at UI, Nigeria’s premier university. You’re about to unlock your potential amidst rich academic heritage, cutting-edge research facilities and expert mentors guiding your growth.

Immerse yourself in hands-on learning, fieldwork, and internships, tackling real-world forestry challenges. UI’s Forestry programme equips you with:

In-depth knowledge of sustainable forest management

Skills in forest conservation and restoration

Expertise in wood science and technology

Graduating from UI, you emerge as a versatile forestry professional, ready to drive innovation, lead sustainable practices, and make a lasting impact. Your UI experience propels you toward a successful career, shaping the future of forestry.

School Fees	₦34,300 to ₦36,800 for freshers and ₦20,000 to ₦32,000 for returning students
Address	Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Email	ugadmissions@stu.ui.edu.ng
Website	ui.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Offers a comprehensive education in forestry and environmental management.
• Provides experienced faculty and well-equipped research facilities.
• Organizes field trips and practical sessions to enhance learning.
• Supports research projects addressing national and global forestry issues.
• Awards various scholarship opportunities to outstanding students.
• Fosters a vibrant student community with diverse extracurricular activities.
• Boasts a strategic location and rich academic heritage.

Cons:

• Limits academic progress with occasional strikes and disruptions.
• Restricts funding for advanced research projects.
• Fails to guarantee job placement post-graduation.
• Overwhelms students with balancing academic workload and practical fieldwork.
• Delays progress with administrative inefficiencies.

2. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) – Best for Expertise in Tropical Forestry

Step into the vibrant world of forestry at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).

You’re about to grow into a seasoned professional, nurtured by expert faculty, passionate about forestry; state-of-the-art facilities, fostering innovation; and hands-on learning, bridging theory and practice.

FUNAAB’s Forestry programme empowers you to master sustainable forest management techniques, develop skills in forest conservation, restoration, and rehabilitation as well as explore wood science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

As you graduate, you emerge as a confident, skilled, and innovative forestry expert, ready to drive sustainable practices and lead forest conservation efforts as you join to shape the future of forestry.

FUNAAB’s rich academic soil cultivates your growth, propelling you toward a successful forestry career.

School Fees	₦62,750 to ₦72,750 per session
Address	PMB 2240, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Email	registrar@funaab.edu.ng
Website	funaab.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Delivers practical and theoretical knowledge in forestry and wildlife management.
• Holds a Center of Excellence status in Environmental Resources Management.
• Offers various programmes in forestry, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees.
• Provides skill acquisition training programmes for local and international students.
• Addresses national forestry development problems through research.
• Develops good management skills in forest production, processing, and conservation.
• Holds full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Cons:

• Lacks sufficient resources and funding for research.
• Impedes progress with administrative delays and bureaucratic processes.
• Fails to adapt to new technologies and practices.
• Neglects to provide adequate support for specialized fields.
• Overlooks balancing practical fieldwork and academic requirements.

3. Lagos State University (LASU) – Best for Urban Forestry Specialization

At Lagos State University (LASU), your forestry journey unfolds in a vibrant academic landscape. You’re surrounded by passionate faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and hands-on learning experiences that shape your expertise.

LASU’s Forestry programme nurtures your growth, equipping you with in-depth knowledge of sustainable forest management, forest conservation, and wood science. 

You develop practical skills through fieldwork, internships, and research projects, preparing you for real-world challenges.

As you graduate, you emerge as a versatile forestry professional, poised to drive sustainable practices, innovate, and lead. 

LASU’s Forestry programme empowers you to make a lasting impact, shaping the future of forestry in Nigeria and beyond. Your success story begins here!

School Fees	₦80,000 to ₦200,000 per session
Address	Badagry Expressway, Ojo, Lagos State, Nigeria
Email	mailsupport@lasu.edu.ng
Website	lasu.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Establishes a solid foundation in forestry science and management.
• Utilizes the university’s location in Lagos for industry insights.
• Equips students with modern facilities and laboratories.
• Facilitates internships and industrial training programmes.
• Connects students with experienced faculty and industry professionals.
• Unites a diverse student body with various cultural and academic backgrounds.
• Cultivates opportunities for networking and career development.

Cons:

• Faces potential challenges with overcrowded classrooms.
• Lacks sufficient resources for extensive research.
• Presents a competitive job market in Lagos.
• Imposes a high cost of living in Lagos.
• Experiences occasional administrative inefficiencies.

4. Delta State University (DELSU) – Best for Strong Forestry Research Focus

Delta State University (DELSU) is your gateway to a thriving career in forestry. Here, you’re immersed in a dynamic learning environment, fueled by passionate faculty, dedicated to your growth; state-of-the-art facilities, sparking innovation; and

Hands-on experiences, bridging theory and practice.

DELSU’s Forestry programme transforms you into a skilled professional, equipped to tackle real-world challenges. 

You master sustainable forest management, forest conservation, and wood science, emerging as a versatile expert.

With DELSU, you’re poised to drive sustainable practices, lead forest conservation efforts, and shape the future of forestry. 

Your academic journey culminates in a successful career, marked by innovation, leadership, and impact. DELSU unleashes your forestry potential!

School Fees	₦64,500 to ₦84,500 per session
Address	PMB 1, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria.
Email	registrar@delsu.edu.ng
Website	delsu.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Provides a thorough education in forestry and environmental management.
• Supports students with experienced faculty and academic staff.
• Conducts practical sessions and field trips.
• Addresses regional forestry issues through research projects.
• Awards scholarship opportunities to deserving students.
• Fosters a close-knit student community.
• Offers a serene and conducive learning environment.

Cons:

• Faces challenges with limited funding for advanced research.
• Experiences occasional strikes and academic disruptions.
• Presents a competitive job market post-graduation.
• Requires balancing academic workload and practical fieldwork.
• Experiences occasional administrative delays.

5. Crescent University, Abeokuta – Best for Emphasizes Eco-Friendly Forestry Practices

Step into Crescent University’s vibrant Forestry programme, where academic rigor meets innovative spirit all geared to unleash your potential amidst cutting-edge facilities, explore sustainable forest management, conservation, and wood science; and thrive under mentorship from passionate faculty.

With hands-on learning, fieldwork, and internships, you sharpen your skills, and become prepared for real-world challenges. 

Crescent University’s Forestry programme cultivates your expertise in forest ecology, conservation, and management; builds your innovative spirit, driving sustainable practices; as well as your leadership skills, shaping the future of forestry.

Graduating from Crescent University, you emerge as a confident, skilled, and innovative forestry professional, poised to make a lasting impact. Your forestry journey reaches new heights here!

School Fees	₦730,000 to ₦860,000 per session
Address	Km. 5 Ayetoro Road, Lafenwa, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Email	info@cuab.edu.ng.
Website	crescent-university.edu.ng

What We Think

Pros:

• Delivers a solid education in forestry and environmental management.
• Benefits from a private university’s focused approach.
• Equips students with modern facilities and laboratories.
• Organizes practical sessions and field trips.
• Connects students with experienced faculty and industry professionals.
• Unites a small, close-knit student community.
• Offers a serene and conducive learning environment.

Cons:

• Charges higher tuition fees compared to public universities.
• Lacks sufficient funding for extensive research projects.
• Presents a competitive job market post-graduation.
• Requires balancing academic workload and practical fieldwork.
• Experiences occasional administrative inefficiencies.

OVERVIEW OF THE BEST 5 UNIVERSITIES TO STUDY FORESTRY IN NIGERIA

Nigeria’s forestry sector excels with five top universities leading the way. 

University of Ibadan (UI), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Lagos State University (LASU), Delta State University (DELSU), and Crescent University offer comprehensive Forestry education.

These institutions combine rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and hands-on training, emphasizing sustainable forest management, conservation, and utilization. 

Each university has unique strengths: UI excels in research, FUNAAB in sustainable management, LASU in urban forestry, DELSU in forest ecology, and Crescent University in innovative approaches.

By choosing one of these universities, you stand to build a deep understanding of forestry principles and practices, and in turn emerge as a competent professional ready to shape Nigeria’s forestry future.

OTHER UNIVERSITIES THAT OFFER FORESTRY IN NIGERIA

Top 12 Federal Universities to Study Forestry

1. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU) – Zaria
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Ile-Ife
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Nsukka
4. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Akure
5. University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Benin City
6. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) – Maiduguri
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Ilorin
8. Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) – Umudike
9. University of Uyo (UNIUYO) – Uyo
10. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) – Owerri
11. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Lagos
12. Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) – Dutsin-Ma

Top 10 State Universities to Study Forestry

1.  Kogi State University (KSU) – Anyigba
2. Kwara State University (KWASU) – Malete
3. Ebonyi State University (EBSU) – Abakaliki
4. Kaduna State University (KASU) – Kaduna
5. Benue State University (BSU) – Makurdi
6. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUST) – Aliero
7. Taraba State University (TSU) – Jalingo
8. Cross River State University of Technology (CRUTECH) – Calabar
9. Nasarawa State University (NSUK) – Keffi
10. Gombe State University (GSU) – Gombe

Top 10 Private Universities to Study Forestry

1. Covenant University – Ota
2. Igbinedion University – Okada
3. Bells University of Technology – Ota
4. Caleb University – Imota
5. Veritas University – Abuja
6. Bingham University – Karu
7. American University of Nigeria (AUN) – Yola
8. Al-Hikmah University – Ilorin
9. Renaissance University – Ugbawka
10. Oduduwa University – Ipetumodu

How to Choose the Best University to Study Forestry in Nigeria

Choosing the best university to study Forestry in Nigeria depends on several factors. You need to:

• Research the university’s reputation and ranking in the field of forestry.
• Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it covers both theoretical and practical aspects of forestry.
• Check the qualifications and experience of the faculty members.
• Look for modern facilities and equipment for hands-on training and research.
• Consider the availability of internship and industry partnership opportunities.
• Review the university’s research output and contributions to the field of forestry.
• Assess the support services available, such as career counseling and academic advising.
• Examine the success rate of graduates in securing relevant employment or further studies.
• Consider the location and its proximity to forest resources for practical learning.

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

• Opt for the University of Ibadan (UI) for its highly regarded forestry programme, offering comprehensive practical components and significant research contributions.
• Select the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) for its balanced theoretical and practical training in forestry, supported by well-equipped labs and fieldwork opportunities.
• Choose Lagos State University (LASU) for its robust curriculum and modern facilities, ensuring a solid foundation in forestry studies with ample hands-on experience.
• Choose Delta State University (DELSU) for its strong focus on practical skills and applied research, providing valuable industry connections and real-world experience in forestry.
• Join Crescent University for its innovative teaching methods and personalized learning experience, offering strong industry partnerships and a supportive environment for forestry studies.

Course Combination for Studying Forestry in Nigeria

For a degree in Forestry, prepare for English, Chemistry, Biology or Agriculture, and either Physics or Mathematics in your JAMB exams.

Eligibility Criteria for Studying Forestry in Nigeria

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

General Cut off Mark for Forestry

If Forestry is your choice in Nigeria, you generally need a cut-off mark of 180 or more, though some universities might have different requirements.

Forestry Duration

The duration for forestry is usually 4-5 years.

Pro Tips

• Research universities with strong forestry programmes and specialized facilities.
• Consider the location and its proximity to forests for practical fieldwork experience.
• Check the university’s partnerships with forestry industries and research institutions.
• Evaluate the faculty’s expertise and their involvement in forestry research.
• Look for universities that offer internships and hands-on training opportunities in forestry.
• Review the curriculum to ensure it covers both theoretical and practical aspects of forestry.
• Assess the university’s alumni network and their success in the forestry field.
• Visit the campus if possible to get a feel for the environment and resources available.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right university for your Forestry studies in Nigeria is essential for your career path. 

The University of Ibadan (UI) is renowned for its extensive curriculum and long-standing academic excellence, making it a prime choice for forestry students. 

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) offers a specialized focus and cutting-edge facilities, ensuring a thorough education in forestry. 

Lagos State University (LASU) benefits from its strategic location in Lagos, providing ample internship opportunities and practical experience. 

Delta State University (DELSU) is noted for its affordable tuition and supportive environment, making it a budget-friendly option. 

Crescent University emphasizes hands-on training and strong industry ties, offering valuable career prospects. 

By considering these factors and aligning them with your aspirations, you can make a well-informed decision for a successful career in Forestry.

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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