5 Best Universities to Study Public Health In Nigeria

University of Ibadan (UI)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Babcock University

1. University of Ibadan (UI) – Best University For Research Excellence

Studying Public Health at the University of Ibadan (UI) offers numerous benefits, including a comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and research opportunities that prepare you for a career in public health.

As Nigeria’s premier university, UI has a strong reputation for academic excellence and a renowned Public Health department that equips you for leadership roles.

The programme’s accreditation and location in Ibadan, a hub for public health activities, provides access to diverse health settings and practical experience.

With a strong alumni network and connections to public health organizations, making it an ideal choice for you who’s passionate about improving community health and well-being.

School fees	₦60,000 to ₦80,000 per session.
Accreditation	Fully Accredited
Address	UI Road, Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria
Email	mediaresources@mail.ui.edu.ng
Website	https://www.ui.edu.ng/
Cut-Off Mark	230+

What We Think

Pros:

Has a strong reputation and legacy in the field of public health.
Provides a robust curriculum and ample research opportunities.
Has a reputation of being one of Nigeria’s oldest and highly reputable universities.
Gives you the chance to learn from highly qualified and experienced faculty members.
Offers well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and research centers.
Provides you with thorough preparation for the demands of the healthcare industry.

Cons:

Faces high competition for admission due to the university’s prestige and popularity.
Makes you cope with the potential inconvenience of traveling for clinical placements.
Offers higher tuition and associated costs compared to some other universities.
Offers limited accommodation options on campus.
Makes you adapt to large class sizes, which can sometimes affect personalized attention and learning

2. University of Nigeria (UNN) – Best University For Quality education

Join the ranks of public health leaders at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where a comprehensive education awaits!

Studying Public Health at UNN offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, with a focus on community health and development.

Here, you learn from experienced faculty and engage in research projects that address real-world health challenges.

UNN’s strong reputation, accreditation, and connections to public health organizations ensure a high-quality education and excellent career prospects.

Become part of a vibrant community of scholars and professionals dedicated to improving health outcomes in Nigeria and beyond!.

School fees	₦65,800 to ₦95,800 per session.
Accreditation	Fully Accredited
Address	University of Nsukka Enugu State, Nigeria.
Email	consultancy.unn@unn.edu.ng
Website	https://www.unn.edu.ng/
Cut-Off Mark	230+

What We Think

Pros:

Provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of public health topics.
Has experienced faculty members who provide quality education and mentorship.
Offers community health programmes and initiatives, gaining practical experience.
Fosters well-equipped facilities and resources that support learning and research.
Has a network of successful alumni who can offer career guidance and opportunities.

Cons:

Faces challenges with large class sizes that can limit your attention from lecturers.
Deals with occasional administrative delays and bureaucratic processes.
Foster resource constraints, such as limited access to modern equipment.
Has a demanding academic workload that can be overwhelming for you at times.
Faces infrastructural issues, such as inconsistent power supply.

3. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Best University For Innovative Learning

Position yourself for success in public health at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where a dynamic programme awaits!

Studying Public Health at UNILAG allows you to engage in internships and research opportunities at renowned healthcare institutions, gaining proximity to diverse health settings and tackling complex health challenges.

With interdisciplinary approaches that blend business, law, and social sciences, you emerge as a leader in public health, equipped to drive positive change in urban health landscapes.

UNILAG’s strong reputation, accreditation, and access to a network of public health professionals and organizations set you up for an impactful career.

School fees	₦70,000 – ₦100,000 per session.
Accreditation	Fully Accredited
Address	Eyo Ita Crescent, University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
Email	consultancy.unn@unn.edu.ng
Website	https://www.unn.edu.ng/
Cut-Off Mark	230+

What We Think

Pros:

Has experienced and highly qualified faculty members who are experts in the field of public health.
Provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance the learning and research experience.
Offers access to health programmes and seminars that offer hands-on experience and practical skills locally and internationally.
Fosters a strong reputation and accreditation, which can enhance your resume and career prospects.

Cons:

Offers overcrowded facilities and large class sizes, which can impact the learning experience.
Has a rigorous academic work schedule.
Faces potential bureaucratic delays and administrative.
Juggles issues associated with the high cost of living in Lagos, making it financially demanding.

4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – Best University For Top-notch Education

Empower yourself to make a difference in the health of communities at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), a renowned institution in Northern Nigeria!

Study Public Health at ABU and gain a unique understanding of the health challenges facing rural and underserved populations.

Develop practical skills to address these challenges, design effective health interventions, and conduct research that drives positive change.

Benefit from experienced faculty, research opportunities, and a network of public health professionals, and emerge as a competent leader in public health, equipped to drive positive change in Nigeria and beyond.

School fees	₦60,000 to ₦90,000 per session.
Accreditation	Fully Accredited
Address	Ahmadu Bello UniversityZaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Email	info@abu.edu.ng
Website	https://abu.edu.ng/
Cut-Off Mark	230+

What We Think

Pros:

Fosters innovative approaches to public health challenges in Nigeria
Has modern research facilities and equipment
Ensures you participate in global health initiatives and collaborations
Offers various networks with public health professionals and alumni worldwide

Cons:

Has a competitive and fast-paced academic environment
Makes you spend significant time on transportation due to campus location
Provides limited access to healthcare services on campus
Poses problems with adapting to changes in curriculum or programme requirements.

5. Babcock University – Best University for Holistic Excellence

Explore the complexities of health and disease at Babcock University, where studying public health empowers you to address health disparities and drive positive change in communities.

Gain a deep understanding of social determinants of health, epidemiology, and health systems, preparing you to tackle complex health issues.

Through hands-on fieldwork, internships, and research projects, you are going to have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical health challenges.

Engage with diverse perspectives, collaborate with peers, and develop innovative solutions to real-world health problems, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in the field of public health..

School fees	₦228,856 – ₦785,400 per session.
Accreditation	Fully Accredited
Address	Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
Email	info@babcock.edu.ng
Website	https://www.babcock.edu.ng/
Cut-Off Mark	230+

What We Think

Pros:

Offers outstanding facilities and equipment for research and learning
Fosters a holistic approach to education, focusing on spiritual, intellectual, and physical development
Fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address complex health issues
Gives you a supportive learning environment that encourages collaboration and teamwork
Offers hands-on experience through community-based projects and research initiatives

Cons:

Compels you to pay higher tuition fees compared to other universities in Nigeria
Offers limited scholarship opportunities for international students
Has challenges with it’s rural location, which can be difficult for you and your peers
Lacks access to healthcare services on campus
Has competitive admission requirements.
Makes you Incur potential financial debt or burden due to high tuition fees, impacting career choices and financial stability after graduation.

Overview of The Best 5 Universities to Study Public Health In Nigeria

Embark on a journey to shape the future of healthcare at Nigeria’s premier institutions!

The University of Ibadan (UI) stands at the forefront, offering a trailblazing curriculum that equips you with the practical skills to tackle complex health challenges.

Meanwhile, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) sparks a passion for research, fueling community-driven projects that drive real-world impact.

At the University of Lagos (UNILAG), critical thinking meets hands-on experience, empowering you to confront the intricacies of public health with confidence.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, takes a holistic approach, nurturing spiritual, intellectual, and physical growth to cultivate well-rounded professionals.

And at Babcock University, innovation knows no bounds, with state-of-the-art facilities propelling youto the forefront of public health excellence.

Whether you’re drawn to research, community engagement, or cutting-edge technology, these top universities offer the ultimate launchpad for a fulfilling career in public health.

Other Universities that Offer Public Health in Nigeria

If you’re curious about other universities in Nigeria offering Public health, be rest assured that you have several options to choose from, including:

Federal Universities:

University of Lagos (UNILAG)
University of Ibadan (UI)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
University of Calabar (UNICAL)
University of Jos (UNIJOS)
University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
And so on

State Universities:

Lagos State University (LASU)
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
Abia State University (ABSU)
Adamawa State University (ADSU)
Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA)
Ambrose Alli University (AAU)
Bauchi State University (BASU)
Benue State University (BSU)
Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH)

Private Universities:

Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
American University of Nigeria (AUN)
Babcock University (BU)
Benson Idahosa University (BIU)
Bingham University (BU)
Bowen University (BU)
Covenant University (CU)
Crawford University (CU)
Elizade University (EU)
Godfrey Okoye University (GO Uni)
Igbinedion University (IUO)
Landmark University (LU)
And so on.

How to Choose The Best University to Study Public Health in Nigeria

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

Investigate and validate the university’s certification and prestige, ensuring it meets both national and global benchmarks.
Verify if the programme covers crucial public health subjects and offers experiential learning to prepare you for practical challenges.
Evaluate the infrastructure, looking for state-of-the-art facilities like research labs, resource centers, and innovation hubs that support comprehensive public health education.
Consider the university’s accessibility to healthcare facilities, organizations, and communities for fieldwork opportunities and hands-on training.
Assess faculty credentials and specialization to ensure you learn from seasoned and knowledgeable experts in the field.
Examine the university’s alliances and partnerships with healthcare organizations for internships, research collaborations, and career advancement opportunities.

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

Opt for ABU for cutting-edge research opportunities and renowned faculty expertise in public health, offering a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Select Babcock for access to modern, well-equipped facilities and innovative learning resources, providing a solid foundation for public health studies.
Choose UNILAG for its long-standing reputation and rigorous curriculum design, ensuring a thorough education in public health principles and practices.
Choose UNN for its strong industry connections and collaborative partnerships, offering valuable networking opportunities and practical experience in public health.
Join UI for its vibrant, diverse community and stimulating learning environment, fostering intellectual growth and professional development

Course Combination for Studying Public Health in Nigeria

Studying Public Health in Nigeria requires a specific course combination for admission, including English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Obtaining these course combinations is essential for admission into a Public Health programme at a Nigerian university.

The following are the eligibility criterias for studying Public Health:

Get a minimum of 5 credits in essential subjects (English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Health Science) in your O’Level exams.
Achieve a minimum score of 200 points in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Score at least 50% in the Post-UTME screening exercise.
Obtain a minimum of 3 A’Level passes in relevant subjects (Biology, Chemistry, and Health Science) for D.E
Be at least 16 years old to be eligible for admission.

General Cut-Off Mark for Public Health

The general cut-off mark for Public Health in Nigerian universities is typically around 230 and above points out of 400 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The following are factors that affect the cut-off mark for Public Health:

Institutional policy: Each university sets its own cut-off mark based on its admission criteria and the number of available spaces.
Number of applicants: The more applicants, the higher the cut-off mark.
UTME scores: The overall performance of applicants in the UTME exam affects the cut-off mark.
Post-UTME scores: The scores obtained in the Post-UTME screening exercise also influence the cut-off mark.
Catchment area: Some universities reserve a certain percentage of spaces for candidates from specific regions or states.
Merit: The university’s admission policy can prioritize candidates with higher scores or exceptional academic achievements.
Quota system: Some universities may have a quota system for Medicine and Surgery, limiting the number of students to be admitted.
Government regulations: Government policies and regulations can also impact the cut-off mark and admission process.

Public Health Duration

The average number of years for studying Public Health is typically 5 years. This is the standard duration for most medical schools in Nigeria.

Pro Tips

Engage with primary research and current studies to stay updated on emerging trends and evidence-based practices.
Collaborate with peers and professionals through networking and group projects to enhance learning and gain diverse perspectives.
Apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, such as internships or community projects, to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Utilize various resources, including academic journals, online courses, and webinars, to broaden your understanding and stay informed.
Develop strong analytical and statistical skills to effectively interpret data and make informed public health decisions.

Final Thoughts

Choose your path in public health with confidence by selecting the right university that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Each institution offers a unique approach: University of Ibadan (UI) is renowned for its research-oriented curriculum and epidemiology focus; University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) emphasizes community health and primary healthcare with practical experience

University of Lagos (UNILAG) offers a well-rounded programme with a focus on health policy, management, and environmental health.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria is recognized for its expertise in tropical medicine and global health issues; and Babcock University provides a faith-based approach emphasizing ethical considerations and community engagement.

Understanding these strengths, makes you take informed decisions and embark on a fulfilling journey in public health.

Best Universities for Public Health in Nigeria