Mass Communication JAMB Subject Combination 2027: WAEC Requirements, UTME Subjects and O’Level Credits
If you want to study Mass Communication in a Nigerian university, choosing the correct JAMB and WAEC subjects is an important part of your admission preparation. You need to understand the difference between the four subjects you will write in the UTME and the five O’Level credits required for admission.
For the 2027 JAMB UTME, the general subject combination for Mass Communication is Use of English and any three subjects from Arts or Social Sciences. Literature in English is a useful subject and is required by some universities, but it is not listed as compulsory for every institution under the general JAMB requirement.
For WAEC or NECO, the general JAMB brochure requirement is five credit passes, including English Language and four other subjects from Arts or Social Sciences. However, individual universities may specifically require Mathematics, Literature in English or other subjects.
This guide explains the correct Mass Communication subjects for JAMB and WAEC, the recommended combinations, O’Level requirements and how to confirm the rules for your preferred university.
What Are the Four JAMB Subjects for Mass Communication in 2027?
The general JAMB UTME subject combination for Mass Communication is:
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Use of English
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Any Arts or Social Science subject
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Any Arts or Social Science subject
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Any Arts or Social Science subject
Use of English is compulsory for all JAMB candidates, regardless of their proposed course. The other three subjects should come from the Arts or Social Sciences, subject to the requirements of the university offering the programme.
Some acceptable subjects candidates may consider include:
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Literature in English
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Government
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Economics
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History
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Geography
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Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
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Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
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Commerce
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Nigerian languages, where accepted
You should not assume that every university accepts all these subjects. Check the specific requirements of your preferred institution before registration.
What Is the Best JAMB Subject Combination for Mass Communication?
A practical subject combination for candidates who want to study Mass Communication is:
| JAMB subject | Selection |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Compulsory |
| Literature in English | Recommended |
| Government | Recommended |
| Economics | Recommended |
This combination is worth considering because Literature in English develops reading and interpretation skills, Government introduces political and public institutions, while Economics provides an understanding of business and economic activities.
Another possible combination is:
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Use of English
-
Literature in English
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Government
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Christian Religious Studies
Candidates may also consider History, Geography, Economics or another acceptable subject.
However, these are suggested combinations, not a guarantee of admission to every university. Some institutions specify particular subjects or have additional requirements. The safest approach is to check your intended university’s entry in the JAMB brochure.
Is Literature in English Compulsory for Mass Communication in JAMB?
No. Literature in English is not compulsory for every Mass Communication programme under the general JAMB subject combination.
The general requirement in the JAMB brochure is Use of English and any three subjects from Arts or Social Sciences. This means candidates may select other acceptable subjects where their chosen institution permits them.
However, some universities have additional requirements. For example, the JAMB brochure lists specific O’Level Literature in English conditions for institutions such as UNIZIK, OOU, LASU and Redeemer’s University.
It is important to distinguish between Literature in English as a UTME subject and Literature in English as an O’Level requirement. A university may require a Literature credit in WAEC or NECO even when its UTME combination allows a wider selection of Arts and Social Science subjects.
If you have not selected a university, including Literature in English in your JAMB combination may help you meet the requirements of institutions that specifically request it.
Can I Study Mass Communication Without Literature in English?
Yes, it is possible at institutions whose admission requirements do not specifically demand Literature in English.
The general JAMB subject combination permits any three Arts or Social Science subjects alongside Use of English. Therefore, candidates may be able to use Government, Economics, History and other approved subjects without Literature in English.
However, some universities require Literature in English at O’Level or specify it as part of their UTME or other admission conditions.
Before leaving Literature out of your subject combination, check the requirements of every university on your admission shortlist.
What Are the WAEC Subjects for Mass Communication?
For WAEC, candidates should prepare to write relevant Arts, Social Science and other subjects that can satisfy their intended university’s O’Level requirements.
The general JAMB brochure requirement for Mass Communication is five SSCE credit passes, including English Language and four other subjects in Arts or Social Sciences. Some institutions add specific requirements, including Mathematics and Literature in English.
The following subjects are useful options for students preparing for WAEC:
| Subject | Why it is useful |
|---|---|
| English Language | Essential for communication and generally required for admission |
| Mathematics | Required by many universities |
| Literature in English | Required by some institutions and useful for media studies |
| Government | Provides knowledge of political institutions and public affairs |
| Economics | Introduces business and economic concepts |
| CRS | An acceptable Arts subject at institutions that recognise it |
| IRS | An acceptable Arts subject at institutions that recognise it |
| Geography | Provides knowledge of people, places and society |
| History | Helps develop knowledge of historical events and institutions |
| Commerce | Introduces business and commercial activities |
| Civic Education | Provides knowledge of citizenship and public responsibilities |
You do not need to register for every subject listed above. Your choice should depend on your school’s available subjects, your academic strengths and the admission requirements of your preferred university.
How Many Credits Do I Need in WAEC for Mass Communication?
The general requirement is five O’Level credit passes, including English Language and four other relevant Arts or Social Science subjects.
However, individual universities may specify the subjects that must be included among the five credits.
For example, the JAMB brochure lists the following additional conditions:
UNIZIK requires a credit in Literature in English and an O’Level pass in Mathematics.
OOU, LASU and Redeemer’s University require credits in English Language, Mathematics and Literature in English, alongside two other subjects.
KWASU requires credits in English Language, Mathematics, Government and Literature in English.
Mountain Top University requires credits in English Language, Literature in English and Mathematics, among other conditions.
These examples show why candidates should not rely on a general five-credit statement alone. The subjects and grades required by your university are what matter.
Is Mathematics Compulsory for Mass Communication in WAEC?
Mathematics is required by many Nigerian universities for Mass Communication, although the general JAMB brochure requirement does not name it as a compulsory subject for every institution.
Some universities specifically require a Mathematics credit, while others list an O’Level pass or apply different conditions.
For example, the JAMB brochure identifies Mathematics credit requirements for institutions including OOU, LASU, Redeemer’s University and Mountain Top University. UNIZIK requires an O’Level pass in Mathematics under its listed conditions.
Therefore, the safest approach is to prepare for Mathematics and aim for a credit pass. This can help you meet the requirements of more universities.
Remember that Mathematics is not automatically one of the four JAMB subjects for Mass Communication simply because it is required in WAEC.
Is English Language Compulsory for Mass Communication?
Yes. English Language is compulsory for Mass Communication candidates in both JAMB and O’Level admission requirements.
In JAMB, Use of English is a compulsory UTME subject for every candidate. You must include it among your four examination subjects.
For WAEC or NECO, English Language is also part of the general five-credit requirement for Mass Communication.
This subject is particularly important because Mass Communication involves writing, reading, speaking, reporting, editing and presenting information to different audiences.
Candidates should pay attention to grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, essay writing and oral communication when preparing for English Language.
Is Government Compulsory for Mass Communication?
No. Government is not compulsory for every Mass Communication candidate.
It is an acceptable Social Science subject and can form part of your UTME combination where your preferred institution permits it.
Government is useful because journalists and other communication professionals often report on elections, public policies, political institutions, government activities and national affairs.
However, candidates can choose other accepted subjects, such as Economics, History, Geography or CRS, depending on the institution’s requirements.
Is Economics Compulsory for Mass Communication?
No. Economics is not universally compulsory for Mass Communication in JAMB.
It is one of the Social Science subjects candidates may choose as part of their three elective UTME subjects.
Economics can also be useful in WAEC preparation because Mass Communication students may eventually work in business reporting, financial journalism, advertising, public relations and corporate communication.
However, you should not assume that Economics must appear in every candidate’s subject combination. Check the approved subjects for your university.
Can I Study Mass Communication with CRS or IRS?
Yes. CRS and IRS can be acceptable Arts subjects for Mass Communication candidates, depending on the university.
For example, a candidate may consider the following combination:
Use of English
Literature in English
Government
CRS
Another candidate may choose IRS instead of CRS, provided the university accepts the subject.
The important thing is to select subjects that meet the requirements of your intended institution. Do not register for CRS or IRS simply because another candidate used it successfully at a different university.
Does Mass Communication Require Science Subjects in WAEC?
Mass Communication is generally classified under Arts or Social Sciences, so science subjects are not the central focus of its admission requirements.
Candidates are usually expected to present relevant Arts or Social Science subjects alongside English Language.
However, some universities may accept or list additional subjects outside these categories. This means you should not assume that Biology, Chemistry or Physics is automatically unacceptable.
If you have science subjects among your WAEC results, check whether your university recognises them as part of its approved O’Level subjects.
Mass Communication Requirements in Some Nigerian Universities
Although JAMB provides a general subject combination, universities can specify additional admission conditions.
The following examples are drawn from the JAMB brochure and institutional admission information.
| University | Important admission condition |
|---|---|
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Check the institution’s specific Mass Communication requirements and approved subjects |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Check the listed O’Level requirements and the relevant programme entry |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Confirm the institution’s current programme availability and requirements |
| Lagos State University (LASU) | The brochure lists English, Mathematics, Literature in English and two additional subjects among its O’Level conditions |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | Requires an O’Level credit in Literature in English and a pass in Mathematics under the listed conditions |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | Requires O’Level credits in English, Mathematics and Literature in English, plus two other subjects |
| Kwara State University (KWASU) | Requires O’Level credits in English, Mathematics, Government and Literature in English |
The requirements above are not a complete list of all universities offering Mass Communication. Also, the JAMB brochure may group institutions under common course requirements and then state exceptions in its waiver remarks. Read both the general requirement and the special conditions before deciding.
Can I Combine WAEC and NECO Results for Mass Communication?
Some Nigerian universities accept a combination of WAEC and NECO results to meet their O’Level requirements.
However, acceptance depends on the institution’s admission policy. Some universities permit two sittings, while others require candidates to obtain the necessary credits in one sitting.
For example, the JAMB brochure lists special one-sitting or two-sitting conditions for particular institutions. Mountain Top University, for instance, specifies five credits at one sitting or six at two sittings under its listed requirements.
If you intend to combine results, check these details:
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Whether the university accepts two sittings.
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Whether it accepts both WAEC and NECO.
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Whether all required subjects are covered by the two results.
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Whether the course has a special one-sitting condition.
Do not assume that every university accepts combined results.
What Is the Difference Between JAMB and WAEC Subjects for Mass Communication?
JAMB and WAEC serve different purposes in the admission process.
JAMB UTME subjects are the four examination subjects you register for when applying for university admission. WAEC or NECO subjects are the secondary school examination subjects used to establish your O’Level qualifications.
| Admission requirement | Mass Communication |
|---|---|
| JAMB subjects | Use of English and any three Arts or Social Science subjects under the general requirement |
| WAEC or NECO | Five credit passes, including English Language and four other Arts or Social Science subjects under the general requirement |
| Mathematics | Required by many universities at O’Level |
| Literature in English | Required by some universities |
| Government | Useful and accepted by many institutions, but not universally compulsory |
A candidate can therefore write Mathematics in WAEC without registering for it in JAMB. Similarly, Literature in English may be required at O’Level by a university even where its UTME combination permits other Arts or Social Science choices.
How to Check the Correct Mass Communication Subjects for Your University
The best way to avoid choosing the wrong subjects is to use JAMB’s official Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System.
JAMB advises candidates to use the IBASS Eligibility Checker to identify the programmes available at individual institutions and confirm the correct UTME subject combinations.
Follow these steps:
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Visit the JAMB Eligibility Checker.
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Select your mode of entry.
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Choose the institution type and category.
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Select your preferred university.
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Choose Mass Communication as your proposed programme.
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Enter your WAEC or NECO subjects and grades.
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Select your proposed UTME subjects.
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Click the eligibility button to check whether you meet the requirements.
If you are considering more than one university, repeat the process for each institution. A subject combination accepted by one university may not satisfy another institution’s requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Mass Communication Subjects
Candidates sometimes make avoidable mistakes when selecting JAMB and WAEC subjects. These errors can affect their admission eligibility.
1. Assuming Literature in English Is Compulsory Everywhere
Literature in English is important and required by some universities, but it is not a universal requirement under the general UTME combination. Check your institution’s conditions.
2. Ignoring Mathematics in WAEC
Even though Mathematics is not part of the general UTME combination, many universities require an O’Level credit in it. Do not overlook this requirement.
3. Choosing Science Subjects Without Checking
Some candidates select subjects that do not meet their university’s approved combination. Confirm that all three elective UTME subjects are accepted.
4. Copying Another Candidate’s Subject Combination
A friend may have gained admission with a particular combination at one university. That does not mean the same subjects will be accepted by your preferred institution.
5. Confusing JAMB Requirements with WAEC Requirements
The four JAMB subjects are different from the five O’Level credits. Check both separately.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mass Communication Subjects for JAMB and WAEC
1. What are the four JAMB subjects for Mass Communication in 2027?
The general combination is Use of English and any three Arts or Social Science subjects. Your preferred university may specify additional conditions.
2. Is Literature in English compulsory for Mass Communication in JAMB?
No. It is not compulsory under the general JAMB combination for every institution, but some universities require it or include it in their special conditions.
3. What are the five WAEC subjects required for Mass Communication?
The general requirement is five credits, including English Language and four other Arts or Social Science subjects. Individual universities may specify Mathematics, Literature in English and other subjects.
4. Is Mathematics compulsory for Mass Communication?
Mathematics is required at O’Level by many universities, but it is not part of the general JAMB UTME subject combination. Check the grade required by your institution.
5. Can I study Mass Communication without Government?
Yes. Government is not compulsory for every institution. You may select other accepted Arts or Social Science subjects.
6. Can I use Economics, CRS and Government for Mass Communication?
Yes, this may be an acceptable combination alongside Use of English, provided your preferred university accepts all three subjects.
7. Can I study Mass Communication with D7 in Mathematics?
It depends on the university. Some institutions require a credit in Mathematics, while others list a pass under their specific conditions. D7 is a pass, not a credit.
8. Can I combine WAEC and NECO for Mass Communication?
Some universities accept combined results, while others impose restrictions. Check the number of sittings permitted by your preferred institution.
9. Is Mass Communication an Arts or Social Science course?
It is commonly listed under Social Sciences in the JAMB brochure, although its subject requirements include Arts and Social Science options.
10. Can I study Mass Communication without Literature in WAEC?
It depends on the university. Some institutions require a Literature in English credit, while others may accept different combinations of Arts or Social Science subjects.
11. Is Commerce accepted for Mass Communication in JAMB?
Commerce may be accepted as one of the three elective subjects where the university permits it. Confirm the exact requirements before registration.
12. How many credits do I need in WAEC to study Mass Communication?
The general requirement is five O’Level credit passes, including English Language and four other relevant subjects. Some universities specify additional subjects and conditions.
Conclusion
The general JAMB subject combination for Mass Communication in 2027 is Use of English and any three Arts or Social Science subjects. Literature in English, Government, Economics, History, Geography, CRS and IRS are among the subjects candidates may consider, depending on their university’s requirements.
For WAEC or NECO, candidates generally need five credit passes, including English Language and four other relevant Arts or Social Science subjects. However, many universities have additional conditions involving Mathematics, Literature in English and other subjects.
The most important thing is to check the requirements of your preferred university before completing JAMB registration. Do not rely on a subject combination simply because it worked for another candidate. Use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker to confirm your UTME subjects and O’Level results.




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