Pharmacy is a very competitive course in Nigerian tertiary institutions. It’s regarded as one of the best medical courses to study in Nigeria presently.
This course covers key areas of study like chemistry, physics, biology, physiology, pharmacology, etc.
Pharmacy is a five-year degree course at the university leading to an award in Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) or Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) depending on the institution.
After completing academic training, students must undergo one year of internship and register with the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) before they can practice professionally in Nigeria.
General Admission Requirements for Pharmacy in Nigeria
Admission into a pharmacy program in Nigeria is highly competitive. Candidates can gain admission through either UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) or Direct Entry. Below are the general requirements for both UTME and direct entry.
UTME (JAMB) Requirements
Students seeking admission through UTME must:
- Meet the JAMB Cut-off Mark – Most universities require a minimum JAMB score of 250 or above for Pharmacy due to its competitive nature.
- Choose the Right UTME Subject Combination: English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
- Pass the University Post-UTME Screening or Post-UTME exams.
Direct Entry (DE) Requirements
Candidates applying through Direct Entry (for 200-level admission) must meet the following criteria:
- A-Level or Equivalent Qualifications
At least two (2) A-Level passes in Chemistry, Biology, or Physics.
IJMB, JUPEB, or any other A-Level exams with strong grades in relevant science subjects.
- OND/HND/BSc Holders
Candidates with a Higher National Diploma (HND), Ordinary National Diploma (OND), or a related BSc degree (such as Biochemistry or Microbiology) with good grades may be considered.
O’Level Subject Requirements
To be eligible for pharmacy, candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in their O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB), obtained in not more than two sittings. The required subjects are:
English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Some universities may not accept a combination of two sittings (e.g., WAEC & NECO), but it’s best to confirm with the specific institution.
Note: Pharmacy is a highly competitive course in Nigeria, so students are advised to score very high in JAMB and Post-UTME to increase their chances of admission.
Pharmacy 100-level courses in Nigeria
100-level pharmacy students in Nigerian tertiary institutions are taught the basics of science.
They subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. This course serves as a foundation for pharmaceutical sciences.
Below is the breakdown of courses offered by 100-level pharmacy students at Nigerian universities.
Core Science Courses
General Chemistry—Covers atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, acids & bases, and chemical reactions.
Organic Chemistry—Introduction to hydrocarbons, functional groups, and reaction mechanisms.
Biology (General and Cell Biology) – Focuses on cell structure, functions, genetics, and microbiology.
Physics—Explains basic principles of physics applicable to biological and pharmaceutical sciences.
Mathematics—Includes calculus, algebra, and statistics.
Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology—Covers the structure and functions of human body systems.
General Studies (GST) Courses
These are compulsory courses aimed at developing communication, ethics, and ICT skills:
Use of English & Communication Skills—Improves writing, reading, and oral communication.
Philosophy, Logic & Human Existence—Introduces critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Introduction to Computer Science & ICT—Teaches basic computer applications useful in pharmaceutical research.
Practical & Laboratory Work
Chemistry Lab (General & Organic Chemistry Practical) – Includes titration, pH analysis, and chemical reactions.
Biology Lab (Microscopy & Microbiology Techniques)—Involves cell examination and microbial culture techniques.
Physics Lab (Basic Measurements & Applications)—Focuses on optics, mechanics, and electricity relevant to medical sciences.
100-Level Pharmacy Courses in Nigeria
First Semester Courses
- General Chemistry I
- Organic Chemistry I
- Biology I (Cell Biology & Genetics)
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Use of English I
- Introduction to Philosophy & Logic
- General Practical Techniques (Lab Work)
Second Semester Courses
- General Chemistry II
- Organic Chemistry II
- Biology II (Microbiology & Ecology)
- Physics
- Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Use of English II
- Introduction to Computer Science
Conclusion
The 100-level pharmacy courses provide a strong foundation in sciences and general knowledge.
Students must master these courses to excel in higher-level pharmacy subjects such as pharmacology, biochemistry, general medicine, anatomy, etc.
