Choosing the best science courses to study in Nigeria has become more important than ever as industries shift toward technology, research, data-driven decision-making and innovation.
Whether you want a course that guarantees employability, high earning potential or global career opportunities, the Nigerian science education landscape in 2026 offers options that stand out.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the top 10 science courses to study in Nigeria, their job opportunities, skills required, salary expectations and why they remain some of the most marketable science programmes in the country.
If you’re planning for JAMB, switching careers or helping someone decide, this guide gives you clarity and direction.
Why Study a Science Course in Nigeria in 2026
Science drives innovation and is at the centre of nearly every industry.
In Nigeria today, graduates in science-related fields enjoy improved job opportunities, access to global roles, freelance opportunities and government and private sector recruitment.
Benefits of Studying a Science Course in Nigeria
- Wide range of high-paying career paths
- Global mobility due to internationally recognised degrees
- Opportunities in research, industry, technology, healthcare and academia
- Increased demand due to digital transformation across sectors
- Strong relevance in both government and private organisations
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Science Course in Nigeria
Selecting a science course shouldn’t be based on passion alone. You should also evaluate job demand, skills required, future trends and your long-term career goals.
Key Factors
- Employment rate for graduates
- Salary potential locally and internationally
- Your core strengths (maths, analytics, research, problem-solving)
- University accreditation and facilities
- Professional certifications available
- Global relevance of the course
Top 10 Science Courses to Study in Nigeria 2026
Below are the most marketable, in-demand and profitable science courses in Nigerian universities in 2026.
1. Medicine and Surgery
Medicine and Surgery consistently ranks as one of the best science courses to study in Nigeria because of its prestige, clear career path and high earning potential.
Why It Is Highly Valuable
Healthcare professionals are always in demand globally.
Nigerian-trained doctors have strong opportunities within Nigeria and abroad, especially in countries like the UK, Canada, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Core Subjects You’ll Study
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
- Surgery
- Community Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Career Opportunities
- Medical Doctor
- Surgeon
- Consultant Physician
- Medical Researcher
- Public Health Specialist
- Hospital Administrator
Salary Expectations
Doctors in Nigeria earn between ₦250,000 and ₦1.5 million monthly depending on hospital type, specialty and years of experience. Abroad, opportunities are significantly more lucrative.
2. Computer Science
Computer Science is one of the most profitable and versatile science courses to study in Nigeria. The digital economy continues to dominate the job market, offering abundant local and global roles.
Why Computer Science Remains Top-Rated
- High demand in tech companies
- Multiple freelancing paths
- Remote job opportunities
- Easy access to certifications and global jobs
Core Courses You’ll Study
- Programming
- Web Development
- Data Structures
- Artificial Intelligence
- Operating Systems
- Cybersecurity
- Software Engineering
Career Opportunities
- Software Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Engineer
- Mobile App Developer
Salary Expectations
Tech professionals earn ₦300,000 to ₦2 million+ monthly depending on expertise. Remote roles attract dollar earnings.
SEE ALSO: Top Best Companies Hiring Data Analysts in Nigeria 2026
3. Nursing Science
Nursing Science has become one of the fastest-growing science courses to study in Nigeria due to global demand. Nurses are highly employable, mobile and in demand across multiple healthcare systems.
Why Nursing Science Is Highly Marketable
- Shorter training duration compared to Medicine
- International employment pathways like NCLEX and UK NMC
- High employability within all types of hospitals
Core Courses in Nursing
- Human Anatomy
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Ethics
- Public Health Nursing
- Midwifery
Career Opportunities
- Registered Nurse
- Midwife
- Critical Care Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
- Nursing Educator
- Geriatric Nurse
Salary Potential
Registered nurses in Nigeria earn between ₦150,000 and ₦600,000 monthly. International placements offer salaries around $3,000 to $7,000 monthly.
4. Pharmacy
Pharmacy is a highly respected science course in Nigeria, offering stable employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Why Pharmacy Is a Top Choice
- Opportunity to run your own pharmacy
- Reliable job placement in healthcare settings
- International job pathways
- Strong demand in research and biotech
Courses You Will Study
- Pharmacognosy
- Biopharmaceutics
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology
Career Opportunities
- Pharmacist
- Clinical Pharmacologist
- Industrial Pharmacist
- Regulatory Affairs Officer
- Pharmaceutical Sales Rep
Salary Expectations
Pharmacists earn ₦200,000 to ₦900,000 monthly, with additional revenue from owning a community pharmacy.
5. Medical Laboratory Science
Medical Laboratory Science is one of the most scientifically intensive and rewarding science courses to study in Nigeria. It plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases and supporting medical decision-making.
Why It Is in High Demand
- Nigeria’s healthcare sector needs more lab scientists
- Vital role in disease surveillance
- Strong international mobility
Core Course Areas
- Clinical Chemistry
- Haematology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Histopathology
Career Opportunities
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Public Health Analyst
- Diagnostic Specialist
- Research Scientist
- Forensic Analyst
Salary Potential
Lab scientists earn ₦150,000 to ₦600,000 monthly in Nigeria, with opportunities abroad for higher pay.
6. Biochemistry
Biochemistry is among the most versatile science courses to study in Nigeria, blending chemistry, biology and research. It opens doors to multiple industries beyond healthcare.
Why Biochemistry Is Highly Valuable
- Relevant in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, cosmetics and research
- Strong demand in biotech and food processing industries
- Foundation for advanced studies like Medicine, Biotechnology or Pharmacology
Areas of Study
- Molecular Biology
- Enzymology
- Genetics
- Metabolism
- Biotechnology
Career Opportunities
- Biochemist
- Quality Control Analyst
- Research Scientist
- Food Technologist
- Clinical Research Associate
Salary Insight
Biochemists earn around ₦120,000 to ₦500,000 monthly, depending on the employer.
7. Microbiology
Microbiology remains a strong science course due to its relevance in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food production, research and environmental science.
Why Microbiology Is Marketable
- Wide job market
- Critical in infection control
- Relevant in manufacturing and quality assurance
What You’ll Study
- Microbial Physiology
- Environmental Microbiology
- Virology
- Immunology
- Industrial Microbiology
Career Opportunities
- Microbiologist
- Quality Assurance Officer
- Environmental Health Practitioner
- Medical Microbiologist
- Research Assistant
Salary Potential
Entry-level salaries range between ₦100,000 and ₦400,000 monthly.
8. Engineering Courses (Chemical, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
Engineering remains one of the most competitive science-related fields in Nigeria, offering high employability and diverse career paths.
Why Engineering Remains Top-Ranked
- Strong demand in oil and gas
- Opportunities in construction and manufacturing
- High salaries
- Global relevance
Major Engineering Disciplines
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
Career Opportunities
- Project Engineer
- Maintenance Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Construction Specialist
- Power Systems Engineer
Salary Range
Engineers earn ₦250,000 to ₦1.5 million monthly depending on industry and skill level.
9. Architecture
Architecture is a professional science-based course that blends creativity, mathematics, physics and environmental science. It remains one of the most respected programmes in Nigerian universities.
Why Study Architecture
- High demand in urban development
- Lucrative freelance and consultancy opportunities
- Ability to start your own firm
Course Modules
- Building Construction
- Environmental Design
- Structural Systems
- Urban Planning
- Architectural Rendering
Career Opportunities
- Architect
- Building Consultant
- Urban Designer
- Interior Designer
- Project Manager
Salary Expectations
Architects earn ₦200,000 to ₦1 million monthly, with additional income from private projects.
10. Agricultural Science
Agricultural Science remains one of the most important science courses to study in Nigeria, especially with the renewed national focus on food security, agribusiness and export farming.
Why Agriculture Is a Profitable Science Course
- Huge government investment
- Opportunities in agritech
- Growing demand for food scientists and agricultural engineers
- Access to grants, loans and international funding
Course Areas
- Soil Science
- Crop Production
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Economics
- Extension Services
Career Opportunities
- Agricultural Scientist
- Farm Manager
- Agribusiness Consultant
- Food Safety Expert
- Agricultural Researcher
Salary Range
Agricultural professionals earn ₦120,000 to ₦700,000 monthly, depending on speciality and employer.
Other Highly Marketable Science Courses in Nigeria
These courses also remain strong options in 2026:
Popular Alternatives
- Public Health Science
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Environmental Science
- Geology
- Radiography
- Optometry
- Physiology
- Anatomy
- Biomedical Engineering
Best Universities to Study Science Courses in Nigeria
Selecting the right institution is just as important as selecting the right course.
Top Universities for Science Courses
- University of Lagos
- University of Ibadan
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Ilorin
- Federal University of Technology Akure
These institutions are known for strong science faculties, experienced lecturers, research output and industry partnerships.
How to Choose the Best Science Course for Your Future
Below are practical steps to guide your decision-making process.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Understand your strengths and interests
- Research job opportunities for each course
- Consider global opportunities
- Check admission requirements
- Evaluate the competitiveness of your desired university
- Think long-term, not just short-term gains
Final Thoughts on Science Courses to Study in Nigeria
These top 10 science courses to study in Nigeria provide strong career opportunities, global relevance and high earning potential in 2026 and beyond.
Whether your goal is to work in healthcare, technology, engineering, research or agriculture, choosing one of these programmes positions you for a successful future.
If you’re serious about building a high-income science career in Nigeria, start by identifying your strengths, choosing the right university and planning your career path early.
