JAMB Subject Combination For Archaeology 2026/2027

JAMB Subject Combination For Archaeology | Have you ever wondered how ancient civilizations lived, what they believed, and what secrets their artefacts still hold? If you’re fascinated by history, culture, and uncovering the past, then Archaeology might be your perfect course of study.

But before you grab your trowel and start unearthing secrets, there’s one important step you must get right, which is knowing your JAMB subject combination. Unfortunately, many smart students lose their admission chances each year because they selected the wrong subjects for their desired course.

That’s why this guide was created to help you avoid mistakes and prepare properly for the 2026/2027 UTME if Archaeology is your dream course. This page has everything you need to get started.

Table of Contents

JAMB Subject Combination for Archaeology 2026/2027

To study Archaeology in any accredited Nigerian university through JAMB UTME, you are required to select four (4) relevant subjects:

English Language (Compulsory for all candidates)
History or Government
Any two of the following:
- Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Studies (IRS)
- Geography
- Literature in English
- Economics
- Fine Arts
- Biology

What is Archaeology?

Archaeology is the course that studies how people lived in the past by digging up and studying things they left behind like old houses, tools, bones, pots, and other ancient objects. If you’re curious about human history, old cultures, or how people lived thousands of years ago, Archaeology is the course that lets you explore all that while turning your love for history into a real career.

Why Study Archaeology?

Studying Archaeology helps you understand how people lived long before our time, how they built their homes, what they ate, what they believed in, and how their cultures shaped the world we live in today. If you’re someone who enjoys History, Literature, Civic Education, or even Geography, then Archaeology combines all of that in a practical and exciting way.

JAMB Cut-off Mark for Archaeology 2026/2027

The general JAMB cut-off mark for admission into any Nigerian university is 150, as set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). However, for a specialized and academic course like Archaeology, most universities set their own departmental cut-off marks higher, typically ranging between 160 and 180.

For instance, institutions like the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria often require a minimum of 180 to consider candidates for Archaeology.

At more competitive universities such as the University of Ibadan (UI), the departmental cut-off for courses in the arts and social sciences including Archaeology may go as high as 200 or above.

This means that while 150 might technically qualify you for screening, scoring 180 and above significantly improves your chances, especially in schools where demand is high. In addition, some universities combine JAMB scores with Post-UTME or screening results, so aiming for a strong UTME performance is your best strategy.

In summary, to secure a spot in a reputable university for Archaeology, it’s advisable to target a JAMB score of at least 180–200, depending on the school of your choice.

O’Level Requirements for Archaeology 2026/2027

English Language (Compulsory)
Mathematics
History or Government
Any two (2) of the following:
- Literature in English
- Geography
- Religious Studies (CRS or IRS)
- Biology
- Economics
- Civic Education
- Fine Arts

Direct Entry Requirements for Archaeology 2026/2027

You must possess any one of the following qualifications:

Two (2) A-Level passes in relevant subjects such as:

History
Government
Religious Studies (CRS/IRS)
Literature in English
Geography
Economics

NCE (National Certificate in Education) with at least Merit in subjects related to:

History
Social Studies
Religious Studies
Cultural Studies
Civic Education
Education (Arts/Social Sciences)

ND (National Diploma) with at least Lower Credit in:

Social Studies
Cultural and Heritage Studies
Tourism Studies
Museum & Heritage Studies
Public Administration
Other related Art or Social Science programs

IJMB / JUPEB passes in three relevant subjects.

Conclusion

While every university has its unique admission process, the core requirement remains the same, which is relevant qualifications, solid O’Level results, and a genuine interest in the course. Always check with your preferred institutions and stay updated with the latest JAMB brochure and university websites.

In the end, choosing Archaeology isn’t just about earning a degree. It’s about discovering the past to better understand the present and future. If you’re passionate about history, research, and heritage, this is your chance to build a career that truly makes a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the correct JAMB subject combination for Archaeology?

Answer: The required UTME subjects are:

English Language (compulsory),
History or Government, and
Any two of the following: Literature in English, CRS/IRS, Geography, Economics, or Fine Arts.

2. Can I study Archaeology without History in my JAMB combination?

Answer: While History is highly preferred, some universities may accept Government as a substitute. However, it’s best to include History to increase your chances of admission.

3. Is Mathematics compulsory in the JAMB combination for Archaeology?

Answer: No, Mathematics is not required in JAMB for Archaeology, but it is usually required as an O’Level subject.

4. What O’Level subjects do I need for Archaeology?

Answer: You need 5 credit passes in:
English Language,
Mathematics,
History or Government,
and two other subjects like CRS, Literature, or Geography.

5. Can I apply for Archaeology through Direct Entry?

Answer: Yes. You can apply with A-Level, NCE, ND, or IJMB qualifications in related Art or Social Science subjects like History, Religious Studies, or Social Studies.

6. What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Archaeology?

Answer: The general minimum is 140, but most universities require 180 or above. Top institutions like UNN or UI may ask for 200+ depending on competition and capacity.

7. Which Nigerian universities offer Archaeology?

Answer: Some top universities offering Archaeology include:

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
University of Ibadan (UI)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
University of Jos (UNIJOS)

Always check the official JAMB brochure for the full and updated list.