If you’re thinking about studying Pharmacology in Nigeria, then that is a fantastic choice! Pharmacology is all about exploring how drugs work in the body, why they’re effective, and how to use them safely to treat different diseases. To get into a Pharmacology programme, you’ll need to pick the right JAMB subjects.
Pharmacology is a specialized discipline within medical and biological sciences, and only select universities are accredited to run it at the undergraduate level. So, don’t worry, this article will guide you, showing you the JAMB subject combination for Pharmacology and other requirements needed to stand a chance of gaining admission to study Pharmacology.
JAMB Subject Combination for Pharmacology 2026/2027
You must register for these 4 subjects in JAMB:
- Use of English (compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Tip: A competitive score is typically 250+, depending on your chosen university. Let’s also take a look at the O’level requirements to study Pharmacology in the 2026/2027 admission process.
O’Level Requirements for Pharmacology
You need five (5) credit passes obtained in not more than two sittings in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Direct Entry requirements for Pharmacology
If you’re applying via Direct Entry, you’ll need both the UTME/O’Level requirements plus one of the following:
- A-Level passes (minimum two) in:
- Biology or Zoology, Chemistry, and Physics
- ND / HND in relevant science/health courses (Science Lab Tech, Biochemistry, etc.), usually Upper Credit or Merit, plus the O’Level credits
- Some universities also accept NCE, JUPEB, or IJMB in the relevant science subjects
Cut-off Score Mark Guidelines for Pharmacology
The JAMB cut-off for Pharmacology is often set around 250, though the national minimum may be lower (180–200), it now depends on your choice of institution to set their cut-off for pharmacology.
Post-UTME cut-offs vary for different institutions therefore, check your targeted university’s latest brochure.
List of Universities That Offer Pharmacology in 2026
Before choosing Pharmacology as a course of study, it’s important to know which universities in Nigeria actually offer it and not just under Pharmacy or Biochemistry. Whether you’re applying through UTME or Direct Entry, having this information early will help you focus your preparation and avoid costly application mistakes.
Federal Universities That Offer Pharmacology
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU, Ile‑Ife)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU, Zaria)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
State Universities That Offer Pharmacology
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU)
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
Private Universities That Offer Pharmacology
- Covenant University
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- Babcock University
- Bowen University
- Madonna University (Elele campus)
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- PAMO University of Medical Sciences (Port Harcourt)
- Bingham University (Nasarawa State)
Conclusion
Choosing Pharmacology as a course of study opens doors to a career that directly impacts health care, drug development, and scientific research. However, your success begins with selecting the right institution and understanding the correct subject combinations and entry paths. The universities listed above are properly accredited and officially offer B.Sc. Pharmacology, ensuring you apply under the right faculty and gain access to relevant laboratories, up-to-date curricula, and credible qualifications.
FAQs About Studying Pharmacology in Nigeria
1. What is the difference between Pharmacy and Pharmacology?
Pharmacy is the profession of preparing and dispensing medications. Pharmacology is the science that studies how drugs interact with the body. Pharmacologists typically work in research, biotech, or academia.
2. What is the JAMB subject combination for Pharmacology?
English Language, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics are the correct JAMB subjects.
3. What O’Level subjects do I need for Pharmacology?
You need 5 credit passes in: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (in not more than 2 sittings).
4. Can I use Agricultural Science instead of Biology?
No. For Pharmacology, Biology is compulsory and cannot be replaced by Agricultural Science.
5. What UTME score do I need to study Pharmacology?
Aim for at least 250+, though some private or state universities may accept slightly lower scores.
6. Do I need to write Post-UTME?
Yes, most universities conduct Post-UTME or screening exercises. Check your chosen university’s policy.
7. Can I gain admission through Direct Entry?
Yes. You’ll need A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, or an ND/HND in related science fields.
8. Can I combine WAEC and NECO results?
Yes, most universities accept a combination of results as long as the five core subjects are present.
9. Is Pharmacology offered in all universities that offer Pharmacy?
No. Not all universities that offer Pharmacy have a standalone B.Sc. in Pharmacology. Always confirm.
10. Is Pharmacology a professional or academic course?
It is an academic science degree, not a licensed profession like Pharmacy. It leads to careers in research, toxicology, drug development, and teaching.
11. Are there job opportunities for Pharmacology graduates in Nigeria?
Yes. Opportunities exist in pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, regulatory bodies (like NAFDAC), hospitals, and academia.
12. Can Pharmacology graduates proceed to study Medicine or Pharmacy later?
Yes, especially through graduate entry or conversion programs, depending on your university and grades.
13. Can I study Pharmacology without Physics?
No. Physics is required in both O’Level and UTME for Pharmacology.
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