In recent years, the number of Nigerian students studying abroad has reached new heights. With the growing global demand for STEM professionals, it is no surprise that many Nigerian students are pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) overseas.
STEM covers various fields, from computer science to healthcare and medicine. With such vast options, deciding which subject to go for can be challenging.
If you're a Nigerian student considering a STEM degree abroad, we’re here to help. We’ve researched the most popular STEM subjects among Nigerian students and compiled a list to inspire and guide you on your academic journey.
Read on to discover which degrees are in demand and why they might be the right fit for you.
Table of contents:
Medicine
Medicine is a highly sought-after STEM field for Nigerian students aspiring to study abroad. It is one of the subjects most searched for by Nigeria-based users on Hotcourses Abroad. The rewarding journey of becoming a doctor has also attracted a significant number of queries on our platform, reflecting its popularity among Nigerian students.
Top universities and study destinations for medicine
United Kingdom
The UK is a favoured destination for Nigerian students interested in studying medicine, with top-tier universities like the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge and Imperial College London offering world-renowned medical programmes.
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) also provides excellent clinical exposure and career opportunities for medical students and graduates. In fact, according to NHS Digital, as of June 2023, nearly 23,000 NHS workers in England were Nigerian.
Australia
Universities like Monash University and the University of Sydney are globally recognised for their medical programmes and offer opportunities for students to engage with diverse patient populations in state-of-the-art medical facilities.
United States
Institutions such as Harvard Medical School and Johns Hopkins University are known for providing cutting-edge research and comprehensive training.
However, the United States generally requires students to have completed a pre-med undergraduate degree before applying to medical schools.
Entry requirements for Nigerian students
Medical degrees are highly competitive, and Nigerian students are usually required to meet the following criteria to gain admission:
Academic qualifications
You are required to have outstanding grades in science-related subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics at the secondary school level (A-level or WASSCE). Most universities will expect A or B grades in these subjects.
Entrance exams
Many universities require students to pass a medical entrance exam, such as the UK's UCAT and the USA's MCAT.
English proficiency
Nigerian students are required to prove their English proficiency by taking English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
In many cases, a WASSCE English Grade C or higher may be accepted in lieu of IELTS or TOEFL. Be sure to verify with specific institutions to confirm their English language requirements.
Interviews
Some universities may also require students to attend a structured interview to assess their communication skills, ethical judgment and motivation for pursuing medicine.
Career opportunities
A degree in medicine can open up plenty of career opportunities for Nigerian students. After completing medical school and the necessary licensing exams, you can become a doctor or GP.
You can also undergo additional training to specialise in fields such as surgery, paediatrics and cardiology.
For those interested in health at the community or national level, a career in public health or epidemiology offers the chance to shape healthcare policies and programmes.
Computer science
Computer science is another popular subject frequently searched for by our audience based in Nigeria on Hotcourses Abroad. As the world becomes increasingly digital, studying computer science offers dynamic, innovative career opportunities, from software development to artificial intelligence.
Top universities and study destinations for computer science
Canada
Canada boasts multiple universities known for their cutting-edge computer science courses, such as the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. These institutions are also located in cities with thriving tech scenes, for example, Toronto and Vancouver.
United Kingdom
Universities such as the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the University of Edinburgh are highly regarded for their computer science degrees and provide access to world-class research and innovation hubs.
United States
Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Carnegie Mellon University are top choices for computer science, offering excellent resources and close ties to the global tech industry.
Entry requirements for Nigerian students
To be eligible for a computer science degree, Nigerian students usually need to meet the following requirements:
Academic qualifications
You will need strong performance in subjects like mathematics, physics and computer science at the secondary school level (A-level/WASSCE/NECO SSCE). Most universities will expect high grades, especially in mathematics.
Entrance exams
Some institutions, especially those in the USA and the UK, may require specific entrance tests like the SAT exam.
English proficiency
Like applying to most international study programmes, Nigerian students may need to prove English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL unless the university accepts WASSCE English results.
Career opportunities
Computer science is your gateway to many exciting careers in industries that shape the future. With a degree in computer science, you can become a software developer, data scientist, cybersecurity engineer or AI specialist.
Architecture
With the global demand for sustainable and innovative infrastructure on the rise, it is no wonder that architecture is a popular subject among career-driven Nigerian students.
Top universities and study destinations for architecture
United Kingdom
Institutions such as University College London (UCL) and the Manchester School of Architecture offer top-notch architecture courses that combine world-class teaching with innovative research.
Australia
The University of Melbourne, RMIT University and the University of Sydney are known for their practical and forward-thinking approach to architecture, with strong links to industry and urban development projects.
Canada
You may consider the University of Toronto and McGill University, which provide excellent programmes in sustainable architecture and urban planning.
Entry requirements for Nigerian students
To gain admission into an architecture degree programme, you typically need to satisfy the following requirements:
Academic qualifications
You should have a strong background in mathematics, physics and art. Most universities will expect good grades in these subjects, as they are foundational to architecture studies.
Portfolio
Many architecture schools require applicants to submit a portfolio of design work or creative projects to showcase their artistic skills and vision.
English proficiency
Nigerian students may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL unless their WASSCE English results are accepted.
Career opportunities
A degree in architecture can pave the way for a variety of careers in both the private and public sectors.
You can become an architect who designs residential and commercial buildings, working with clients to create structures that meet aesthetic and functional needs.
You can also pursue a career in landscape architecture, focusing on designing outdoor spaces like parks, gardens and recreational areas.
Alternatively, an architecture degree allows you to become an urban planner who balances growth and sustainability while addressing environmental and social challenges.
Environmental science
Environmental science is an increasingly sought-after choice among Nigerian students, driven by the global need to address pressing issues like climate change, pollution and natural resource management.
This interdisciplinary field offers you the chance to work on solutions to some of the world’s most critical environmental challenges.
Top universities and study destinations for environmental science
United Kingdom
The University of East Anglia and the University of Exeter offer reputable environmental science programmes, with a strong focus on climate research and sustainability.
Australia
The Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Melbourne offer leading study programmes closely tied to environmental conservation and biodiversity.
Entry requirements for Nigerian students
To apply for a degree programme in environmental science, you will generally need strong performance in subjects such as biology, chemistry, geography and mathematics at the secondary school level (A-level/WASSCE/NECO SSCE).
Same as applying for other courses abroad, you may need to submit your IELTS or TOEFL scores, though some universities accept WASSCE English results.
Career opportunities
A degree in environmental science gives you plenty of career options. It equips you with the skills and knowledge to become an environmental consultant, advising businesses and governments on how to minimise their environmental impact.
If you're passionate about animals, you can consider becoming a conservation scientist who works to protect natural habitats and endangered species.
Alternatively, you can pursue a career as a sustainability manager or environmental policy analyst, helping businesses implement environmentally friendly practices and shaping environmental legislation and policies to promote sustainability.
Nursing
Nurses are among the most in-demand professionals in the world. A nursing degree can open up career prospects globally, offering a fulfilling opportunity to make a difference in others' lives. This is evident from the interest shown by many Nigerian students.
Top universities and study destinations for nursing
Canada
University of Toronto, McMaster University and the University of Alberta have comprehensive nursing programmes that strongly focus on healthcare innovation and patient care.
United Kingdom
Universities such as King’s College London and the University of Manchester offer top-rated nursing courses that combine classroom learning with practical experience in some of the UK’s best healthcare facilities.
Australia
The University of Sydney, Monash University and the University of Melbourne are reputed for their nursing programmes, providing students with advanced healthcare training and excellent clinical placement opportunities.
Entry requirements for Nigerian students
You are usually expected to have strong results in biology, chemistry and health science in your WASSCE/NECO SSCE or equivalent qualifications.
The English language requirements for nursing degrees are often higher: you may need to achieve an IELTS overall score of 7.0 or equivalent to be eligible for a nursing course.
Career opportunities
With a nursing degree, you can pursue a career as a registered nurse, providing direct patient care in hospitals, clinics or community health settings. You can also pursue further studies to become a nurse practitioner, taking on advanced roles in diagnostics and patient management.
If you prefer working with a community rather than individual patients, consider becoming a public health nurse. You will be responsible for promoting health and preventing diseases within communities.
Feeling inspired by our list of the most popular STEM degrees for Nigerian students? If you're ready to explore your options for studying abroad, use our course search tool below to discover a wide range of STEM programmes and institutions tailored to your interests.
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