Are you a student in Nigeria who’s been struggling to get admitted into your dream university? Well, we’ve got good news for you! There are plenty of low competitive courses that can offer you a great chance of securing admission while still pursuing your passions.
As a student in Nigeria, getting admitted into your desired university can be a challenging and competitive process. However, you don’t have to give up on your dreams just yet.
While popular courses like Medicine and Law may have limited admission slots, there are other equally exciting and rewarding courses that are less competitive. In fact, these courses may just be the perfect fit for you!
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 10 low competitive courses in Nigeria. You will also learn about their JAMB cut-off mark and why they may be a good option for you.
Top 10 Low Competive Courses in Nigeria
1. Agricultural Science
JAMB Cut-off mark: 160 – 200
This is one of the most underrated courses in the Nigerian education system. Although it has a significantly low UTME cut-off mark of 160, it has very few applicants each year.
However, Agriculture is a vital sector of the Nigerian economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and providing employment for millions of people.
Graduates of agricultural science have opportunities to work in various industries, including agribusiness, food processing, research, and development, and also have the option to start their own agricultural ventures.
With the current drive to diversify the Nigerian economy and increase food security, there is a high demand for skilled professionals in agriculture, making agricultural science a lucrative course to study.
2. Religion Studies
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 160 – 180
It is quite ironic that despite Nigeria being one of the most religious countries in the world, many Nigerian students do not see the value in studying religion as an academic discipline. As a result, courses like CRS and IRK are some of the least competitive courses in Nigerian universities with very low cut-off marks.
However, it can be a valuable course of study for those interested in understanding the role of religion in Nigerian society, history, and culture, as well as for those interested in pursuing careers in related fields such as teaching, research, or social work.
Studying religious studies can also develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills that are valuable in a range of careers.
3. Language Courses
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 160 – 180
Language courses like Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo are lucrative in Nigeria because they offer unique skills that are in high demand in various sectors. These skills include translation, interpretation, cultural preservation, and communication, which are critical in government, business, education, media, and other sectors.
In addition, these courses offer opportunities for graduates to work as language teachers, researchers, writers, or consultants, and to contribute to the promotion and preservation of Nigerian culture and heritage.
4. Education courses
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 160 – 180
Education courses are often considered underrated in Nigeria because they are perceived as being less competitive and having limited job opportunities compared to other popular courses like medicine, engineering, or law. This perception is often fueled by societal pressure and the belief that certain courses are more prestigious and lucrative than others.
Meanwhile, education courses provide graduates with the skills and knowledge to become educators, trainers, administrators, and policymakers in the education sector.
Graduates of education courses can find employment in schools, colleges, universities, government agencies, NGOs, and other related organizations. Additionally, education courses provide a foundation for further studies and professional development in related fields.
5. History
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150 – 180
History provides a critical understanding of the past and helps individuals to understand the present and prepare for the future. It is also an interdisciplinary field that combines social sciences and humanities, making it applicable in various fields.
Unfortunately, many Nigerian students tend to overlook history as a course of study due to misconceptions about its career prospects and perceived difficulty in finding employment after graduation.
Graduates of history can work in sectors such as education, research, media, public administration, and many others. The knowledge and skills gained from studying history, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and research, are highly valued in many industries. Additionally, there is a growing demand for historians in Nigeria, particularly in areas such as cultural heritage preservation and tourism development.
6. Geography
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 160 – 180
The lack of awareness about the importance of geography as a discipline and the career opportunities it offers has led to fewer students choosing it as a course of study. Additionally, geography is sometimes seen as a course that does not lead to high-paying jobs or prestigious careers.
Graduates of Geography can work in fields such as environmental management, urban planning, natural resource management, and disaster management. Additionally, the course equips students with skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in the job market.
7. Creative Arts
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 150 – 180
There is a popular perception that Creative Arts does not lead to lucrative job opportunities or secure careers. However, creative arts is a valuable and diverse field that encompasses disciplines such as visual arts, music, drama, and literature. It offers students the opportunity to develop their creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills, which are essential for success in any field.
Despite the challenges faced by graduates in the job market, pursuing a degree in creative arts can lead to fulfilling careers in areas such as advertising, publishing, media, entertainment, and many others. Graduates of creative arts can work as artists, designers, writers, performers, producers, directors, curators, etc.
8. Mathematics
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 160 – 180
Mathematics is one of the less competitive courses in Nigeria because many students do not see the practical applications of mathematics in the real world, and therefore do not consider it a viable option for a career.
Additionally, the difficulty of mathematics as a subject, and the stigma surrounding it as a course that only “geniuses” can pursue, deter many students from considering it.
Not to mention, the lack of awareness about the job opportunities available to graduates of mathematics, such as careers in finance, data science, and technology. Graduates with a degree in Mathematics have valuable skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis that are in high demand in these industries.
9. Radiography
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 280 – 300
Unlike every other course on this list, Radiography is a medical-related course with a very high cut-off mark yet a less competitive course.
On the flip side, only 7 universities in Nigeria are fully accredited to offer Radiography but the limited number of applicants makes admission somewhat easier when compared to other popular courses like Medicine, Law or Engineering.
Despite the limited number of universities in Nigeria offering Radiography, the demand for radiographers in the healthcare sector is on the rise. This presents lucrative career opportunities for graduates of radiography both in Nigeria and abroad.
10. Zoology
JAMB Cut-off Mark: 160 – 180
Despite the fact that Zoology plays a critical role in environmental conservation, animal welfare, and disease control, many students are not aware of the career opportunities and societal impact that studying Zoology can provide.
While it’s true that there may not be as many lucrative career paths in Nigeria for graduates of Zoology compared to some other fields like medicine or engineering, there are still plenty of career opportunities available. Graduates of Zoology can find employment in a variety of industries, such as environmental consulting, wildlife conservation, research institutions, government agencies, and educational institutions.
Benefits of Studying Low-Competitive Courses
Studying low-competitive courses in Nigeria offers several benefits to students. Here are some of the advantages of pursuing these courses:
- Greater chance of admission: Low competitive courses have fewer applicants, which means students have a higher chance of getting admitted compared to highly competitive courses. This can be especially beneficial for students who may not have scored as high on entrance exams or may not have the financial resources to compete for highly competitive courses.
- Opportunity to specialize in high-demand fields: Many low competitive courses are in fields that are in high demand in the job market. By pursuing these courses, students can develop specialized skills and knowledge that can lead to lucrative and fulfilling careers. For example, courses in agricultural science, environmental science, and information science are all in high demand in Nigeria.
- Broaden knowledge and develop critical thinking skills: Low competitive courses often cover a wide range of topics, giving students the opportunity to explore different fields and develop a well-rounded education. These courses also often emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which can be applied in various fields and help students excel in their careers.
- Opportunity to make a difference: Many low-competitive courses are in fields that have the potential to make a positive impact on society. For example, courses in social work, education, and environmental science can all lead to careers that help improve people’s lives and protect the environment.
Conclusion
In a world where competition seems to be the norm, taking the road less travelled can sometimes lead to greater success. The same goes for choosing a course of study in Nigerian universities. While many students may be drawn to popular courses like medicine or engineering, there are plenty of low-competitive courses that can offer equally fulfilling and rewarding careers.
Whether you have a passion for languages, the arts, or the environment, there is a low competitive course out there for you. By choosing one of these courses, you may not only increase your chances of admission but also discover a new world of knowledge and possibilities.
So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore the many low competitive courses available in Nigerian universities. Who knows, you may just find your calling in a field you never considered before.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about low competitive courses in Nigerian universities:
What are low competitive courses?
Low competitive courses are degree programs in Nigerian universities that have a lower number of applicants and admission requirements compared to other popular courses like medicine, law or engineering. These courses often have fewer applicants and lower cut-off marks, making them easier to get into.
Why should I consider studying a low competitive course?
Studying a low competitive course can offer several benefits, including increased chances of admission, specialized knowledge in a particular field, and career opportunities in industries that may be in high demand.
Will studying a low competitive course affect my career prospects?
No. Studying a low competitive course does not necessarily limit your career prospects. Graduates of low competitive courses have the same opportunities to secure jobs and build successful careers as graduates of other courses.
What are some examples of low competitive courses in Nigerian universities?
Some examples of low competitive courses in Nigerian universities include Agricultural Science, Languages, Creative Arts, History, and Religion Studies.
Is it true that low competitive courses are not as important as popular courses?
No. Low competitive courses are just as important as popular courses. They offer unique and specialized knowledge that can be applied in various fields, and they contribute to the overall development of the society.
Will studying a low competitive course affect my chances of getting a job?
No. The job market in Nigeria is diverse and has a range of opportunities for graduates of low competitive courses. Graduates of these courses can apply for jobs in sectors such as education, media, public administration, and many others.
Can I change my course of study from a low competitive course to a popular course?
Yes, it is possible to change your course of study from a low competitive course to a popular course. However, this may require additional effort and resources, such as meeting the admission requirements for the new course and possibly starting from a lower level.
Are low competitive courses easier than popular courses?
No, low competitive courses are not necessarily easier than popular courses. Each course of study has its own challenges and demands, and success in any course requires hard work, dedication, and commitment.
Can I pursue further studies with a degree in a low competitive course?
Yes, you can pursue further studies with a degree in a low competitive course. Graduates of these courses can apply for postgraduate programs, such as masters or PhDs, in their field of study or related fields.
