Are you planning to study Public Administration in a Nigerian university?
If yes, one of the most important things you need to know is the correct JAMB subject combination. Choosing the wrong subjects during JAMB registration can stop you from gaining admission, even if you pass the exam.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn:
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Let’s dive in.
What Is Public Administration?
Public Administration is a course that teaches students how government institutions work and how policies are made and implemented.
It focuses on managing public agencies, delivering government services, and running administrative systems at federal, state, and local levels.
If you’re passionate about governance, leadership, development, and public service, this course could be a great fit for you.
Why Public Administration?
Here’s why many Nigerian students are choosing Public Administration:
- It’s a versatile course with career options in government, NGOs, and international organizations.
- It allows you to be part of decisions that impact people’s lives.
- You can work in sectors like policy analysis, project management, human resource management, and diplomacy.
Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Public Administration
The JAMB subject combination for Public Administration is as follows:
- Use of English (Compulsory for all candidates)
- Government
- Economics
- Any other Social Science subject – e.g., Commerce, Geography, Civic Education, or Mathematics
Note: Government is very important for this course, as it forms the foundation of Public Administration.
Recommended Subject Combinations (Examples)
| Subject 1 | Subject 2 | Subject 3 | Subject 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Use of English | Government | Economics | Commerce |
| Use of English | Government | Economics | Geography |
| Use of English | Government | Economics | Mathematics (optional) |
WAEC/O’Level Requirements for Public Administration
To study Public Administration, you need at least five (5) O’Level credits, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Government or Civic Education
- Economics
- One other relevant subject – e.g., Commerce, Geography, CRS/IRS, or Literature-in-English
Important: These credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, GCE, NABTEB).
Direct Entry Requirements for Public Administration
If you’re applying through Direct Entry (DE), here are the requirements:
- Two (2) A-Level passes in Government and any one of Economics, History, or Geography.
- Or, a National Diploma (ND) or NCE in Public Administration, Political Science, or any related course with at least a Lower Credit.
List of Universities That Offer Public Administration in Nigeria
Here are some popular Nigerian universities that offer Public Administration:
Federal Universities:
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
State Universities:
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
Private Universities:
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Bowen University
- Caleb University
- Lead City University
Top Careers You Can Pursue with a Degree in Public Administration
With a degree in Public Administration, you’re not limited to government jobs alone. Here are some exciting career paths:
| Job Title | Sector |
|---|---|
| Civil Servant | Government Agencies |
| Policy Analyst | Think Tanks, NGOs |
| Local Government Officer | Public Sector |
| Human Resource Manager | Public/Private Organizations |
| Administrative Officer | Ministries, NGOs |
| Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer | Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
| Project Manager | Development Organizations |
| Budget Analyst | Finance Departments |
JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Public Administration
The JAMB cut-off mark depends on the university. However, the general benchmark is:
- Minimum Cut-off: 180
- Top Universities: May require 200 – 250+
Always check the school’s departmental cut-off for accuracy.
Tips to Gain Admission into Public Administration
- Choose the Right Subjects:
Follow the JAMB and WAEC requirements strictly. - Score High in JAMB and Post-UTME:
Aim for 250 and above to increase your chances, especially for competitive universities. - Stay Updated on Admission News:
Monitor the official website of your chosen school or JAMB portal. - Prepare Your O’Level Result on Time:
Make sure your WAEC/NECO/GCE results are available before post-UTME. - Consider Alternative Entry:
If JAMB fails, consider JUPEB, IJMB, or ND/NCE and apply via Direct Entry later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I study Public Administration without Government in JAMB?
No. Government is a core subject for Public Administration. It’s required both in JAMB and in O’Level.
2. What is the duration of Public Administration in university?
The course duration is 4 years under the UTME route and 3 years under the Direct Entry route.
3. Can a science student study Public Administration?
Yes, if you have the correct O’Level subjects (like Government, English, Economics). But you’ll still need to switch to an art or social science background.
4. Is Public Administration a good course in Nigeria?
Absolutely. It has many job opportunities in both public and private sectors, especially in administrative and policy-related roles.