The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a leading institution in open and distance learning (ODL) in Nigeria. Established to provide flexible and accessible education to Nigerians, NOUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university operates through various study centers across Nigeria, making education more inclusive and convenient for working professionals, stay-at-home parents, and individuals in remote areas.
Faculties and Courses Offered at NOUN
1. Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
This faculty equips students with the necessary skills to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. The courses include:
- Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
- Agricultural Science
- Animal Science and Fisheries
2. Faculty of Arts
The Faculty of Arts at NOUN focuses on the humanities and social sciences. Some of the major programs include:
- English Language
- French
- Christian Religious Studies
- Islamic Studies
3. Faculty of Education
This faculty offers various education-related courses designed to produce skilled educators and administrators. Programs include:
- Early Childhood Education
- Science Education
- Educational Technology
- Guidance and Counselling
- Mathematics Education
- Business Education
4. Faculty of Health Sciences
For students interested in healthcare, NOUN offers the following programs:
- Nursing Science
- Public Health
5. Faculty of Law
The National Open University of Nigeria offers LL.B. (Bachelor of Laws) for students interested in legal studies and the justice system.
6. Faculty of Management Sciences
This faculty provides students with the skills needed to excel in business and management fields. The available programs include:
- Accounting
- Banking and Finance
- Business Administration
- Cooperative Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Marketing
- Public Administration
7. Faculty of Sciences
The Faculty of Sciences offers technologically inclined courses that prepare students for careers in scientific research and innovation. Programs include:
- Computer Science
- Environmental Science
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
8. Faculty of Social Sciences
The social sciences faculty covers courses related to human behavior, governance, and economics. Courses available include:
- Criminology and Security Studies
- Economics
- International Relations
- Mass Communication
- Peace and Conflict Resolution
- Political Science
Admission Requirements
To enroll in NOUN, students must meet the general admission requirements, which typically include:
- A minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English Language, for undergraduate programs.
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field for postgraduate programs.
- Direct Entry candidates must have at least two (2) A-level passes or an equivalent qualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is NOUN recognized by the Nigerian government?
Yes, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and recognized by the Nigerian government as a legitimate institution offering quality education.
Does NOUN require JAMB for admission?
No, NOUN does not require the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for admission. Interested applicants can apply directly through the university’s portal.
Can NOUN graduates participate in NYSC?
Yes, NOUN graduates are now eligible to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) after the government lifted restrictions on the university’s graduates in 2019. However, this applies to students below the age of 30 at the time of graduation.
How long does it take to complete a degree program at NOUN?
The duration of degree programs at NOUN varies depending on the course and mode of study. Generally, undergraduate programs take between four to six years, while postgraduate programs vary between one to three years, depending on the course of study.
Conclusion
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) remains a great option for students looking for a flexible and accessible higher education system. With a wide range of courses in different faculties, NOUN caters to various academic interests and professional fields. The university’s distance learning model, affordable fees, and government accreditation make it a viable choice for many Nigerians seeking tertiary education.
Also Read: List of Courses Offered in Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)