If you’re planning to study Anatomy in a Nigerian university in 2026, let’s slow things down and talk properly. Not just “pick Biology, Chemistry, Physics and move on” — but why those subjects matter, what JAMB expects, and where many candidates quietly mess up every year.
This guide is written so you actually understand the choice, not just memorize it. Let’s get into it 🧠✨
What Is Anatomy (and Why JAMB Cares About Your Subjects)
Anatomy is the scientific study of the structure of the human body — bones, muscles, organs, tissues, and how everything fits together.
From day one in the university, you’ll deal with:
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Human biology
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Body systems
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Lab work and dissections
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Heavy medical terminology
So when Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board looks at your subject combination, they’re basically asking:
“Does this student have the science background to survive this course?”
That’s why Anatomy is treated as a medical/biological science course, not a general science or art course.
Before We List the Subjects (Read This First)
JAMB requires 4 subjects in total:
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Use of English (compulsory for everyone)
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Three other subjects related to Anatomy
However — and this is very important —
👉 Some subjects are core (non-negotiable)
👉 Others are optional (you choose based on preference or university flexibility)
Many students lose admission because they choose the wrong optional subject, not because they failed JAMB.
Let’s break it down carefully.
Core Subjects for Anatomy (You Must Have These)
These subjects are mandatory for Anatomy. No shortcuts.
✅ 1. Use of English (Compulsory)
This is required for all courses in JAMB, no matter what you want to study. No debate here.
✅ 2. Biology
This is the most important subject for Anatomy.
Why?
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Anatomy is built on biology
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You’ll study cells, tissues, organs, and systems
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Universities expect strong biological knowledge
If Biology is missing, Anatomy is off the table.
Supporting Core Science Subjects (Where Choices Begin)
After Biology, JAMB expects candidates to show they are science-ready. This is where Chemistry and Physics come in.
✅ 3. Chemistry (Core)
Chemistry supports:
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Biochemical processes in the body
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Reactions happening in cells
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Understanding drugs, enzymes, and metabolism
Most universities strongly prefer Chemistry for Anatomy.
So at this point, your solid core looks like:
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
You now need one more subject to complete the four.
Optional Subject(s) for Anatomy (Choose Wisely)
This is where many candidates panic — but relax, you actually have options.
🔹 Option 1: Physics (Most Recommended)
Physics helps with:
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Medical imaging basics
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Understanding body mechanics
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Lab instruments and measurements
Many universities prefer or expect Physics, even if they don’t always say it loudly.
👉 If you have Physics, choose it.
🔹 Option 2: Mathematics (Accepted by Some Schools)
Some universities accept Mathematics instead of Physics, especially if:
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Physics wasn’t offered at senior secondary level
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The candidate has strong Biology and Chemistry
However ⚠️:
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Math is less preferred than Physics
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Always confirm with your chosen university
✅ Final JAMB Subject Combination for Anatomy (2026)
Core Subjects (Must Have)
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
Optional Subject (Choose ONE)
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Physics ✅ (best choice)
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Mathematics ⚠️ (only if accepted by your institution)
👉 That makes 4 subjects in total, as required by JAMB.
Common Mistakes Anatomy Aspirants Make ❌
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Replacing Biology with Agricultural Science
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Choosing Geography or Economics
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Assuming all universities accept Mathematics equally
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Not checking school-specific requirements
Remember: High JAMB score + wrong subjects = no admission
Final Advice (From Someone Who’s Seen the Pattern)
If you’re serious about Anatomy:
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Stick to pure sciences
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Choose Physics if you can
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Don’t gamble with unrelated subjects
Anatomy is competitive, and subject combination is the first filter universities use.