JAMB Subject Combination for Marine Science in 2026

If you’re eyeing Marine Science for 2026 and you don’t want JAMB to humble you later, let’s slow down and do this properly.
This is one of those courses where one wrong subject can quietly ruin your admission chances — even with a good UTME score.

So before we jump into the final subject combination, let’s first understand what Marine Science really is, why JAMB is strict about it, and how universities decide what they accept.

What Is Marine Science (and Why JAMB Cares So Much)?

Marine Science is all about studying oceans, seas, coastal environments, and marine life. Think:

• Ocean ecosystems 🌊

• Marine organisms 🐟

• Coastal erosion & climate change

• Water chemistry and marine pollution

Because of this heavy science + environment focus, JAMB expects candidates to have a solid science background. That’s why the subject combination is not random — it’s intentional.

This is also why Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board aligns Marine Science closely with Biology, Chemistry, and other physical sciences.

Why You Must Understand “Core” vs “Optional” Subjects

For JAMB:

• You must register 4 subjects

• Use of English is compulsory

• The remaining 3 subjects are split into:

  • Core subjects (non-negotiable)

  • Optional subjects (you choose based on what your preferred institution accepts)

Marine Science is one of those courses where you don’t get full freedom — but you do get choices.

Core Subjects for Marine Science (Mandatory)

These subjects are the backbone of Marine Science.
Without them, most universities won’t even consider you.

✅ Core Subjects:

1. Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)

2. Biology

3. Chemistry

Why these?

• Biology → marine organisms, ecosystems, life processes

• Chemistry → water composition, salinity, pollution, ocean chemistry

These three are non-negotiable.
Now, this is where JAMB gives you some flexibility 👇

Optional Subjects for Marine Science (Choose ONE)

You only need one more subject to complete the required four.
JAMB allows candidates to choose based on university preference.

🔁 Approved Optional Subjects:

• Physics

• Geography

• Mathematics

How to choose wisely:

• Physics → best if your school emphasizes ocean physics, tides, and waves

• Geography → great for coastal studies, climate, and environmental analysis

• Mathematics → accepted by some institutions, especially science-oriented universities

💡 Pro tip:
If you’re unsure, Physics is the safest bet across most universities.

Final JAMB Subject Combination for Marine Science (2026)

After all the explanations, here’s the clean, correct combo 👇

✅ JAMB Subject Combination for Marine Science:

• Use of English

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics OR Geography OR Mathematics

That’s it.
Four subjects. No guesswork. No vibes-based selection.

Common Mistakes Candidates Make (Please Don’t Be That Person)

• ❌ Replacing Biology with Agricultural Science

• ❌ Choosing Economics or Government

• ❌ Assuming “any science subject” works

• ❌ Not checking university-specific requirements

Marine Science is science-heavy. JAMB does not play here.

Final Advice (Real Talk)

If Marine Science is your dream:

• Stick to the core subjects

• Pick your optional subject strategically

• Always cross-check with the JAMB brochure and your chosen institution

Do this right once, and future-you will thank you.