If you’re aiming for Naval Architecture in 2026, let’s slow things down a bit — because this is one of those courses where one wrong subject can quietly ruin everything, even if your JAMB score is solid.
Naval Architecture is not just about ships. It blends engineering, physics, mathematics, and applied design. Universities offering this course expect candidates to already be strong in technical subjects, and JAMB reflects that expectation clearly in its subject requirements.
Before we even list subjects, it’s important to understand how JAMB subject combinations actually work.
How JAMB Subject Combination Really Works (Quick Reality Check)
For JAMB UTME:
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You must register 4 subjects
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Use of English is compulsory for everyone
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The remaining 3 subjects must align strictly with your course
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Some courses have core subjects (non-negotiable)
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Others allow optional subjects, where JAMB lets you choose one from a list
Naval Architecture falls into the category where:
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There are strong core subjects
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And limited optional flexibility, depending on the institution
That’s why guessing or copying what worked for another course like Mechanical Engineering can backfire.
Why Naval Architecture Has Strict Subject Rules
Naval Architecture deals with:
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Ship design and stability
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Marine structures
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Hydrodynamics
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Materials and strength of structures
Because of this, universities expect students to already be comfortable with:
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Advanced calculations
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Physical forces and motion
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Engineering principles
So JAMB prioritizes subjects that test those skills.
Core Subjects for Naval Architecture (Non-Negotiable)
These subjects are considered core. If you miss any of them, most universities will not consider you — no appeal, no correction later.
The core subjects are:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
These three must appear in your JAMB registration. They are mandatory across virtually all institutions offering Naval Architecture.
Mathematics handles calculations and structural analysis.
Physics covers mechanics, motion, and energy — all critical in ship design.
No shortcuts here.
The Fourth Subject: Where Options Come In
This is where many candidates get confused.
For Naval Architecture, JAMB allows one additional science-based subject, but institutions may differ slightly in what they accept.
Accepted optional subjects usually include:
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Chemistry
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Further Mathematics
Some universities clearly prefer Chemistry, especially those emphasizing materials and corrosion studies.
Others accept Further Mathematics because of the heavy numerical and analytical workload in later years.
This means:
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You are still registering 4 subjects
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But the fourth subject is chosen from approved options
Recommended JAMB Subject Combination for Naval Architecture (2026)
After breaking everything down, the standard and safest combination is:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
This combination is widely accepted and gives you the least risk across federal, state, and private universities.
Alternative (Where Accepted by Institution)
Some institutions may accept:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Further Mathematics
However, this depends strictly on the university. Not all schools accept Further Mathematics in place of Chemistry.
Always confirm with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board brochure and the specific university requirements before final submission.
Common Mistakes Naval Architecture Candidates Make
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Replacing Physics with Chemistry (automatic disqualification)
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Using Geography or Economics as an optional subject
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Assuming “any engineering combination works”
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Not checking university-specific preferences
Naval Architecture is engineering-based, but it is not flexible like some other engineering courses.
Final Advice Before You Register
If you’re serious about Naval Architecture in 2026:
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Lock in Mathematics and Physics
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Choose Chemistry unless you are 100% sure your institution accepts Further Mathematics
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Never rely on hearsay — always confirm officially
Choosing the right subject combination doesn’t guarantee admission, but choosing the wrong one almost guarantees rejection.