Food Science and Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that integrates principles from science, engineering, and technology to enhance the production, processing, preservation, and quality of food products.
Graduates from this course can explore opportunities in various sectors of the food industry, such as manufacturing, research and development, quality control, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
If you aspire to study Food Science and Engineering in a recognised Nigerian university, it is essential to meet the admission criteria set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and your chosen institution.
This guide provides detailed information about the required JAMB subject combination, O’Level prerequisites, and other relevant details to help you successfully gain admission into this rewarding programme.
JAMB Subject Combination for Food Science and Engineering
When registering for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), you must choose four specific subjects to be eligible for admission into Food Science and Engineering. These subjects are:
English Language:
This is compulsory for all JAMB candidates and is a mandatory requirement for any course, including Food Science and Engineering.
Mathematics:
Mathematics is a core subject that forms the foundation for understanding calculations and principles used in engineering and food processing.
Chemistry:
As a critical subject, Chemistry focuses on the composition, properties, and reactions of food components. It also includes principles of food analysis and modification.
Physics or Biology:
Candidates can select either Physics or Biology as their fourth subject. Physics is often preferred due to its relevance to engineering principles in food processing.
However, Biology is acceptable in some universities, particularly for its focus on microbiology, nutrition, and biotechnology.
Additional JAMB Details
Candidates must score at least 180 in UTME to qualify for admission into most universities offering this course. However, some institutions may require higher cut-off marks.
It is advisable to confirm the specific cut-off mark and requirements of your preferred university before applying.
O’Level Requirements for Food Science and Engineering
Beyond the JAMB subject combination, meeting the O’Level requirements is crucial. You must have credit passes in the following subjects in your SSCE, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB examinations:
English Language
Mathematics
Chemistry
Physics
Biology or Agricultural Science
Important Notes:
The credits must be obtained in no more than two sittings.
Some universities may accept a pass in either Biology or Agricultural Science if you have a credit in Physics, and vice versa. However, securing credits in both subjects improves your chances of admission.
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Food Science and Engineering
Here is a list of universities in Nigeria that offer Food Science and Engineering, along with their specific admission requirements:
1. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
Duration: 5 years
Requirements:
UTME: English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics
O’Level: Five credits in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology or Agricultural Science
Direct Entry: Two A’Level passes in Chemistry and one in Mathematics, Physics, or Biology; or ND/HND with upper credit in Food Science and Technology or a related field.
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Duration: 5 years
Requirements:
UTME: English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics or Biology
O’Level: Five credits in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology
Direct Entry: Two A’Level passes in Chemistry and one in Mathematics, Physics, or Biology; or ND/HND with upper credit in a related discipline.
3. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
Duration: 5 years
Requirements:
UTME: English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics
O’Level: Five credits in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology or Agricultural Science
Direct Entry: Two A’Level passes in Chemistry and one in Mathematics, Physics, or Biology; or ND/HND with upper credit in Food Science or related fields.
Other Universities Offering the Course
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi
Bells University of Technology (BUT), Ota
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Enugu
Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU), Umudike
Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), Yola
Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt
University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Maiduguri
University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Uyo
Conclusion
Food Science and Engineering offers numerous career opportunities in the food industry, making it an excellent choice for science-oriented students.
By meeting the required JAMB subject combination, O’Level criteria, and understanding the specific demands of your chosen university, you can increase your chances of gaining admission into this rewarding field.
If you have further questions or require additional guidance, feel free to share them in the comments. Good luck with your acad
Emic journey!