If you’re aiming for Systems Engineering in 2026, this is one of those courses where getting the subject combination right matters as much as your score. A lot of candidates assume “engineering is engineering” and move on. That’s usually where the problem starts.
Systems Engineering sits at the intersection of engineering, computing, and problem-solving at scale. You’re trained to design, integrate, and manage complex systems—think control systems, networks, automation, and large technical infrastructures. Because of that, JAMB is very intentional about the subjects they expect you to come with.
Before we list anything, let’s slow down and understand why certain subjects are required—and why others are optional.
What JAMB Looks For in Systems Engineering Candidates
From JAMB’s perspective, Systems Engineering is not just about calculations. It’s about:
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Logical thinking
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Strong mathematical foundation
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Understanding physical systems
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Basic exposure to computation and applied sciences
That’s why some subjects are non-negotiable, while others are flexible depending on the institution.
According to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, every UTME candidate must register four subjects. For Systems Engineering, these are split into core subjects and optional subjects.
Core JAMB Subjects for Systems Engineering (Compulsory)
These subjects must be included. There is no workaround.
1. Use of English
This is compulsory for all courses. Beyond JAMB rules, Systems Engineering involves documentation, system reports, and team communication. English stays.
2. Mathematics
This is the backbone of Systems Engineering. You’ll deal with:
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Linear algebra
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Calculus
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Probability and statistics
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Optimization
If Mathematics is missing, admission is impossible.
3. Physics
Systems Engineering is built on physical systems—signals, control, energy flow, and system dynamics. Physics proves you can understand how systems behave in the real world.
These three subjects form the core. They are fixed.
The Fourth Subject: Where Candidates Get Confused
This is where flexibility comes in—and also where many candidates make mistakes.
JAMB allows one additional subject, but you must choose wisely based on what universities prefer.
Accepted Optional Subjects for Systems Engineering
You are expected to choose one of the following:
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Chemistry
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Computer Studies
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Further Mathematics (accepted by some institutions)
Different universities prioritize different skills:
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Chemistry supports material science, electronics, and applied engineering concepts
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Computer Studies aligns with programming, simulations, and system modeling
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Further Mathematics strengthens advanced analytical thinking
JAMB gives you the freedom to choose, but universities decide what they accept.
Recommended JAMB Subject Combinations for Systems Engineering (2026)
Here are the safe and widely accepted combinations:
Option 1 (Most Common)
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
Option 2 (Tech-Focused)
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Computer Studies
Option 3 (Advanced Math Route – Institution Dependent)
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Further Mathematics
Always confirm your chosen university’s requirements before locking this in.
Why You Shouldn’t Guess This Combination
Every year, candidates with strong UTME scores lose admission because:
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They picked Biology instead of Chemistry
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They assumed any science subject would work
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They ignored university-specific preferences
JAMB will not correct subject combinations after registration. Once it’s submitted, that’s it.
Final Summary (Quick Check)
Core Subjects (Must Include):
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
Optional Subjects (Choose One):
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Chemistry
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Computer Studies
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Further Mathematics (where accepted)
Four subjects total. No extras. No substitutions.