Pursuing a degree in Mass Communication requires meeting specific academic requirements, including obtaining the correct WAEC subject combination for Mass Communication.
Without the required subjects, gaining admission into this competitive course in Nigerian universities becomes difficult.
This guide provides comprehensive details on the WAEC subject combination for Mass Communication, JAMB requirements, compulsory subjects, and frequently asked questions regarding admission into Mass Communication programs in Nigeria.
To qualify for a Mass Communication degree program, students must have at least five (5) credit passes in their WAEC (West African Examinations Council) results.
These subjects must be passed in not more than two sittings.
The WAEC subject combination for Mass Communication
English Language (Compulsory)
Mathematics (Compulsory)
Literature in English (Compulsory)
Government or History
Any other Social Science or Arts subject
These subjects build a strong foundation in communication, media analysis, and storytelling.
English and Literature in English are essential, as they help in developing writing, speaking, and analytical skills.
Government or History provides a background in societal structures, which is crucial for journalism and media studies.
Some universities may accept Christian Religious Studies (CRS), Islamic Religious Studies (IRS), Economics, or Civic Education in place of Government or History.
It is advisable to confirm with the institution before applying.
JAMB WAEC Subject Combination for Mass Communication
For students applying for Mass Communication, the correct JAMB subject combination must be chosen alongside the WAEC subject requirements.
The JAMB subject combination for Mass Communication includes:
English Language (Compulsory)
Literature in English
Government or Economics
Any other Social Science or Arts subject
Some universities may allow CRS, IRS, or Civic Education instead of Economics.
However, Literature in English remains mandatory in almost all institutions.
Students should aim for a JAMB score of at least 200 and above to increase their chances of gaining admission, as Mass Communication is a competitive course in Nigerian universities.
What Are the Main Subjects for Mass Communication?
Students interested in Mass Communication need to focus on subjects that enhance their writing, speaking, analytical, and research skills.
The main subjects for Mass Communication in Nigerian universities include:
English Language
Literature in English
Government
Economics
Mass Media Studies
Public Relations
Advertising and Marketing
Civic Education
Sociology
These subjects help students develop critical thinking skills, journalistic ethics, media production techniques, and communication strategies.
They are essential in preparing students for careers in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, and advertising.
9 Subjects for Mass Communication in WAEC
Students often ask, “What are the nine subjects for Mass Communication in WAEC?”
A complete WAEC subject combination for Mass Communication should include:
1. English Language (Compulsory)
2. Mathematics (Compulsory)
3. Literature in English (Compulsory)
4. Government
5. Economics
6. Civic Education
7. Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
8. Biology or any other science subject
9. Marketing or any other relevant Art/Social Science subject
These subjects ensure students meet university admission requirements while gaining a strong foundation in communication, media, and society.
Subjects for Mass Communication in University
Once admitted into a Mass Communication program, students will study various courses that cover journalism, media production, advertising, and public relations.
Some of the core courses in the first year of university include:
1. Introduction to Mass Communication
2. Writing for the Media
3. Fundamentals of Journalism
4. Media Ethics and Law
5. Introduction to Advertising
6. Public Relations Principles
7. Photography and Visual Communication
8. Media and Society
9. Broadcasting Techniques
10. Digital Media Studies
These courses help students develop professional communication skills and prepare for careers in news reporting, media management, and corporate communication.
Is Biology Compulsory for Mass Communication?
No, Biology is not a compulsory subject for Mass Communication.
Why? Mass Communication focuses on media, communication, writing, and journalism, which do not require knowledge of biological sciences.
Universities may accept Biology as part of the required five subjects, but it is not a core requirement.
If students have Biology in their WAEC results, it will not negatively affect their admission chances, but other Social Science or Arts subjects are preferred.
Does Mass Communication Require Physics?
No, Physics is not required for Mass Communication.
Why? Mass Communication does not involve mathematical calculations, technical measurements, or scientific theories, which are common in Physics-related courses.
Universities do not list Physics as a core subject for this course.
Students should focus on English, Literature in English, and Government instead of Physics when choosing subjects for WAEC and JAMB.
Compulsory Subject Combination for Mass Communication
Many students ask, “What are the compulsory subjects for Mass Communication?”
The compulsory subject combination for Mass Communication includes:
English Language
Mathematics
Literature in English
Government or Economics
These subjects are mandatory in most Nigerian universities.
Some institutions may allow CRS, IRS, or Civic Education, but English, Mathematics, and Literature in English remain compulsory.
To increase admission chances, students should ensure they meet these subject requirements in both WAEC and JAMB.
Best Universities to Study Mass Communication in Nigeria
Several Nigerian universities offer high-quality Mass Communication programs.
Below are some of the best institutions:
Federal Universities
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
State Universities
Lagos State University (LASU)
Rivers State University (RSU)
Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Benue State University (BSU)
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
Private Universities
Covenant University
Babcock University
Afe Babalola University
Bowen University
Igbinedion University
Students should research the admission requirements, tuition fees, and cut-off marks of their preferred university before applying.
Conclusion
Choosing the right WAEC subject combination for Mass Communication is crucial for students planning to study this course in Nigeria.
Meeting the correct WAEC and JAMB subject requirements ensures a smooth admission process into a Mass Communication program.
To improve admission chances:
1. Ensure you have the correct WAEC subject combination.
2. Score high in JAMB (200+ recommended).
3. Choose universities with competitive but achievable cut-off marks.
By following these guidelines, students can successfully gain admission into a Mass Communication program and build a career in journalism, broadcasting, digital media, or corporate communication.