Aspirants looking to study Microbiology in Nigeria must ensure they have the correct WAEC subject combination for Microbiology.
Without meeting the required subjects, securing admission into a university for this course can be challenging.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the WAEC subject combination for Microbiology, JAMB requirements, compulsory subjects, and frequently asked questions about securing admission into a Microbiology program in Nigeria.
To qualify for a Microbiology degree program, students must obtain at least five (5) credit passes in their WAEC (West African Examinations Council) results.
These subjects must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
The WAEC subject combination for Microbiology
These include:
1. English Language (Compulsory)
2. Mathematics (Compulsory)
3. Biology (Compulsory)
4. Chemistry (Compulsory)
5. Physics or Agricultural Science
These subjects provide a strong foundation in biological and chemical sciences.
Biology is the core subject, as it focuses on microorganisms, genetics, and biochemistry.
Chemistry and Mathematics help with laboratory techniques, analysis, and data interpretation, while Physics or Agricultural Science is included to broaden scientific knowledge.
Some universities may accept Health Science or Further Mathematics instead of Physics.
However, it is advisable to confirm the specific requirements of the institution before applying.
Can I Study Microbiology Without Physics?
Yes, some universities allow students to study Microbiology without Physics.
Why? Microbiology is a biological science that does not heavily rely on Physics.
Some institutions accept Agricultural Science, Health Science, or Further Mathematics as an alternative to Physics.
However, many universities still list Physics as one of the required subjects, so checking individual university requirements is necessary.
While Physics is not always mandatory, students should aim to include it in WAEC or NECO to increase their chances of gaining admission into any university of their choice.
Subjects for Microbiology
Students preparing for Microbiology must focus on subjects that provide a strong background in biological sciences, chemistry, and data interpretation.
The main subjects for Microbiology in Nigerian universities include:
1. English Language
2. Mathematics
3. Biology
4. Chemistry
5. Physics or Agricultural Science
These subjects are crucial for understanding microorganisms, their interactions with the environment, and their roles in human health, food production, and biotechnology.
Can I Study Microbiology with D7 in Physics?
Yes, some universities accept students with D7 in Physics, but it depends on the institution’s admission policy.
Many universities require at least a credit pass in Physics as part of their admission criteria.
Some universities may accept Agricultural Science or Health Science in place of Physics.
Private universities and polytechnics tend to be more flexible with their subject requirements.
To improve admission chances:
students should aim for a credit pass in Physics or consider universities that accept alternative subjects.
100 Level Microbiology Courses
Once admitted into a Microbiology program, students will take courses that introduce them to biological sciences, laboratory techniques, and microbial functions.
Some of the core courses in the first year of university include:
1. General Biology
2. General Chemistry
3. Introduction to Microbiology
4. Basic Genetics
5. Organic Chemistry
6. Biostatistics
7. Physics for Life Sciences
8. Computer Science for Biological Studies
9. Use of English
These courses provide foundational knowledge that will help students specialize in Medical Microbiology, Industrial Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, or Food Microbiology in later years.
EKSU Courses and Subject Combination
For students applying to Ekiti State University (EKSU) for Microbiology, the correct WAEC and JAMB subject combination must be followed.
WAEC Subject Combination for Microbiology in EKSU
1. English Language
2. Mathematics
3. Biology
4. Chemistry
5. Physics or Agricultural Science
JAMB Subject Combination for Microbiology in EKSU
1. English Language (Compulsory)
2. Biology
3. Chemistry
4. Physics or Agricultural Science
EKSU follows the standard subject combination for Microbiology, and students are advised to have a minimum JAMB score of 180 – 200 for better admission chances.
What Is the JAMB Score for Microbiology?
The minimum JAMB cut-off mark for Microbiology varies across universities.
However, most institutions require a JAMB score between 180 and 220.
Federal universities usually require higher scores (200 – 250).
State universities may accept 180 – 200.
Private universities are often more flexible, accepting 160 – 180.
To improve admission chances, students should aim for a JAMB score of 200 and above, especially if they are applying to top-ranked universities.
Best Universities to Study Microbiology in Nigeria
Several Nigerian universities offer high-quality Microbiology programs. Below are some of the best institutions:
Federal Universities
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
University of Ibadan (UI)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
State Universities
Lagos State University (LASU)
Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Rivers State University (RSU)
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
Benue State University (BSU)
Private Universities
Covenant University
Babcock University
Afe Babalola University
Bowen University
Igbinedion University
Students should check the admission requirements, tuition fees, and cut-off marks of their preferred university before applying.
Conclusion
Choosing the right WAEC subject combination for Microbiology is crucial for students who wish to study this course in Nigeria.
Meeting the correct JAMB and WAEC requirements ensures a smooth admission process into a Microbiology program.
To increase admission chances:
1. Ensure you have the correct WAEC subject combination.
2. Score high in JAMB (200+ recommended). 3. Choose universities with cut-off marks that match your score.
By following these guidelines, students can successfully gain admission into a Microbiology program and build a career in medical research, food microbiology, environmental science, or biotechnology.