Pharmacy is one of the most sought-after courses in Nigeria because it provides a direct path to a rewarding career in healthcare. Pharmacy focuses on the study of drugs, their uses, preparation, and impact on the human body. This article lists universities in Nigeria offering Pharmacy for the 2025/2026 academic session. Whether you’re aiming for federal, state, or private universities, this guide will help you make informed decisions.
What is Pharmacy?
Pharmacy is the science and art of preparing and dispensing drugs. It also involves the study of how drugs interact with the body to treat diseases. Pharmacists play a key role in the healthcare system by ensuring patients receive the correct medications and advice on their proper use.
In Nigeria, Pharmacy is a professional course that spans five or six years, depending on the institution, leading to the award of a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) or Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree.
For students who are considering other related courses like Medicine and Surgery or Nursing, Pharmacy is an excellent alternative that also offers numerous career opportunities.
Why Study Pharmacy in Nigeria?
Studying Pharmacy in Nigeria prepares students for diverse roles in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, research organizations, and even academia. Here are some reasons to study Pharmacy:
- High Demand for Pharmacists: The healthcare sector in Nigeria has a growing need for qualified pharmacists to meet the demands of the population.
- Global Opportunities: A pharmacy degree from an accredited Nigerian university is recognized internationally, allowing graduates to practice abroad after meeting licensing requirements.
- Flexible Career Paths: Pharmacists can work in hospitals, own private pharmacies, or engage in pharmaceutical manufacturing and research.
If you’re wondering about the admission requirements for Pharmacy, you can check the JAMB subject combination for Pharmacy to understand the subjects you need.
List of Nigerian Universities Offering Pharmacy 2025/2026
Here is a detailed list of universities in Nigeria offering Pharmacy for the 2025/2026 academic session:
| University Name | Location | Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Zaria, Kaduna State | Federal University |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Benin City, Edo State | Federal University |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | Abraka, Delta State | State University |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Ibadan, Oyo State | Federal University |
| Igbinedion University | Okada, Edo State | Private University |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | Ilorin, Kwara State | Federal University |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Jos, Plateau State | Federal University |
| Kaduna State University (KASU) | Kaduna State | State University |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos State | Federal University |
| Madonna University | Elele, Rivers State | Private University |
| University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | Maiduguri, Borno State | Federal University |
| Niger Delta University (NDU) | Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State | State University |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Ile-Ife, Osun State | Federal University |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State | State University |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Port Harcourt, Rivers State | Federal University |
| Usman Dan Fodio University (UDUSOK) | Sokoto, Sokoto State | Federal University |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | Awka, Anambra State | Federal University |
| University of Nigeria (UNN) | Nsukka, Enugu State | Federal University |
| University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | Uyo, Akwa Ibom State | Federal University |
Available as Pharmacology
Pharmacology, which focuses on the study of how drugs interact with the body, is available at the following universities:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
If you’re also interested in related programs like Human Nutrition and Dietetics or Medical Laboratory Science, these universities provide options worth exploring.
Admission Requirements for Pharmacy
To gain admission into Pharmacy programs, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- O’Level Results: Five credits in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- JAMB UTME Subject Combination: English Language, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology.
- Post-UTME Screening: Candidates must meet the university’s cut-off mark for Pharmacy. You can check the JAMB cut-off mark for universities for more information.
If you’re applying to universities offering Pharmacology, the requirements may slightly differ. Always verify with your chosen institution.
Career Opportunities in Pharmacy
Pharmacy graduates can explore various career paths, including:
- Hospital Pharmacist: Dispensing medications and advising patients in hospitals.
- Industrial Pharmacist: Working in pharmaceutical manufacturing and research.
- Retail Pharmacist: Managing community pharmacies and providing medication counseling.
- Academia and Research: Teaching in universities or conducting research in drug development.
If you’re interested in roles that combine Pharmacy with administrative skills, you might also consider studying Health Education or Public Health Technology.
Tips for Choosing the Right University
When selecting a university for Pharmacy, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the university is accredited by the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN).
- Reputation: Research the performance of the university’s Faculty of Pharmacy.
- Location: Choose a school in an area that aligns with your preferences for cost of living and accessibility.
- Specialization Opportunities: Some universities offer unique research or specialization opportunities in Pharmacology, which might interest you.
Conclusion
Pharmacy is a dynamic and rewarding field with numerous career opportunities. The universities listed in this article are among the best in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic session. Whether you choose a federal, state, or private institution, ensure you meet the admission requirements and prepare adequately for the UTME and Post-UTME.
For more information on related courses, such as Physiology or Biochemistry, check out additional resources to guide your application process.