List of Universities Offering Performing Arts in Nigeria 2025/2026

Performing Arts is an exciting and creative field of study that focuses on acting, music, dance, and stage performances. It allows students to express themselves through storytelling, drama, and entertainment while also learning about the technical aspects of theater and film production.

In Nigeria, the entertainment industry is growing rapidly, with Nollywood being one of the largest film industries in the world. This has created a high demand for talented performers, scriptwriters, directors, and producers. Studying Performing Arts prepares students for various careers in film, television, theater, and even digital media.

Several universities in Nigeria offer Performing Arts or related programs under different names, such as Theatre Arts, Theatre and Film Studies, Performance and Film Arts, and Theatre and Media Studies. This article provides a detailed list of universities offering these courses in the 2025/2026 academic session, along with admission requirements and career opportunities for graduates.

READ ALSO: JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Performing Arts 2025/2026

What is Performing Arts?

Performing Arts is the study of creative expression through acting, dance, music, and stage performances. It involves learning how to entertain and communicate messages through live and recorded performances in theater, film, television, and digital platforms.

Students who study Performing Arts gain skills in acting, directing, scriptwriting, stage design, costume creation, and sound production. The field also includes elements of drama, music, film production, choreography, and media presentation.

In Nigeria, Performing Arts is an important part of culture and entertainment. The country’s film industry, Nollywood, is the second-largest in the world, creating opportunities for actors, producers, and directors. Stage performances, reality shows, and music concerts are also popular, making this course a great choice for students interested in the entertainment industry.

This course is perfect for creative and passionate individuals who want to build a career in film, theater, or media. Graduates can work in acting, directing, music production, scriptwriting, stage management, and broadcasting.

List of Universities Offering Performing Arts in Nigeria (2025/2026)

Several universities in Nigeria offer Performing Arts or related programs under different names. Below is the list of universities where students can study this course in the 2025/2026 academic session:

1. Universities Offering Performing Arts

These universities offer the course under the name Performing Arts:

• Akwa Ibom State University of Technology
• Elizade University
• Olabisi Onabanjo University
• Kwara State University
• University of Ilorin

2. Universities Offering Theatre Arts

These universities offer the course under the name Theatre Arts, focusing on drama, acting, and stage performances:

• Afe Babalola University
• Bowen University
• Gregory University
• Benue State University
• Igbinedion University
• Nasarawa State University
• University of Port Harcourt
• Plateau State University
• Redeemer’s University
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University
• University of Uyo
• Imo State University
• Kogi State University
• University of Calabar
• University of Ibadan
• Niger Delta University

3. Universities Offering Performance and Film Arts

• Elizade University

4. Universities Offering Theatre and Film Studies

These universities combine theatre and film education to prepare students for careers in both stage and screen performances:

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka
• University of Port Harcourt
• University of Jos

5. Universities Offering Theatre and Media Studies

These universities focus on theatre, media production, and digital storytelling:

• Adekunle Ajasin University
• Evangel University
• Gregory University
• Federal University, Oye-Ekiti

Each of these programs is designed to help students develop their creative and technical skills, whether in acting, directing, film production, music, or stage performance. Depending on the institution, students may also participate in practical workshops, theater productions, and film projects to gain hands-on experience.

Admission Requirements for Performing Arts in Nigerian Universities

To gain admission into a university offering Performing Arts or its related programs in Nigeria, candidates must meet specific academic requirements. These requirements vary slightly from one institution to another, but the general admission criteria include the following:

1. UTME Admission Requirements (100-Level Entry)

Candidates applying through JAMB UTME must meet the following conditions:

• O’Level (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) Requirements:
  • A minimum of five (5) credit passes, including:
    • English Language (Compulsory)
    • Literature in English (Highly Recommended for Theatre and Film Studies)
    • Government or History (Depending on the institution’s preference)
    • Any two other relevant subjects (e.g., Fine Arts, Music, CRS/IRS, Civic Education, or any Social Science subject)
• JAMB Subject Combination:
  Candidates are required to sit for the following subjects in UTME:
  1. English Language (Compulsory for all JAMB candidates)
  2. Literature in English
  3. Government or CRS/IRS
  4. Any other relevant subject (such as Fine Arts or Music, depending on the school’s requirements)
• JAMB Cut-Off Mark:
  The minimum cut-off mark varies depending on the university but generally ranges from 150 to 180, with highly competitive institutions requiring higher scores.

2. Direct Entry (DE) Requirements

For candidates applying through Direct Entry (200-Level Entry), the following qualifications may be required:

• Two A-Level passes in Literature in English and one other Arts or Social Science subject.
• National Diploma (ND) or NCE with a minimum of Lower Credit in Theatre Arts, Mass Communication, Music, or a related field.
• Diploma in Theatre Arts or Performing Arts from a recognized institution may also be considered.

3. Additional Institutional Requirements

• Some universities may conduct Post-UTME screening or an audition to assess a candidate’s creativity and performance skills.
• Certain institutions allow for flexibility in subject combinations, especially for students with exceptional talent in drama, music, or dance.

Important Note:

Since requirements may vary, it is advisable for candidates to check the specific admission criteria for their preferred university before applying.

Career Opportunities for Graduates of Performing Arts

A degree in Performing Arts opens up numerous career opportunities in Nigeria’s growing entertainment industry and beyond. Graduates can work in theatre, film, television, music, media production, and event management. Here are some of the top career paths available:

1. Acting and Performance

• Stage Actor – Performs in theatre productions, stage plays, and live performances.
• Film and TV Actor – Features in movies, TV series, and commercials.
• Voice-Over Artist – Lends voice to animations, advertisements, and radio dramas.
• Stand-Up Comedian – Uses humor to entertain audiences in shows and social media.

2. Directing and Production

• Film Director – Oversees the creative process of movies and TV shows.
• Stage Director – Manages the artistic elements of theatre productions.
• Music Video Director – Creates and produces visuals for music artists.
• Theatre Producer – Organizes and funds stage plays and cultural performances.

3. Scriptwriting and Storytelling

• Screenwriter – Writes scripts for films, TV series, and web content.
• Playwright – Creates stage plays and drama scripts for live performances.
• Content Creator – Develops scripts for digital platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and social media skits.

4. Broadcasting and Media

• TV and Radio Presenter – Hosts entertainment programs, talk shows, and interviews.
• News Anchor/Journalist – Covers entertainment news, celebrity interviews, and events.
• Cultural Analyst – Reviews and critiques performances, movies, and stage plays.

5. Music and Dance Careers

• Musician or Singer – Performs in concerts, records music, and collaborates with artists.
• Choreographer/Dancer – Creates dance routines for music videos, theatre productions, and live shows.
• Music Producer – Works in studios to create soundtracks, albums, and musical projects.

6. Event and Talent Management

• Event Planner – Organizes cultural shows, music festivals, and entertainment events.
• Talent Manager – Represents and promotes actors, musicians, and performers.
• Entertainment Publicist – Handles media relations and branding for celebrities and entertainers.

Expanding Opportunities in Nigeria

Nigeria’s Nollywood industry, one of the largest film industries in the world, provides significant job opportunities for actors, directors, scriptwriters, and media professionals. The rise of digital platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and TikTok has also created new avenues for content creators, online comedians, and independent filmmakers.

With the growing demand for entertainment content, Performing Arts graduates have diverse career options across multiple industries, making it a highly rewarding field of study.

Why Study Performing Arts in Nigeria?

Performing Arts is an exciting and rewarding field that allows students to explore their creativity, storytelling abilities, and technical skills in acting, music, dance, and media production. Nigeria, with its thriving entertainment industry, is one of the best places to study and build a career in Performing Arts. Here are some key reasons why choosing this course is a great decision:

1. Growing Entertainment Industry (Nollywood and Music Industry)

• Nigeria’s Nollywood is the second-largest film industry in the world, producing thousands of movies every year.
• The Afrobeats music industry has gained international recognition, creating opportunities for musicians, producers, and performers.
• With platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, and TikTok, content creators and performers can now reach a global audience.

2. High Demand for Creative Professionals

• As entertainment expands, there is a growing need for actors, directors, scriptwriters, stage managers, choreographers, and event planners.
• Many Nigerian actors, musicians, and filmmakers are now recognized globally, showing that talent from Nigeria is in high demand.

3. Availability of Quality Programs in Nigerian Universities

• Many universities in Nigeria offer theory and practical training in Performing Arts, Theatre Arts, and Film Studies.
• Students gain hands-on experience through stage performances, film productions, scriptwriting projects, and music workshops.

4. Opportunity to Work in Multiple Sectors

• Performing Arts graduates can work in film, TV, radio, theatre, event management, advertising, and digital media.
• Many entertainers also start their own productions, YouTube channels, or film studios, giving them creative and financial independence.

5. Exposure to Nigerian Culture and Tradition

• The course helps students understand Nigeria’s cultural heritage through storytelling, drama, dance, and folklore.
• Many stage plays and film productions promote African history, traditions, and societal values.

Studying Performing Arts in Nigeria provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a fast-growing and competitive industry. Whether you dream of becoming an actor, film director, musician, scriptwriter, or media producer, this course offers endless possibilities.

With the right training, creativity, and passion, Performing Arts graduates can shape the future of entertainment in Nigeria and beyond.

Conclusion

Performing Arts is an exciting and creative field that allows students to explore their talents in acting, music, dance, scriptwriting, directing, and media production. With Nigeria’s thriving Nollywood industry, growing music scene, and increasing demand for entertainment content, studying this course opens doors to numerous career opportunities.

For students interested in Performing Arts, several Nigerian universities offer the program under different names, including Theatre Arts, Theatre and Film Studies, Performance and Film Arts, and Theatre and Media Studies. Institutions such as University of Ilorin, Kwara State University, University of Nigeria, University of Port Harcourt, University of Ibadan, and many others provide quality training in this field.

To gain admission, candidates must meet specific UTME and Direct Entry requirements, including subjects like English Language, Literature in English, and Government or CRS. Some universities may also conduct practical screenings or auditions to assess students’ creative skills.

Graduates of Performing Arts have numerous career paths, including acting, directing, scriptwriting, broadcasting, stage management, music production, choreography, and event planning. The growth of digital platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and TikTok has also created new opportunities for entertainers and content creators.

If you are passionate about the entertainment industry, storytelling, and creative expression, a degree in Performing Arts could be the perfect choice for you. With the right training and dedication, you can build a successful career in Nigeria’s fast-growing entertainment sector and beyond.