Software engineering is a rapidly growing field in today’s digital age. As technology continues to advance and become an essential part of our everyday lives, the need for skilled software engineers has become more critical than ever. In Nigeria, several universities offer software engineering programs to meet the increasing demand for qualified professionals.
This article provides a comprehensive list of universities in Nigeria that offer software engineering programs, divided into Federal, State, and Private universities, Jamb subject combination for software engineering.
Federal Universities That Offer Software Engineering in Nigeria
Federal universities in Nigeria are government-funded institutions that provide quality education at an affordable cost. Several federal universities in the country offer software engineering programs to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the industry. Some of the federal universities offering software engineering programs in Nigeria include:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
State Universities That Offer Software Engineering in Nigeria
State universities in Nigeria are funded and managed by the state governments. These universities offer software engineering programs aimed at addressing the local and national demand for skilled software engineers. Here is a list of state universities in Nigeria that offer software engineering programs:
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
Private Universities That Offer Software Engineering in Nigeria
Private universities in Nigeria are institutions established and funded by private individuals or organizations. These universities offer software engineering programs to cater to the growing demand for qualified professionals in the private sector. Some of the top private universities in Nigeria offering software engineering programs are:
- Covenant University (CU)
- Babcock University (BU)
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- Baze University, Abuja
- Landmark University (LMU)
JAMB Subject Combination for Software Engineering
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria. This examination is a prerequisite for admission into Nigerian universities, including those offering software engineering programs. To be eligible for a software engineering program, candidates must choose the appropriate JAMB subject combination. The required JAMB subjects for software engineering are:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry or Computer Science
Admission Requirements for Software Engineering Programs in Nigeria
To gain admission into a software engineering program in Nigeria, applicants must meet specific requirements. These requirements vary slightly among universities but generally include:
1. West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) requirements: Applicants must have a minimum of five credits in their WASSCE, including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. Individual universities may specify additional requirements.
2. Direct Entry requirements: Candidates seeking direct entry into a software engineering program must possess a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant field. Alternatively, they may have ‘A’ level passes in relevant subjects or an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma or other equivalent qualifications.
3. Additional requirements: Some universities may require applicants to undergo a Post-UTME screening, while others may conduct interviews as part of the admission process.
How many years does it take to study software engineering in Nigeria?
The duration of studying software engineering in Nigeria depends on various factors, such as the university, program type, and mode of entry. On average, a software engineering program in Nigeria takes between four to six years to complete. This article explores the factors that determine the length of time it takes to study software engineering in Nigeria and offers a general overview of the duration of study.
1. For Undergraduate Degree Program
A bachelor’s degree in software engineering is the most common and widely recognized route to becoming a software engineer in Nigeria. This undergraduate program generally takes four years to complete for students admitted through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The four-year program is divided into eight semesters, with each academic year comprising two semesters. During this period, students are exposed to various aspects of software engineering, including programming languages, algorithms, data structures, software design, and project management.
2. For Direct Entry
Students who have a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant fields, such as computer science or computer engineering, can apply for direct entry into a software engineering program. Direct entry allows students to join the program at the 200 level (second year) of study, bypassing the first year. Consequently, direct entry students typically spend three years completing their bachelor’s degree in software engineering.
3. Master’s Degree Program
After completing a bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a related field, some individuals may choose to pursue a master’s degree to gain specialized knowledge and skills in software engineering. A master’s degree program in software engineering generally takes between one and a half to two years to complete, depending on the university and program structure. Some institutions offer full-time, part-time, or distance learning options, which may affect the duration of the program. In a master’s degree program, students delve deeper into specific areas of software engineering, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or software development methodologies.
4. Doctoral Degree Program
A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in software engineering is the highest level of academic qualification in the field. This degree program is research-focused and typically takes between three to five years to complete, depending on the university, program structure, and the candidate’s progress. A Ph.D. program is ideal for individuals who aim to contribute to the field through original research or those who wish to pursue careers in academia or research institutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right university for a software engineering program is crucial for a successful career in the field. Prospective students should carefully research the universities listed in this article to make informed decisions. As the demand for skilled software engineers continues to grow in Nigeria and worldwide, those who pursue this profession can look forward.
