Biochemistry is an intriguing field that combines principles from biology and chemistry to explore the chemical processes and substances found in living organisms.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in biochemistry, it is essential to know the subject combination required by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
WAEC and JAMB Subject Combination for Biochemistry
In this article, we will provide you with a simplified version of the subject combination for biochemistry, along with a list of universities in Nigeria that offer this course.
Subject Combination for JAMB UTME
To be eligible for admission into a biochemistry program, you need to meet the JAMB UTME subject combination requirements. The subjects you should study for JAMB UTME are:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
WAEC Subject Combination
To study biochemistry in Nigerian universities, you must have a minimum of five (5) credits in your WAEC or equivalent examination. The required subjects for the WAEC examination are as follows:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- One trade subject
Direct Entry Requirement
If you plan to gain admission through Direct Entry, you need to satisfy the following requirements:
- Two (2) A Level passes, which must include Chemistry and any one of Botany, Biology, Zoology, Mathematics, or Physics.
Career Opportunities
A degree in biochemistry opens up various career opportunities in sectors such as:
- Agribusiness Companies/Organizations: Developing effective and safer agricultural products.
- Cosmetic Companies: Creating more effective and safer products.
- Food & Product Development or Regulation Organizations: Ensuring the safety of food.
- Hospital Laboratories: Analyzing samples from patients to provide treatment advice.
- Pharmaceutical Companies: Contributing to drug development and other pharmaceutical products.
- University Laboratories: Conducting research on disease treatments, gene therapy, and more.
Universities Offering Biochemistry in Nigeria: Several universities in Nigeria offer biochemistry as a course of study. Here is a list of some of these universities:
- Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
- Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba
- Adeleke University, Ede (AUE)
- Abia State University, Uturu
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti – Ekiti State
- Achievers University, Owo
- Ajayi Crowther University, Ibadan (ACU)
- Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin
- Anchor University, Ayobo Lagos State
FAQs
What are the required WAEC subjects for studying Biochemistry?
To study Biochemistry, you need a minimum of five credit passes in your WAEC (or its equivalent) examinations. The required subjects are:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
Some universities may accept a credit in Agricultural Science instead of Biology, but it’s best to confirm the specific requirements of the institution you are applying to.
What is the JAMB subject combination for Biochemistry?
For Biochemistry, the JAMB subject combination typically includes:
- English Language (compulsory for all courses)
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics or Mathematics
These subjects align with the core science foundation needed for a degree in Biochemistry.
Can I study Biochemistry if I didn’t take Physics in my WAEC or JAMB?
While Physics is generally required, some universities may allow you to study Biochemistry if you have strong credits in other relevant science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. However, this is less common, and most institutions prefer candidates with a background in Physics. It’s crucial to check the specific admission requirements of the university you are interested in.
Conclusion
Biochemistry is an exciting field that offers numerous career opportunities in various industries.
To pursue a degree in biochemistry in Nigeria, you must meet the subject combination requirements set by WAEC and JAMB.
This article has provided you with a simplified version of the subject combinations for both examinations.
Additionally, we have listed several universities in Nigeria that offer biochemistry as a course of study. By following the specified requirements and selecting the right university, you can embark on a rewarding academic journey in the field of biochemistry.
