Are you considering a career in Agricultural Economics in Nigeria?
This blog post provides comprehensive information about the subjects and requirements to study Agricultural Economics, a list of universities offering the course, and the career opportunities available in this field.
Whether you’re a prospective undergraduate or a direct entry candidate, read on to discover what it takes to pursue a degree in Agricultural Economics.
WAEC Subjects & Requirements:
To study Agricultural Economics as a UTME candidate in a Nigerian university, you are required to have a minimum of five (5) SSCE credit passes in the following subjects:
- Biology/Agricultural Science
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- One of the following subjects: Economics, Geography, or Physics.
Note: The O’Level subject combination includes WAEC, NECO, GCE, and their equivalents. Some universities have specific waiver requirements, which are listed below.
JAMB Subjects & Requirements:
In the JAMB UTME examination, you will encounter three compulsory subjects for Agricultural Economics:
- Biology/Agricultural Science
- Physics or Mathematics
- Chemistry
To be eligible for admission into a Nigerian university to study Agricultural Economics, you are advised to aim for a JAMB score of at least 180, although higher scores increase your chances of being admitted based on merit.
Direct Entry Requirements:
If you are a direct entry candidate, there are additional conditions you must satisfy. The requirements include:
- Two (2) ‘A’ level passes in Chemistry and any of the following: Agricultural Science, Zoology, Biology, Botany, Geography, Physics, Mathematics, Geology, Health Science, or Economics.
Note: Each university may have specific waiver requirements for direct entry candidates. Some examples are provided below.
List of Universities Offering Agricultural Economics in Nigeria: Here are some universities in Nigeria that offer Agricultural Economics as a course of study:
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
- University of Ibadan
- Igbinedion University, Okada
- Landmark University, Omu-Aran
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Career Prospects for Agricultural Economics Graduates: After completing a degree in Agricultural Economics, graduates can pursue various career paths, including but not limited to:
- Research Assistants
- Accountants
- Farm Managers
- Agribusiness Managers
- Economists in Agricultural Research Institutes and Agro-Allied Industries
- Employment in Agriculture, Research Institutes, and Agribusiness
- Writers for Trade Journals and Magazines
- Commodity Brokers
- Employment in Textiles Industries, Sawmills, and Paper Products Manufacturing
Conclusion
Studying Agricultural Economics offers exciting prospects for individuals interested in the intersection of agriculture, economics, and business.
By meeting the necessary subject requirements and choosing from reputable universities in Nigeria, aspiring students can embark on a rewarding educational journey.
After graduation, numerous career opportunities in research, management, accounting, and other sectors await Agricultural Economics graduates.