Biology is one of the most popular science subjects among Nigerian secondary school students. However, not all biology-related university courses are equally demanding. Some are easier to study due to less competitive admission requirements, simpler curricula, or practical-based learning. If you're looking to pursue a degree in the biological sciences but want a manageable path with career potential, this guide is for you.
Below are the easiest biology courses to study in Nigerian universities in 2025, with details on admission requirements, job opportunities, and the nature of each course.
1. Zoology
Why It’s Easy:
Zoology focuses on the study of animals, their anatomy, behavior, and habitats. The course involves more observation and classification than complex lab work or clinical procedures.
Key Subjects: Animal biology, entomology, ecology, and genetics.
Career Paths: Wildlife officer, zoo curator, research assistant, conservationist.
2. Botany
Why It’s Easy:
Botany is the scientific study of plants. It is less competitive and often considered more straightforward than Microbiology or Biochemistry.
Key Subjects: Plant physiology, taxonomy, ethnobotany.
Career Paths: Agricultural extension officer, herbarium manager, environmental consultant.
3. Environmental Biology
Why It’s Easy:
This interdisciplinary course is relatively new and focuses on human interaction with ecosystems. It requires less memorization of complex anatomy or chemistry.
Key Subjects: Ecology, pollution management, environmental impact assessment.
Career Paths: Environmental analyst, waste management consultant, eco-tourism planner.
4. Fisheries and Aquaculture
Why It’s Easy:
With a more practical curriculum, this course focuses on aquatic life, fish farming, and marine environments. It’s hands-on and doesn’t require high JAMB scores.
Key Subjects: Fish nutrition, aquaculture engineering, aquatic ecology.
Career Paths: Fish farmer, aquaculture consultant, hatchery manager.
5. Plant Biology and Biotechnology
Why It’s Easy:
This course combines traditional botany with biotechnology, offering practical lab work in a simpler context compared to human biology-based programs.
Key Subjects: Molecular biology, plant tissue culture, crop improvement.
Career Paths: Lab technologist, agricultural biotech assistant, research officer.
6. Animal and Environmental Biology
Why It’s Easy:
Often available in state universities, this course is easier to get into and has a broader scope than pure Zoology or Botany.
Key Subjects: Biodiversity conservation, animal ecology, pollution studies.
Career Paths: Environmental consultant, educationist, NGO staff in conservation.
7. Biology Education (B.Sc. Ed. Biology)
Why It’s Easy:
Combining biology with education, this course is great for students who enjoy teaching. It focuses on general biology, not specialized or clinical aspects.
Key Subjects: General biology, educational psychology, curriculum development.
Career Paths: Secondary school biology teacher, education consultant, textbook author.
8. Parasitology and Entomology
Why It’s Easy:
Focused on studying parasites and insects, this course is specific but manageable. It's especially suited for students interested in public health but not medicine.
Key Subjects: Vector biology, parasite-host interactions, epidemiology.
Career Paths: Vector control officer, lab assistant, entomologist.
9. Forestry and Wildlife Management
Why It’s Easy:
This course has minimal stress in terms of theory and is highly practical, involving field trips and forest conservation efforts.
Key Subjects: Silviculture, forest ecology, wildlife protection.
Career Paths: Game reserve officer, park manager, forest conservationist.
10. Ecotourism and Wildlife Management
Why It’s Easy:
This course combines environmental biology with tourism. It focuses on practical aspects like tourism development and wildlife preservation.
Key Subjects: Ecotourism planning, park management, sustainable development.
Career Paths: Tour guide, park ranger, eco-project manager.
Admission Requirements for Biology-Related Courses in Nigeria
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O’Level Subjects: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics (some courses accept Agricultural Science).
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UTME Subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics (varies by course).
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JAMB Score Range: 150–220 (courses like Medicine or Pharmacy require 250+, but these listed are generally less competitive).
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Post-UTME: Usually straightforward, especially in state universities.
Best Universities in Nigeria Offering These Biology Courses
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Federal Universities:
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University of Ibadan (UI)
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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
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University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
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University of Lagos (UNILAG)
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State Universities:
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Lagos State University (LASU)
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Ekiti State University (EKSU)
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Delta State University (DELSU)
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Rivers State University (RSU)
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Private Universities:
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Covenant University
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Babcock University
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Afe Babalola University
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FAQs – Easiest Biology Courses to Study in Nigeria
1. What is the easiest biology course to study in Nigeria?
Zoology and Botany are among the easiest due to their simple and observation-based curriculum with fewer competitive requirements.
2. Can I get a good job with these courses?
Yes. Careers in environmental biology, education, and aquaculture are increasingly in demand, especially with global focus on sustainability.
3. Which biology course is best for someone who loves nature?
Courses like Forestry and Wildlife Management or Environmental Biology are ideal for students passionate about nature and conservation.
4. Are these biology courses available in all universities?
Not all universities offer every course listed. It’s best to check the JAMB brochure or visit each school’s official website for availability.
5. Do I need to be good at Chemistry for these courses?
A basic understanding of Chemistry is helpful but not mandatory for success in many of these easier biology courses.
Conclusion
Choosing a biology-related course doesn’t have to be stressful or overly competitive. The ten options listed above are among the easiest biology courses to study in Nigerian universities in 2025. They combine manageable academic workloads with promising career opportunities. Whether you're passionate about plants, animals, or the environment, there's a path that suits your strength and interests. Focus on your passion, choose wisely, and success will follow.
