In 2025, the career prospects for art students in Nigeria are more promising than ever. Gone are the days when art courses were seen as “less lucrative.” With the rise of creative industries, media, law, and public administration, art graduates now hold key positions in both the private and public sectors.
If you’re a secondary school leaver or JAMB candidate wondering which art courses in Nigeria offer good salaries and job prospects, this blog is for you. We’ve compiled the top 10 best art courses to study in Nigerian universities that offer the highest return on investment.
Top 10 Art Courses in Nigeria With High Job Prospects and Salaries (2025)
1. Law
Why Study It:
Law remains one of the most respected and profitable courses in Nigeria. Lawyers work in various fields, including litigation, corporate law, human rights, and politics.
Job Prospects:
- Legal practitioner
- Corporate counsel
- Politician
- Judge or magistrate
- Human rights advocate
Estimated Salary:
₦250,000 – ₦1,500,000+ monthly depending on experience and sector
Top Schools Offering Law:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
2. Mass Communication
Why Study It:
Mass Comm graduates dominate Nigeria’s media, PR, digital marketing, and journalism sectors. With the digital economy booming, communication skills are in high demand.
Job Prospects:
- Journalist
- TV/radio presenter
- PR/Communications officer
- Social media strategist
- Digital marketer
Estimated Salary:
₦150,000 – ₦800,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering Mass Communication:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Covenant University
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
3. International Relations
Why Study It:
In a globally connected world, international relations graduates work in diplomacy, foreign policy, NGO management, and international development.
Job Prospects:
- Foreign service officer
- Diplomat
- NGO coordinator
- Political analyst
Estimated Salary:
₦180,000 – ₦900,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering International Relations:
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Covenant University
- Lead City University
4. Political Science
Why Study It:
Political science opens doors to governance, public policy, administration, and even international organizations.
Job Prospects:
- Policy analyst
- Politician
- Government administrator
- Legislative aide
Estimated Salary:
₦150,000 – ₦700,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering Political Science:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria (UNN)
5. Theatre and Performing Arts
Why Study It:
Nollywood and the entertainment industry are massive employers. From acting to directing and screenwriting, this course leads to creative careers with high earning potential.
Job Prospects:
- Actor/Actress
- Film director
- Screenwriter
- Theatre producer
Estimated Salary:
₦100,000 – ₦5,000,000+ per project
Top Schools Offering Theatre Arts:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
6. Linguistics
Why Study It:
Linguistics has strong applications in tech (like voice recognition), translation, education, and publishing. It also pairs well with foreign languages.
Job Prospects:
- Translator/interpreter
- Content editor
- Language consultant
- Linguistic researcher
Estimated Salary:
₦100,000 – ₦600,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering Linguistics:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria (UNN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
7. Psychology
Why Study It:
Psychology graduates are needed in hospitals, NGOs, HR departments, schools, and security services. Mental health awareness is also creating more jobs.
Job Prospects:
- Clinical psychologist
- HR personnel
- School counselor
- Forensic analyst
Estimated Salary:
₦120,000 – ₦700,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering Psychology:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
8. Criminology and Security Studies
Why Study It:
With increasing concerns about crime and national security, this course is gaining popularity for careers in law enforcement and intelligence.
Job Prospects:
- Security analyst
- Intelligence officer
- Forensic expert
- Private investigator
Estimated Salary:
₦150,000 – ₦900,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering Criminology:
- Federal University Dutse
- University of Ilorin
- National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
9. English and Literary Studies
Why Study It:
Versatile and broad, this course leads to careers in education, publishing, media, creative writing, and editing.
Job Prospects:
- Author or novelist
- Editor or proofreader
- English teacher
- Copywriter
Estimated Salary:
₦100,000 – ₦500,000+ monthly
Top Schools Offering English:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
10. Public Administration
Why Study It:
This course prepares graduates for roles in government, policy, and management. Many civil servants, LG chairmen, and policy consultants have this background.
Job Prospects:
- Civil servant
- Administrative officer
- Policy analyst
- Local Government Chairman
Estimated Salary:
₦120,000 – ₦600,000+ monthly (higher in politics)
Top Schools Offering Public Administration:
- University of Abuja
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Ambrose Alli University
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Art Course
- Your Passion: Choose what aligns with your interests.
- Market Demand: Check current job market trends.
- Income Potential: Research starting and long-term salaries.
- School Reputation: Study at institutions with strong alumni and accreditation.
- Further Study Options: Pick a course with flexible graduate opportunities.
FAQs About Art Courses in Nigeria (2025)
1. Can art students in Nigeria earn as much as science students?
Yes! Especially in law, mass communication, entertainment, and diplomacy. It depends more on your skills and how you apply your degree.
2. What is the highest paying art course in Nigeria?
Law, Mass Communication, and International Relations are currently among the highest-paying art courses in 2025.
3. Do I need JAMB to study these courses?
Yes, most universities in Nigeria require a JAMB score. However, some private universities and NOUN accept alternative pathways.
4. Are art graduates employable in the tech space?
Absolutely. Many tech roles like content creation, digital marketing, UX writing, and PR welcome art graduates.
5. Can I switch from an art course to a science course later?
It’s rare and depends on the university. However, art students can transition to tech fields by gaining certifications in areas like UI/UX, data analysis, or project management.
Conclusion
Art courses in Nigeria are not only versatile but can also lead to high-paying and fulfilling careers. With the right skills, exposure, and determination, you can thrive in law, media, international diplomacy, psychology, public service, and many other sectors.
The secret? Choose wisely, study hard, develop soft and digital skills, and stay updated with industry trends. The Nigerian job market is evolving, and as an art student, you can be at the forefront of that change.
