Nigeria’s education system offers a diverse range of art courses that cater to students who are creatively inclined, analytical, or passionate about communication and culture. If you’re a secondary school graduate from the arts department preparing for university, knowing the right art course to study is essential to aligning your passion with viable career prospects.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 best art courses to study in Nigeria, their JAMB subject combinations, and the career opportunities they open up. Whether you're interested in law, journalism, international diplomacy, or creative arts, this post will help you make an informed decision.
1. Law
Why Study Law?
Law is one of the most prestigious and competitive courses in Nigeria. It opens doors to careers in advocacy, corporate law, human rights, and public service. If you’re passionate about justice, governance, and public speaking, law is an excellent fit.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Literature in English
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Government or History
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Any other relevant Arts or Social Science subject
Career Opportunities:
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Legal Practitioner (Barrister or Solicitor)
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Judge or Magistrate
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Corporate Legal Advisor
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Human Rights Advocate
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Public Policy Analyst
2. Mass Communication
Why Study Mass Communication?
Mass Communication prepares students for the media and communication industry. If you're interested in journalism, broadcasting, advertising, or public relations, this course provides the necessary skills to thrive.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Literature in English
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Government
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Any other Arts or Social Science subject
Career Opportunities:
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Journalist or Reporter
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News Broadcaster
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PR Specialist
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Media Consultant
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Content Creator
3. Theatre Arts / Performing Arts
Why Study Theatre Arts?
Theatre Arts is ideal for individuals passionate about acting, performance, and stagecraft. With Nigeria’s fast-growing film industry (Nollywood), this course is becoming increasingly relevant.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Literature in English
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Two other relevant Arts subjects such as Government or Fine Arts
Career Opportunities:
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Actor or Actress
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Director
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Scriptwriter or Playwright
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Stage Manager
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Drama Teacher
4. English and Literary Studies
Why Study English and Literary Studies?
This course focuses on critical thinking, communication, and literary appreciation. It’s perfect for those who love reading and writing and want careers in media, education, or publishing.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Literature in English
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Any two Arts or Social Science subjects
Career Opportunities:
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Author or Editor
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Teacher or Lecturer
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Publisher
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Communications Officer
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Creative Writer
5. Fine and Applied Arts
Why Study Fine and Applied Arts?
If you're visually creative and enjoy expressing ideas through drawings, paintings, or digital art, Fine Arts is for you. Nigeria's art scene is thriving, offering global opportunities.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Fine Arts
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Two other Arts or Social Science subjects
Career Opportunities:
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Visual Artist
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Graphic Designer
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Art Director
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Illustrator
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Curator
6. International Relations
Why Study International Relations?
This course is suitable for those interested in global politics, diplomacy, and foreign affairs. It prepares you for working with international organizations or in foreign service.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Government or History
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Two other Arts or Social Science subjects
Career Opportunities:
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Diplomat
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Foreign Policy Analyst
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NGO Manager
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International Business Consultant
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Humanitarian Worker
7. Linguistics
Why Study Linguistics?
Linguistics involves the scientific study of language. If you’re fascinated by language structures, multilingual communication, or language preservation, this is a course worth exploring.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Any three Arts subjects (e.g., Literature, Government, CRS)
Career Opportunities:
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Translator or Interpreter
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Language Researcher
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Speech Therapist
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Lexicographer
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Language Teacher
8. Music
Why Study Music?
Music is for those who are passionate about sound, performance, and production. With Nigeria's global music influence, this course provides skills to succeed in both traditional and modern music industries.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Music
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Two other Arts subjects (e.g., Literature, CRS)
Career Opportunities:
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Musician or Vocalist
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Composer
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Music Producer
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Sound Engineer
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Music Educator
9. Philosophy
Why Study Philosophy?
Philosophy develops analytical, logical, and ethical reasoning. It’s suitable for those interested in abstract thinking and societal ideologies, and it's a solid foundation for law or academia.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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Any three Arts or Social Science subjects
Career Opportunities:
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Ethicist
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Lecturer or Researcher
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Policy Analyst
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Author
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Clergy or Religious Educator
10. History and International Studies
Why Study History and International Studies?
This course combines history with global relations, allowing students to analyze past events to understand current international trends. It’s excellent for research lovers and diplomatic career seekers.
JAMB Subject Combination:
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Use of English
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History or Government
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Two other Arts or Social Science subjects
Career Opportunities:
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Historian or Archivist
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Diplomatic Attaché
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Cultural Heritage Manager
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Academic Researcher
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International Journalist
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best universities in Nigeria to study art courses?
Some of the top universities include:
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University of Ibadan (UI)
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Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
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University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
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University of Lagos (UNILAG)
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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
2. Do I need to write Mathematics in JAMB for art courses?
Most art courses do not require Mathematics in JAMB, but some schools may require at least a credit pass in Mathematics at the O’Level.
3. Which art course is the highest paying in Nigeria?
Law, Mass Communication, and International Relations are among the highest paying, especially when paired with experience and postgraduate qualifications.
4. Can science students switch to art courses?
Yes, but they may need to meet specific subject requirements and possibly take additional qualifying exams or bridging programs.
5. Is Literature in English compulsory for all art courses?
While Literature is essential for many art courses (especially Law, Mass Communication, and English), it may not be compulsory for courses like Fine Arts or Music.
Conclusion
Studying art courses in Nigeria offers vast opportunities both locally and internationally. From traditional paths like Law and English to creative fields like Fine Arts and Music, there's a course that matches your passion and talent. The key is to choose wisely based on your interests and long-term goals.
Understanding the JAMB subject combinations is essential for gaining admission into your preferred university. So, start preparing early, focus on your subjects, and chase your academic and career dreams confidently.
