Nursing remains one of the most respected and rewarding professions in the healthcare industry. In Nigeria, the demand for qualified and licensed nurses continues to rise sharply. While universities are popular choices for studying Nursing, several polytechnics and colleges of health technology now offer strong alternatives—especially for students looking for practical learning and clinical exposure.
In this blog, we highlight the Top 10 Polytechnics for Nursing and Health Sciences in Nigeria (2025)—focusing on institutions that provide accredited programs, modern facilities, and robust clinical training opportunities.
Can Polytechnics Offer Nursing in Nigeria?
It’s important to clarify that Nursing as a core B.NSc (Bachelor of Nursing Science) is offered in universities. However, many polytechnics and colleges of health technology in Nigeria offer practical, entry-level nursing and related programs, including:
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Nursing Assistant Training
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Community Health Extension Work (CHEW)
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Health Information Management
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Public Health Nursing (Post-Basic)
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Environmental Health
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Midwifery and Auxiliary Nursing
These programs are often regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
Top 10 Polytechnics for Nursing & Health-Related Programs in Nigeria (2025)
1. Ogun State College of Health Technology, Ilese-Ijebu
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Location: Ogun State
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Accreditation: NMCN, NBTE
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Programs: Community Health, Health Information Management, Pharmacy Technician, Public Health Nursing
Why It's Top:
One of the most reputable health institutions in Nigeria with a strong focus on practical training, rural health outreach, and public health exposure.
2. Lagos State College of Health Technology, Yaba
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Location: Lagos
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Accreditation: NBTE, NMCN
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Programs: Community Health Extension, Environmental Health, Health Education, Pharmacy Technician
Why It's Top:
Located in Nigeria’s health hub, students gain early exposure to Lagos hospitals, clinics, and health projects—perfect for real-world experience.
3. Rivers State College of Health Science and Management Technology (RSCHST)
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Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers State
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Accreditation: NBTE, NMCN
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Programs: Health Information, Environmental Health, Community Health, Public Health Nursing
Why It's Top:
Highly respected for its modern labs, advanced facilities, and partnership with top healthcare institutions in Rivers and beyond.
4. Shehu Idris College of Health Sciences and Technology, Makarfi
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Location: Kaduna State
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Accreditation: NBTE
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Programs: Nursing Assistant, Community Health, Health Tech, Nutrition
Why It's Top:
Northern Nigeria’s premier health training institution, known for discipline, clinical exposure, and government support.
5. Anambra State College of Health Technology, Obosi
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Location: Anambra State
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Accreditation: NBTE, NMCN
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Programs: Nursing Assistant, Community Health, Pharmacy Technician
Why It's Top:
Known for producing highly employable nursing and health tech graduates across the Southeast region.
6. Bauchi State College of Health Technology, Ningi
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Location: Bauchi State
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Accreditation: NBTE
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Programs: Community Health, Midwifery Assistant, Health Promotion
Why It's Top:
Strong emphasis on community outreach, rural postings, and real-life field experience in underserved areas.
7. Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa
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Location: Kwara State
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Accreditation: NBTE
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Programs: Health Records, Community Health, Environmental Health, Public Health Nursing
Why It's Top:
Offers one of the widest ranges of health tech programs in Nigeria, with practical internships and a growing alumni network.
8. College of Health Sciences and Technology, Idah
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Location: Kogi State
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Accreditation: NBTE
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Programs: CHEW, Medical Laboratory Technician, Health Information Management
Why It's Top:
Focuses on competency-based training, discipline, and hands-on teaching through clinics and local health centers.
9. Imo State College of Health and Management Sciences, Amaigbo
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Location: Imo State
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Accreditation: NBTE
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Programs: Nursing Assistant, Environmental Health, Community Health
Why It's Top:
Affordable, with hands-on training and strong partnerships with public health institutions in Imo and nearby states.
10. Kaduna Polytechnic – Department of Applied Sciences (Health Tech)
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Location: Kaduna
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Accreditation: NBTE
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Programs: Health Records Management, Environmental Health
Why It's Top:
Though a full polytechnic, Kaduna Poly offers strong foundational programs in health sciences, often as ND options, serving as a gateway into nursing and related degrees.
Benefits of Studying Health & Nursing Programs at Polytechnics
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Hands-On Practical Training:
Polytechnics and health colleges place heavy emphasis on practical learning, often sending students for clinical postings and internships. -
Affordable Tuition Fees:
These institutions are more budget-friendly than private nursing schools or universities. -
Faster Entry into Healthcare Workforce:
Many of the programs are 2 to 3 years long, enabling quicker certification and employment. -
Flexible Admission Options:
Some offer Direct Entry, ND, HND, and Certificate programs, making it easier for students from different academic backgrounds to enroll.
Admission Requirements for Health & Nursing-Related Poly Courses
Most programs require:
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Five (5) O’Level Credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB including:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology/Health Science
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Chemistry
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Physics
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Additional requirements may include:
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Age Limit: Some programs require candidates to be 17 years and above
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Entrance Exams/Interviews
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JAMB Score for NBTE-accredited ND programs
FAQs About Polytechnics for Nursing in Nigeria
1. Can I become a Registered Nurse (RN) from a polytechnic?
No. To become a Registered Nurse, you must attend an accredited School of Nursing or university. However, polytechnics and health tech schools offer stepping stones through programs like CHEW, Nursing Assistant, and Public Health Nursing.
2. Are health-related courses in polytechnics accredited?
Yes. Courses must be accredited by the NBTE, NMCN, or relevant regulatory bodies. Always confirm accreditation on the institution’s website or visit NBTE.gov.ng.
3. How long do these programs take?
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CHEW/Nursing Assistant: 2–3 years
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ND/HND Health Information Management: 2 years per level
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Environmental/Public Health: 3–4 years
4. Can I use my diploma to gain admission into a university later?
Yes. With ND or HND from a recognized health tech/polytechnic, you can apply for Direct Entry into university health programs.
5. What are the job opportunities after graduation?
Graduates can work as:
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Health Technicians in hospitals
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Community Health Officers
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Medical Records Officers
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Pharmacy Technicians
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Or pursue further education in Nursing, Public Health, or Medicine
Conclusion
Polytechnics and colleges of health technology in Nigeria play a crucial role in preparing healthcare professionals, especially for community-based health services. While they do not directly offer B.NSc Nursing degrees, they provide solid and practical foundations for aspiring nurses, midwives, and healthcare workers.
The top 10 institutions listed in this article combine affordable education, real clinical exposure, and relevant certifications—making them ideal for any student serious about pursuing a healthcare career in Nigeria.
If you're ready to take the next step, explore these schools, check their official admission portals, and start your journey into the healthcare field today!
