Chemistry is a core science subject and an essential requirement for many science-based courses in Nigeria. However, not every chemistry-related degree is extremely difficult or competitive. While courses like Pharmacy and Chemical Engineering are challenging and require high scores, there are other chemistry-based programs that are easier to study and still lead to well-paying careers.
If you're a science student looking for less stressful, chemistry-related courses in Nigerian universities, this blog highlights the top 5 easiest chemistry courses in 2025 with practical benefits and admission tips.
1. Industrial Chemistry
Why It's Easy:
Compared to core Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry focuses more on applications in industries like manufacturing, petrochemicals, cosmetics, and food processing. It offers more hands-on training and real-world lab work with less abstract theory.
Core Subjects: Chemical Process Technology, Polymer Chemistry, Industrial Safety.
Career Paths: Quality control officer, production supervisor, plant manager, R&D assistant.
Universities Offering It: UNILAG, UNIBEN, FUTMINNA, EKSU, UNN.
JAMB Score Range: 180–220 (less competitive than Chemical Engineering or Pharmacy)
2. Chemistry Education (B.Sc. Ed. Chemistry)
Why It's Easy:
This course combines Chemistry with Education. The curriculum focuses more on teaching methodology and basic chemistry concepts than intensive research or high-level industrial application.
Core Subjects: General Chemistry, Instructional Technology, Curriculum Studies.
Career Paths: Secondary school chemistry teacher, education consultant, curriculum developer.
Universities Offering It: UNILORIN, UNIBEN, LASU, UNN, OAU.
JAMB Score Range: 160–200
Bonus: Graduates are employable in both educational and public sectors.
3. Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology
Why It's Easy:
This interdisciplinary course covers chemistry applications in environmental safety and pollution control. It involves more practical fieldwork and environmental science than rigorous lab analysis or theoretical mathematics.
Core Subjects: Environmental Toxicology, Pollution Studies, Analytical Chemistry.
Career Paths: Environmental analyst, water quality officer, public health technician.
Universities Offering It: FUTA, UNIPORT, UNIBEN, RSU.
JAMB Score Range: 170–210
Bonus: High demand due to increasing environmental concerns in Nigeria.
4. Petrochemical Science
Why It's Easy:
While this course is chemistry-based, it is more vocational and practice-oriented, focusing on how chemicals are derived from crude oil and natural gas. The academic content is manageable if you’re interested in the oil and gas sector.
Core Subjects: Organic Chemistry, Petroleum Chemistry, Chemical Instrumentation.
Career Paths: Petrochemical plant technician, safety officer, lab analyst.
Universities Offering It: UNIPORT, FUPRE, RSU.
JAMB Score Range: 170–220
Tip: It’s less demanding than Chemical Engineering but still connects you to lucrative industries.
5. Pure and Applied Chemistry
Why It's Easy:
Though similar to traditional Chemistry, this course is streamlined and focused on practical applications. It avoids the most complex parts of theoretical chemistry and instead trains students to use chemistry tools in applied fields.
Core Subjects: Instrumental Analysis, Thermodynamics, Applied Spectroscopy.
Career Paths: Lab technologist, analytical chemist, cosmetic chemist, food scientist.
Universities Offering It: LAUTECH, UNN, ABU, UNIUYO.
JAMB Score Range: 180–220
Bonus: Easier access to postgraduate programs in applied sciences.
Admission Requirements for Chemistry-Based Courses in Nigeria
- O’Level Subjects: English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology.
- UTME Subjects: English, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology or Mathematics.
- Post-UTME: Usually moderate; easier for Education-based and Environmental Chemistry courses.
- Cut-Off Marks: Ranges from 160 to 220 depending on the university and course.
FAQs – Easiest Chemistry Courses in Nigerian Universities (2025)
1. What is the easiest chemistry course to study in Nigeria?
Chemistry Education is generally considered the easiest due to its focus on teaching and foundational chemistry concepts.
2. Which chemistry course has the best job prospects?
Industrial Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry offer high employability in both private and government sectors.
3. Are chemistry-based courses available in all universities?
Not all courses are offered in every university. You should check JAMB’s official brochure or the university’s website for course availability.
4. Do these courses require strong mathematical skills?
Basic math skills are needed, but most of the easier chemistry courses emphasize practical applications over heavy theoretical mathematics.
5. Can I switch to Pharmacy or Chemical Engineering later?
Yes, but it depends on the university's policy. Some schools allow students to switch after the first year if they meet GPA requirements.
Conclusion
Not all chemistry courses in Nigerian universities require sleepless nights and sky-high JAMB scores. If you're seeking a balance between ease of study and career potential, these top 5 easiest chemistry courses in 2025—Industrial Chemistry, Chemistry Education, Environmental Chemistry, Petrochemical Science, and Pure & Applied Chemistry—are your best picks.
Whether you're looking to work in education, industry, or environmental protection, there's a chemistry course that matches your ability and ambition.
