While military universities in Nigeria are traditionally known for engineering and security-related disciplines, several of them have expanded their academic scope to include rich programs in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Environmental Studies. These programs are crucial for producing well-rounded officers and civilian professionals capable of understanding socio-political dynamics, managing human resources, and solving environmental challenges.
If you're a student looking to combine military discipline with a strong academic foundation in liberal arts, this guide explores the top military universities in Nigeria offering such opportunities in 2025.
1. Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna
Overview:
The Nigerian Defence Academy is the country’s premier military university, training officers for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The academy also has a robust Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
Key Humanities and Social Science Programs:
- B.A. History and War Studies
- B.Sc. Political Science and Defence Studies
- B.Sc. Psychology
- B.Sc. Sociology
- B.Sc. Geography
- B.Sc. Economics
- Master’s in Conflict, Security & Development
- Master’s in Defence and Strategic Studies
Environmental Courses:
- B.Sc. Geography and Environmental Management
Why NDA Stands Out:
- Emphasis on leadership and national policy
- Research in conflict resolution, diplomacy, and security
- Ideal for future diplomats, administrators, and military historians
2. Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB), Borno State
Overview:
NAUB is a full-fledged military university offering both civilian and military education. It is known for blending academic theory with practical security applications.
Key Humanities and Social Science Courses:
- B.A. Arabic Studies
- B.A. English Language
- B.Sc. Criminology and Security Studies
- B.Sc. International Relations
- B.Sc. Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- B.Sc. Political Science
- B.Sc. Sociology
Environmental Programs:
- B.Sc. Environmental Management and Toxicology
- B.Sc. Geography
What Makes NAUB Unique:
- Open to both civilian and military students
- Combines military strategy with social sciences
- Located in the heart of conflict-affected Borno, giving students practical insight into real-world issues
3. Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna
Overview:
AFIT is known primarily for aerospace and engineering but offers select programs in social sciences and management for military administrative needs.
Notable Programs:
- B.Sc. Economics
- B.Sc. Marketing
- B.Sc. Business Administration
- PGD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Environmental Studies:
While not yet a core focus, AFIT is expanding into sustainability and environmental engineering to meet Nigeria’s growing defense-environmental demands.
Key Features:
- Strong military-civilian faculty
- Real-world case studies in defense and resource management
- Proximity to Nigerian Air Force operations offers applied learning opportunities
4. Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron
Overview:
MAN focuses on maritime education but integrates social sciences related to maritime laws, business, and environmental management.
Relevant Programs:
- Maritime Economics
- Maritime Transport and Business Studies
- Shipping Management
- Environmental Safety and Pollution Control
Strengths:
- International certifications in maritime law and management
- Professional training in sustainable marine environment practices
- Practical exposure through shipboard training and port visits
5. Nigerian Police Academy (POLAC), Wudil, Kano State
Overview:
While not a traditional military university, POLAC is a para-military institution offering full academic programs alongside police training.
Social Science Programs:
- B.Sc. Criminology
- B.Sc. Psychology
- B.Sc. Sociology
- B.Sc. Political Science
- B.Sc. Economics
- B.Sc. Forensic Science
- B.A. History and International Studies
Environmental Focus:
- Training in forensic environmental investigation
- Urban and rural crime mapping
Why POLAC Matters:
- Strong emphasis on law, justice, and human behavior
- Graduates are commissioned as Assistant Superintendents of Police
- Unique blend of social science and field application
Career Prospects
Graduates of these programs can pursue diverse careers, such as:
- Military and Paramilitary Services: Officers in intelligence, administration, diplomacy, or logistics
- Public Sector and Civil Service: Policy analysts, sociologists, urban planners
- NGOs and International Agencies: Human rights, environmental management, conflict resolution
- Academic and Research Institutions: Historians, lecturers, and social science researchers
- Environmental Agencies: Pollution control officers, environmental managers, climate change specialists
Admission Requirements
To apply for these programs, candidates generally need:
- Minimum of five O’Level credits including English Language and other relevant subjects
- UTME score with appropriate subject combinations (e.g., Government, Literature, Geography)
- Fitness and age criteria (especially for NDA and POLAC)
- Written and oral interviews for officer-cadet roles
Note: NAUB and AFIT accept civilian applicants, while NDA and POLAC are more military-specific.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can civilians apply to military universities for social science programs?
Yes. NAUB and AFIT accept civilians. NDA and POLAC have stricter military admission processes.
2. Are social science degrees from military universities accredited?
Yes. These institutions are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
3. What is the advantage of studying environmental studies at a military university?
You gain a unique perspective on disaster response, environmental security, and policy planning with a military edge.
4. Which military university is best for humanities?
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) offers the most comprehensive humanities and social science programs.
5. Are graduates from these programs employed outside the military?
Yes. Many graduates find roles in government agencies, NGOs, and international bodies.
Conclusion
Military universities in Nigeria are no longer restricted to defense and engineering disciplines. Institutions like NDA, NAUB, AFIT, and POLAC have embraced the importance of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Environmental Studies to build well-rounded graduates prepared to solve complex national and global issues.
Whether your interest lies in political science, environmental sustainability, or human psychology, these institutions provide a disciplined, high-quality academic experience that rivals top conventional universities in Nigeria.
