Best universities to Study Accountancy/Finance/Accounting in Nigeria
As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria offers some of the best universities on the continent to study these practical and in-demand subjects. The job opportunities for accountants and finance professionals in Nigeria are growing rapidly.
In this competitive field, you’ll want a degree from a top school to give you an edge. The good news is Nigeria has over 170 universities to choose from. The bad news is it can be hard to determine which schools offer the best programs in finance and accounting. Not to worry, we get you covered in today’s article
In this article, we rank the top 5 universities in Nigeria to study finance and accounting based on factors like program offerings, faculty, research output, facilities, and graduate employability. The schools on this list will provide you a high-quality education, opportunities for internships, and a network to help launch your career. By the end of this article, you’ll have a shortlist of Nigeria’s best universities to pursue your degree in finance or accounting.
Best Universities to Study Accountancy/Finance/Accounting in Nigeria
Below are the best universities to study Accountancy/Finance/Accounting in Nigeria;
1. University of Lagos
The University of Lagos is a top choice for studying accounting and finance in Nigeria. With a long history of excellence, UniLag offers accredited accounting degrees at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
For undergrads, the B.Sc. in Accounting is a 4-year program that provides a strong foundation in core accounting areas like financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. You’ll take courses in business law, economics, and statistics as well. The program has a mandatory internship component, so you’ll get real-world experience before you even graduate.
At the postgraduate level, UniLag offers an M.Sc. in Accounting and Finance. This 2-year program offers concentrations in areas like taxation, corporate finance, risk management, and accounting information systems. The world-class faculty and opportunities for hands-on learning will prepare you for leadership roles.
Some other reasons UniLag is a top choice:
•It has a prestigious business school with international accreditation.
•The campus is located in the commercial hub of Lagos with strong industry connections.
•You’ll join a network of over 300,000 alumni working in Nigeria and abroad.
•Scholarships, grants and affordable tuition make studying here accessible.
•Modern facilities, student housing, clubs, and a supportive learning environment.
•Opportunities to participate in student exchanges with partner schools abroad.
If you’re serious about becoming a finance or accounting professional, UniLag deserves your consideration. The prestigious degrees, real-world experience, and networking opportunities can help launch your career.
2. Ahmadu Bello University
Ahmadu Bello University is one of the top schools in Nigeria for finance and accounting. Established in 1962, ABU has a long history of excellence in business education.
ABU’s Department of Accounting offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Accounting. The program provides a solid foundation in financial reporting, auditing, taxation and more. Students gain practical experience through internships and projects with major companies.
The Department of Finance and Banking Studies offers specialized degrees in areas like Corporate Finance, Investment Management and Financial Institutions & Markets. The curriculum focuses on developing analytical and critical thinking skills that prepare students for careers in investment banking, asset management and other finance fields.
Some other highlights of ABU’s business programs:
•Highly qualified lecturers with both academic and industry experience.
•Opportunities for student exchange programs with partner universities abroad.
•Access to the Center for Entrepreneurial Development Studies which promotes an entrepreneurial culture on campus.
•Membership in professional organizations like the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS).
With a long track record of excellence, partnerships with major companies and a focus on real-world learning, ABU deserves its reputation as one of the top schools for finance and accounting in Nigeria. If you’re looking to launch a career as an accountant, financial analyst or in banking, ABU is an excellent choice.
3. University of Ibadan
The University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s premier university and a top choice for studying finance and accounting. Established in 1948, UI has a long history of excellence in business education.
Renowned Faculty and Curriculum
UI’s faculty of business is highly respected, with many professors holding advanced degrees from top universities around the world. The school offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in accounting, finance, and business administration. The curriculum incorporates both theory and practical application, with opportunities for internships, research projects, and study abroad.
- B.Sc. Accounting: For students interested in careers as accountants, auditors, and financial analysts. Covers core accounting topics like financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and information systems.
- B.Sc. Finance: Prepares students for careers in financial services like banking, investments, and corporate finance. Focuses on areas such as financial markets, risk management, financial modeling, and portfolio management.
- MBA: UI’s MBA program has specializations in finance, accounting, and management. For those with work experience, the MBA provides advanced training in business and opens up senior leadership roles.
Networking and Career Support
UI’s business school has an active alumni network, with many graduates going on to successful careers at major companies in Nigeria and internationally. The school offers career services to help students find internships and jobs, build interview skills, and create professional networks. With a degree from UI, you’ll have a solid foundation for a thriving career in the world of finance or accounting.
The premier University of Ibadan should be at the top of your list if you want to study finance, accounting, or business in Nigeria. With its prestigious reputation, high-caliber faculty, and career-focused programs, UI will prepare you for success as a business professional.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, offers exceptional accounting and finance programs for aspiring professionals. OAU is renowned for its business school and has produced many influential leaders in Nigeria’s financial sector.
OAU’s accounting program provides a broad education in core accounting concepts and skills. You’ll take courses in financial accounting, cost accounting, taxation, auditing, and management accounting. The finance curriculum focuses on investment analysis, financial markets, international finance, and risk management. OAU integrates real-world case studies and internship opportunities into the coursework.
Some of the benefits of studying accounting or finance at OAU include:
•Faculty with both academic and professional experience.
•Membership in OAU’s Accounting Students Association which organizes seminars, networking events, and mentoring programs.
•OAU’s business school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a prestigious international accreditation.
•OAU has an active alumni network which provides mentoring and job opportunities. Many top employers like KPMG, PwC, and Deloitte recruit from OAU.
•OAU offers a Master’s in Accounting and Finance for students interested in postgraduate studies.
If you want a high-quality, affordable education from a reputable university, consider applying to OAU’s accounting or finance programs. OAU provides the skills and experience to launch your career as a financial professional in Nigeria. The school’s notable alumni and corporate partnerships demonstrate the strength of OAU’s business programs. An OAU education can open doors to an exciting career in finance.
5. Covenant University
Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State has one of the top finance and accounting departments in Nigeria. Established in 2002, Covenant University aims to produce future leaders through quality, Christ-centered education.
Impressive Academics
Covenant University’s finance and accounting programs are highly respected, with their degrees recognized worldwide. The department offers bachelor’s, master’s and PhD degrees in accounting, banking and finance, business administration, and economics. Professors are leaders in their fields, publishing in prestigious academic journals.
Students benefit from Covenant’s emphasis on ethics, entrepreneurship and excellence. Internships, networking opportunities and career resources prepare students for jobs at top companies. Graduates are in high demand, with many receiving multiple job offers.
Award-Winning Faculty and Facilities
Covenant University has state-of-the-art classrooms and facilities, including a virtual library, digital language lab and engineering studios. The university has won many awards, including the Best Private University in Nigeria Award.
Finance and accounting students can join the Student Finance and Accounting Association to gain leadership experience organizing campus events. They also compete in national and international competitions, like the Chartered Accounting Students’ Society of Nigeria quiz.
A Fulfilling Student Life
While Covenant University has a strict code of conduct, students find a vibrant campus life with many clubs and activities. On-campus housing and cafeterias provide convenient accommodations and meals. The university encourages students to develop their talents through music, drama, dance and sports teams.
With a prestigious finance and accounting program, award-winning faculty, and enriching student life, Covenant University prepares students for successful careers while nurturing their spiritual and personal growth. For these reasons, it deserves to rank among Nigeria’s best universities for finance and accounting.
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FAQs
Many prospective students have questions about studying finance and accounting at universities in Nigeria. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:
What are the entry requirements?
To study finance or accounting at the university level in Nigeria, you will typically need:
- 5 credits in WASSCE including English Language, Mathematics, Economics and two other relevant subjects at a sitting.
- For most universities, a score of 180 and above in the UTME is required. Some schools may require higher scores for competitive programs.
What degrees and programs are offered?
You can pursue the following degrees in finance and accounting:
- BSc Accounting
- BSc Banking and Finance
- BBA Accounting
- MBA Accounting
- MSc Finance
- Professional qualifications like ICAN, ACCA, CPA
What job opportunities exist after graduating?
With a degree in finance or accounting, you’ll have many promising career options, including:
•Accountant
•Auditor
•Tax Consultant
•Financial Analyst
•Investment Banker
•Budget Analyst
•Loan Officer
•Chief Financial Officer
