University Courses

Best Universities to Study Architecture in Nigeria

As an aspiring architect in Nigeria, choosing the right university to study architecture is one of the most important decisions you will make. The university you attend will shape your knowledge, skills, and career opportunities for years to come. Nigeria offers some excellent programs in architecture across the country. This article highlights five of the best universities in Nigeria to study architecture based on program offerings, facilities, faculty, and career support. Whether you prefer a public or private institution, want to stay close to home or explore a new part of the country, there are outstanding options from which to choose. With the right education, you can become an architect poised to contribute to Nigeria’s architectural landscape. The future of design in Nigeria starts with you.

Along with architecture, college students learn the skills of planning and laying out buildings, College students also learn about the history of architecture, how tradition has influenced architecture, and more. Those who intend to take an architecture course should take technical drawing courses in high school, they should also be mentally prepared to work long hours on drawings during their studies.

Architecture is a 4-year bachelor’s program and graduates of this course have alternative career options as architects, in-house designers, and more.
To be admitted to the architecture course, candidates must study English, math, geography and economics, chemistry and physics.

Best Universities to Study Architecture in Nigeria

Below are some of the best universities to study architecture in Nigeria:

1. University of Lagos

The University of Lagos, fondly called Unilag, is a top choice for studying architecture in Nigeria. Established in 1962, Unilag has a long history of excellence in architecture education.

The Department of Architecture offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in architecture, preparing students for careers as professional architects. The undergraduate program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree. Students learn design, building construction, architectural theory, and history over the 5-year program.

Postgraduate studies include a Master of Science and a Master of Philosophy in Architecture. The M.Sc. program focuses on architecture in tropical regions. Students can specialize in areas like housing, urban design, or building services. The M.Phil. program is research-based, preparing students for a career in academia or consulting.

Unilag has highly qualified lecturers, many of whom are professionals registered with the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON). The department has well-equipped design studios, workshops, and laboratories. Students gain practical experience through site visits, internships, and participation in design competitions.

The beautiful campus, situated in Akoka, Yaba, provides an inspiring environment for learning architecture. Accommodation is available on campus for students in the university’s halls of residence.

If you dream of becoming an architect, Unilag should be at the top of your list. With its long and esteemed history, highly qualified staff, comprehensive curriculum, and ideal facilities, Unilag provides an outstanding education in architecture. Consider Unilag for a rewarding career in this creative field.

2. Federal University of Technology Akure

The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) is one of the top institutions to consider for studying architecture in Nigeria.

FUTA’s School of Environmental Technology offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in architecture. The Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Architecture is a five-year program that provides a balanced education in architectural design, history, and technology. Students learn valuable skills like using CAD software, model making, and report writing.

To gain admission into the BTech Architecture program, applicants must have a minimum of five O’level credits in subjects like English Language, Mathematics, Physics and Fine Arts. Candidates are also required to take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the FUTA screening test.

FUTA has a reputation for excellence and innovation in science and technology education. The architecture program benefits from partnerships with notable institutions in Europe, Asia, and North America. Students have opportunities to participate in exchange programs and internships abroad.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers as architects, interior designers, landscape architects, and architectural technologists. Many alumni have gone on to establish successful private practices or work with leading firms in Nigeria and beyond.

If you are looking for a high-quality architecture program in a university dedicated to technological advancement, FUTA deserves your consideration. With a history of academic excellence spanning over three decades, FUTA’s School of Environmental Technology will provide you a solid foundation in architecture and help you achieve your career goals.

3. Ahmadu Bello University

Ahmadu Bello University, located in Zaria, Kaduna State, is one of the top universities in Nigeria to study architecture. Established in 1962, ABU has a long history of excellence in education and research.

The university’s architecture program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to become registered architects. The 5-year BSc program covers areas such as building construction, architectural design, history of architecture, and building services. Students gain practical experience through design studio projects and internships.

Upon graduation, students can pursue careers as architects, interior designers, landscape architects, and more. Many alumni have gone on to become leaders in the field, working on major building projects across Nigeria and internationally.

With its distinguished faculty, hands-on learning environment, and focus on training future leaders in the profession, ABU deserves its reputation as one of the top schools for architecture in Nigeria. For students seeking a comprehensive education at an esteemed institution, ABU is an excellent choice.

4. Obafemi Awolowo University

Established in 1962, Obafemi Awolowo University is one of the top universities in Nigeria to study architecture. Located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, the school offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in architecture, preparing students for careers as professional architects.

Obafemi Awolowo University’s architecture program provides students with a strong foundation in design, building technologies, and the arts. The curriculum covers architectural design, building construction, architectural theory and concepts, sustainability, structures, and visual communications. Students gain hands-on experience in the design studio and learn drafting and visualization techniques using cutting-edge tools and software.

Graduates of the architecture program at Obafemi Awolowo University are highly sought after for their balanced and holistic training. They have found work in top Nigerian architectural firms, government agencies, and global organizations. Successful alumni have also gone on to start their own practices, contributing to Nigeria’s built environment through innovative and culturally-sensitive designs.

For those interested in continuing their studies, Obafemi Awolowo University offers master’s and doctoral degrees in architecture. The postgraduate programs allow students to develop specialized expertise in areas such as housing, building technology, architectural education, and sustainable tropical design.

With a long history of excellence, Obafemi Awolowo University remains one of the best places in Nigeria to study architecture. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and access to resources and opportunities to build a successful career as an architect.

5. University of Nigeria Nsukka

The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) is one of the top universities to study Architecture in Nigeria. Established in 1955, UNN has a long history of excellence in architectural education. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Architecture, including a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Architecture, Master of Science (MSc) in Architecture, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Architecture.

UNN’s Department of Architecture is renowned for its highly qualified faculty and emphasis on practical training. The department has state-of-the-art facilities, including architecture studios, a materials workshop, and a digital fabrication laboratory. Students gain valuable experience through design studios, internships, and participation in national and international design competitions.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers as professional architects, interior designers, urban planners, and more. Many alumni have gone on to become leaders in the field, making significant contributions to architectural practice and education in Nigeria.

For those interested in studying architecture at one of the top universities in West Africa, the University of Nigeria Nsukka deserves strong consideration. With its accomplished faculty, hands-on curriculum, and state-of-the-art facilities, UNN offers an architecture program on par with some of the best in the world.

FAQ

Many prospective students considering architecture programs in Nigeria likely have questions about the field of study and process of becoming an architect. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:

What degree do I need to become an architect?

To practice as a licensed architect, you will need a professional architecture degree, either a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) or Master of Architecture (M.Arch). These programs typically take 5-6 years to complete.

How much do architects earn in Nigeria?

According to recent surveys, the average salary for an architect in Nigeria is ₦3.5 million per year. Actual pay will depend on factors like:

Years of experience
Level of education
Job responsibilities
Geographic location
Economic conditions

What are some top schools for architecture in Nigeria?

Some of the best universities for architecture in Nigeria are:

Obafemi Awolowo University
Ahmadu Bello University
University of Lagos
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Covenant University
Rivers State University of Science and Technology

These schools are well-respected, with excellent architecture faculties and resources for students. Admission is very competitive, so students should aim for high scores on required entrance exams.

What is the career outlook for architects?

The demand for architects in Nigeria is growing due to increased construction activities and infrastructure projects. However, the field is still relatively small, so competition for jobs may be intense. Experienced architects, especially those with expertise in sustainable and eco-friendly design, should have the best employment opportunities.