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Best Universities to Study Criminology and Security Studies in Nigerian

degree in criminology and security studies can give you strong foundation for graduate-level employment in variety of fields that are relevant, from more established professions like law enforcement and corrections to more recent initiatives in areas like community safety and security and crime prevention.

Criminology and security studies is a 4-years undergraduate programme. So in today’s article we will be looking into the best universities to study the course in Nigeria.

Best Universities to Study Criminology and Security Studies in Nigeria

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Below are the best universities to study criminology and security studies in Nigeria 

1. University of Lagos

The University of Lagos offers one of the top criminology and security studies programs in Nigeria. Their Department of Sociology launched the Criminology and Security Studies program in 1985 to address the growing challenges of crime in society.

The curriculum provides you with a strong foundation in theories of crime and criminal justice. You’ll take courses on topics like:

  • Theories of Crime and Delinquency
  • Victimology and Victim Assistance
  • Economic and Organized Crime
  • Correctional Administration
  • Private Security and Loss Prevention

To gain real-world experience, the program requires an internship in law enforcement, security, or corrections. You’ll also complete a final year research project tackling an issue in criminology or security.

With a degree in Criminology and Security Studies from Unilag, you’ll be prepared for careers such as:

  1. Police officer
  2. Corrections officer
  3. Private security specialist
  4. Crime data analyst
  5. Victim advocate
  6. Parole officer
  7. Homeland security specialist

Unilag has a strong reputation for excellence and innovation. Their Criminology and Security Studies program provides the knowledge and skills to pursue a rewarding career protecting people and society. If you want to make a difference combating crime and improving security, this program is for you.

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2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology and Security Studies. This program provides students with a strong foundation in the fields of criminology, criminal justice, and security.

Some of the courses you are to offer include:

  • Introduction to Criminology: Covers theories of criminal behavior and the social context of crime.
  • Criminal Law: Provides an overview of the Nigerian criminal justice system and penal code.
  • Policing and Law Enforcement: Examines the role and function of police in society. You’ll learn about police organization, responsibilities, and operations.
  • Corrections: Focuses on the Nigerian prison system, probation, parole, rehabilitation programs, and other alternatives to incarceration.
  • Security Studies: Analyzes security threats like terrorism, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime. You’ll explore strategies for strengthening national security.

Hands-on learning opportunities are also available through internships, research projects, study abroad programs, and more. Faculty members have expertise in areas like penology, victimology, criminal psychology, and counterterrorism.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers as criminologists, criminal investigators, prison administrators, security analysts, and police officers. Some also pursue graduate degrees in criminology, law, or public policy.

If you’re interested in studying the causes and consequences of criminal behavior or want to help keep communities safe, the Criminology and Security Studies program at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka may be for you. With the right skills and experience, you can land an exciting role in law enforcement, corrections, or security.

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3. University of Ibadan

The University of Ibadan established the Department of Criminology and Security Studies in 1985, making it one of the first universities in Nigeria to offer programs in this field. Today, UI offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in Criminology and Security Studies.

For graduate study, UI offers both master’s and doctoral programs in Criminology and Security Studies. These programs provide advanced research and analytical training for careers as university lecturers, policy analysts, consultants and senior managers in criminal justice and security organizations. Areas of focus include transnational organized crime, maritime security, cybercrime, and counterterrorism.

With its long history and expertise in criminology and security studies, UI is an excellent choice for undergraduate or graduate study in this field. Alumni and faculty are leaders in security, law enforcement and academia across Nigeria and beyond. A degree from UI will provide you with the knowledge and connections to pursue a successful career protecting people and society.

4. Nigerian Defense Academy

The Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA) is one of the top institutions for security studies in Nigeria. Located in Kaduna, the NDA offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in security and strategic studies.

The NDA’s undergraduate programs in security studies include:

  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Security Studies: This program provides a broad foundation in security concepts and practices. You’ll take courses on topics like criminology, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and intelligence. The BSc in Security Studies aims to prepare you for a career as a security analyst, policy advisor or in law enforcement.

Graduates of the NDA’s security studies programs are highly sought after, as Nigeria faces diverse security challenges like terrorism, cybercrime, smuggling and more. Studying at the NDA provides valuable connections and opportunities for internships in Nigeria’s security sector.

The NDA has a competitive admission process, accepting only the top-performing students from across Nigeria. If admitted, you’ll undertake military training in addition to your coursework. After graduating, you’ll have the opportunity to work as a commissioned officer in the Nigerian armed forces.

The NDA offers several postgraduate programs in security studies, including master’s degrees in security and strategic studies, defense studies, and more. These programs aim to strengthen Nigeria’s security apparatus by deepening students’ knowledge and skills. Postgraduate students conduct original research on topics like counterinsurgency, maritime security, and peacekeeping.

With its emphasis on professional and military education, the NDA is a prestigious institution for those seeking a career safeguarding Nigeria’s security. By balancing theory and practice, the NDA’s programs in security studies provide the knowledge and experience to address diverse threats. For the select few admitted, studying at the NDA can open up pathways to leadership within Nigeria’s security sector.

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FAQ’s

So you’re interested in studying Criminology and Security Studies in Nigeria, but have some questions. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about these programs:

What types of degrees are offered?

Universities in Nigeria offer undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees in Criminology and Security Studies, including:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Criminology and Security Studies
  • Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Criminology and Security Studies
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Criminology and Security Studies

What careers can I pursue?

A degree in Criminology and Security Studies prepares you for various careers, such as:

  • Crime analyst
  • Security consultant
  • Police officer
  • Correctional officer
  • Investigator

How long do the programs take?

The program lengths vary:

  • B.Sc. – 4 years
  • M.Sc. – 2 years
  • Ph.D. – 3-5 years

What are the admission requirements?

Admission requirements differ for each degree and university, but typically include:

  • For B.Sc. – 5 credits in SSCE, includilng English and Math
  • For M.Sc. – B.Sc. in Criminology, Law or a related field
  • For Ph.D. – M.Sc. in Criminology and Security Studies
  • Some universities may require additional tests like POST UTME, IELTS or GRE

What skills will I learn?

You will develop important skills for a career in Criminology and Security Studies, including:

  • Critical thinking
  • Research and analysis
  • Crime prevention and control
  • Investigation and interrogation techniques
  • Risk and threat assessment
  • Policy development

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