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Best Universities to Study Political Science in Nigeria

As a Nigerian student interested in politics and governance, selecting the right university for your political science degree is crucial. You will want an institution with a strong political science program, highly qualified faculty, opportunities for internships and networking, as well as a campus environment that promotes critical thinking and open debate.

While Nigeria has over 170 universities to choose from, a few stand out as the top places to study political science in the country based on academic reputation, resources, and graduate outcomes. This article highlights five of the best universities in Nigeria to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree in political science. By considering these top schools, you can find a program that matches your academic interests and career ambitions in politics, policy, law, or public service.

Best Universities to Study Political Science in Nigeria

Below are the best universities to study political science in Nigeria:

1. The University of Ibadan

The University of Ibadan, founded in 1948, is Nigeria’s premier university. As the first university in Nigeria, it has a long tradition of excellence in education and research.

The University of Ibadan has educated some of Nigeria’s most prominent leaders and political scientists. With a reputation for academic excellence and a highly qualified faculty, the University of Ibadan should be at the top of the list for any student looking to study Political Science in Nigeria. By choosing this premier institution, you will join the ranks of esteemed alumni and be well prepared for a successful career as a political scientist, policy analyst, public administrator or leader.

2. Ahmadu Bello University

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, Kaduna State is considered the top university for studying Political Science in Nigeria.

ABU offers high-quality education and training in Political Science. It has a long history of academic excellence, with renowned professors and lecturers. The department provides students with a solid foundation in political theories, Nigerian government and politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration.

3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is one of the most affordable yet high-quality institutions to study political science in Nigeria.

Established in 1955, UNN is a prestigious federal university located in Nsukka, Enugu State. It has a highly ranked Faculty of Social Sciences that offers a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. The department has over 30 academic staff with doctoral degrees in various fields of political science, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education.

4. University of Lagos

The University of Lagos, located in the heart of Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos, is one of the top universities in the country to study political science.

The Department of Political Science at Unilag, as the university is popularly known, has some of the most distinguished faculty in West Africa. Professors have published acclaimed research on topics such as Nigerian federalism, public policy, and comparative politics. Students benefit from the expertise and mentorship of these leading academics.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete a degree in Political Science?

A bachelor’s degree in Political Science typically takes 3 to 4 years of full-time study to complete. The exact time will depend on factors like the specific program requirements, availability of courses, and your course load. Some schools may allow you to complete the degree on a part-time basis, which can take longer.

What can I do with a degree in Political Science?

There are many promising career options with a degree in Political Science. Some top jobs include:

Policy Analyst: Helps develop and analyze public policies for governments and organizations.
Legislative Assistant: Provides administrative and research support to legislators.
Political Consultant: Offers strategic advice and services to political candidates and organizations.
Nonprofit Program Coordinator: Develops, organizes and oversees programs and initiatives for nonprofits and NGOs.
Journalist: Researches, writes and edits news stories for publication in media. Political journalists focus on government and political topics.

How much do Political Scientists earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for Political Scientists in 2020 was $122,220 per year. Actual salaries may vary depending on factors such as:

Years of experience: Generally, more experienced political scientists earn higher pay.
Educational qualifications: Those with a master’s or Ph.D. degree tend to earn higher salaries.
Employer and location: Salaries tend to be higher in large private companies and metropolitan areas. The highest-paying states for political scientists are Virginia, Massachusetts and California.
Job responsibilities: Senior political scientists in leadership roles, such as managers, earn significantly higher pay.

What skills do I need to study Political Science?

Some essential skills for a Political Science major include:

Critical thinking: Ability to logically analyze complex political issues and events.
Research and writing: Strong skills in researching topics, gathering information and articulating ideas in writing.
Verbal communication: Ability to express ideas and opinions clearly in discussions and debates.
Problem-solving: Coming up with solutions to challenges in policymaking and governance.
Quantitative analysis: Applying statistical and data analysis techniques to understand political and social phenomena.