JamesAre you searching for the top private universities in Rivers State, Nigeria? You’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we will give you a complete, updated list of approved private universities in Rivers State as of 2025. We’ll also highlight what makes each one unique, including their courses, fees, and admission details.
Why Choose a Private University in Rivers State?
Rivers State, located in Nigeria’s oil-rich South-South region, is home to many reputable institutions of higher learning. Its capital, Port Harcourt, is a fast-developing city with top-tier educational, industrial, and cultural opportunities.
Many students and parents are now choosing private universities due to their:
- Modern facilities
- Stable academic calendars (no strikes)
- Smaller class sizes
- Flexible admission policies
- High discipline and academic quality
If you’re considering studying in Rivers State, especially in a private institution, this article will help you make an informed choice.
List of Private Universities in Rivers State (Approved by NUC)
Below is the table listing all the NUC-approved private universities in Rivers State as of 2025:
Private Universities in Rivers State
| University Name | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rhema University | Aba Road, Port Harcourt | • Established: 2009 • Focus: Sciences, Business • Tuition: ₦400,000 – ₦700,000 |
| Madonna University (Elele Campus) | Elele, Rivers State | • Established: 1999 • Focus: Health Sciences, Law • Tuition: ₦650,000 – ₦1,200,000 |
| PAMO University of Medical Sciences (PUMS) | Port Harcourt | • Established: 2017 • Focus: Medicine, Health Sciences • Tuition: ₦2,500,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| Ritman University (Study Centre) | Port Harcourt | • Study Centre of Ritman University • Focus: Flexible/Distance Learning • Tuition: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Temple Gate Polytechnic (Degree Pathway) | Oyigbo, Rivers State | • Established: 2005 • Focus: Engineering, Business • Tuition: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 |
Detailed Overview of Each Private University
1. Rhema University, Port Harcourt
Rhema University offers a strong blend of science, business, and social science courses, with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and moral discipline.
Top Courses Offered:
- Nursing
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Computer Science
- Accounting
- Political Science
Tuition: ₦400,000 – ₦700,000 per academic session
Website: www.rhemauniversity.edu.ng
2. Madonna University (Elele Campus)
Madonna University is among the oldest private universities in Nigeria. Its Elele campus is known for strong health and medical programs.
Top Courses Offered:
- Medicine & Surgery (MBBS)
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Law
- Public Health
Tuition: ₦650,000 – ₦1.2 million
Website: www.madonnauniversity.edu.ng
3. PAMO University of Medical Sciences (PUMS)
PAMO is Nigeria’s first private medical university, known for excellent faculty, modern medical labs, and a focused curriculum in health sciences.
Top Courses Offered:
- Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
- Anatomy
- Biochemistry
- Nursing Science
- Radiography
- Physiology
Tuition: ₦2.5 million – ₦3 million
Website: www.pums.edu.ng
4. Ritman University (Study Centre, Port Harcourt)
Ritman University’s study centre in Port Harcourt offers flexible learning options for part-time students or working professionals.
Top Courses Offered:
- Business Administration
- Mass Communication
- Computer Science
Tuition: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000
Website: www.ritmanuniversity.edu.ng
5.Temple Gate Polytechnic
Though technically a private polytechnic, Temple Gate partners with universities to offer degree programs in engineering, business, and tech.
Top Courses Offered:
- Electrical/Electronics Engineering
- Business Administration
- Computer Engineering
Tuition: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
Website: (Check via JAMB/NUC listings)
How to Choose the Right Private University in Rivers State
When selecting a private university, consider:
- Accreditation (check NUC approval)
- Tuition Fees (match your budget)
- Available Courses
- Campus Location & Facilities
- Reputation & Alumni Network
- Hostel and Security
Common Courses Offered in Private Universities in Rivers State
| Faculty | Courses Available |
|---|---|
| Health Sciences | Medicine, Nursing, Radiography, Public Health |
| Social Sciences | Political Science, Economics, Sociology |
| Management Sciences | Accounting, Business Admin, Banking |
| Natural Sciences | Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry |
| Law | Law (Only at Madonna University) |
| Engineering & Tech | Computer Science, Engineering |
Advantages of Attending a Private University
- No ASUU strikes
- Faster graduation time
- Smaller class sizes = more attention
- Modern lecture halls & labs
- Higher discipline and order
- Good teacher-student relationships
Admission Requirements
While requirements may differ slightly per university, here’s a general guide:
- 5 credits in WAEC/NECO (including English & Mathematics)
- Acceptable JAMB score (typically 140 and above)
- Post-UTME or screening
- Birth Certificate
- Passport photographs
- State of origin certificate
Some universities accept direct entry, JUPEB, or transfer students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are all the universities on the list NUC approved?
Yes, each university listed above is approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
2. Do private universities in Rivers accept JAMB?
Yes. Most private universities require a JAMB score, but their cut-off marks are usually lower than federal universities.
3. Which private university in Rivers State is best for Medicine?
PAMO University of Medical Sciences and Madonna University (Elele) are top choices for health-related courses.
4. Which is the most affordable private university in Rivers State?
Temple Gate Polytechnic (for affiliated degrees) is the most affordable, followed by Rhema University and Ritman University study center.
James
