Are you passionate about drawing, designing, writing, or creating things that express emotion and meaning?
If yes, a career in the arts could be the right path for you. While universities are known for offering many art programs, polytechnics in Nigeria also provide solid, practical training in various art-related courses that prepare students for creative careers.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about art courses in polytechnics in Nigeria.
Why Choose Art Courses in Nigerian Polytechnics?
Polytechnics are known for offering hands-on and technical education, which is perfect for art students who want to apply their creative skills in real-world industries.
Here are key reasons to consider studying art in a polytechnic:
- Practical Skills: Polytechnics focus more on practical learning than theory.
- Shorter Duration: ND (National Diploma) and HND (Higher National Diploma) usually take 2 years each.
- Affordable Fees: Polytechnic tuition fees are generally lower than universities.
- Entrepreneurial Focus: Many art courses train students to start their own creative businesses.
List of Art Courses Offered in Nigerian Polytechnics
Below are some of the most common art-related courses you can study at Nigerian polytechnics:
1. Mass Communication
This course teaches students how to work in media, including journalism, TV/radio broadcasting, public relations, and advertising.
Key Subjects Covered:
- News Writing
- Media Law
- Broadcast Journalism
- Public Relations
- Advertising Techniques
Career Paths:
- Journalist
- Radio/TV Presenter
- PR Officer
- Social Media Manager
2. Art and Design / Industrial Design
This program trains students in visual arts like drawing, sculpture, painting, and design.
Key Subjects Covered:
- Drawing & Painting
- Sculpture
- Textile Design
- Ceramics
- Graphics Design
Career Paths:
- Fine Artist
- Illustrator
- Textile Designer
- Graphic Designer
3. Fashion Design and Clothing Technology
If you’re into fashion and want to design clothes, this course is for you.
Key Subjects Covered:
- Pattern Drafting
- Garment Construction
- Fashion Illustration
- Clothing Technology
Career Paths:
- Fashion Designer
- Pattern Maker
- Tailor/Seamstress
- Fashion Illustrator
4. Music Technology
Students learn the technical and artistic sides of music production, including studio recording and instrument mastery.
Key Subjects Covered:
- Music Theory
- Studio Production
- Sound Engineering
- Instrument Practice
Career Paths:
- Music Producer
- Sound Engineer
- Studio Technician
- Musician
5. Theatre Arts / Performing Arts (in some polytechnics)
Though not as common in polytechnics, some schools offer drama and performance programs.
Key Subjects Covered:
- Acting
- Stage Design
- Directing
- Scriptwriting
Career Paths:
- Actor/Actress
- Playwright
- Director
- Theatre Manager
6. Photography and Cinematography
Students learn to take professional photos and shoot/edit videos for films and ads.
Key Subjects Covered:
- Camera Techniques
- Lighting
- Photo Editing
- Video Production
Career Paths:
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Cinematographer
- Film Editor
7. Printing Technology
This course teaches the process of preparing and producing printed materials like books, newspapers, and packaging.
Key Subjects Covered:
- Print Production
- Typography
- Pre-Press and Post-Press Techniques
Career Paths:
- Print Technician
- Press Operator
- Publishing Assistant
8. Library and Information Science
Though more related to documentation, this course is useful for those interested in managing art resources, media archives, or museums.
Career Paths:
- Librarian
- Museum Assistant
- Archivist
- Digital Media Curator
Top Polytechnics in Nigeria Offering Art Courses
Here’s a list of some polytechnics in Nigeria that offer quality art-related courses:
| Polytechnic Name | Location | Notable Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) | Lagos | Art & Design, Mass Comm, Printing |
| Federal Polytechnic, Auchi | Edo State | Fine Art, Mass Comm, Fashion Design |
| The Polytechnic, Ibadan | Oyo State | Mass Comm, Music Tech, Art & Design |
| Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH) | Lagos | Mass Comm, Printing Tech |
| Federal Polytechnic, Bida | Niger State | Mass Comm, Fine Art |
| Federal Polytechnic, Nekede | Imo State | Library Science, Mass Comm |
| Rufus Giwa Polytechnic | Ondo State | Mass Comm, Fashion Design |
| Kaduna Polytechnic | Kaduna | Printing Tech, Art & Design |
Admission Requirements for Art Courses in Polytechnics
To gain admission into most art-related ND programs in Nigerian polytechnics, here’s what you need:
For National Diploma (ND):
- At least 5 O’Level credits including English Language and any 4 relevant subjects (depending on course).
- Sit for the JAMB UTME, and select the correct subject combination.
- Meet the cut-off mark set by the polytechnic.
Example JAMB Subject Combo for Mass Comm:
- Use of English
- Literature in English
- Government or CRK
- Economics or any other Art subject
For Higher National Diploma (HND):
- Must have completed ND in a related course with a minimum of Lower Credit.
- Must have completed at least one-year industrial training (IT).
Career Opportunities for Art Graduates from Polytechnics
Studying art in a polytechnic can lead to both employment and entrepreneurship. Many graduates go on to build successful careers in media, advertising, design, fashion, and more.
Here are industries you can work in:
- Media Houses (TV/Radio)
- Advertising Agencies
- Publishing Firms
- Art Studios
- Fashion Houses
- Government Culture/Tourism Departments
- Digital Marketing Agencies
- Freelancing (as graphic designer, writer, artist, etc.)
How to Succeed as an Art Student in a Polytechnic
- Develop Your Portfolio: Keep samples of your best work to show future clients or employers.
- Use Digital Tools: Learn tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or video editing apps.
- Network: Attend art fairs, exhibitions, or join student creative clubs.
- Take Internships Seriously: Your IT placement could land you a real job.
- Stay Creative: Keep exploring new ideas and styles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I gain admission without Literature in English?
For courses like Mass Communication or Theatre Arts, Literature is often required. For others like Fashion Design or Printing Tech, it’s not compulsory.
2. Is ND or HND recognized internationally?
Yes, especially with good results and work experience. Some graduates even get admission for top-up degrees abroad.
3. Which is better: University or Polytechnic for art students?
Polytechnics offer more practical training, while universities may be better for research and academic careers. It depends on your goal.
4. Can I start my own business after an art course?
Absolutely! Many art courses are entrepreneurial. Fashion design, graphics, photography, etc., are great for self-employment.