JamesAre you interested in studying Radiography in Nigeria and wondering if any polytechnics offer this course? You’re not alone.
Many students want to study Radiography but may not be able to attend universities, so they look for options in polytechnics and colleges of health technology.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know:
Let’s dive in!
What is Radiography?
Radiography is the medical imaging field that deals with using X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound to detect diseases and injuries inside the human body. A professional trained in this field is called a radiographer.
Radiographers work in hospitals, diagnostic centers, military health services, and private practices. It’s a highly respected and well-paying profession in Nigeria and globally.
Do Polytechnics in Nigeria Offer Radiography?
No, most polytechnics in Nigeria do not offer Radiography as a course.
Radiography is a professional medical course that requires strict regulation and accreditation. Because of its complexity and the need for medical facilities, it is primarily offered in universities and specialized Colleges of Health Technology, not polytechnics.
However, some colleges of health and monotechnics (which are similar to polytechnics) offer related diploma or technician programs in Medical Imaging Technology or Radiographic Technician Training.
Why Don’t Most Polytechnics Offer Radiography?
Here are key reasons:
- Radiography requires clinical practice in hospitals and advanced labs.
- Equipment costs like X-ray, CT, and MRI machines are high.
- The course must be approved by regulatory bodies like the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN).
- Most polytechnics focus on engineering, technology, and business courses rather than health sciences.
Where Can I Study Radiography in Nigeria?
Here is a list of approved institutions that offer Radiography or related programs in Nigeria:
Universities That Offer B.Sc. in Radiography:
| University Name | Location | Program Type |
|---|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos | B.Sc. in Radiography |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | Awka, Anambra | B.Sc. in Radiography |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | Cross River | B.Sc. in Radiography |
| University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) | Enugu | B.Sc. in Radiography |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | Kano | B.Rad in Radiography |
| University of Maiduguri | Borno | B.Sc. Radiography |
| Usmanu Danfodiyo University | Sokoto | B.Sc. in Radiography |
These are full degree programs (usually 5 years) and approved by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) and the RRBN.
Colleges That Offer Diploma/Technician in Medical Imaging or Radiography:
| Institution Name | Location | Program Type |
|---|---|---|
| Federal School of Biomedical Engineering, LUTH | Lagos | ND/HND in Radiography Technology |
| Nigerian Navy School of Health Sciences | Offa, Kwara State | Medical Imaging Technician |
| Ogun State College of Health Technology | Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State | Medical Imaging Technician |
| Aminu Dabo College of Health Sciences | Kano | ND in Medical Imaging |
| Shehu Idris College of Health Sciences | Makarfi, Kaduna | Diploma in Medical Imaging |
| Millennium College of Health Technology | Akure, Ondo State | Diploma in Medical Imaging |
| Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital (FCT School of Biomedical Engineering) | Abuja | Diploma in Radiography Technology |
These institutions are not polytechnics in the typical sense but are colleges of health technology or monotechnics, which are approved to offer diploma-level Radiography or Imaging programs.
What is the Difference Between Studying Radiography in a University and a College of Health?
| Feature | University (B.Sc.) | College of Health (Diploma) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 years | 2–3 years |
| Certification | Bachelor’s Degree | National Diploma or Certificate |
| Recognition | Higher (for clinical & advanced roles) | Entry-level or support roles |
| Cost | Higher | Moderate |
| Career Path | Radiographer, Specialist | Radiography Assistant, Technician |
Can I Study Radiography at a Polytechnic?
As of 2025, no accredited federal or state polytechnic in Nigeria offers Radiography as a course.
However, you can consider the following paths:
- Apply to a College of Health Technology offering Medical Imaging or Radiography Technician programs.
- Enroll in a university for a B.Sc. in Radiography.
- Use your diploma (ND) from a related course (e.g., Biomedical Engineering) to switch or upgrade.
Admission Requirements for Radiography Courses
Here’s a general guide for admission into Radiography programs:
For Universities:
- O’Level (WAEC/NECO): Minimum of 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- JAMB UTME Subjects: Use of English, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Cut-Off Mark: Varies (usually 180–220+)
For Colleges of Health:
- O’Level: 5 credits in same subjects as above
- Entrance Exam: May be required
- Interview: Common in many colleges
Career Opportunities in Radiography
Studying Radiography opens doors to rewarding careers in both the public and private sectors.
You can work as a:
- Radiographer (X-ray/MRI/CT specialist)
- Diagnostic Imaging Technician
- Sonographer (Ultrasound)
- Radiation Therapist
- Lecturer or Educator
- Health Consultant
Places of Work:
- Government and private hospitals
- Diagnostic and radiology centers
- Military health services
- NGOs and health research centers
Salary Expectations for Radiographers in Nigeria
| Level | Monthly Salary (₦) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (Technician) | ₦80,000 – ₦120,000 |
| Graduate Radiographer | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Senior Radiographer | ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Private Hospitals | Varies based on experience |
Note: Radiography professionals also earn additional allowances when working with specialized equipment.
FAQs About Radiography and Polytechnics in Nigeria
1. Can I study Radiography in a Nigerian polytechnic?
No, as of now, there are no accredited polytechnics offering Radiography in Nigeria.
2. What’s the fastest way to become a radiographer?
Enroll in a College of Health offering a diploma in Medical Imaging, then upgrade later if needed.
3. Is Radiography a good career in Nigeria?
Yes. It’s a respected, well-paying profession with growing demand.
4. Can I study Radiography online in Nigeria?
No. Radiography requires hands-on clinical training, so it must be done on-site.
5. Are diploma holders in Radiography allowed to work in hospitals?
Yes, but their roles are limited compared to degree holders. They often work as assistants or technicians.
James
