Subject Combination for Public Administration in Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Are you interested in studying Public Administration at a Nigerian university or polytechnic?

One of the first things you need to know is the right subject combination. Whether you’re registering for WAEC, NECO, or JAMB (UTME), choosing the correct subjects is very important if you want to gain admission and avoid rejection.

In this post, we at Yagibaze will explain everything you need to know about the Public Administration subject combination, admission requirements, and career paths.

What is Public Administration?

Public Administration is the study of how government policies are made and implemented. It teaches students how public institutions operate, how public officers manage resources, and how the government interacts with the people.

People who study Public Administration often work in government ministries, local government offices, NGOs, civil service, and even private companies.

Why is Subject Combination Important?

Before you can study any course in a Nigerian university or polytechnic, you must meet the admission requirements, and that includes:

• Passing the right subjects in WAEC or NECO
• Choosing the correct subjects during your JAMB/UTME registration

If you choose the wrong subjects, you might not be offered admission, even if you score high marks.

WAEC Subject Combination for Public Administration

To study Public Administration, here are the compulsory subjects you must pass in WAEC or NECO:

Core Subjects (Minimum of 5 Credits Required):

1. English Language (Compulsory)
2. Mathematics (Compulsory)
3. Government or Civic Education (Compulsory)
4. Economics
5. Any other relevant subjects such as:
   • History
   • Commerce
   • Geography
   • Christian Religious Studies / Islamic Religious Studies
   • Literature in English

Note: You need at least five credits in these subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings.

JAMB Subject Combination for Public Administration

When registering for JAMB (UTME), you are required to choose four subjects. Below is the correct subject combination for Public Administration:

JAMB Subject Combination:

1. Use of English (Compulsory for all candidates)
2. Government or History (Most preferred)
3. Economics
4. Any other social science subject, such as:
   • Commerce
   • Geography
   • CRS/IRS
   • Literature in English

Tip: Most universities prefer Government over History.

Also Read on Top Private Universities in Oyo State, Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Direct Entry Requirements for Public Administration

If you’re not entering through JAMB (UTME), you may be eligible for Direct Entry admission. Here’s what you’ll need:

Accepted Qualifications:

• Two A-Level passes in relevant subjects like Government, Economics, or History.
• ND or NCE in Public Administration, Political Science, or related fields with upper credit or distinction.
• Some universities also accept IJMB, JUPEB, or HND certificates.

Ensure you check specific university requirements, as they can differ slightly.

Is Mathematics Compulsory for Public Administration?

Yes, Mathematics is compulsory in your O’level (WAEC or NECO). You must have at least a credit pass. However, Mathematics is not required in JAMB for Public Administration.

So:

• You must credit Mathematics in WAEC/NECO.
• You don’t need to choose Mathematics in JAMB.

List of Nigerian Universities Offering Public Administration

Here are some top universities where you can study Public Administration in Nigeria:

Federal Universities:

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• Federal University, Lafia
• University of Calabar (UNICAL)

State Universities:

• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
• Abia State University (ABSU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

Private Universities:

• Babcock University
• Afe Babalola University
• Bowen University
• Igbinedion University

Career Opportunities for Public Administration Graduates

With a degree in Public Administration, you can work in many sectors:

Government Jobs:

• Civil Service
• Ministries and Parastatals
• Local Government Administration
• Nigerian Customs, Immigration, or NDLEA

Private Sector:

• Human Resource Departments
• NGOs and Nonprofits
• Policy Research Institutes
• Consultancy Firms

Others:

• Political Campaign Management
• Teaching and Academia
• Community Development Programs

Tips for Gaining Admission to Study Public Administration

1. Start early: Choose the right subjects in SS1 or SS2.
2. Study hard: Aim for A or B grades in WAEC/NECO.
3. Score high in JAMB: 220+ gives you a better chance.
4. Prepare for Post-UTME: Some schools conduct screening or exams.
5. Choose universities wisely: Select at least one less-competitive school in JAMB to increase your chances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I study Public Administration without Economics?

Yes, but Economics is strongly recommended. Some universities may accept Commerce or other social science subjects instead.

2. Is Literature in English accepted?

Yes, Literature is accepted as a supporting subject but not a core requirement.

3. Can Science students study Public Administration?

Yes, but you must have the required social science subjects in your WAEC and JAMB.

4. What if I fail Government in WAEC?

You may be considered if you have Civic Education and another relevant subject, but Government is preferred.

5. Can I switch from another course to Public Administration?

Yes, through inter-university transfer or change of course, if you meet the subject requirements.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing wrong JAMB subject combination
• Ignoring the need for Government or History
• Believing Mathematics is not important in WAEC
• Not checking the specific school requirements
• Assuming all schools have the same cutoff mark