requirements for phd in nigeria

[email protected]

• Give to Unilag

• Admission Requirements
• Application Form
• International Students

ELIGIBILITY FOR POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMAS / MASTERS BY COURSEWORK

General requirements.

An applicant for admission to a programme shall be:

1. Must possess a Bachelors’s degree of this University or any approved University; 2. A person who holds other qualification(s) recognized by senate of the University of Lagos; 3. In addition to (i) and (ii) above, an applicant may be required, as a condition for admission, to undergo a selection process in the form of written and/or oral examinations.

GENERAL NOTICE

1. (i) Candidates who have not completed the National Youth Service Corps programme or currently undergoing a Postgraduate programme need not apply. Such applicants will be automatically disqualified. 2. Candidates awaiting Bachelor’s degree results need not apply. 3. A holder of Degree obtained from an Outreach/Satellite are not eligible to apply. 4. All academic transcripts must reach the Deputy Registrar/Administrative Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies on or before the start of the session admission is being sought.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

Some departments have specific requirements for admission. Click the link below to view the requirements for your programme of choice.

Specific Requirements

ELIGIBILITY FOR M.PHIL / PH.D PROGRAMME

Masters of Philosophy (M.Phil) To qualify for admission to the above programme:

(i) Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s honours degree from this University or any other approved University with at least a Second Class (Upper Division). (ii) Candidates with a Master’s degree with a minimum of CGPA of at least 3.50. (iii) All candidates to the M.Phil. programmes must contact the respective department for availability of supervisors before applying. (iv) The candidate may be required to undergo a selection process as determined by the respective department.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)  (i) A candidate who has obtained the degree of Master of Philosophy must have a minimum CGPA of 4.0. (ii) A candidate who has obtained the degree of Masters of Science must have a minimum CGPA of 4.0. (iii) Candidates must clear with the respective Departments as to the availability of vacancies/supervisors before applying. (iv) All candidates may be required to undergo a selection process as may be determined by the department.

For M. Phil and Ph.D. programmes only, admission shall be processed at the beginning of each semester. ALL CANDIDATES FOR M. Phil./Ph.D. ADMISSIONS ARE TO PROVIDE TRANSCRIPTS OF THEIR MASTERS’ DEGREES OR FORMAL EVIDENCE OF PERFORMANCE AT MASTER’S LEVEL.

For further enquiries kindly visit the School of Postgraduate Studies Website: http://spgs.unilag.edu.ng

Connect with us

About UNILAG

Founded in 1962, the University of Lagos has, for over 5 decades, provided qualitative and research-oriented education to Nigerians and all those who have entered its domain in search of knowledge. The University has built a legacy of excellence and has been instrumental in the production of top range graduates and academia who have had tremendous impact, directly or indirectly, on growth and development in Nigeria.

Quick Links

• Enterprises
• UNILAG AFRETEC
• UNILAG Intranet
• UNILAG Payment Portal
• UNILAG Quality Assurance Policy
• UNILAG Service Charter

Get in Touch

• Give to UNILAG
• Prospective Postgraduate Students
• Prospective Undergraduate Students
• Stakeholder Links
• UNILAG Pocket Statistics
• Vacancies (Careers)

Access the University

• Institutionary Repository

© 2023 University of Lagos

School of Post Graduate Studies

Admission requirements.

• To qualify for admission into any of the postgraduate programmes of the University, a candidate must meet, among others, all matriculation requirements of at least five (5) credit passes including English Language and Mathematics. Some programmes accept at least a pass in Mathematics.
• For Postgraduate Diploma Programmes, Candidates must possess either a minimum of pass Bachelors Degree in any discipline from a University recognised by the Senate of the NOUN OR a Higher National Diploma with a minimum of Lower Credit. For the Postgraduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting, the candidate must have been called to the Bar. Also for admission into the school of Business and Human Resource Management Postgraduate Diploma programmes,
• For Master degree programmes, candidates must possess either a Bachelors Degree with a minimum of second class lower in the relevant field of study from a University recongnised by the Senate of the NOUN. However, holders of lower classificationOR a Postgraduate Diploma in related field of study from a recongnised University.
• For the Doctor of Philosophy Degree prorammes, candidates must possess a masters degree in relevant field of study from a University recongised by the Senate of the NOUN with a minimum score average of not less than 60% or a cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.0 on a 5-point scale. Studying with us gives a rewarding experience as we give you all the support you need to succeed. You are welcome.

General Enquiries

[email protected]

+2348115032088

Admission Matters

[email protected]

Post Graduate Transcript

[email protected]

+2348106180130

Report on Ethical Issues

[email protected]

Global site navigation

• Celebrity biographies
• Messages - Wishes - Quotes
• TV-shows and movies
• Fashion and style
• Capital Market
• Celebrities
• Family and Relationships

Local editions

• Legit Nigeria News
• Legit Hausa News
• Legit Spanish News
• Legit French News

NOUN master's courses 2024/2025 and PGD, PhD requirements

The National Open University of Nigeria, commonly abbreviated as NOUN, is a Nigerian federal open and distance learning institution. NOUN is the largest Nigerian university in terms of student enrolment, with a current student population of over half a million. The institution was created to provide cost-effective, accessible, and flexible education to Nigerian and international students. The university offers numerous diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate courses. Here are the various NOUN master's courses one can pursue.

The institution's administrative centre is in Victoria Island, Lagos . NOUN has over 75 study centres spread across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.

NOUN master's courses

Here is a look at the various National Open University of Nigeria master's courses .

Melissa Rauch’s height, age, net worth, husband, movies

Other NOUN postgraduate courses

Are there other types of postgraduate courses besides the National Open University master's courses? In addition to the NOUN master's courses, the university also offers various PhD courses. Here is a quick look at the available PhD programmes.

Sasha Obama’s height, age, education, job, boyfriend

Is NOUN master's recognized?

NOUN master's is recognised since the institution is recognized and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria . It is the only Nigerian university that is dedicated solely to providing distance learning programmes.

What are the NOUN postgraduate admission requirements?

All applicants for postgraduate admission into NOUN are expected to have a minimum of a first degree (second class lower) for a master's or HND for PGD in a related field in addition to 5 O-Level credits, including English language and Mathematics.

How much is the school fees for a master's at NOUN?

The school fee for new students taking any master's programme is N35,000. Returning students pay a compulsory fee of 18,000. Students are required to pay an extra N40,000 as a project fee and N2,000 per course as exam fees.

What are the requirements for master's programs in NOUN?

Sapnap’s age, height, real name, ethnicity, hometown

Candidates for master's degree programmes must have a bachelor's degree from a university approved by the NOUN Senate, with a minimum of a second class lower in the relevant field of study.

Can you do a master's degree at the Open University?

There are various NOUN master's courses under various faculties. Some of these programmes include M.Sc. Management Information System (MIS), M.Sc. Cyber Security (CS), M.Sc. Artificial Intelligence (AI), M.A. Islamic Studies and many more.

What is the NOUN PGD duration and features?

A full-time PGD programme runs for a minimum of two semesters and a maximum of four semesters.

What are the requirements for PGD programs in NOUN?

For you to be admitted at NOUN for a PGD programme, you need to attain the following:

• Must have 5 O-Level credit passes at not more than two sittings.
• Have a bachelor's degree of not less than 3rd class honour degree from an approved University.

C Blu’s age, height, birthday, real name, girlfriend

Is NOUN only for Nigerians?

Through its distance learning programmes , the institution welcomes students to pursue their education from all over the world.

Does NOUN offer scholarships?

NOUN offers scholarships to qualifying students. These scholarships might be merit-based, need-based, or offered through specific programmes or collaborations. Students can contact the NOUN scholarship office to learn about potential scholarships and the application procedure.

Can you pursue a postgraduate programme at NOUN if your undergraduate degree is from another institution?

NOUN provides postgraduate programmes to those with undergraduate degrees from recognized schools. Admission requirements and procedures may differ based on the programme.

There are various NOUN master's courses one can enrol in at the hugely popular university. The entry requirements vary slightly from one course to another. Besides the master's courses in NOUN, the institution also offers a wide range of PhD courses.

Legit.ng recently published an article about the largest universities in Nigeria . The country is renowned for its vibrant economy and numerous educational institutions.

These universities vary greatly in size, student population, and courses offered. Discover Nigeria's largest higher education institutions, how big they are, and what they are best known for.

Source: Legit.ng

Jackline Wangare (Lifestyle writer) Jackline Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng, where she has worked since mid-2021. She tackles diverse topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. Previously, she worked at The Campanile by Kenyatta University. She has more than five years in writing. Jackline graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2019) and a Diploma in Marketing (2015) from Kenyatta University. In 2023, Jackline finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques and Google News Initiative course in 2024. Email: [email protected].

Adrianna Simwa (Lifestyle writer) Adrianna Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng where she has worked since mid-2022. She has written for many periodicals on a variety of subjects, including news, celebrities, and lifestyle, for more than three years. She has worked for The Hoth, The Standard Group and Triple P Media. Adrianna graduated from Nairobi University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in 2020. In 2023, Simwa finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. You can reach her through her email: [email protected]

• NOUN Admission Form
• NOUN Courses
• NOUN Guides
• NOUN School Fees
• NOUN Updates
• Cookies Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses (Masters, PGD & PhD)

• WhatsApp 10

NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses (Masters, PGD & PhD) . Discover a comprehensive guide to NOUN’s postgraduate programs, eligibility requirements, application process, and fees. Pursue your academic aspirations and elevate your career prospects with NOUN’s flexible and diverse postgraduate offerings.

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) stands as a beacon of accessible and high-quality education, offering a plethora of postgraduate programs tailored to diverse academic interests and career goals. NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses provide a gateway to advanced knowledge, professional development, and personal fulfilment.

Whether you seek to specialize in a particular field, enhance your leadership skills, or embark on a research journey, NOUN’s postgraduate programs offer the flexibility and rigour to meet your aspirations. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses, equipping you with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about your academic journey.

READ ALSO: NOUN Postgraduate Admission Form: Requirements & Admission Process .

Table of Contents

Exploring NOUN’s Postgraduate Programs:

NOUN offers a diverse array of postgraduate programs across various disciplines, catering to a wide range of academic interests and professional ambitions. These programs are designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and expertise to excel in their chosen fields.

Some of the key postgraduate program categories include:

• Master’s Degree Programs: These programs typically require a bachelor’s degree for entry and provide students with in-depth knowledge and specialized skills in their chosen field.
• Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) Programs: These programs are designed for individuals seeking to pursue advanced research and contribute to the body of knowledge in their respective fields.

Related: NOUN Online Verification Procedure for Newly Admitted Students .

NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses (Masters, PGD & PhD) .

NOUN’s postgraduate registrable courses span a wide spectrum of disciplines, encompassing:

• Agricultural Science: Delve into the intricacies of agriculture, exploring crop production, animal science, and agricultural economics.
• Arts: Engage with the creative and expressive domains of art, literature, and performing arts.
• Education: Equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to shape the future of education, encompassing educational psychology, curriculum development, and educational leadership.
• Health Science: Gain insights into the complexities of human health, exploring public health, nursing, and environmental health.
• Law: Immerse yourself in the intricate world of law, delving into criminal law, constitutional law, and international law.
• Management Sciences: Master the art of business and management, exploring finance, marketing, and human resource management.
• Science: Unravel the mysteries of the natural world, exploring physics, chemistry, and biology.
• Social Sciences: Explore the dynamics of human society, encompassing sociology, psychology, and political science.

Related: NOUN GST302 Business Plan Sample & How to Write It .

==> Adventist College of Nursing Jengre Admission Form .

NOUN Postgraduate Fees Payment Schedule.

Project Fees

• Undergraduates = N15,000.00
• Post-Graduate Diploma – N25,000.00
• Masters = N40,000.00
• Undergraduates = N1,000.00 per course
• Postgraduates (PGD and Masters) = N2,000.00 per course

Related: NOUN Admission Form 2024/2025 Registration Procedure for New Students .

List of NOUN School of Postgraduate Studies Registrable Courses .

Embark on Your Academic Journey:

Upon successful admission, embark on your enriching academic journey with NOUN’s postgraduate programs. Engage with knowledgeable faculty, participate in stimulating discussions, and delve into the depths of your chosen field.

Conclusion: NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses .

NOUN Postgraduate Registrable Courses offer a transformative academic experience, empowering individuals to pursue their aspirations and enhance their professional horizons. With its diverse program offerings, flexible learning structure, and affordable fees, NOUN provides a gateway to advanced knowledge and personal fulfilment. Embark on your academic journey with NOUN and discover the world of possibilities that await you.

Related Posts:

Noun masters courses 2024/2025 (+pgd, phd).

• NOUN Courses for Undergraduate & Postgraduate

NOUN Nursing Courses and School Fees Outline

Noun bachelor of nursing science course outline.

• NOUN B.Sc. Public Health Courses & Admission Requirements

List of NOUN ACETEL Programmes/Courses

Noun non-examinable courses: everything you need to know.

• NOUN B.Sc. Environmental Health Courses & Requirements
• NOUN eCourseware: How to Download NOUN Course Materials

More NOUNNG Updates

NOUN B.Sc. Environmental Health Courses & Requirements

NOUN B.Sc. Public Health Courses & Admission Requirements

NOUN Courses for Undergraduate & Postgraduate

NOUN Nursing Science Registrable Courses 2024 (First Semester)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Sign In or Register

Welcome back.

Login to your account below.

• Past Questions
• School Fees
• Cut-Off Marks
• Subject Combination
• Admission Requirements
• Acceptance Rates

Master’s and Postgraduate Requirements in Nigeria: What You Should Know Before You Apply

Master’s and Postgraduate Requirements in Nigeria : Are you a Nigerian student who wants to advance your academic career and pursue a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria? If yes, then you might be wondering what are the requirements, procedures, and benefits of doing so. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about pursuing a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria, including:

• The general entry qualifications for postgraduate programmes in Nigeria
• The specific admission requirements for different disciplines and universities
• The duration, structure, and cost of postgraduate studies in Nigeria
• The advantages and challenges of pursuing a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria
• The tips and resources to help you succeed in your postgraduate journey

By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to pursue a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria and what to expect from it. You will also be inspired and motivated to take the next step in your academic journey and achieve your goals.

General Entry Qualifications for Postgraduate Programmes in Nigeria

Gaining admission into postgraduate programmes in Nigeria requires meeting certain baseline qualifications stipulated by the National Universities Commission (NUC). Before examining the specific entry criteria for different disciplines and universities, it is vital to understand these broad requirements applicable to all postgraduate applicants.

The NUC outlines general entry qualifications for admission into postgraduate diploma (PGD), masters, and doctoral degree programmes in Nigeria. These are the minimum prerequisites you need to fulfil irrespective of your desired course of study or institution.

According to the NUC guidelines, the general requirements for postgraduate admission in Nigeria include:

Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

The eligibility criteria to gain admission into postgraduate programs in Nigeria depends on the specific degree type and awarding institution. However, there are some general requirements:

Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Admission Requirements:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with at least a 3rd class grade.
• Higher National Diploma (HND) with a minimum of upper credit from an approved polytechnic.
• Professional qualifications like ACA, ACMA, CPA, ICAN etc. acceptable to the university.
• Other qualifications approved by the university senate.
• Some PGDs may require additional credits, exam scores, or work experience. Candidates should verify requirements.

Master’s Degree Admission Requirements:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2nd class upper division or its equivalent.
• PGD with at least a credit pass or equivalent National Certificate of Education (NCE).
• At least 50% score in an unclassified bachelor’s degree.
• Professional qualifications approved by the university.
• Some master’s may require additional exam, O’level credits, interview etc.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Admission Requirements:

• Minimum of a master’s degree from an accredited university with at least 60% score.
• A master’s degree with minimum 50% score may require remedial bridging courses.
• Other qualifications acceptable to the university senate.
• Some PhDs may require extra O’level credits, research proposal submission, etc.

The minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree for PGD, a PGD or bachelor’s degree for master’s, and a master’s degree for PhDs. Candidates should however check specific requirements for their desired program and institution. Relevant educational and professional qualifications are crucial.

Specific Admission Requirements for Different Disciplines and Universities

Now that you know the general entry qualifications for postgraduate programmes in Nigeria, you might be wondering what are the specific admission requirements for different disciplines and universities. This is because each discipline and university may have its own criteria and standards for admitting postgraduate students. Therefore, it is important to check the specific admission requirements for the discipline and university that you are interested in before you apply.

To help you with this, we have compiled some examples of the specific admission requirements for different disciplines and universities in Nigeria. These are based on the information available on the official websites of the universities as of Aug 2024. However, please note that these are only examples and not exhaustive lists. Therefore, you should always verify the latest and accurate information from the official sources of the universities that you are interested in.

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria. It offers a wide range of postgraduate programmes in various disciplines. According to its  official website , some of the specific admission requirements for different disciplines at UNN are as follows:

• For PGD in Architecture, Geoinformatics and Surveying, candidates with third class honours degrees in their respective disciplines are also eligible.
• For PGD in Civil Engineering , Mechanical Engineering, and Architecture, only candidates with university degrees in relevant areas need apply.
• For M.Ed degree, candidates with at least a good second class single honours degree in teaching subjects plus at least a merit level pass at PGD in Education, or those who hold a third class honours degree in Education or a single honours degree in teaching subjects with at least five years postgraduate teaching experience, plus PGD in Education passed at merit level or above are eligible.
• For MPA, candidates should be serving administrative/managerial staff in the public or private sector with a minimum of two years post-qualification cognate experience.
• For Ph.D., candidates must have obtained a master’s degree from UNN or other recognized universities with an average score of 60% or above.

University of Ibadan (UI)

The University of Ibadan (UI) is another one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria. It also offers a wide range of postgraduate programmes in various disciplines. According to its official website, some of the specific admission requirements for different disciplines at UI are as follows:

• For PGD in Education, candidates must possess a first degree from UI or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 50% or above.
• For M.Sc. in Computer Science, candidates must possess a first degree in Computer Science or related disciplines from UI or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 55% or above.
• For M.A. in History , candidates must possess a first degree in History or related disciplines from UI or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 50% or above.
• For M.Sc. in Psychology, candidates must possess a first degree in Psychology or related disciplines from UI or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 55% or above.
• For Ph.D., candidates must have obtained a master’s degree from UI or other recognized universities with an average score of 60% or above.

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is one of the most popular and competitive universities in Nigeria. It also offers a wide range of postgraduate programmes in various disciplines. According to its official website, some of the specific admission requirements for different disciplines at UNILAG are as follows:

• For PGD in Mass Communication, candidates must possess a first degree from UNILAG or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 50% or above.
• For M.Sc. in Accounting, candidates must possess a first degree in Accounting or related disciplines from UNILAG or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 55% or above.
• For M.A. in English Language , candidates must possess a first degree in English Language or related disciplines from UNILAG or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 50% or above.
• For M.Sc. in Chemistry , candidates must possess a first degree in Chemistry or related disciplines from UNILAG or other recognized universities with a minimum score of 55% or above.
• For Ph.D., candidates must have obtained a master’s degree from UNILAG or other recognized universities with an average score of 60% or above.

Duration, Structure, and Cost of Postgraduate Studies in Nigeria

Another aspect that you might be curious about is the duration, structure, and cost of postgraduate studies in Nigeria. This is because these factors may affect your decision to pursue a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria. Therefore, we will provide

you with an overview of the duration, structure, and cost of postgraduate studies in Nigeria. However, please note that these factors may vary depending on the discipline and the university. Therefore, you should always check the specific details from the official sources of the universities that you are interested in.

Duration of Postgraduate Studies in Nigeria

The duration of postgraduate studies in Nigeria varies depending on the program type, level, and mode of study. Typically, postgraduate programs take the following number of academic years:

• 1 year for full-time students
• 2 years for part-time students

This consists of 2 semesters (full-time) or 4 semesters (part-time).

Master’s Degree Programs

• 1.5 – 2 years for full-time students
• 2 – 3 years for part-time students

This comprises 3 to 4 semesters (full-time) or 4 to 6 semesters (part-time).

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• 3 – 5 years for full-time students
• 4 – 6 years for part-time students

The duration ranges from 6 to 10 semesters (full-time) or 8 to 12 semesters (part-time).

Some programs may have slightly shorter or longer durations depending on the academic discipline and policies of the specific university. For instance, certain engineering and medical sciences master’s degrees may take up to 3 years full-time, while select humanities and social sciences PhDs could take up to 6 years full-time.

The key factors determining the length of postgraduate study in Nigeria are the degree type, study mode (full-time or part-time), and the university’s requirements for the program. Students should confirm the exact duration from their preferred university before applying.

Structure of Postgraduate Studies in Nigeria

The structure of postgraduate programs in Nigeria varies by degree type, level, academic discipline, and university. But in general, postgraduate studies consist of the following components:

• Coursework: Core and elective courses covering basic and advanced knowledge and skills.
• Project: Research-based or practical project demonstrating application of acquired knowledge.

Master’s Degree

• Coursework: Advanced and specialized courses in the discipline.
• Thesis/Dissertation: Research or practical project contributing new knowledge or practices.
• Additional: Some programs require qualifying exams or oral defense.
• Coursework: Highly advanced and specialized courses.
• Dissertation: Original research-based project adding significant new knowledge.
• Additional: Some programs require qualifying exams or proposal defense.

While most postgraduate programs contain a coursework and research/project component, the specific structure varies across universities and disciplines. For instance:

• Some master’s degrees mandate comprehensive exams before the thesis/dissertation.
• Certain PhDs require a qualifying exam or proposal defense before the dissertation.
• Professional postgraduate programs may emphasize more coursework than research.

In summary, Nigeria’s postgraduate study structure involves a combination of advanced courses and intensive research/practical work, with additional requirements dependent on the institution and field of study. Students should consult their specific university to understand the program structure.

Cost of Postgraduate Studies in Nigeria

The cost of pursuing postgraduate studies in Nigeria depends primarily on the program type, level, academic discipline, and university.

There are two main cost components:

Tuition Fees:

Tuition fees cover the instruction and supervision provided by the university. Rates vary by institution and degree program.

For example, the approximate tuition per academic session is:

• PGD: ₦75,000 – ₦150,000 at UNN; ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 at UI; ₦75,000 – ₦150,000 at UNILAG
• Master’s: ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 at UNN; ₦75,000 – ₦150,000 at UI; ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 at UNILAG
• PhD: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 at UNN; ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 at UI; ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 at UNILAG

Other Fees:

Other fees cover university services and facilities for students like acceptance, exams, medical, sports, ID card, library, convocation, etc. They also vary by school.

For example, some other fees are:

• PGD: ₦25,000 acceptance fee; ₦15,000 development levy; ₦10,000 project fee at UNN
• Master’s: ₦25,000 acceptance fee; ₦10,000 thesis fee; ₦10,000 convocation fee at UI
• PhD: ₦25,000 acceptance fee; ₦20,000 dissertation fee; ₦20,000 convocation fee at UNILAG

In summary, postgraduate costs in Nigeria include variable tuition fees, university levies, and program-specific charges. Total expenses differ by degree type, university, and subject area. Students should verify precise fees directly from their desired institution’s official channels.

Advantages and Challenges of Pursuing a Master’s Degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria

Pursuing postgraduate studies like a master’s degree or PhD in Nigeria has both advantages and challenges worth considering.

Potential benefits of postgraduate study in Nigeria include:

• Gaining advanced specialized knowledge and skills to become highly competent in your discipline
• Contributing new research and innovations that advance your field and benefit society
• Expanding your professional network and opportunities for career growth
• Enhancing your employability and income prospects by obtaining higher qualifications
• Fulfilling your intellectual passions and interests through rigorous study

However, some notable challenges to undertaking postgraduate study in Nigeria exist:

• Securing admission into competitive programs can be difficult due to limited slots
• Funding and scholarships are limited, making self-financing a challenge
• Some universities have inadequate facilities and resources to support research
• Frequent strikes and disruptions can delay timely completion of programs
• Heavy study workload and pressure can be difficult to balance with other responsibilities

However, while postgraduate study in Nigeria enables you to gain advanced expertise and skills, the process also requires tremendous commitment and perseverance to overcome challenges like securing admission, funding, strikes and workload pressure.

Carefully assess both the pros and cons before deciding if furthering your education through a master’s or PhD program in Nigeria is suitable for your goals and circumstances. Consult seniors, mentors and professors to gain further insights.

Tips and Resources to Help You Succeed in Your Postgraduate Journey

Pursuing a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria is not an easy task. It requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and resilience. Therefore, you need to prepare yourself well and equip yourself with the necessary tips and resources to help you succeed in your postgraduate journey. Here are some tips and resources that we recommend:

• Choose a programme and a university that suit your interest, aptitude, and goals. Do thorough research on the available options and compare them based on their admission requirements, duration, structure, cost, reputation, ranking, accreditation, facilities, resources, faculty, curriculum, etc.
• Apply early and follow the application procedures carefully. Make sure you meet the general and specific admission requirements for your chosen programme and university. Submit all the required documents and fees on time. Prepare well for any entrance examination or interview if required.
• Seek financial assistance or scholarship if needed. Explore the various sources of funding or scholarship that are available for postgraduate students in Nigeria. These include government agencies such as TETFund (Tertiary Education Trust Fund) and PTDF (Petroleum Technology Development Fund), private organizations such as Shell (Shell Petroleum Development Company) and Chevron (Chevron Nigeria Limited), international organizations such as Commonwealth (Commonwealth Scholarship Commission) and Fulbright (Fulbright Program), etc.
• Plan your time and manage your workload effectively. Set realistic goals and deadlines for your postgraduate studies. Break down your tasks into manageable chunks. Prioritize your tasks according to their importance and urgency. Allocate sufficient time for each task. Avoid procrastination and distractions. Seek help when needed.
• Engage with your postgraduate community and supervisor. Seek feedback and guidance from your peers and mentors in your field. Participate in academic activities and events such as seminars, workshops, conferences, etc. Collaborate and network with other scholars and professionals in your field.
• Seek personal and professional support and development. Take care of your physical and mental health and well-being. Balance your postgraduate studies with your personal and professional life. Seek help from your family, friends, colleagues, counselors, etc. when you face any challenges or difficulties. Pursue your hobbies and interests that can enrich your life. Seek opportunities to enhance your skills and competencies that can benefit your career.
• Stay motivated and focused on your goals. Remind yourself of the reasons why you chose to pursue a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in Nigeria. Celebrate your achievements and milestones along the way. Learn from your failures and setbacks. Overcome the obstacles and challenges that you encounter. Keep track of your progress and adjust your plans accordingly. Be flexible and adaptable to the changing circumstances.

Wrapping Up

In summary, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with extensive insights on pursuing postgraduate studies in Nigeria including:

• Admission requirements for different programs and universities
• Typical duration, structure and costs involved
• The advantages of advancing your expertise and employability
• Challenges like funding, facilities and disruptions
• Useful tips and resources to aid your success

I hope this detailed article has provided clarity on what is involved in undertaking a master’s degree or PhD in Nigeria. You should now have sufficient knowledge to make an informed decision based on your academic and career goals, financial situation and personal circumstances.

The next step is to thoroughly research your intended institutions and programs, fulfill the admission criteria decisively, and boldly pursue your postgraduate aspirations in Nigeria. I wish you all the best in furthering your education and taking your career to the next level!

I hope this post has answered all your queries. If you have any questions or comments about Master’s and Postgraduate Requirements in Nigeria: What You Should Know Before You Apply, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below, I will be happy to answer them. And don’t hesitate to share it with others who might find it helpful too!!

Related Posts:

• Universities in the USA that accept HND for Masters…
• OAU Course Registration Guidelines 2024/2025
• Study Medicine in Switzerland: Entry Requirements…
• Redeemer's University Dress Code and Approved Items…
• Top 10 UK Universities that Accept HND for Masters

Leave a review Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your comment  *

Your name  *

Your Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Weekly Newsletter

Email address:

Popular News

Al-Hikmah University School Fees 2024/2025: Everything You Need to Know

Sign in to your account

Remember me

• High Impact Intervention
• Zonal Intervention
• Disaster Recovery
• National Research Fund (NRF)
• Physical Infrastructure/Program Upgrade
• Academic Staff Training and Development
• Library Development
• Conference Attendance
• Teaching Practice
• Institution Based Research
• ICT Support
• Academic Research Journal
• TETFund Project Maintenance
• Equipment Fabrication
• Entrepreneurship
• Academic Manuscript Development
• Advancement: Funding
• Donor Forms
• Types of Gifts
• Terms & Conditions
• Automobile Maintenance
• Dairy & Poultry Farm
• Institution Bookshop
• ResearchGate

Visit Our YOUTUBE PAGE

Payment of electricity.

• Institutions
• Faculty of Agriculture
• Faculty of Arts
• Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences

Faculty of Biological Science

• Faculty of Business Administration
• Faculty of Dentistry
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Engineering
• Faculty of Environmental Studies
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Medicine

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science

Faculty of social science, faculty of physical science.

• Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
• Faculty of Vocational Technical Education

Institute of African Studies

Institute for development studies, institute of mental & child health, institute for drugs-herbal medicine-excipient research and development (id-hed-erd).

• Institute of Education

Institute of Marine Studies

Institute of molecular medicine & infectious diseases.

• Institute of Public Health
• UNN Business School

School of Post Graduate Studies

• School of General Studies

African Centre of Excellence For Sustainable Power & Energy Development

• Advancement Centre

B.I.C. Ijeomah Centre For Policy Studies & Research

• Youth Friendly Resource Centre
• Biotechnology Centre

University of Nigeria Guest House

• Lion Science Park
• Roar Nigeria

Centre For Rural Development & Cooperatives

Centre for basic space science, lion gadgets & technologies centre, equipment research & maintenance centre.

• Energy Research Centre

Strategic Contacts, Ethics & Publications

Centre for igbo studies, gender & policy development centre, climate change, centre for entreprenuership & development research, resource & environmental policy research centre.

• Organization of Women In Science For Developing World

Centre For American Studies

Centre for distant & e-learning, centre for environmental management & control, unn international collaboration.

• University Administration
• Administrative Support Unit
• Other Department
• The Chancellor

The Pro Chancellor

The Vice Chancellor

The Registry

• The Principal Officers

International Collaborations

• Vice Chancellor’s Office

Intellectual Property & Technology Transfer Office

• University Bookshop
• University Press
• Management Information Systems Unit
• Nnamdi Azikiwe Library

EBSCO Host e-Connect

• Library Online Catalogue
• Publications
• Online Resources

Library Journal

• Institutional Repository

Research Gate Presence

• Verification

Alumni Update

I-transcript.

• Open Edu.Resources
• Post Graduate
• Undergraduate
• Faculty of Biological Sciences
• Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Faculty of Social Sciences
• Faculty of Physical Sciences
• Institute of Climate Change Studies, Energy and Environment
• Institute for Development Studies
• Institute For Drug-Herbal Medicine-Expient Research and Development
• Institute Of Maternal & Child Health
• Institute of Marintime Studies
• Institute of Molecular Medicine and Infectious Diseases
• School of Postgraduate Studies
• African Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Power & Energy Development
• B.I.C. Ijomah Centre for Policy Studies and Research
• Strategic Contacts, Ethics & Publications
• Centre for Rural Development and Cooperatives
• Centre for Basic Space Science
• Centre for Entrepreneurship & Development Research
• Centre for American Studies
• Centre for Igbo Studies
• Centre for Environmental Management & Control
• Centre for Distance & e-Learning
• BIC Ijomah Centre For Policy Studies & Research
• Lion Gadgets & Technologies Centre
• Gender & Development Policy Centre
• Equipment Research & Maintenance Centre
• Resource & Environmental Policy Research Center
• Education Innovation Center
• University Of Nigeria Guest House
• The Pro-Chancellor
• The Vice-Chancellor
• Registry Department
• Information Communication Technology (ICT) Unit
• Physical Planning Unit
• Intellectual Property & Technology Transfer Office
• Academic Planning Unit
• Computing Centre
• Quality Assurance Unit
• Medical Centre
• Sports Council
• UNN Consult
• Service Commission (SERVICOM)
• UNN Advancement Centre
• University Of Nigeria General Enterprise Limited
• Bursary Department
• Security Department
• Student Affairs Department
• Works Services Department
• EBSCOHost e-Content
• ResearchGate Presence
• Campus Life
• Ituku Ozalla
• College of Medicine
• I-Transcript
• Open Edu. Resources

Entry Requirements

General Entry Qualifications for Postgraduate Programmes

Postgraduate diploma.

• Graduates of the University of Nigeria or other recognized Universities.
• Holders of credit (Upper credit) level passes at HND or its equivalent in relevant areas (for programmes in the Faculties of Agriculture; Business Administration; in the Departments of Political Science; Public Administration & Local Government; and Vocational Teacher Education.); and for Postgraduate Diploma in Electoral Administration Programme and Public Administration & Local Government; and Department of Vocational Teacher Education).
• Qualifications such as: A.I.B., ACCA., ACMA., ICAN., BEEC., C.P.A., etc may also be considered for admission.
• Candidates with professional qualifications including HND must have obtained 5 credits in WASC or GCE O/L including English and Mathematics for admission for degree courses in Business Administration. For Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture, as well as Geoinformatics and Surveying in particular, candidates with third class honours degrees in their respective disciplines are also eligible. ( www.armorfenceco.com ) For Postgraduate Diploma in Geoinformatics and Surveying in particular, candidates with third class 12 honours degrees in Geography, Geology and other Physical Sciences, as well as HND Upper Credit level passes in related fields, are also eligible.
• Candidates who hold qualifications other than the above which are acceptable to the Board of the School of Postgraduate Studies, and Senate of the University.
• Please note that in all cases, candidates should possess the minimum entry requirements for admission into the first degree programmes in their areas of interest for postgraduate studies. For the PGD in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Architecture, only candidates with University degrees in relevant areas need apply.

Master’s Degree

The following shall qualify for Masters Degree admission: Graduates of the University of Nigeria or of other recognized Universities who have obtained the degree of Bachelor in the relevant disciplines with at least a good second class honours.

• Candidates with relevant Postgraduate Diplomas from the University of Nigeria with at least credit level passes.
• Candidates whose first degrees are unclassified but have scores of 50% or above.
• For M.Ed degree, candidates with at least, a good second class single honours degree in teaching subjects plus at least a merit level pass at Postgraduate Diploma in Education, or those who hold a third class honours degree in Education or a single honors degree in teaching subjects with at least 5 years postgraduate teaching experience, plus Postgraduate Diploma in Education passed at Merit level or above.
• For MPA, candidates should, in addition to (1) and (2) above, be serving administrative/managerial staff in the Public or Private sector with a minimum of two years post-qualification cognate experience.
• Holders of professional Fellowship qualifications such a FIMLT, FNILT, NIPR, or their equivalents obtained through examination. Candidates with the professional certificates listed above must have worked as Senior Technologist (s) or in equivalent position(s) for at least three years.
• Candidates who hold qualifications other than those listed above, which are acceptable to the Senate of the University.

Doctorate Degree (Ph.D)

• Candidates of the University of Nigeria or of other recognized Universities who have obtained the Masters degree appropriate for the proposed areas of study with a minimum of 3.50 grade point average on a 5-point scale or ‘B’ average provided that satisfactory research work formed part of the Masters degree programme.
• Demonstrated evidence of completed academic research will be an advantage.

Master’s/Ph.D Programme

• A candidate with first class honours or second class honours (Upper Division) from a recognized University may be admitted into a Masters/Ph.D programme.
• A candidate with Master’s degree from the University with a grade point average of 3.50 on 5-point or 3.00 on 4-point scale shall qualify for the Master’s/Ph.D or Ph.D.

Connect With Us

© 2024. university of nigeria, powered by tenece professional services, affiliate institutions w a t, general information, organization for the prohibition of chemical weapons, academic calendar, unn accreditation result, support units, stakeholders, health & safety, unn-research-policy, unn strategic plan, misconduct policy.

• Old PG Portal

1. Ph.D. Degree Programmes

These are available to holders of M.A; M.Ed.; M.Eng.; M.Sc.; LL.M; M.Comm.H.; and M.P.H degrees, with a minimum of 60% or cumulative Grade Point Average score in their Master degree programmes.  A Ph.D. degree programme runs for a minimum period of 36 calendar months and a maximum period of 48 calendar months for full-time candidates OR a minimum period of 48 calendar months and a maximum period of 60 calendar months for part-time candidates. Relevant Courses will be taken for the Ph.D. studies where prescribed and a Thesis is required at the end of the Ph.D. programme.

2. M.Phil /Ph.D. Degree Programmes

Candidates who score between 55.00 and 59.99 percent Cumulative Grade Point Average can apply for admission into the Master of Philosophy (M.Phil/Ph.D.) degree programme. The M.Phil/Ph.D. degree programme is available only to full-time candidates. It runs for a minimum period of 12 calendar months and a maximum period of 24 calendar months and a dissertation is produced after the research work. Candidates in this category are eligible for conversion to Ph.D. candidature, following a progress assessment report to be made by a Panel of Examiners at the end of the first session of registration. To be eligible for conversion for the Ph.D. program, candidates are expected to score not less than 60% (aggregate) at the end of the first session.

3. Master Degree Programmes

M.A.; M.Ed.; M.Eng.; M.Sc.; M.Com.H., LL.M and M.P.H. degrees run for a minimum period of 24 calendar months and a maximum period of 36 calendar months for full-time candidates OR a minimum period of 36 calendar months and a maximum period of 48 calendar months for part-time candidates. All Master Degree Programmes are by course work. This is in addition to a research report at the end of which a dissertation is produced

4. Postgraduate Diploma Degree Programmes

Postgraduate Diploma degrees are available to candidates with a Third class (honours) degree or lower. Applicants are to note that, programmes automatically lapses at the expiration of the maximum duration for each programme.  However, a candidate may apply for an extension of not more than 12 months, in the first instance, subject to a maximum of two such extensions.

5. General information      

The Postgraduate session for the Master degree and Postgraduate Diploma is for 12 calendar months, commencing on 2nd October and ending on 30th September of the following year, while for the M.Phil. / Ph.D. and Ph.D. programme is 12 calendar months, session starts to count automatically on the date of first registration.  

ELIGIBILITY FOR ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES

1. Applicants for the Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science shall satisfy one of the following:

• a minimum of first degree from a recognized University in the Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences or the Humanities disciplines.
• HND in Computer Science or Engineering from recognized Polytechnics with a minimum of Lower Credit; and
• HND in any other discipline different from those in (ii) but preferably from Sciences or Social Sciences with a minimum of Lower Credit from a recognized Polytechnic or equivalent Institution, with at least one year cognate experience.

2. Applicants for Postgraduate Diploma in Statistics shall satisfy one of the following:

(i) A minimum of an honour’s degree from a recognized University in any of Science and Social Science disciplines;

(ii) HND in Statistics from a recognized Polytechnic with a minimum of Lower Credit.

3. Applicants for the Master degree programmes who are graduates of the University of Ilorin and other recognized Universities, must have a minimum of Second Class Honours Degree (Lower Division) and must be applying for programmes in which they have their first degrees. However, applicants with Second Class Honours Degree (Lower Division) and those with higher classes of degrees seeking admissions into programmes outside those in which they have their first degrees may be admitted, provided they satisfy Senate in a qualifying examination to be conducted. The least class of Degree for all academic programme applicants is Second Class Honours Degree (Lower Division).  Regardless of the institution where the Bachelor’s degree is obtained, ALL candidates shall apply early for their official Bachelor’s degree transcript to be sent to the Head of Department (HOD) of their vaious programme, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria, before the expiration of the stated deadline.

4. Applicants for the Ph.D. degree programme shall have obtained a relevant Master degree of this or other recognized University, with an average weighted score of at least 60%.  Short-listed candidates would be required to satisfy the Postgraduate School in the qualifying interviews and assessments by the relevant Department. Applicants are therefore advised to interact with the department to which they have applied to ascertain the date of the interview for the Ph.D. degree programme. Regardless of the Institution where the Master’s degree was obtained, ALL candidates must apply early for their official Master degree academic transcripts to be sent to the Head of Department (HOD) of their vaious programme, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria, for the purpose of this admission and before the expiration of the stated deadline.  All candidates must have 5 O/L credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics or pass in Mathematics, where applicable.

5. All Higher Degree candidates that attended foreign Universities, where English language is not the medium of instruction, should submit to the Postgraduate School, evidence of their English Language proficiency, e.g., TOEFL or IELTS scores.

6. Applicants for the Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degree Programmes will be subjected to the written assessment (qualifying examination) irrespective of the class of degree obtained, except applicants from the University of Ilorin with a First Class and Second class, Upper Division (Honours)

7. International applicants (Applicants who are domiciled outside Nigeria, and non–Nigerian and applying outside the country) shall be exempted from the qualifying examination. However, International applicants applying from outside the country for the Doctor of Philosophy programmes shall be requested to submit a proposal of not more than 5 pages, giving details of what research they intend to carry out. This should be sent electronically to [email protected]

Thank you for choosing University of Ilorin the BETTER BY FAR UNIVERSITY.

Top of page

© Copyright 2014 - 2024. University of Ilorin, Ilorin Nigeria.

DOCTORAL STUDY AT AUN

• What is Involved?
• How you Study
• How we match your interests
• How we develop your research skills
• Application Requirements
• The Research Proposal

A PhD involves researching and writing an original dissertation of up to 100,000 words to make a new contribution to knowledge.  The PhD dissertation either presents important new information or interprets existing information in an important new, or more nuanced way.

The first two years generally involves selected coursework to prepare you for your research.  Then under the guidance of experts in your field, you independently undertake an original research that culminates in the dissertation.

We have world-class experts in various fields. Please visit the graduate school website for a list of our distinguished faculty and their areas of research interest.

Research training at AUN takes place at three main levels:

• Through your formal courses.
• Through regular consultation with your supervisors.
• Through regular research seminars and tutorials organized by the Graduate School. Details of the graduate research seminar will be provided through email and on notice boards in the PhD Study Rooms.

All the above trainings are complementary to your independent study and research. One does not replace the other. As a research student, we expect that you will be an integral part of the intellectual life of your department and school. Please refer to the PhD Handbook for more information.

We are particularly interested in recruiting intellectually strong, highly motivated, and talented graduates.   Entry requirements include a first or upper second class bachelor’s degree and master’s level degree in a relevant discipline. A strong 2:2 with cognate experience may also be considered.

The research proposal is the most important part of the doctoral application and must be considered very carefully. The proposal allows us to assess your strength (other than through your academic qualifications), the suitability of the proposed research and the availability of experts to supervise the work.   To be clear, the proposal should give us an opportunity to:

• assess the candidate’s knowledge of the subject,
• match the proposed research with the appropriate experts/supervisors,
• assess whether we have the expertise needed to supervise the work
• develop the rightly tailored support to help the student succeed.

The proposal should contain a 3,000 - 5,000-word explanation of the proposed research, stating why the research is of value. The content of a doctoral proposal may vary considerably, but must generally contain the following elements: 

• A working title:   The title of the research will expectedly change over the course of the research, but it is a good start to have a title that encapsulates the intention of the project.  
• Aims of the research:   The research aims should show the overall purpose of the study and should generally be well focused and concise.
• Research questions or hypotheses : The proposal should show what research questions or hypotheses can help achieve the aims listed.
• Context and literature:  The proposal should demonstrate your knowledge of the research area and the current debates in the field. So, the proposal should contain a review of current literature related to your intended research, highlight the gaps, and show how original research can help fill them. A competent literature review will show how the proposed research builds on current knowledge and what new understanding the research could bring. The literature cited should be relevant and up to date.
• Candidate’s Interest:  Be sure to demonstrate your interest and knowledge gained either from previous study, employment, or lived experience. 
• Methodology:  The proposal should contain a clear description of the research methodology, including basic details of methods of data collection and analysis. It should show the type of data required and how you intend to collect and analyze them.  Most importantly, it should say how the methods chosen will address the research aims previously described. 
• Timeline:  A schedule showing key activities, milestones, and potential outcomes would be useful. A realistic timescale for completing the project will demonstrate that you have thought through the process. It will also allow departmental reviewers to assess whether the project is achievable within a four-year timescale. 

American University of Nigeria 98 Lamido Zubairu Way Yola Township bypass PMB 2250, Yola Adamawa State, Nigeria Tel: +234 805-200-2962

Social Media

• X (twitter)
• School of Arts & Sciences
• School of Business & Entrepreneurship
• School of Information Technology & Computing
• School of Law
• School of Engineering
• School of Basic Medical and Allied Health Sciences

School of Graduate Studies

• Photo Gallery

University Library

• Writing Center
• Application
• Undergraduate Requirements
• Undergraduate Fees
• Graduate Requirements
• Graduate Fees
• Liaison Offices
• Financial Aid and Student Development Programs
• Undergraduate
• Graduate School
• Graduate Programs
• Graduate Catalog
• Graduate Brochure
• Message from the Dean
• Spring 2025 Calendar
• Fall 2024 Calendar
• School of Arts & Sciences Faculty
• School of Engineering Faculty
• School of Business & Entrepreneurship Faculty
• School of Information Technology & Computing Faculty
• School of Law Faculty
• Academic Registry
• Math Resource Centre
• Academic Calendar
• Housing & Dining
• Health Tips
• Health Center News
• Judicial Affairs
• Document Library
• Community Service
• International Exchange Opportunities
• Disability Support Services
• AUNThisWeek
• Press Releases
• Events Calendar
• Mission & Vision
• Why Study at AUN?
• Board of Trustees
• Governing Council
• Office of the President
• Administration
• Tuition Exchange Program

My nine steps to success as a PhD student in Nigeria

By Iyobosa Uwadiae

Medical physicist Iyobosa Uwadiae ignored sceptics who questioned her plan to pursue a doctoral programme in the African nation. Here is her advice.

In 2014, I left the United Kingdom after earning a master’s degree in medical physics at the University of Aberdeen, followed by clinical training at the Royal Marsden Hospital hospital in Sutton, London. When I returned to Nigeria, I enrolled in a PhD programme, also in medical physics, at the Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife.

I came home to be closer to my family, and to develop medical physics and advance the fight against cancer in Nigeria.

My decision to pursue a PhD met with the following reactions from friends and acquaintances:

• “So, after getting an international degree, why do you want to get a doctorate in Nigeria?”

• “A PhD is the highest academic degree, and where you get it matters a lot.”

• “Please leave the PhD for the men and focus on your family. Remember, you are a woman!”

• “With the incessant strikes by university staff, it takes about eight years for a serious person to get a PhD in Nigeria.”

• “There is no good equipment in the laboratories, so you can’t do good research.”

• And my favourite: “Aren’t you supposed to be planning your marriage? Don’t forget you are a woman; you wouldn’t look attractive to prospective suitors with a PhD!”

There are many stories about how Nigerian research is not on a par with that of developed countries — in part because of scant research funding, the poor state of the country’s education system, limited access to international journals, unreliable Internet services and a lack of the modern facilities and equipment needed to conduct meaningful research.

But researchers in Nigeria can navigate these problems. I did so by reading articles written by past and present students about their PhD experiences, and asking colleagues at home and abroad how they overcame the obstacles they faced.

I discovered that you can achieve almost anything if you commit yourself to it. Even with the best research facilities and supervisors, success depends largely on applying yourself and making the best of whatever situation you are faced with.

I learnt that finishing my programme ‘alive’ was as important as doing engaging research that solved a problem in my locality. Here’s how I overcame the following challenges along the way:

I had a job to fund my tuition, study and research. If you do not have a scholarship, fellowship, stipend or grant — all of which are hard to come by at most Nigerian universities — you will need a stable source of income.

2. Well-being

I took care of my emotional well-being. Nigerian culture still often considers the idea of mental and emotional health to be a ‘foreign’ concept. I was often depressed, angry and frustrated during my PhD — largely on account of problems with broken lab equipment, missed deadlines, my fluctuating weight, frequent travel abroad to use other institutions’ equipment, sleepless nights trying to understand what exactly my research was about, and the stress of working and studying at the same time. Collection: How to move lab

I couldn’t afford a psychologist, so I talked things through with my parents, supervisor, siblings and friends. I had a strong support system, and shoulders to cry on when I needed them. At the click of a mouse, I could also get help from colleagues within and beyond Africa.

An online network of former classmates, supervisors and senior colleagues was at hand to give me advice and help through e-mail, Skype and other social-media platforms. Also, friends overseas could download articles for me if my institution didn’t have the necessary journal subscriptions. When developing your own network, you can also consider connecting with people who are working on, or who have worked on, projects that are similar to yours to get much-needed guidance. A simple Google search on researchers in your field can work wonders.

4. Networking

I hung out with other research students to get information about upcoming conferences, seminars, workshops and similar events. The research students you interact with do not have to be in your department, or even in your university. You might be surprised by how much information circulates among students on campus.

5. Pragmatism

I chose a realistic project. If, like me, you are a perfectionist and bookworm, you will understand the urge to want to do a ‘star’ project. But I can tell you from my own experience that it makes more sense to consider the environment you are in before you choose a research topic. I had to change my project topic four times, because I found that there was no way I could have finished if I had gone ahead with my first three ideas. If possible, carry out a feasibility study of your project — discuss your ideas with your proposed supervisor, and listen to their opinion. You both have to be on the same page.

6. Hidden costs

I considered the costs before setting out. A PhD is an expensive journey financially, emotionally and psychologically. You are investing at least three years of your life in a ‘business’ that might not yield the profit you hope it will. The probability of isolation and frustration is very high; stories of students who take their own lives, who become clinically depressed and who can’t complete their programme abound online. You have to prepare for the hidden costs of what you are getting into.

I tried to keep in mind that life happens. Unexpected difficulties such as illness, grief and disappointment came up during my studies. I had to overcome these. You are never really prepared for what life brings, and things don’t always have to go the way we plan. Detours are sometimes OK.

I realized that choosing the best supervisor for me was more important than choosing a particular institution. My supervisor, Fatai A. Balogun, had been my mentor for years, and was one of the few medical-physics professors in Africa. I heard many stories of bad supervisor–student relationships, and I wasn’t going to put myself through the pain of having a supervisor from hell, or one who just didn’t like me. Balogun had my best interests at heart, and I went the extra mile to ensure things were ‘smooth sailing’ — by not missing any of our appointments, for example.

I sought help when I needed it. A few times, I got stuck trying to understand a concept or method, and I wasn’t ashamed to ask colleagues at home and abroad for explanations. My monthly income wasn’t enough to fund my research and meet my needs, and when I asked my loved ones for help, they were able to come to my rescue a number of times.

I tried to avoid feeling intimidated by the professors. You can do this, too. They have all travelled the same path that you are now on. They were once students, and one day you might be in their position.

I made up my mind to complete my programme in a maximum of four years, and drew up a timeline that I stuck to as much as possible. With the right strategy, supervisor, mindset and determination, it is possible to do good research in Nigeria, and to finish your PhD within a reasonable timeframe. I got mine in 2018! Remember, the major factor in your success is you.

This article was originally published in Nature (doi: 10.1038/d41586-019-02072-y)

Link to original article: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-02072-y

• News and articles
• Find us Find nearest IDP offices IDP Australia IDP Bahrain IDP Bangladesh IDP Cambodia IDP Canada IDP China IDP Egypt IDP Ghana IDP Hong Kong IDP India IDP Indonesia IDP Iran IDP Jordan IDP Kenya IDP Korea IDP Kuwait IDP Lebanon IDP Malaysia IDP Mauritius IDP Middle East IDP Nepal IDP New Zealand IDP Oman IDP Pakistan IDP Philippines IDP Saudi Arabia IDP Singapore IDP Sri Lanka IDP Taiwan IDP Thailand IDP Turkey IDP UAE IDP Vietnam IDP Corporate
• Study abroad steps
• Why study abroad?
• Where and what to study?
• How do I apply?
• After receiving an offer
• Prepare to depart
• Arrive and thrive
• Study destinations
• Study in UK
• Study in Australia
• Study in Canada
• Study in USA
• Study in Ireland
• Study in New Zealand
• Find a course
• Course advice
• FastLane courses
• Scholarships
• University Rankings - THE
• University Rankings - CUG
• What is IELTS?
• Why take IELTS with IDP?
• IELTS Preparation
• Book an IELTS test
• Arrival services
• Money transfer
• Student health cover
• Student banking
• Accommodation
• Guardianship welfare services
• Find nearest IDP offices
• IDP Australia
• IDP Bahrain
• IDP Bangladesh
• IDP Cambodia
• IDP Hong Kong
• IDP Indonesia
• IDP Lebanon
• IDP Malaysia
• IDP Mauritius
• IDP Middle East
• IDP New Zealand
• IDP Pakistan
• IDP Philippines
• IDP Saudi Arabia
• IDP Singapore
• IDP Sri Lanka
• IDP Thailand
• IDP Vietnam
• IDP Corporate

• IDP Nigeria /
• Study Abroad Destination /
• PhD: fees, requirements and...
• Study Abroad Destination

PhD: fees, requirements and how to apply

Exploring the path to a doctorate abroad with idp.

The prospect of attaining a Doctorate at a prestigious international university is within reach with the assistance of IDP. A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, stands as the pinnacle of postgraduate academic achievement, granted by esteemed higher education institutions. Pursuing a PhD can significantly enhance your career prospects.

A PhD qualification holds immense value for students and professionals aspiring for leadership, academia, research, entrepreneurship, and numerous other sectors. Regardless of your chosen field, a bachelor’s or master’s degree forms the foundation for pursuing a PhD. Successful completion of a PhD program earns you the esteemed title of "Doctor."

Duration of PhD Degrees:

The duration required to obtain a doctorate degree varies based on your field of study, the chosen university, and the educational system of your destination country. Different PhD programs have varying durations:

PhD in Political Science: 3 – 8 years

PhD in Economics: 5 – 7 years

PhD in Medicine: 3 – 8 years

PhD in Computer Science: 4 – 5 years

PhD in Music: 4 – 7 years

PhD in Engineering: 3 – 8 years

PhD Requirements:

Admission criteria for PhD programs differ among universities and fields of study. Generally, to apply for a PhD program in leading universities in Australia, the USA, the UK, New Zealand, Canada, or Ireland, you'll likely need:

Application form

Accredited master’s degree in a related field with strong grades and demonstrated research ability and potential

Transcripts for your university degree or courses

Statement of Purpose

GMAT or GRE scores

Recommendation letters

English language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL

Application fee

PhD Opportunities in Various Countries:

Australia: Research scholarships like the international postgraduate research scholarships (IPRS), university scholarships, alumni scholarships, and government scholarships are available.

USA: PhD programs generally span 4 to 8 years after a bachelor's degree, and 2 years less after a master's degree.

UK: PhD involves 3 years of research, culminating in a thesis and an oral examination.

New Zealand: A 3 to 4-year full-time PhD involves producing a substantial thesis under supervision.

Canada: PhD programs last 4 to 6 years and are largely research-focused.

Ireland: A standard PhD is usually completed in 3 to 4 years, with structured programs lasting 4 years.

Ready to embark on an educational journey abroad? Connect with an IDP Education counselor to access the latest information about program requirements and secure your place at your desired global university in the UK, Australia, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland.

Faculty of Management Science

Department of public administration.

Dr. (Mrs). Nwamaka P. Ibeme Head of Department/Associate Professor of Public Administration Email: [email protected] Phone No.: 08033258226 Responsibilities: Head of Public Admin. Department/Associate Professor

Dr. (Mrs). Nwamaka P. Ibeme is an Associate Professor in the Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management Sciences, National Open University of Nigeria. She is presently the Head of the department of Public Administration, National Open University of Nigeria. Before being elected as the HOD, Public Administration, she was the Coordinator, South East Geopolitical zone Incubation Centre under the Directorate of the Entrepreneurship and General Studies (DEAGS), National Open University of Nigeria. Dr. Ibeme holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration (Human Resource Management). She is a member of the following professional bodies:

• Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) as an Associate Member,
• National Association of Public Administration Academics and Practitioners of Nigeria (NAPAAP),
• International Professional Managers Association, UK, Associate Member,
• Chartered Institute of Professional Managers, UK, Associate member,
• Nigerian Institute of Training and Development (NITAD), member.

Dr. Ibeme is a Licensed Human Resource Practitioner and a subject matter expert in Learning and Development. She has written many articles which have been published in reputable local and international journals. She has keen interest in public sector administration/management, public policy, human resources management, gender and entrepreneurship studies. Her hobby is reading motivational, investigative books and listening to classical and gospel music.

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE DEPARTMENT

The Department of Public Administration was established in 2016 to develop manpower for both private and public sectors of Nigeria. The Department was established from the Department of Administration which consisted of both Business Administration and Public Administration. A Senate resolution gave impetus to the decision to split the Department of Administration into two Departments-Public Administration and Business Administration. The aim of the decision was to position the Department of Public Administration for effective fulfillment of its statutory mandate of manpower development. The Department began with the introduction of Four (4) Programmes, namely;

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration;
• Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Administration (PGD),
• Master of Public Administration (MPA) and
• Master of Science in Public Administration (M.Sc).

As part of the giant strides made by the Department within the short period of its establishment, it mounted the following programmes in the year 2021, they include;

• Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) Public Administration and
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Public Administration.

The aim is to create opportunity for Nigerians who desire to pursue a Ph.D programme in Public Administration through the flexible learning mode of Distance Education which emphasizes studying while working. Both programmes have taken off in earnest.

The programmes mounted by the department are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

The need in contemporary Nigeria for well-grounded administrators in government and non-profit organizations is growing. Large, complex governmental organizations cannot function without administrators trained to rationally set goals and priorities, define and analyze complex problems, and generate solutions to these problems. Bearing this in mind, our Philosophy is, therefore, to achieve and improve the standard of education through teaching and research. The Department provides ample opportunities for potential students to develop and instill the spirit of self-reliance and self-confidence. The goal of this philosophy is to produce Public Administration graduates with critical minds, the necessary abilities, and skills to analyze, comprehend, predict, and influence factors that shape and mould policy makers and implementers in Nigeria, Africa, and the world in general. the Department of Public Administration uses Open and Distance education system to producing graduates who are highly competent in the science and art of administration both in the Private Sector, as well as in the Public Sector, and who can make meaningful contributions to the Social, Political and economic development of Nigeria and the world at large.

The Department of Public Administration is committed to the overall university goal of being regarded as the foremost institution providing highly accessible and enhanced quality education anchored by Social Justice, equity, equity and national cohesion through a comprehension each that transcends all barriers. The vision of the Department is to be regarded as the foremost university department producing high quality management professionals locally and internationally, providing highly accessible, innovative, creative, international cooperation and enhanced quality education anchored by social justice, equality and national cohesion through a comprehensive reach that transcends all barriers. We are known for advocating highest values and ideals for the Public Administrators as well as developing effective manpower for the country. We tend to expand and Exchange Knowledge about Public service, thereby contributing to the Resolution of Critical Public Administration Issues, and Promoting Public Administrator Education and Professional Development. Our core values are: Equity, Fairness Professional, democratic, and ethical conduct .

The mission is to provide functional cost-effective and flexible learning which adds life-long value to quality education for all who seek knowledge in the field of administration in the private sector and public sector organizations. The Department has the primary mission of providing creative and innovative functional, cost effective, flexible learning which adds life-long value to equality education for all who seek knowledge with added value required for survival in today’s global village.

OBJECTIVES OF THE DEPARTMENT

The Programmes in Public Administration have the following objectives:

• To provide the students with a good grounding in Public Administration theory; and management techniques that will enable them function effectively as administrators.
• To develop in our students’ good leadership qualities and encourage them to imbibe altruistic values for servicing the public interest.
• To broaden their perspectives and encourage them to acquire eclectic values in analyzing and seeking solutions to the problems which face our governments.
• To train students to be patriotic, courageous, innovative and self-reliant in their various positions as policy-makers in Nigeria of the 21 st
• Produce graduates who can work as employees of Organizations, as well as Public and non-governmental organizations at Local, State, Federal and International Levels.
• Contribute through research to National and International policy issues of business and Public Interests.

Programmes Run in the Department

Bsc. public administration, pgd public administration, masters of public administration (mpa), msc. public administration, master of philosophy (m.phil), doctorate of philosophy (ph.d), entry requirements.

Admission into the B.Sc. Public Administration Programme is in line with the National Open University of Nigeria entry requirements. Candidates for the Four-year Degree Programme in Public Administration must have 5 (five) credits passes in the West African School Certificate Examination or in the GCE Examinations, Credit Passes in Mathematics, English Language Economics, Government and any other related subject are departmental Requirements. This must be obtained in one or two sittings.

DIRECT ENTRY

• Candidates for the 3-year degree programme in Public Administration should posses relevant OND, NCE, or their equivalent with at least Upper Credit Division pass from any accredited higher institution of learning.
• They should possess five credit passes in the GCE (or equivalents – WASC, SSCE, NECO) with three of the credit passes in English Language, Mathematics and Economics.

• Department of Political Science and International Studies | Faculty of Social Sciences

Postgraduate Programme

Department of Political Science and International Studies

Postgraduate Degrees

General introduction.

The Department currently runs six postgraduate programmes namely: Postgraduate Diploma in Peace and Conflict Management, Masters in Peace and Conflict Management, Masters in International Affairs and Diplomacy, MSc Political Science, MPhil International Studies and PhD in Political Science.

I. PhD Political Science(With Specializations)

Duration: This programme runs for a period of 36 months (3years) on a full time basis.

Entry or Admission Requirements:

The programme is open to MSc and MPhil Political Science Graduates with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.50 on a 5-point scale.

Specialisation:

The PhD is also awarded in six areas of specialization, namely: Nigerian Government and Politics, Political Economy and International Development, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Defence and Strategic Studies and Political Theory.

II. MPhil Political Science (With Specializations)

General introduction:.

This programme is essentially a remedial programme for PhD applicants with deficiencies.

This programme runs for a period of 24 months (2 years) with possible extension period of 6 months on a full time basis.

Those with Academic Master’s Degree with a CGPA < 3.50: A student coming in through this track is expected to have already written and defended an MSc or MPhil thesis in Political Science or International Relations, but has a CGPA of less than 3.50 (i.e. an average of B grade)on a 5-point scale. This category of MPhil students is expected to register; in addition to the PhD courses, a minimum of three fresh courses (courses not previously done by the student) at MSc level. Such MSc courses must be passed with a B grade in order to remedy the deficiencies relating to the less than3.50 CGPA as a condition for upgrading to the PhD dissertation stage. This category of MPhil students need not to write another MPhil thesis

Those with a Professional Master’s Degree or from a are those who have not previously written and defended an MSc/MPhil dissertation in political Science. Such students must:

Register a minimum of four fresh courses (courses not previously done by the student) at MSc level and pass them with a 3.50 CGPC on a 5-point scale.

Develop a research proposal, write, defend and pass an MPhil Dissertation with a B grade before being upgraded to PhD status to fulfil all the requirement of earning a PhD.

The MPhil Political Science degree is also awarded in the six areas of specialization as in the PhD Programme.

III. MSc Political Science (with specializations)

This programme runs for a period of 2 years (24 Months) on a full time basis

The programme is open to Political Science and International Studies graduates with a minimum of second-class lower degree and a CGPA of 3.00 on a 5-point scale.

The MSc degree is also awarded in six areas of specializations, namely: Nigerian Government and Politics, Political Economy and International Development, International Relations, Comparative Politics, Defence and Strategic Studies and Political Theory.

IV. Masters in International Affairs and Diplomacy – MIAD (with specialization)

This Part -Time programme runs for a period of 12 Months.

All university graduates with a minimum of second-class lower degree (2.2) are qualified for this programme.

The degree is awarded in four areas of specializations, namely: International Affairs, Diplomacy, International Development and Security Studies.

V. Masters in Peace and Conflict Management (MPCM)

This Part-Time programme runs for a period of 12 Months.

VI. Post Graduate Diploma in Peace and Conflict Management Degree

The programme is essentially for HND and University graduates with third class degree. It is a remedial programme for those who may wish to pursue MPCM or MIAD degrees. If a candidate is able to score Upper Credit and above such a candidate may be considered for MSc Political Science.

Master’s Degree And Ph.D. Requirements in Nigeria

I know that some of my readers are interested in understanding the admission requirements for Master’s degree and Ph.D. degree programme in Nigeria.

I was once in your shoe, and that is why I have decided to share my view based on my experience. I had my Master’s degree at UI and currently undergoing a Ph.D. degree programme at FUNAAB. So I hope I should be able to be of help.

The rate at which people seek postgraduate admission in nigeria is increasing on daily basis and this is not peculiar only to Nigeria, it is all over the world. And the reason for the increase is that students want to sharpen their skills and increase their employability rate.

The good news is that postgraduate admission isn’t as difficult as undergraduate admission and there are many scholarships for Masters program and Ph.D. compare to undergraduate.

However, universities like UI and UNILAG do conduct entrance examination for students seeking postgraduate admission and this has made these universities difficult to offer Masters degree admission to candidates. But you don’t need to restrict yourself to these two universities for admission, there are numerous universities in Nigeria, UK, USA, Canada, etc. that will give you admission without much stress.

Master’s degree Requirements

• To be eligible for Master’s degree, you must have obtained a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of Second Class (Upper Division). However, the school may consider candidates with Second Class lower degree from a recognized University. It implies that most University accepts Second Class lower for Master’s programme in Nigeria. But your CGPA must not be lower than 3.0 in relevant fields.
• You must have at least five credits in your O’level which must include Mathematics, English and other related subjects
• You must have finished the compulsory one-year NYSC.
• English proficiency test is required for international students (most Universities in UK, US, Australia, Canada etc. require a test of English if it is not your first language).

Kindly note that University of Ibadan (UI) requires all candidates applying for the degree of Master or PGD would be required to take an English Proficiency test.

No University in Nigeria accept HND for Master’s degree programme. You will have to do PGD (Postgraduate diploma) before you can proceed for Masters.

In most Universities in Nigeria, Master’s degree takes a minimum of 2 years (4 semesters) and a maximum of 4 years (8 semesters). However, M.Sc. in UI and UNILAG takes 18 months (3 semesters).

Read: Universities selling postgraduate form

Ph.D. Requirements in Nigeria

• To be eligible for admission to the Ph.D. degree programme, candidates must have obtained a Master’s degree from a recognized University approved by Senate.

If you have a Master’s degree from other University with Ph.D. grade, you can only proceed to Ph.D. degree programme where you have finished your Master’s degree. Any attempt to go to another University, you will do one-year course work, and the school will examine you before you proceed to the Ph.D. degree programme. The same is true for Mphil/Ph.D. grade.

It is advisable to do Ph.D. programme at the University where you finished M.Sc.

Ph.D. grade in some schools is 60% or 3.5/5.0 or 5.0/7.0. Most schools still use percentage except few ones that use CGPA.

Additionally, the Ph.D. programme takes a minimum of 3 years (6 semesters) and a maximum of 5 years (10 semesters).

UI grade system for Ph.D. is quite different (they use Ph.D. grade and MPhil/ Ph.D. grade system). A grade point of 3.5 out of 5-point will offer you an MPhil/ Ph.D. admission if your result is from a recognized University. And this calculation will be done through your transcripts.

Most Universities in Nigeria will offer you admission for MPhil/ Ph.D. or MSc/ Ph.D. if you didn’t do your Masters program at their University. MPhil/ Ph.D. or MSc/ Ph.D. means you will do one year of coursework and the remaining three years for your research work.

Recommended: List of Universities with the fast Postgraduate programme in Nigeria

Related posts:

• MBA Degree in Nigeria (Schools and Admission Requirements)
• After Higher National Diploma What Is The Next Degree?
• AIG Scholarship 2023/20224| Fully Funded Master’s Programme
• Where to Study Aeronautical Engineering In Nigeria And Requirements
• Universities Accredited to Offer Law In Nigeria And Requirements

Bolarinwa Olajire

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• info@unizik.edu.ng
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University PMB 5025, Awka, Anambra State
• Faculty of Arts
• Departments
• Department of History and International Studies

PH.D Programme

Introduction

The Department of History and International Studies offers postgraduate programmes leading to the award of M.A and PhD degrees in the following major areas of History and International Studies:

• Social and Political History

Economic History

• International Studies

The M.A/PhD programmes in History and International Studies are designed to produce highly qualified and competent historians and experts in the discipline. It is intended that the products will be equipped with necessary skills with which to undertake critical analyses of issues to meet the challenges of modern society in a globalized world.

Aims and Objectives

The M.A/PhD Programmes in History and International Studies are aimed at:

• Providing students with requisite historical knowledge, a highly developed sense of balance as well as considerable breadth and depth of knowledge of the local, national, African and international communities and environments.
• To enable the students develop the spirit of enquiry and to understand the role of evidence as the basis of informed judgment through training in research in the atmosphere of intellectual independence.
• To train students in critical and rational thinking and judgments.
• To produce students who can assume leadership roles in the task of nation-building, in teaching and research, in policy decision making, in administration and management of affairs as well as in international and foreign relations.
• To enable students avail themselves of the lessons of history and apply them as appropriate to resolving national developmental challenges.

Entry Requirements for PhD Programme

Graduate of recognized universities who have obtained the degree of Masters in History with a minimum of 3.50 Grade Point Average (GPA), on a 5 point scale provided that satisfactory research work formed part of the degree.

Mode of Study

• A candidate for the PhD programme is expected to do course work to be examined in four written papers from four courses. Two of these courses may be taken in each semester of the academic year of the study, and should be related to the student’s area of specialization.
• Each candidate is expected to present a seminar paper in the first and second semesters.
• The candidate should present a research work to be embodied in a thesis and for which there will be a viva.

The total units for PhD programme is 27 units

Course work                                                          12 Credits

Seminar                                                                 6 Credits

Thesis                                                                    9 Credits

Stress Areas

General Themes                                                          0

Nigeria                                                                        1

Africa                                                                          2

Europe & USSR                                                         3

America & Caribbean                                                 4

Asia                                                                             5

International Studies                                                   6

Seminar                                                                       7

Methodology                                                              8

Research / Thesis                                                         9

COURSES FOR Ph.D PROGRAMME

* HIS 790 – PhD Dissertation                                                                                                           9 Units

COURSE DESCRIPTION FOR PH.D. PROGRAMME

HIS 771: PhD Seminar I; HIS 772; PhD Seminar II

Student to liaise with his/her supervisor to choose a researchable topic based on his/her      area of             specialization. This should be presented in seminar format before the end of the     semester.

SOCIAL AND POLITICAL HISTORY

HIS 721: Africa and European Imperialism

The course makes a general survey of the internal and external development and dynamics that prepared the setting both in European and Africa for European imperialism. The theories of imperialism propounded by renowned thinkers like A.J. Hobson, V.I. Lenin, Rosa Luxemburg, Antonio Gramsci, J.A. Schumpeter and D.K Fieldhouse will be analyzed. Themes to be discussed include the historical origin of imperialism, colonialism and neo-colonialism. Case studies will be made.

HIS 722: Themes in Social and Political History of Africa since Independence

The course examines the following topics: political instability in Africa since independence, military rule, one-party system; ethnic conflicts and hegemony; minority rule, struggle for democracy in the 1980s and 1990s etc.

HIS 724: Problems and Issues in African Historiography

The course examines the ramifications of historiography: the meaning of history to Africans; written and non-written sources for the writing if African history such as archeology, ethnography, linguistics, early writings on Africa, European sources of African history, including missionary and colonial archives, and inter disciplinary approach to the study of African History.

HIS 761: Advanced Studies in Foreign Policies of Major World Powers

The course examines the foreign policies of major world powers namely: USA, Russia, Britain, France, China, Japan and Germany within the context of the world politics since World War II.

HIS 711: Advanced Studies in Economic History of Nigeria since the 20 th Century

The course discusses the nature and pattern of external influences in Nigeria’s economic and political developments; the major trends and changes in the monetary and banking sector of the economy, mining and manufacturing/industrialization sector; agriculture, Nigeria oil sector and OPEC, Indigenization, Commercialization, Deregulation and Privatization policies of government policies of government, Operation Feed the Nation, Green Revolution, River Basin Development Authorities; Agricultural Development Projects (ADPs), the Structural Adjustment programme (SAP), National Directorate of Employment (NDE), DFRRI, Better Life for Rural Women, Family Support Programme, Poverty Alleviation Programme, NEEDs, Corruption and the Economy.

HIS 723: Land and Labour in Africa

The course discusses and analyses land and labour as factors of production in the economies of African societies since the advent of European with their commercial and imperial interests in Africa. Land tenure system, plantation agriculture versus peasants-based agricultural economy, colonial policies on land and labour, and African reaction to such policies will also examined. Post-independence development on land labour and related issues will also be considered.

HIS 726: Economic Reforms in Africa

The course examines the crisis of economics underdevelopment, national industrial polices (such, as import substitution), problems and prospects of regional economics organization and the role of the IMF, the World bank and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in the economic development of Africa.

HIS 728: Africa and the World Economic Order

The course examines Africa economies in the global context: the slaves trade, “legitimate” trade; colonization and unequal economic relation of Africa and the relation of Africa and the imperial powers; the relevance of Dependency Theory; the World Bank, IMF and African economies; UNCTAD; foreign borrowing and foreign debts in the economic development of Africa; the information and communications technology (ICT) revolution; globalization and the African economy. International trade; theories of international trade; foreign and underdevelopment, the politics of the new international economic order etc.

INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

HIS 762: Evolution of Diplomacy

The thrust of this course is the genesis of modern diplomacy from the Westphalia state,   the Congress of Vienna, the late nineteenth century era of ‘Alliances’ among the European powers, the formation of the League of Nations, up to the UN. The principle of

Balance of power, East-West Dialogue, post-Cold war global diplomacy etc.

HIS 763: Advanced Studies in International Studies

This course equips the students with better understanding of interaction among nations in the international environment. It focuses on bilateral and multi-lateral relations especially in the framework of international organizations. Themes examined include treaties and alliance formations as exemplified by the Entente Cordiale, Triple Alliance and the Treaty of Versailles; the League of Nations, the United Nations, the Security Council and use of veto power, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Warsaw Pact, the Non-Alignment Movement and Cold War.

HIS 764: International Economic Relations Since 1945

The course examines the link between “economics” and “politics” in international relations. It also discusses the issues of international monetary arrangement; Politics of international trade; Theories of international trade relations; foreign Aid and underdevelopment; the politics of new International Economic Order .

HIS 765: War and Peace in Africa

The course deals with the background to and the causes of wars: the nature , course and effects of conflicts, insurgency and counter-insurgency, peace and conflicts resolution mechanism; disarmament and arms control; the role of international organizations in peace initiatives etc.

HIS 702: Comparative Industrial Growth and Development of USA and Great Britain.

The course examines different approaches adopted by various industrial countries of the world, with particular reference to Britain and USA, against their different backgrounds and settings, to achieve industrial development. This contrasts with the dismal record of Third World countries.

HIS 712: Socio-Political and Economic Reforms and Democratic Rule in Nigeria since 1999

This course deals with the major socio-political and economic developments in Nigeria since the return to civil rule in Nigeria since May 1999. Topics to be treated include: Constitution Debate, Revenue Allocation, the Press and consolidation of democracy in Nigeria, relations among the three tiers (Federal, State and Local) or arms (Executive, Legislature and Judiciary) of government, labour and industrial management, education and health matters; external relations of Democratic Nigeria; the challenge of systematic corruption and economic reforms in Nigeria.

HIS 725: Modern African Political Thoughts

The course examines origin, characteristics of modern African political thought, the major exponents from the late nineteenth century, the de-colonization era, and the  post-independence period. Their impact on African de-colonization forms the basis of analysis.

HIS 727: Colonialism in Africa

The course examines the background to process and means of establishment of colonialism rule in Africa. It also undertakes comparison of colonial policies and the African agency.

HIS 729: Neo-Colonialism in Africa

The course focuses attention on the origins, dimensions and implications of neo-colonialism in Africa. It examines the roles of the colonial state, multi-national corporations and the African elite in establishing the institutional framework for the exploitation and plunder of the African economy. The course also considers measures taken by independent Africa countries to curb the menace.

The course deals with the background to and the causes of wars; the nature, course and effects of conflicts insurgency and counter-insurgency, peace and conflict resolution mechanisms; disarmament and arms control; the role of international organizations in peace initiatives etc

HIS 766: East- West Relations since 1945

This course discusses the history of the Cold War, with emphasis on relations between the Western and Eastern blocs; the role of NATO and Warsaw Pact countries, China, Cuba and the Third World countries.

HIS 767: Advanced Trends in World Diplomacy from the 19 th Century

The course traces the evolution of world contemporary diplomacy from the Congress of Vienna to the present. Principles and issues like Balance of Power, continentalism, European Imperialism, globalization, American policy of isolationism and foreign non-interference in their affairs, the failure of the League of Nations and collective Security; the second world war and America’s involvement in the war; the principle of self-determination; The Atlantic Charter, Cold War, East West Relations; the collapse of the Soviet Union (USSR); the New World and Globalization will be discussed.

• Department of Educational Foundations and Curriculum | Faculty of   Education
• Studnet Portal

Postgraduate Programme

Department of Educational Foundations and Curriculum

Postgraduate Courses

M.ed educational administration & planning.

The M.Ed degree in Educational Administration and Planning is a programme specifically designed for upgrading and enhancing the knowledge base of graduate educational manpower in the specialized discipline of educational administration and planning. It is specifically designed for experienced administrators; particularly those who occupy planning and administrative positions in ministries of education, the schools management boards and the various institutions of learning in Nigeria and abroad. For emphasis this programme is open only to administrators with adequate experience.

Graduates of this programme are expected to accomplish the following as measured by continuous assessment, written examinations, and thesis or project evaluation:

• Master satisfactorily advanced theories, concepts, methods and principles of educational administration and planning.
• Write an acceptable thesis or research project on a major problem of policy area in educational problem of policy area in educational administration of educational planning which demonstrates competent knowledge of the problem or policy area and appropriate research methodology.

Admission Requirements

The following shall be eligible to seek admission and registration for the degree of Masters of Education in Educational Administration and Planning:

• Candidates who hold B.sc Ed degrees from Ahmadu Bello University.
• Candidates who hold B.A. or B.sc degrees plus graduate certificate in education; or diploma in education from Ahmadu Bello University.
• Graduates of other universities who hold degrees and certificates considered by the Faculty Board, Postgraduate School Board and Senate to be equivalent to (1) and (2) above.
• Ability to pass qualifying examination designed by the educational administration and planning section.
• Candidates must also meet the requirements of all other relevant general university registrations governing higher degree studies.

Graduation Requirements

• Passing written examinations of all the prescribed courses (course work).
• Passing oral examinations on the chosen area of research (thesis) at proposal defence, internal defense and external defence.
• Written report on practicum in organization of candidate's choice.

PhD. Educational Administration & Planning

The PhD programme is designed to provide a course of study for candidates pursuing an academic career and who will be teaching and conducting research in the area of educational administration and planning. Successful candidates will be expected to accomplish the following as measured by continuous assessment, written or oral examinations, and thesis evaluation.

• Master advanced, specialized theoretical and conceptual methods, methodologies of educational administration and educational planning and their application.
• Write an acceptable dissertation, which demonstrates original research and appropriate research methodology.

The following shall be eligible to seek admission and registration for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration and Planning:

• Candidates who hold masters degrees in related field from Ahmadu Bello University.
• Candidates of other recognized universities who hold higher degrees considered by the Faculty Board, Postgraduate School Board, and Senate to be equivalent to (1) above.
• Candidates with other qualifications which, together with relevant experience, are deemed to be equivalent.
• Candidates must also meet the requirements of all other relevant general university registrations governing Higher degree studies.

A number of provisions are laid down and which must be fulfilled before a student can graduate:

• Must present seminar paper on the chosen area of study before the staff and student of the faculty.
• Must pass oral examinations on the chosen area of study (dissertation) through proposal defence, internal defence and external defence before a panel of distinguished academics.

The programme is expected to last for a minimum of three (3) years.

M.Ed Curriculum and Instruction

The postgraduate programmes in curriculum and instruction are in two components: M.ED and Ph.D in Curriculum and Instruction with specialization subject in bracket. Both programmes of study are registered with the Postgraduate School and have been in operation since the commencement of Postgraduate Programmes in the Department of Education. They are programmes designed to provide intensive study and research activities in curriculum design, development and evaluation as well as in high quality training of high quality staff qualified to train students at the Faculties and Colleges of Education, Polytechnics, School of Basic Studies, Preliminary Studies, etc. The products of these programmes are envisaged as Ministry Officials in charge of Curriculum Development and Inspection of the School Subjects under the administration and supervision of the Ministries of Education in Nigeria. The students so trained should be able to develop curriculum as well as competently teach a major subject of choice at the levels identified above.

Objectives of the Programme:

The M.Ed programmes in Curriculum and Instruction provide intense study and competencies in the design and teaching of specific subjects in the school curriculum. In line with the general aims stated above, the programmes have the following broad based objectives:

• Training potential researchers and scholars in the field who are prepared for intensive study of and competence in the curriculum design and teaching of a particular school subject.
• Conceptualizing and acquiring advanced knowledge of the various aspects of a subject in the school curriculum;
• Identifying and tackling the general and specific problems associated with the curriculum design, development and evaluation in Nigeria;
• Providing personnel in consonance with the current demands for qualified teachers and researchers in subjects within the school curriculum; and
• Providing graduate students with advanced level competence in the skills of teaching, curriculum development and evaluation that will be able to take up a leadership role in all educational related institution in Nigeria.

Admission Requirements:

The following shall be eligible to seek admission and registration for the degree of Masters of Education in Educational Curriculum and Instruction :

• A minimum of a good second-class lower division degree in a school related subject and education.
• A minimum of a good second-class lower division degree in a school related subject, plus Nigerian Certificate in Education, Postgraduate Diploma in Education or their equivalent.

Graduation Requirements:

PhD. Curriculum and Instruction

Ph.D Programme in Curriculum and Instruction is to give the students advanced knowledge in the practice and philosophy of curriculum design, development and evaluation in general and in relation to a school related subject. Holders of this degree should be able to give guidance and leadership role in identifying, defining research concepts, take initiative in conducting research as well as equipping others to do so.

Objectives:

The students admitted into a Ph.D degree programme in Curriculum and Instruction should be able to:

• Conduct advanced scholarly research in the field of curriculum and instruction;
• Apply an intensive knowledge of curriculum and instruction to teach any school related subject at a tertiary institution;
• Approach curriculum development across educational levels from intra and inter-disciplinary perspectives of scientific, psychological, philosophical, historical and sociological dimensions;
• Proffer realistic solutions to nagging curricular socio-economic, technological, political issues;

The following shall be eligible to seek admission and registration for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Curriculum and Instruction:

• Candidates with other qualifications which, together with relevant experience, are deemed to be equivalent

Duration: 2years

For a student to be awarded the doctorate degree in Guidance and Counselling he/she must:

• Satisfy all the requirements of the School of Postgraduate Studies.
• Take and pass all the core area of specialization and elective courses prescribed.
• Write and successfully defend the dissertation both internally and externally.

M.Ed Educational Technology

The traditional method of teaching is gradually giving way to new innovations and techniques whereby the teacher present lessons alongside different forms of media, materials and equipment. There is therefore the need to produce teachers that are competent both in the operation, maintenance as well as production of these media. This programme attempts to train teachers in those areas for better delivery using suitable methodologies.

Aim of the Programme:

The M. Ed Educational Technology degree programme is aimed at producing, upgrading and updating the competencies and skills of candidates as well as meeting the requirements of the National policy on Education in terms of teacher Education.

The following are the specific objectives of the programme:

• To provide teachers with intellectual as well as professional backgrounds adequate for the tasks and assignment in a technologically changing environment.
• To meet the high demand for qualified and professionally trained teachers in the technology of teaching and learning in various subjects.

The following shall qualify for admission into the Master of Education degree programme in Educational Technology:

• Graduates of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria or other recognized institutions who have obtained a B. Ed, B. A. Ed, B. Sc Ed or degrees of not less than Second Class lower.
• Candidates who hold qualifications other than the one' listed above, which are acceptable to the Board of Postgraduate School and Senate of the University.
• In addition to (a) and (b) above, a candidate must satisfy the university's requirements for matriculation.

Mode of study:

The programme will run on full-time basis. Students shall be required to conduct their programme through course work and research.

Course Duration:

The duration of study shall be a minimum of 12 calendar months and a maximum of 48 calendar months for full-time and a minimum of 24 calendar months and a maximum of 72 calendar months

Career opportunities:

Holders of Masters of Education degree in Educational Technology have opportunities in educational institutions, research centres, educational programme design, curriculum implementation etc.

Areas of specialisation:

Students can specialize in the following areas:

• Instructional Design
• Education Media Production
• Instructional Materials Design
• Computer Assisted Teaching/Learning Packages
• Instructional Resource Management

Students shall be required to register and pass 24 units of taught courses. Also, they are required to write dissertation to be defended before a panel of Examiners in accordance with the existing postgraduate school regulations of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

PhD. Educational Technology

The need to produce high level manpower in Educational Technology cannot be over emphasized. This is because the challenges that Information and Communication Technology has brought into teaching and learning are so enormous that teacher preparation has to be strengthened and regenerated to make them cope with those challenges. The possession of nigh level knowledge in Educational Technology is a step in this direction. This programme therefore is designed with a view of producing professionals in the field that can guide, inspire, upgrade and direct others towards professionalism in the area of Educational Technology.

• To provide further educational training for teachers, researchers and supervisors in all educational settings.
• To equip students with appropriate techniques to solve problems affecting education through the use and production of technological and instructional materials.
• To expose students to the interrelatedness of instructional technology to other aspects of national development.
• To equip students with appropriate psychological skills needed for guidance and counselling in and out of the educational system.

TThe following shall qualify for admission into the Doctor of Philosophy degree programme in Educational Technology:

• Graduates of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria or other recognized institutions who have obtained a Masters Degree in Educational Technology with a GPA of not less than 4.0 on a 5 point scale or not less than 3.0 on a 4 point scale.
• Graduates of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria who has been upgraded to PhD through Master of Philosophy Programme.
• In addition to (1), (2) and (3) above, a candidate must satisfy the university 's requirements for matriculation.

The programme will run on full-time and part-time basis by research.

TThe duration of study shall be a minimum of 24 and a maximum of 60 calendar months for full-time.

Holders of Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Technology have opportunities in educational institutions, research centres, educational programme design, curriculum implementation etc.

Postgraduate Diploma in Education Programme (PGDE)

Duration: 1year

Ph.D scholarships in Nigeria for International students 2024-2025

Find Ph.D scholarships for international students to study in Nigeria 2024-2025.

Pan African University 2023 Scholarship Program for African Students

The Pan African University is an initiative of the Heads of State and Government of the African Union. It is a Premier continental university network whose mission is to provide quality postgraduate education geared towards the achievement of a prosperous, integrated and peaceful Africa. Young, q

Published: 14 Jul 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Nigeria Deadline: 20 Sep 2023

African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) 2023 PhD Scholarships for Africa

AERC wishes to announce the 2023/2024 Ph.D. scholarships for applicants from Francophone and Anglophone sub-Saharan African countries admitted into any of the following AERC Collaborative PhD Programme (CPP) in Economics degree-awarding universities:  University of Cape Town, South Afri

Published: 28 Apr 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Benin , Cameroon , Cote d'Ivoire , Kenya , Nigeria , South Africa , Tanzania Deadline: 31 Aug 2023

IADS 2021 Rahamon Bello Award for Best Ph.D Thesis in African and Diaspora Studies

The Institute of African and Diaspora Studies (IADS), University of Lagos hereby announces the 2021 call for applications for the IADS Rahamon Bello Best Ph.D. Thesis Award in African and Diaspora Studies. This award seeks to encourage and appreciate young intellectuals whose Ph.D. theses address Af

Published: 24 Aug 2021 Type: PhD Study in: Nigeria Deadline: 30 Sep 2021

IADS 2020 Rahamon Bello Award for Best Ph.D Thesis in African and Diaspora Studies

The Institute of African and Diaspora Studies (IADS), University of Lagos is calling for nominations for the best Ph.D in any aspect of African and/or Diaspora Studies.

Published: 19 Sep 2020 Type: PhD Study in: Nigeria Deadline: 30 Oct 2020

• Best Scholarships
• DAAD MIPLC Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries (Germany) 2024
• DAAD STEM Study Scholarships for Developing and Emerging Countries 2024
• UK Government Chevening Scholarship for Students Worldwide 2025
• DAAD Research Grants in Germany Call for Application 2025 (Fully-funded)
• University of Oxford AfOx Graduate Scholarships 2025-2026 for African Citizens (Fully-funded)
• United Nations Young Professionals Programme 2024
• University of Oxford Skoll Scholarships 2025 (Fully-funded)
• Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2024

Scholarship Tips

• US Visa Types Fees & Requirements
• 20 Free Social Media Marketing Course
• 30 Best Medical Universities In The US 2024
• Tips To Find And Apply For Scholarships Online
• 30 Best Study Techniques To Try This 2024
• 26 Best Country To Teach English 2024
• 26 Best Free AI Chatbot 2024
• 20 Best Countries To Relocate 2024

Scholarships by Country to Study

• United Kingdom
• United States
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Netherlands

Scholarships by Category

• Postgraduate
• Undergraduate
• College School
• Entrepreneurs
• Bachelors Degree
• Women Scholarships
• Fully Funded

Scholarships by Country of Origin

• African Students
• Developing Countries

Scholarships by Institution / Company

• Flinders University
• German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
• University of Edinburgh
• The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)

Scholarships by School

• University of Melbourne
• University of Kent
• University Of Queensland, Australia
• University of Oxford
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Scholarships

• Undergraduate Scholarships
• Masters Scholarships
• MBA Scholarships
• Ph.D Scholarships
• Fellowship Scholarships
• Fully Funded Scholarships
• F1 Visa Interview Questions And Answers
• Scholarship Application Letter
• Letter Of Intent For Scholarship
• Personal Statement For Masters
• Motivation Letter For Scholarship
• Scholarship Acceptance Letter

Other Locations

• Scholarships in UK
• Scholarships in Canada
• Scholarships for Nigerian Students
• Scholarships for African Students
• Study Abroad Community

Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences

Degree type, program description .

The doctoral degree program is designed to prepare students for research, teaching and administrative positions in colleges, universities, government and industry. Competence in related fields is emphasized, and supporting work is selected from areas such as biochemistry, biology, molecular biology, computer sciences, genetics, communication, geriatrics, immunology, physiology, kinesiology, psychology and health promotion.

The doctoral program typically requires four to five years of full-time study. Students are expected to meet the following requirements for admission to candidacy by the end of the second year: 

Completion of courses conditional to admission; 

18 semester hours in nutrition, including the following courses with a grade of at least B in each: Nutrition 390 (Topic 1: Advances in Nutritional Sciences I), 390 (Topic 6: Molecular Nutritional Sciences), 390 (Topic 7: Advances in Nutritional Sciences II), and 394 (Topic 1: General Nutrition); 

Six hours of graduate coursework outside nutrition in fields germane to the dissertation research, such as biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, health education, and kinesiology; 

Presentation and defense of a dissertation research proposal and satisfactory response to questions on nutrition and related sciences; and 

Approval by the Graduate Studies Committee of the proposed course plan and proposed dissertation research program. Further supporting work in nutrition or related sciences is usually needed to augment the program. All doctoral candidates must write a dissertation based on the results of their original research and must make a formal oral defense of the dissertation. The Graduate Studies Committee must certify that all of the degree requirements have been completed.

Learn more about degree requirements and course descriptions . 

In Memoriam: Ralph Austen, Professor Emeritus of African History, African Studies, and the College

This tribute is dedicated to Ralph Austen, Professor Emeritus of African History, African Studies, and the College, who passed away this past weekend.  

A service in Ralph Austen’s honor will be held on Wednesday, 28 August at 10AM at KAM Isaiah Israel, 5039 South Greenwood Avenue. 

Austen was a gifted thinker and mentor who will be remembered for his curiosity, generosity, and intellectual capaciousness. Austen produced a prolific and expansive scholarly corpus over his career, one that was animated by a persistent focus on the dynamics of historical change in Africa and their relationship to wider, global processes. This concern resulted in path-breaking studies in the fields of economic, imperial, and cultural history; comparative analyses that brought Africa together with Europe and India; and examinations of an array of geographic regions, including Tanzania, Cameroon, the Mande world of West Africa, the Saharan desert, and the Atlantic world. On the University of Chicago campus, Austen played a key role in establishing, more than forty years ago, one of the first workshops devoted to interdisciplinary graduate student training. Since its founding, the African Studies Workshop has served as a vital nexus of debate and discussion for generations of students and faculty from disciplines across the Social Sciences and Humanities.  Austen remained a core member of that workshop well into his retirement. 

When he arrived at the University of Chicago as an Assistant Professor in 1967, Austen was the first tenure-line historian of Africa to be hired by this institution. His recruitment reflected a growing recognition by mainstream history departments that the African continent could and should be studied not only through the matrices of culture and ethnography, but through systematic investigations of change over time. This thinking was fortified by the imperatives of independence: as African countries threw off the yoke of colonial rule in the 1960s, intellectuals and politicians sought to understand European colonization and its legacies, as well as the enduring and specific impacts of African social and political processes. Austen made this case explicitly in his first monograph, which opened with the observation that Africa possessed a history “apart” from its conquest by European powers, a history that is critical to the “emergence of independent African nation-states” and rooted in “a long and rich precolonial African past.” Austen concluded by observing that the political project of independent Tanzania depended “not only upon the actions of Tanzanians in the present, but also on their understanding of the past.”   ( Northwest Tanzania Under German and British Rule , 1968, 1, 257.)

Austen’s research on colonization in German and British East Africa served as the basis for an ever-widening series of historical investigations. He undertook a study of the Duala coastal peoples in Cameroon and their role as brokers of politics and trade on the Atlantic coast over three hundred years. He brought attention to the trades in enslaved Africans that traversed not only the Atlantic Ocean, but the Sahara and the Red Sea – and he also considered the ways that enslavement has been commemorated and memorialized in different times and places. He undertook a continent-wide examination of the tensions of economic development and dependency, and he charted the workings of technology and disease in both facilitating and impeding European ambitions on the continent. The operations of colonial bureaucracies also drew focus. Austen argued against presumptions of their fixity or coherence, noting their vulnerabilities to shifting resources, personnel, and policy, as well as the force of social, linguistic, and political context. Austen’s embrace of interdisciplinarity perspectives, particularly those of Anthropology, helped him to author a trailblazing comparison of gender, capitalism, and moral economy in Europe and Africa. 

Austen also brought to bear his historical acumen on sources that had typically been the domain of ethnographers and folklorists Through his work on figures such as Sundiata, the hero of the Mande world who is credited with founding the Mali Empire in the thirteenth century, Austen helped to show how epic traditions constitute artifacts of memory, change, and performance, and serve as windows onto modes of historical consciousness. These oral histories, and their relation to the tangled colonial roots of ethnography, also brought into Austen’s intellectual orbit a figure who is at once towering and enigmatic, Amadou Hampâté Bâ. This former colonial official, scholar, and memoirist from what is today the country of Mali inspired several of Austen’s articles and projects in his later years.

Austen’s willingness to move, adapt, and learn was supported in part by formidable linguistic skills: Austen spoke and read German and French fluently, and he developed what he described as a “moderate command” of Duala, Hebrew, Spanish, and Swahili. He also traveled widely. The most significant voyage took place early in his life, when Austen was a small child and he and his family fled from Nazi Germany. As a young man, Austen wanted to return to Europe for a visit, which he achieved by taking a job on a cargo ship that was staffed by a crew of men from all over the world. His next major transoceanic trip came after his arrival at the University of Chicago, when, in 1969-70, Austen moved his wife, Ernestine, and young son, Jake, to Nigeria. There, he took part in a faculty exchange with a fellow historian, Professor Joseph Adebowale Atanda, of the University of Ibadan. During that year, Austen and Atande traded not only professional and pedagogical responsibilities, but also their offices, houses, and personal cars.

Austen earned the admiration of his colleagues because of the ease with which he could engage diverse intellectual realms: he could weigh in on the global history of capitalism, argue about classic texts of political economy, parse the nuances of West African epic oral traditions, and assess African cinematic productions. Throughout his career, Ralph replied readily to correspondence and emails, from students and faculty alike, giving feedback on draft manuscripts with speed and care. He loved to meet with colleagues for a mid-day meal and a chat, for which he would bring his brown bag lunch. He was an active and appreciated member of the Mande Studies Association, and regularly joined that group for conferences and activities in countries in Europe, the United States, and West Africa. 

Austen and his wife of fifty-six years, Ernestine, often opened their home to visiting students and scholars. Their two sons, Ben and Jake, grew up in Hyde Park, attended public schools, and graduated from Kenwood Academy. Like their father, each has pursued a career that involves writing, argumentation, and analysis. Ralph spoke proudly of his daughters-in-law, Danielle Austen and Jacqueline Stewart (who is also a faculty member at the University of Chicago), and of his grandchildren: Maiya, Lusia, Noble, and Jonah. In his spare time, Ralph participated in study groups and helped to organize lectures at his synagogue, KAM Isaiah Israel, and he also taught English to recent immigrants with the Hyde Park Refugee Program. 

Many colleagues here on campus and beyond will remember with great fondness Ralph’s committed presence in the African Studies Workshop. In recent years, he typically arrived to the workshop wearing his bright yellow windbreaker and carrying his white bicycle helmet under his arm. He brought unrivaled depth of knowledge, and a frank and warm inquisitiveness, to our conversations. In that setting, as with so many others, he will be acutely and sorely missed. 

-Emily Lynn Osborn, Associate Professor of African History, African Studies, and the College

This Website Uses Cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using our website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy.