As a young person trying to decide on your career path, you’re considering the medical field. Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors, and medical professionals will continue to be in high demand. But with so many options for medical degrees and training, how do you choose which program is right for you? The good news is that many medical careers have excellent job prospects and salaries in Nigeria.
In this article, we’ll cover the top 15 most in-demand medical courses to help guide your decision. You’ll learn key details on each program, including the length of study, specializations, potential salaries, and growth projections.
15 Most in-Demand Medical Courses in Nigeria (2024)
A medical course refers to any educational program that provides training in the medical field. These courses prepare students for careers as physicians, nurses, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. Medical courses prepare you for rewarding jobs that improve people’s health and well-being. There are many paths to choose from so you can find the right career for your interests and talents.
These are the 15 most in-demand medical courses in Nigeria:
Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
Studying medicine in Nigeria means becoming a doctor. As an MBBS, you diagnose illnesses, prescribe treatment, and promote health. It requires dedication, with at least 6 years of school and residency. To become an MBBS, you’ll earn a bachelor’s in medicine. Study science, take the UTME and Post-UTME, and get into med school. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, pathology, and clinicals. After, do a year-long internship and a residency in your chosen specialty.
Doctors are always needed in Nigeria. According to the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, we have a shortage, with only about 35,000 doctors for over 200 million people. MBBS salaries range from ₦200,000 to ₦200,000 for interns and up to ₦5 million for specialists. Government and private hospitals hire MBBS doctors, especially in Lagos and Abuja.
The road is long, but becoming an MBBS in Nigeria can be very rewarding. You’ll have a prestigious career helping people and earning a good living. With hard work and perseverance, you can achieve your goal of becoming a doctor.
Pharmacy
A pharmacist is a healthcare professional who is an expert on medicines and their uses. Pharmacists dispense medications to patients and offer expertise on the safe use of prescriptions.
Pharmacy is a health profession that focuses on the safe and effective use of medications. Pharmacists are medication experts who help patients get the most benefit from their medications. They advise doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers on proper drug selection, dosages, interactions, and side effects.
As a pharmacist, your duties typically include:
- Dispensing medications to patients and counseling them on proper use.
- Advising healthcare providers on proper medication selection and dosages.
- Monitoring for drug interactions and advising patients on potential side effects.
- Compounding customized medications for patients with special needs.
- Educating patients about health topics like diet, exercise, and disease management.
- Keeping detailed patient records and maintaining a clean, well-organized pharmacy.
To become a pharmacist in Nigeria, you need to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD) from an accredited pharmacy program. This usually takes 5 years of study after high school. You must also complete an internship and become licensed by passing the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN).
With a median salary of over ₦5 million per year and strong job growth, pharmacy can be a very rewarding career path in Nigeria. The increasing demand for prescription medications as the population ages suggests a bright outlook for pharmacists. If you want a stable career in healthcare, pharmacy may be worth considering.
Nursing
Nursing is a healthcare profession focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities so they may attain, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life. Nurses work as part of an interdisciplinary team to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate care. Nursing science is a broad discipline that includes many specialties.
Nurses provide care, support, and advice to people who are ill, injured, or disabled. As a nurse in Nigeria, you’ll help assess patients’ conditions, administer medication and treatments, and monitor recovery. The work can be physically demanding, often involving tasks like lifting patients, standing for long periods, shift work, and being on call.
Nurses provide compassionate care for the sick and injured. The job requires physical stamina, emotional stability, and the ability to respond quickly in emergencies. Nurses record patients’ medical histories and symptoms, administer medications and treatments, observe patients, and note their progress.
As a nurse in Nigeria, your main duties will include:
- Monitoring patients’ conditions and assessing their health needs
- Administering medications and treatments as prescribed by doctors
- Recording patients’ medical histories and symptoms
- Assisting doctors with examinations and procedures
- Providing emotional support to patients and their families
To become a nurse in Nigeria, you’ll need to complete a Bachelor of Nursing degree (BNSc) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nursing. The degree program typically takes 5 years, while the HND takes 3 years. You must also be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
According to Glassdoor, nurses in Nigeria earn an average of ₦110,000 per month. The job outlook for nurses in Nigeria is positive. The demand for healthcare services is increasing due to population growth, aging population, and greater health awareness. There is an ongoing shortage of nurses in Nigeria, so job opportunities are abundant.
Medical Laboratory Science
A medical laboratory scientist, also known as a clinical laboratory scientist, analyzes bodily fluids and tissues to detect diseases and other abnormalities. Their job involves conducting tests that aid in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Medical laboratory scientists require at least a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field.
The daily duties of a medical laboratory scientist include:
- Collecting and analyzing blood, urine, and tissue samples to detect any abnormalities.
- Performing chemical analyses of bodily fluids using automated equipment and manual techniques.
- Preparing specimens and operating sophisticated laboratory equipment like microscopes, cell counters, and spectrophotometers.
- Interpreting and recording the results of their analyses.
- Discussing abnormal results with physicians to determine further testing.
- Strictly following safety procedures and quality control standards.
To become a medical laboratory scientist in Nigeria, you need:
- A Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) degree from an accredited university. The program usually takes 5 years to complete.
- Complete a 1-year internship in a hospital or diagnostic laboratory.
- Become certified by passing an exam from the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN). Certification is required to practice in Nigeria.
- Consider specializing in a particular area like clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, or immunology. Specialization may lead to higher pay.
The average salary for an entry-level medical laboratory scientist in Nigeria is ₦100,000 per month. Salaries increase with years of experience and specialization. The job outlook for medical laboratory scientists in Nigeria is positive. Employment is projected to grow due to increased demand for diagnostic testing and a shortage of qualified personnel.
Optometry
Optometry is the health care profession concerned with examining the eyes and visual system for defects or abnormalities as well as diagnosing and treating visual disorders. Optometrists provide vision care by prescribing corrective lenses and other treatments to maintain or improve visual acuity and health. Their duties include performing vision tests to determine visual acuity and the presence of visual abnormalities or diseases. They prescribe corrective lenses and advise patients on proper care of their eyes and vision. To become an optometrist in Nigeria, you need to earn a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited optometry school. Job opportunities for optometrists in Nigeria are strong due to increasing demand for vision care and eye health services. The salary range for optometrists in Nigeria is NGN2,500,000 to NGN5,000,000 per year.
Dentistry
Dentistry focuses on the care of teeth, gums, and mouth. As a dentist in Nigeria, you diagnose and treat problems with patients’ teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. You remove decay, fill cavities, place protective sealants on children’s teeth, straighten teeth, and repair fractured teeth. You may work solo or with a group of dentists. To become a dentist in Nigeria, complete a 5-year dental degree from an accredited university. Then, obtain a license to practice. Dentists earn high pay, with an average salary of ₦2.5 million per year. Due to high demand, job opportunities for dentists are plentiful and secure.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession concerned with human movement and maximizing physical potential. Physiotherapists help people affected by injury, illness, or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education, and advice. They maintain and restore maximum movement and functional ability throughout the lifespan.
Physiotherapists assess, plan, and implement rehabilitative programs that improve or restore human motor functions, maximize movement ability, relieve pain syndromes, and treat or prevent physical challenges associated with injuries, diseases, and other impairments. Physiotherapy makes use of physical approaches, including manipulation, exercise therapy, heat, cold, massage, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy.
Key attributes for physiotherapists include patience, empathy, and the ability to motivate patients. Manual dexterity, physical stamina, and sensitivity are also important. Physiotherapists should stay up-to-date with advanced techniques and technologies through continuing education.
Typical duties of a physiotherapist include:
- Evaluating patients to diagnose problems and determine the best treatment approach
- Developing and implementing treatment plans using therapy techniques and equipment
- Educating patients and their families about what they can do to manage conditions
- Keeping records and monitoring patient progress
To become a physiotherapist in Nigeria, you need a 5-year bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy from an accredited university. Licensing and certification requirements vary by state in Nigeria.
The average pay for a Physiotherapist in Nigeria is ₦2.5M per year. The job outlook for physiotherapists in Nigeria is good due to an aging population and increasing demand for rehabilitation services.
Physiology
Physiology is the study of the functions and processes of living things. As a physiology student in Nigeria, you’ll explore how the human body works, from the molecular and cellular level up to the level of the whole integrated organism.
Some of the characteristics and responsibilities of a Physiologist include:
- Conducting research to better understand human biological systems and functions.
- Designing and performing experiments using live specimens or computer simulations.
- Recording and analyzing data to determine the effects of factors such as drug compounds on biological processes.
- Preparing reports and research papers to document and share findings with colleagues.
- Staying up-to-date with scientific advances in areas like biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology.
To become a Physiologist in Nigeria, you should study physiology, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy, and statistics. Many Physiologists have a master’s or Ph.D. in Physiology or a related field. The job outlook for Physiologists in Nigeria is good, with demand and salaries both increasing.
Pharmacology
As a pharmacologist in Nigeria, your main duty is studying how drugs interact with biological systems. You’ll research the properties, effects, and development of medications. To become a pharmacologist, you need a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacology. Coursework usually takes 4 years. Key classes cover chemistry, biology, physiology, and pharmacology.
Pharmacologists in Nigeria earn an average salary of ₦2.5 million per year. Job opportunities are growing due to increased demand for new and improved medications. Hospitals, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies commonly hire pharmacologists.
In your role, you’ll design and conduct experiments to determine how medicines work in the body and ensure they’re safe and effective. You may develop new drug formulations or applications. Strong communication skills are important for publishing research findings and advising healthcare professionals on medication usage.
Overall, pharmacology is a rewarding field if you want to improve lives through scientific discovery and medical advancement. With the proper education and dedication, you can have a successful career as a pharmacologist in Nigeria.
Human Anatomy
Human anatomy is the scientific study of the structure and shape of the human body. Anatomists use visual observation and manual exploration to examine the relationships between body systems, organs, and tissues. The study of human anatomy provides essential knowledge for physicians and healthcare professionals.
Anatomy is a visual discipline. Anatomists must have a keen eye for detail and be able to recognize anatomical structures. They need strong analytical and problem-solving skills to understand how anatomical systems are connected and interact. Anatomy also requires dexterity and sensitivity to explore body tissues and structures.
Anatomists examine cadavers (human remains) to observe the structure and arrangement of muscles, bones, organs, glands, and vessels. They document their findings through drawings, photographs, and written descriptions. Anatomists may teach anatomy to medical students and healthcare professionals. They also conduct research to expand our understanding of human anatomy and how it relates to health and disease.
To become an anatomist, you need extensive education and training. A bachelor’s degree in Anatomy or a related field is required.
According to recent estimates, the average salary for an anatomist in Nigeria is ₦2 million per year. Job opportunities for anatomists are expected to grow over the coming years due to increasing demand for physicians and healthcare professionals with a strong background in human anatomy. An aging population and advancements in medical technology are also driving job growth in this field.
Biochemistry
Biochemistry involves the study of chemical processes in living organisms. As a biochemist in Nigeria, you’ll analyze the chemical composition of biological substances like blood, tissues, and urine. You’ll also research the effects of foods, drugs, and toxins on health and growth.
To become a biochemist in Nigeria, earn a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or a related field. Some biochemists get master’s or Ph.D. degrees for career advancement. You’ll take courses in chemistry, biology, physics, and math. Hands-on lab work is also required to learn proper scientific methods and techniques.
The average pay for a biochemist in Nigeria is ₦3.5 million annually. Job opportunities in this field are growing due to increased demand for new medicines and improved agricultural crops. Biochemists are employed in hospitals, universities, research institutions, and pharmaceutical and chemical companies.
With a degree in this specialized field, you can contribute to improving health and wellness in Nigeria through your work as a biochemist. Study hard and get the right degree, then start your rewarding career helping to solve some of the world’s biggest challenges.
Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary medicine is the medical treatment of animals. Veterinarians diagnose and treat injuries, diseases, and other ailments in animals. Their patients include pets, livestock, and animals in zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries.
To become a veterinarian in Nigeria, you must complete a 6-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited university. Coursework includes biology, zoology, biochemistry, and animal anatomy. Hands-on experience is gained during clinical rotations and an internship. Starting salaries for veterinarians in Nigeria average ₦3.5 million per year.
The job outlook for veterinarians in Nigeria is excellent. As people adopt more pets and farmers work to improve livestock health, demand for vets is increasing. The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association projects a 20% growth in vet jobs over the next decade.
Microbiology
Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, algae, protozoa, and fungi. As a microbiologist in Nigeria, your role is to study these microbes in the environment, humans, food, and water. You’ll test samples to identify pathogens, ensure safety standards are met, and research new treatments.
To become a microbiologist in Nigeria, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, or a related field. Coursework typically includes classes in microbiology, chemistry, math, and statistics. With a few years of experience, you can become certified by the Nigerian Society of Microbiologists. Salaries average around ₦1.5 million per year.
The job outlook for microbiologists in Nigeria is good. As the population grows, the demand for professionals to monitor public health, food safety, and medical research also rises. Microbiologists are needed in hospitals, universities, private labs, and government agencies like NAFDAC. If you enjoy studying tiny organisms and want to help advance health and safety, microbiology can be a rewarding career path.
Public Health
A career in public health in Nigeria focuses on promoting health and wellness within communities and populations. Public health professionals analyze how environmental and behavioral factors affect community health, then develop and implement programs and policies to improve health outcomes.
Some of the main duties of public health workers include:
- Conducting research on diseases and injuries
- Promoting healthy behaviors and educating the public
- Developing health programs and policies
- Monitoring health trends and identifying health risks
- Ensuring access to healthcare and advocating for underserved groups
To pursue a career in public health, you’ll need a degree in public health, health sciences, or a related field like epidemiology or health education. Coursework typically covers areas like biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and behavioral health. Many jobs require a master’s or doctoral degree.
The job outlook for public health careers in Nigeria is positive. Salaries vary but average around ₦3 million per year, depending on experience and education. Public health provides a rewarding career, helping communities live healthier lives.
Radiography
Radiographers, also known as radiologic technologists, perform diagnostic imaging examinations like X-rays, CT scans, mammograms, and MRI scans. They prepare patients for radiologic examinations, explain procedures, position patients for imaging, and process films.
Some work in diagnostic imaging centers, hospitals, and physicians’ offices. To become a radiographer in Nigeria, complete a radiography program at an accredited school. Coursework includes anatomy, pathology, radiation safety, and imaging techniques. Clinical experience is required. Certification or licensing is usually needed.
The job outlook for radiographers in Nigeria is excellent. Employment opportunities are projected to grow over the coming years due to an aging population and advances in diagnostic technology. According to recent estimates, radiographers in Nigeria earn an average salary of ₦3.5 million per year. Actual pay will depend on factors like education, certification, experience, and job location.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some frequently asked questions and answers about medical courses:
What are the entry requirements for medical courses?
The entry requirements vary depending on the course and school. Usually, you need a minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO, including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Some schools may require credits in Physics too. You will also need to sit for aptitude tests like UTME, POST UTME, etc., depending on the school.
Are medical courses difficult?
Medical courses are challenging but rewarding. They require a lot of studying and practical work. The course content is broad and complex. However, the courses are designed to prepare you for a career in healthcare, so the curriculum focuses on imparting skills and knowledge that will be useful to you as a medical professional. With hard work and perseverance, the courses can be completed.
Is the medical field growing in Nigeria?
Yes, healthcare is a fast-growing sector. Nigeria needs more medical professionals to meet the health needs of its large population. Job opportunities abound for those with the right skills and training.
How long does it take to become a doctor in Nigeria?
Becoming a doctor in Nigeria typically takes 6 to 7 years of intensive study and training. The journey begins with a 6-year undergraduate medical degree (MBBS), followed by a 1-year internship and residency training.
What are the top medical schools in Nigeria?
Some of the best medical schools in Nigeria are:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
These schools are known for their high academic standards, quality teaching staff, and good facilities. Their medical degrees are also recognized globally.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the 15 most in-demand medical courses in Nigeria for 2024. As you can see, there’s a wide range of options depending on your interests and career aspirations. Whether you want to work directly with patients, conduct life-saving research, or help manage complex healthcare systems, there’s a medical course that’s right for you. The key is to think carefully about how your skills and passions align with these growing career fields in the medical industry. And remember, it’s never too late to pivot and upskill if you feel called to serve in a different medical role. The demand for talented healthcare professionals isn’t going anywhere, so take the time to choose a course that will set you up for success.