National Open University Courses and Requirements
Education is becoming more flexible, and distance learning now gives students the chance to study without interrupting work, family responsibilities, or business. One of the most popular institutions for flexible education in Nigeria is the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). To guide students properly, this article focuses on explaining the National Open University courses and requirements in clear detail. Whether you want a degree, a postgraduate qualification, or a short programme, this article gives you all the information you need to make an informed decision.
About National Open University
The National Open University of Nigeria is the country’s leading open and distance-learning institution. It operates differently from regular universities because students can learn online, attend classes only when necessary, and study at their own pace. The idea is to make education accessible, affordable, and flexible enough for people who cannot go through the traditional university system.
NOUN runs a modern digital learning system through the iLearn platform, offering e-books, video lectures, virtual classrooms, and digital tests. The university is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), making its certificates recognized for jobs, promotions, and further studies.
Location of National Open University
NOUN’s headquarters is located at Jabi, Abuja, but one of the strongest features of the university is its widespread study centres. Students do not need to relocate because NOUN has centres in every state. These study centres serve as administrative offices, exam centres, tutorial halls, and places to submit documents.
Popular study centres include:
- Lagos Study Centre
- Enugu Study Centre
- Kaduna Study Centre
- Port Harcourt Study Centre
- Benin City Study Centre
- Kano Study Centre
- Ibadan Study Centre
This nationwide presence helps students easily access services while enjoying a flexible learning lifestyle.
Faculties in National Open University
NOUN has eight major faculties offering a wide range of programmes. These faculties make it easier for students to navigate the National Open University courses and requirements before selecting their programme.
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Faculty of Sciences
- Faculty of Management Sciences
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Arts
Each faculty contains updated academic programmes targeted at building skilled professionals who can compete in various industries.
Courses in National Open University
Below is a detailed look at the various courses under each faculty.
1. Faculty of Health Sciences
- Nursing Science
- Public Health
- Environmental Health Science
- Dental Technology
This faculty is ideal for students interested in medical and health-related fields.
2. Faculty of Education
- Early Childhood Education
- Educational Administration
- Computer Science Education
- Business Education
- Biology Education
- English Education
These courses prepare students to become teachers, educational leaders, or school administrators.
3. Faculty of Social Sciences
- Economics
- Mass Communication
- Political Science
- Peace and Conflict Resolution
- Criminology and Security Studies
- Tourism Studies
This faculty suits students who want careers in media, public policy, government, or social development.
4. Faculty of Management Sciences
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Public Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Marketing
These programmes are popular among workers seeking career upgrades or new business knowledge.
5. Faculty of Sciences
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Information Technology
A good choice for students who love science, research, and technology.
6. Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
- Agricultural Economics
- Animal Science
- Crop Science
- Agricultural Extension and Management
Ideal for those entering the agricultural sector or related industries.
7. Faculty of Law
- Law (LLB)
The programme covers core legal areas and prepares students for legal practice after Law School.
8. Faculty of Arts
- English Language
- French
- Islamic Studies
- Christian Religious Studies
- Philosophy
This faculty develops students’ communication skills, cultural understanding, and critical thinking abilities.
Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programmes
To gain admission into any programme, students must meet the National Open University courses and requirements. These requirements ensure that students are academically prepared.
General Requirements include:
- Five (5) O’level credits, including English and Mathematics
- Credits can be from WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or GCE
- Direct Entry applicants need:
- OND, NCE, HND, or A-Level certificates
- JAMB is not compulsory
- Applicants must upload:
- Birth certificate
- O’level result
- Passport photograph
For Professional Courses like Nursing:
- Registered Nurse (RN) or Midwifery certificate
- A valid license from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria
- At least two years of working experience (for some programmes)
NOUN allows students to combine results, making admission more flexible.
Admission Requirements for Postgraduate Programmes
Students applying for postgraduate studies must meet the appropriate National Open University courses and requirements for PGD, Master’s, or PhD levels.
Postgraduate Diploma (PGD):
- Bachelor’s degree with Third Class or Pass
- OR HND with Upper Credit
- NYSC certificate or exemption
Master’s Degree:
- Bachelor’s degree with at least Second Class Lower
- Transcript from previous university
- Some programmes require work experience
PhD Programmes:
- Master’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.5
- Strong academic background
- Research proposal submission
Postgraduate students enjoy flexible study schedules, making it ideal for professionals.
Courses in NOUN That Require No JAMB
Almost all NOUN undergraduate courses do not require JAMB. This attracts many students who want a smooth admission process.
Popular “No JAMB” courses include:
- Criminology and Security Studies
- Business Administration
- Mass Communication
- Public Health
- Peace and Conflict Resolution
- Political Science
- Accounting
- Computer Science
This flexibility has made NOUN one of the easiest universities to enter without skipping quality education.
NOUN Courses You Can Study Fully Online Without Physical Attendance
NOUN offers several programmes that can be completed entirely online. Students only visit study centres for exams when mandated.
Fully online courses include:
- Entrepreneurship
- Marketing
- Philosophy
- Theology
- English Studies
- Political Science
- Peace and Conflict Resolution
This method saves time and is ideal for working students, mothers, and those running businesses.
Most Affordable NOUN Programmes for Working-Class Students
Many NOUN courses have pocket-friendly school fees, making them accessible.
Some of the cheapest programmes are:
- Peace and Conflict Resolution
- Philosophy
- French Studies
- Agricultural Extension
- English Studies
- Entrepreneurship
- Political Science
These programmes allow workers earn degrees without financial stress.
NOUN Programmes Accepting Lower Credit or Pass Grades
Students with average results can still gain admission through NOUN’s postgraduate diploma programmes:
- PGD Public Administration
- PGD Education
- PGD Information Technology
- PGD Criminology
- PGD Business Administration
These programmes allow students with lower grades improve their qualifications before applying for Master’s degrees.
NOUN Courses That Allow Easy Transfer From Other Universities
NOUN accepts credit transfers from accredited universities. Students who paused their studies can continue without starting again.
Transfer-friendly courses include:
- Economics
- Accounting
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Mass Communication
- Public Administration
This helps students return to school conveniently and complete their degree.
FAQs
How many years is a course in Open University?
Most undergraduate courses run for four years, while direct entry students may complete theirs in three years.
Do NOUN students go for lectures?
Lectures are optional. Students may attend tutorials physically or learn online through virtual classes.
Do NOUN students go to NYSC?
Yes. Full-time NOUN graduates below 30 years qualify for NYSC. Others receive an exemption letter.
What courses does National Open University offer?
NOUN offers over 100 programmes across Education, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Law, Management, Sciences, Arts, and Agriculture. Students should review the National Open University courses and requirements before selecting a programme.
How many semesters does NOUN run in a year?
NOUN operates two semesters:
- First Semester
- Second Semester
Students also enjoy flexible examination schedules.
Conclusion
Understanding the National Open University courses and requirements gives students confidence when choosing the right programme. With flexible learning, nationwide study centres, affordable fees, and online study options, NOUN remains a top choice for people who want education without stress. If you want a learning system that fits your lifestyle, career, or family schedule, the National Open University courses and requirements provide everything you need to begin your academic journey.