Sharia/Islamic Law is a branch of law deeply rooted in Islamic principles and teachings. It governs the personal, family, and social affairs of Muslims, alongside interactions between Muslims and non-Muslims. In Nigeria, several universities offer this course, especially those with faculties or colleges of law.
If you’re interested in pursuing a degree in Sharia/Islamic Law, it’s crucial to understand the JAMB subject combination and admission requirements for the 2025/2026 academic session. In this post, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about preparing for JAMB UTME and securing admission to study Sharia/Islamic Law in Nigeria.
General Requirements for Studying Sharia/Islamic Law in 2025/2026
To gain admission into a Sharia/Islamic Law program, you must meet the following general requirements:
- SSCE Requirements: You must have at least five (5) credit passes in SSCE (WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB) or an equivalent examination in not more than two (2) sittings. These subjects must include English Language, Mathematics, and any three (3) other relevant subjects.
- JAMB UTME Score: You must register for and write the JAMB UTME, and score at least 180 or higher, depending on the cut-off mark set by your chosen institution.
- First Choice Course Selection: You must select Sharia/Islamic Law as your first choice when registering for JAMB.
- Post-UTME: After meeting the cut-off mark, you must participate in the post-UTME screening process of your chosen university and meet their specific requirements.
JAMB Subject Combination for Sharia/Islamic Law 2025/2026
For the 2025/2026 academic session, the JAMB subject combination for Sharia/Islamic Law is:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Any three (3) Arts or Social Science subjects, including Arabic or Islamic Studies.
English Language is mandatory for all candidates seeking admission into Nigerian universities, including those applying for Sharia/Islamic Law. Arabic or Islamic Studies are particularly recommended for Sharia/Islamic Law due to their relevance to Islamic jurisprudence. Additional subjects can be selected from the following:
- Government
- Literature in English
- Economics
- History
- Geography
- Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
Special Considerations for Sharia/Islamic Law 2025/2026
Some universities may have specific admission requirements or waivers when it comes to Sharia/Islamic Law. This means certain institutions may have additional or slightly different subject combinations. For example, some universities may only require two Arts or Social Science subjects, while others may mandate Literature in English as a compulsory subject. It’s essential to check your preferred institution’s specific admission guidelines before registering for JAMB.
Special Considerations in Nigerian Universities:
- Bayero University, Kano (BUK): Requires Literature in English and any two other Arts or Social Science subjects, including Arabic or Islamic Studies.
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN): Requires Arabic and two other Arts or Social Science subjects.
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUSOK): Requires Arabic and two other Arts or Social Science subjects.
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID): Requires Arabic and two other Arts or Social Science subjects.
List of Universities Offering Sharia/Islamic Law in Nigeria 2025/2026
Here is a list of Nigerian universities offering Sharia/Islamic Law for the 2025/2026 academic session:
- Kogi State University
- University of Maiduguri
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
- Bayero University, Kano
Sharia Law is also offered under specific faculties at some of these universities.
Conclusion
Studying Sharia/Islamic Law in Nigeria provides a strong foundation in Islamic jurisprudence, with career opportunities in law, academia, religious leadership, and the public sector. To secure admission into this field, ensure you meet the general and special requirements of your chosen institution, and select the right JAMB subject combination.
We hope this blog post has clarified the requirements for studying Sharia/Islamic Law in the 2025/2026 academic session. Best of luck in your academic journey!
FAQs
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Sharia/Islamic Law?
The JAMB cut-off mark varies by institution but typically starts from 180. Some universities may set higher cut-off marks depending on their admission policies.
Do I need to include Arabic in my subject combination?
While not mandatory for all universities, Arabic or Islamic Studies is highly recommended for Sharia/Islamic Law as it provides foundational knowledge crucial for the course.
Can I combine WAEC and NECO results to meet the SSCE requirement?
Yes, most Nigerian universities accept a combination of WAEC and NECO results, provided the results meet the general admission criteria.
What career opportunities are available with a degree in Sharia/Islamic Law?
Graduates can work in legal practice, academia, public administration, and religious institutions as scholars, advisors, or legal consultants specializing in Islamic jurisprudence.