Are you passionate about understanding criminal behavior, ensuring public safety, and exploring the workings of the justice system? If yes, then studying Criminology and Security Studies could be the ideal choice for your career path. This field opens doors to various job opportunities in law enforcement, criminal justice, and security management, among others.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the JAMB cut-off marks for Criminology and Security Studies for the 2025/2026 academic session. Additionally, we will highlight the universities offering this course, along with important tips to help you increase your chances of getting admitted.
What is Criminology and Security Studies?
Criminology and Security Studies is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the scientific study of crime, criminal behavior, the justice system, and security management. It examines the causes and consequences of criminal actions and provides insights into how crime can be prevented, managed, and controlled. The course also explores law enforcement procedures, criminal justice administration, and the development of public safety policies.
Key Areas of Study
Criminology and Security Studies covers several key areas such as:
- Crime Prevention: Understanding the social and psychological factors that lead to criminal behavior and developing strategies to prevent it.
- Law Enforcement: Exploring the workings of police departments, security agencies, and other law enforcement organizations.
- Criminal Justice System: Studying the legal frameworks and institutions involved in the prosecution, defense, and punishment of criminals.
- Public Safety: Evaluating methods to ensure community safety and protect citizens from crime and violence.
Graduates of Criminology and Security Studies can work in a variety of sectors including law enforcement agencies, private security companies, government agencies, and research institutions. Some may pursue careers as crime analysts, forensic experts, security consultants, or intelligence officers.
Criminology and Penology: An Alternative Path
There is also a specialized field known as Criminology and Penology, which focuses specifically on the study of punishment, prison systems, and offender rehabilitation. If you’re interested in understanding how the correctional system operates, this could be an alternative option to explore.
Understanding JAMB Cut-Off Marks
To gain admission into any Nigerian university, you must first meet the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) cut-off mark. The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score required for a student to be considered for admission into a particular course. However, universities often set their own cut-off marks, which may vary depending on the popularity and competitiveness of the course.
For Criminology and Security Studies, the JAMB cut-off mark generally falls between 180 and 200. This range may vary depending on the specific university you are applying to.
JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Criminology and Security Studies in 2025/2026
Below is a table showing the JAMB cut-off marks for Criminology and Security Studies in some Nigerian universities:
| University | Course | JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Federal University, Dutse | Criminology and Security Studies | 180 |
| National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) | Criminology and Security Studies | 180 |
| Afe Babalola University | Criminology and Security Studies | 200 |
| Salem University | Criminology and Penology | 180 |
Why Do JAMB Cut-Off Marks Differ Across Universities?
The JAMB cut-off marks for Criminology and Security Studies vary across universities due to several factors:
- Competitiveness: Popular universities and those with higher demand for the course may set a higher cut-off mark.
- Institutional Policies: Private universities often have different admission policies compared to public institutions.
- Course Popularity: If a course is highly competitive, the university may raise the cut-off mark to ensure that only top-performing candidates are considered for admission.
Universities Offering Criminology and Security Studies
There are several universities in Nigeria where you can pursue a degree in Criminology and Security Studies. Here is a detailed overview of some of these institutions and their JAMB cut-off marks for the 2025/2026 academic session:
1. Federal University, Dutse
Located in Jigawa State, Federal University Dutse offers a bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Security Studies. The JAMB cut-off mark for this course is set at 180. Students who score above this threshold have a better chance of being admitted. Dutse is a public university, which means it offers affordable tuition fees, making it a popular choice for many students.
2. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
If you prefer a flexible learning option, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers Criminology and Security Studies as a distance learning program. NOUN’s cut-off mark for this course is also 180, and the university allows students to study from anywhere in Nigeria. This makes it an ideal choice for working professionals or students who prefer to study online.
3. Afe Babalola University
Afe Babalola University, located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, is a private institution known for its academic excellence. The JAMB cut-off mark for Criminology and Security Studies at this university is set at 200. A higher cut-off mark indicates that admission into this course is highly competitive. Afe Babalola University also provides modern facilities and excellent academic resources, making it a top choice for students who can afford private education.
4. Salem University
Salem University, located in Lokoja, Kogi State, offers a variation of Criminology known as Criminology and Penology. The JAMB cut-off mark for this program is 180. The course focuses on the study of punishment, prison systems, and the rehabilitation of offenders. If you are interested in understanding how the correctional system works, Salem University could be the right fit for you.
Tips for Getting Admitted into Criminology and Security Studies
While meeting the JAMB cut-off mark is essential, it is not the only requirement for securing admission into a university. Here are some additional tips to increase your chances of getting admitted into Criminology and Security Studies:
1. Aim Higher Than the Minimum Cut-Off Mark
Even though the JAMB cut-off mark for Criminology and Security Studies ranges from 180 to 200, it’s advisable to aim for a higher score. The higher your JAMB score, the better your chances of securing admission, especially in competitive universities like Afe Babalola University.
2. Prepare for Post-UTME Examinations
Many universities conduct Post-UTME exams to further assess candidates for admission. Scoring well in the Post-UTME can significantly boost your chances of being accepted. Make sure to study past questions and prepare adequately for this exam.
3. Meet the O’Level Requirements
Apart from your JAMB score, you need to meet the O’Level requirements for Criminology and Security Studies. Most universities require at least five credits in subjects such as:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Government or History
- Social Studies
- Any other relevant subject
Ensure that your O’Level results meet the specific requirements of the university you are applying to.
4. Research the Universities
Each university has its unique admission process and requirements. It’s important to research the universities offering Criminology and Security Studies to understand their admission policies, Post-UTME schedules, and any other relevant information. This will help you stay ahead and increase your chances of admission.
Career Opportunities for Criminology and Security Studies Graduates
Graduates of Criminology and Security Studies have diverse career opportunities across both the public and private sectors. Some of the potential career paths include:
- Law Enforcement Officer: Work with the police force, customs, immigration, or other law enforcement agencies.
- Forensic Analyst: Analyze crime scenes, evidence, and criminal behavior to assist in solving cases.
- Security Consultant: Provide security advice to organizations and develop strategies to prevent crime.
- Intelligence Officer: Work with government agencies such as the DSS (Department of State Services) or the NIA (National Intelligence Agency).
- Prison Officer: Manage correctional facilities and rehabilitate offenders.
- Lecturer or Researcher: Work in academic institutions, teaching and conducting research in the field of criminology and security studies.
Conclusion
Criminology and Security Studies is a dynamic and impactful course that opens up numerous career opportunities in law enforcement, security management, and criminal justice. To secure admission into this course for the 2025/2026 academic session, ensure you meet the JAMB cut-off mark, which ranges from 180 to 200, depending on the university.
Whether you choose to study at Federal University Dutse, NOUN, Afe Babalola University, or Salem University, it’s important to aim for a high JAMB score, prepare for Post-UTME exams, and meet all other admission requirements. With determination and proper preparation, you can begin your journey towards a rewarding career in criminology and security studies.
Good luck with your academic pursuits!