Crop science is a vital branch of agriculture focusing on the study of crops, their production, improvement, protection, and utilization. As a crop scientist, you’ll work towards ensuring food security, enhancing crop quality and yield, and developing sustainable farming practices. If you’re considering a degree in crop science for the 2025/2026 academic session, it’s crucial to know the JAMB subject combination and other admission requirements.
What is JAMB?
JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria. This computer-based test assesses candidates’ academic readiness for admission into various degree programs at Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions. The UTME usually takes place between February and April each year.
JAMB Subject Combination for Crop Science
To pursue a degree in crop science, you need to be aware of the JAMB subject combination required:
- Use of English – Compulsory for all candidates.
- Chemistry – Essential for understanding crop science.
- Biology/Agricultural Science – Fundamental for studying crops and their management.
- Mathematics/Physics – Important for scientific calculations and understanding physical principles.
Candidates typically need to score at least 180 out of 400 marks in the UTME to be eligible for admission into crop science programs.
O’Level Requirements for Crop Science
In addition to a satisfactory UTME score, candidates must meet the O’Level requirements for crop science. These include:
- At least five credits in relevant subjects in WAEC, NECO, or other equivalent examinations.
- Required subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science, and any other science subject.
Ensure you have your O’Level results ready at the time of admission.
Direct Entry Requirements for Crop Science
For candidates with a diploma or advanced-level qualifications in relevant fields, direct entry into crop science programs is an option. This allows you to skip the UTME and enter directly into the second year of the four-year degree program. Direct entry requirements typically include:
- At least two A’Level passes in Chemistry and Biology/Agricultural Science.
- Or, a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Agriculture or related disciplines with a minimum of lower credit.
Universities Offering Crop Science in Nigeria
Several reputable universities in Nigeria offer crop science as a course of study. Some of these institutions include:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- University of Ibadan
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- University of Ilorin
- University of Benin
- University of Calabar
- Bayero University, Kano
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
- Federal University of Technology, Akure
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso
- Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
- Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
Career Opportunities for Crop Science Graduates
A degree in crop science opens up a range of career opportunities in various sectors such as agriculture, research, education, extension, agribusiness, biotechnology, environmental management, and policy making. Potential job titles include:
- Crop Scientist
- Agronomist
- Plant Breeder
- Seed Technologist
- Soil Scientist
- Crop Protection Specialist
- Agricultural Consultant
- Agricultural Extension Officer
- Agricultural Educator
- Agricultural Researcher
- Biotechnologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Policy Analyst
Conclusion
Studying crop science is both rewarding and challenging. It plays a crucial role in ensuring food security, advancing economic development, and promoting environmental sustainability. If you’re aiming to study crop science in Nigeria, understanding the JAMB subject combination and other admission requirements is essential. Choose a reputable university and explore the diverse career opportunities that await you as a crop science graduate.
FAQs
What are the JAMB subjects for crop science?
The subjects are Use of English, Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science, and Mathematics/Physics.
What O’Level subjects are required for crop science?
You need at least five credits, including English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science, and another science subject.
Can I apply for direct entry into crop science?
Yes, with relevant A’Level passes or a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Agriculture or related fields.
Which universities offer crop science in Nigeria?
Some universities include the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Ibadan, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, among others.