Islamic Studies is a discipline focused on exploring the rich history, teachings, culture, and practices of Islam. It offers students an in-depth understanding of the religion and its role in shaping civilizations. Many universities across Nigeria, including the University of Ilorin, the University of Ibadan, Bayero University Kano, and Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, provide programs in Islamic Studies. If you aspire to pursue Islamic Studies, understanding the correct JAMB subject combination, O’level, and direct entry requirements is crucial to securing admission.
JAMB Subject Combination for Islamic Studies 2025/2026
To be eligible for admission into any Nigerian university offering Islamic Studies, you need to take the following subjects in your JAMB examination:
- English Language (Compulsory for all courses)
- Islamic Religious Studies
- Two other Arts subjects
You can choose two subjects from the following list of Arts subjects:
- Arabic
- Literature in English
- History
- Government
- Economics
- Geography
- Hausa
- Yoruba
- Igbo
- French
It is important to note that to be eligible for admission into most universities for Islamic Studies, you must score at least 180 in your JAMB examination.
O’level Requirements for Islamic Studies 2025/2026
In addition to the JAMB requirements, you must meet certain O’level qualifications. The O’level requirements for Islamic Studies are as follows:
- Five SSCE credit passes, which must include:
- English Language
- Islamic Religious Studies
- Three other relevant subjects
You can meet these O’level requirements through any of the following examinations:
- WAEC
- NECO
- NABTEB
- GCE
Direct Entry Requirements for Islamic Studies 2025/2026
For those applying through direct entry, the requirements are slightly different. If you possess any of the following qualifications, you may be eligible for direct entry admission:
- Diploma, NCE, or ND in Islamic Studies or any related field.
- You must have at least a lower credit or merit in your qualification.
- Additionally, you must meet the O’level requirements as outlined above.
The direct entry option allows you to skip the 100-level (first year) and begin your studies at the 200-level in most universities.
Nigerian Universities Offering Islamic Studies in 2025/2026
Here’s a list of universities in Nigeria offering Islamic Studies programs:
- University of Abuja
- Al-Hikmah University
- Bauchi State University
- Bayero University
- Federal University, Kashere
- Federal University, Ndifu-Alike
- Fountain University
- Gombe State University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Ilorin
- University of Jos
- Kaduna State University
- Kogi State University
- Kwara State University
- Lagos State University
- University of Maiduguri
- Nasarawa State University
- Olabisi Onabanjo University
- Sokoto State University
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University
- National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
Conclusion
Islamic Studies provides vast career opportunities in academia, religious institutions, social services, and more. If you are passionate about exploring Islam’s profound impact on history and society, pursuing Islamic Studies at any of the universities mentioned is an excellent choice. To succeed, it is vital to understand the JAMB subject combination, O’level, and direct entry requirements. We hope this guide has given you all the information you need to embark on your academic journey in Islamic Studies.
FAQs
What JAMB score is required for Islamic Studies?
To gain admission into universities offering Islamic Studies, you need a minimum JAMB score of 180, although some institutions may set a higher cut-off.
Can I apply for Islamic Studies with a diploma?
Yes, candidates with a diploma in Islamic Studies or related fields can apply for direct entry admission, provided they meet the O’level requirements and have at least lower credit.
Which universities in Nigeria offer Islamic Studies?
Some of the universities offering Islamic Studies include the University of Ilorin, Bayero University Kano, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, and the University of Ibadan, among others.
What subjects are best for Islamic Studies in JAMB?
The best subjects to select alongside English and Islamic Religious Studies are Arabic, History, and Literature in English, but other Arts subjects are also suitable.
Can I combine WAEC and NECO results for Islamic Studies?
Yes, most universities accept the combination of results from WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or GCE, provided you meet the credit requirements in the relevant subjects.