Soil Science is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on understanding the physical, chemical, biological, and ecological properties and processes of soils. The study of soil science extends its relevance into various industries, including agriculture, forestry, environmental management, engineering, and geology. If you’re looking to pursue a degree in Soil Science in Nigeria, it’s essential to know the JAMB subject combinations, WAEC requirements, and the universities that offer this course.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to prepare for a successful admission into a Soil Science program.
JAMB Subject Combination for Soil Science 2025/2026
To study Soil Science at a Nigerian university, you need to register and sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The UTME evaluates your knowledge in four key subjects, which are critical for Soil Science.
The JAMB subject combination for Soil Science is:
- Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)
- Chemistry
- Biology or Agricultural Science
- Mathematics or Physics
- Use of English is mandatory and requires a strong score—typically above 50%—to qualify for admission.
- Chemistry is essential, as it provides a foundation for understanding soil chemistry, fertility, and other related concepts.
- Biology or Agricultural Science is equally important since these subjects focus on the biological aspects of Soil Science, such as soil microbiology, plant nutrition, and soil ecology.
- Mathematics or Physics are optional subjects. If you excel in Mathematics, it can be a strong choice as it covers key areas like algebra, statistics, and geometry. Physics focuses more on soil mechanics and environmental factors, making it an equally valuable choice.
For eligibility, you need to score a minimum of 180 in the UTME. However, keep in mind that certain universities may set higher cut-off marks based on competition and available spaces.
O’Level/WAEC Subject Combination for Soil Science 2025/2026
In addition to your JAMB subjects, you need to meet the O’Level (WAEC) requirements. You must have at least five credits in relevant subjects in your West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or its equivalent.
The WAEC subject combination for Soil Science includes:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Mathematics (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Biology or Agricultural Science
- Physics or Geography
Achieving a minimum of five credits in these subjects is essential for qualifying for admission. English Language and Mathematics are non-negotiable for any course, while Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Geography form the core requirements for Soil Science. Additionally, choosing other complementary subjects like Economics, Technical Drawing, or Further Mathematics can help you stand out.
Direct Entry Requirements for Soil Science 2025/2026
If you’re applying through Direct Entry (DE), perhaps with a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or National Certificate of Education (NCE), you can bypass the first year and enter the program directly into the second year.
Common Direct Entry requirements include:
- A minimum of Upper Credit in ND or HND in fields like Soil Science, Agricultural Science, Crop Production, Horticulture, or Forestry from a recognized institution.
- A minimum of Merit in NCE in related fields.
- At least two A-level passes in Chemistry and Biology or Agricultural Science.
- A minimum of five O-level credits (including English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Geography).
In addition, you’ll need to sit for the JAMB Direct Entry Examination (DEE), which evaluates your knowledge in Use of English, Chemistry, and Biology or Agricultural Science. Aim for at least 50% in each subject to ensure a smooth entry.
List of Universities that Offer Soil Science in Nigeria
Here’s a list of some universities in Nigeria where you can pursue a degree in Soil Science:
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
- Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
- Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi (FUAM)
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
- Federal University of Technology Minna (FUTMINNA)
- Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
- Federal University Wukari (FUWUKARI)
- Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA)
- Kwara State University (KWASU)
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU)
- Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola (MAUTECH)
- Nasarawa State University Keffi (NSUK)
- Ondo State University of Science and Technology (OSUSTECH)
- Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST)
- Taraba State University (TASU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
Conclusion
Soil Science is an exciting and valuable field, offering a wide range of career opportunities in agriculture, environmental management, and beyond. If you’re interested in this course, it’s important to meet the required JAMB and WAEC subject combinations, perform well in your UTME or Direct Entry Examination, and select the right university to achieve your academic goals.
We hope this guide helps you prepare for your journey into Soil Science. Good luck with your admissions process!