Political Science is a dynamic and multidisciplinary field that explores the theory and practice of politics, governance, public policy, and international relations. In Nigeria, it is one of the most sought-after courses in the social sciences, offering graduates diverse career opportunities in government, diplomacy, law, journalism, and more. For students aspiring to study Political Science in Nigerian universities through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in 2025, selecting the correct subject combination for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is a critical step toward securing admission.
JAMB Subject Combination for Political Science
To study Political Science in a Nigerian university, candidates must register for and pass four subjects in the JAMB UTME. The subject combination is designed to align with the skills and knowledge required for the course. The required JAMB subject combination for Political Science in 2025/2026 is:
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English Language: This is compulsory for all JAMB candidates, as it tests proficiency in the primary language of instruction in Nigerian universities.
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Government or History: Government is a core subject for Political Science, as it directly relates to the study of political systems and governance. History is an acceptable alternative in some institutions.
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Two other Social Science or Arts subjects: Candidates can choose from subjects such as Economics, Literature in English, Christian Religious Studies (CRS), Islamic Religious Studies (IRS), Geography, or Commerce, depending on the university’s specific requirements.
Examples of Acceptable Subject Combinations
While English Language and Government/History are mandatory, the choice of the two additional subjects can vary. Some suitable combinations include:
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English Language, Government, Economics, CRS
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English Language, Government, Literature in English, Geography
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English Language, History, Economics, Commerce
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English Language, Government, CRS, Literature in English
Candidates should verify the specific requirements of their chosen university, as some institutions may have preferences or restrictions. For example, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) requires English Language, Government, Economics or Geography, and one of History, Literature in English, or CRS/IRS, while Ambrose Alli University (AAU) mandates Government and Mathematics.
O’Level Requirements for Political Science
In addition to the JAMB subject combination, candidates must meet the O’Level requirements to qualify for admission. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examination Council (NECO), or equivalent O’Level examinations require a minimum of five credit passes in relevant subjects, obtained in not more than two sittings. The core O’Level subjects for Political Science are:
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English Language: A credit pass is mandatory.
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Government or History: A credit pass in either subject is essential.
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Three other subjects: These can include Economics, Literature in English, CRS, IRS, Commerce, or any other Arts or Social Science subjects.
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Mathematics: A pass in Mathematics is generally required, though some universities, such as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the University of Calabar (UNICAL), require a credit pass in Mathematics.
WAEC Subject Combination
For candidates sitting for WAEC or NECO, a typical nine-subject combination for Political Science might include:
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English Language
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Government or History
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Mathematics
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Economics
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Literature in English
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CRS or IRS
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Commerce
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Biology
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Agricultural Science
Candidates must ensure they achieve at least a credit in the core subjects (English, Government/History, and three others) and at least a pass in Mathematics, unless the university specifies a credit.
Direct Entry Requirements
For candidates seeking admission through Direct Entry (DE), the requirements differ slightly. Direct Entry candidates typically start at the 200-level of the degree program. The general requirements include:
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Two A’Level passes: These must include Government or History and one other Social Science or Arts subject, such as Economics or Geography.
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National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND): An Upper Credit in relevant fields like Political Science, Public Administration, or Social Sciences is acceptable.
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National Certificate of Education (NCE): A minimum of Merit in Political Science or related fields, combined with credit passes in Government/History and other relevant subjects.
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O’Level Requirements: Five credit passes in English Language, Government or History, and three other subjects, with at least a pass in Mathematics.
Some universities, such as the University of Calabar (UNICAL), require two Social Science subjects, including Government, and do not accept History as a substitute. Candidates should consult the JAMB Brochure or the university’s admission portal for specific requirements.
Additional Admission Considerations
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JAMB Cut-Off Mark: The minimum JAMB cut-off mark for Political Science is typically 180, but competitive universities like the University of Ibadan (UI) or UNILAG may require scores of 200 or higher. Aiming for a score above 250 increases admission chances.
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Post-UTME Screening: Most universities conduct a Post-UTME screening exercise, which may include written tests or verification of credentials. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to meet the departmental cut-off marks.
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University-Specific Requirements: Always check the specific requirements of your chosen university, as variations exist. For instance, Lagos State University (LASU) requires a credit pass in Mathematics, while the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) accepts Government or History plus any two of Economics, Geography, or Literature in English.
Career Opportunities in Political Science
A degree in Political Science opens doors to various career paths, including:
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Politician or Political Analyst
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Public Administrator
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Policy Analyst
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Diplomat
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Journalist or Political Commentator
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Lecturer or Researcher
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Lawyer (with further studies)
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NGO Worker or Consultant
READ ALSO: How to Print JAMB Admission Letter
FAQs
Is Mathematics compulsory for Political Science in JAMB?
No, Mathematics is not a compulsory subject for Political Science in JAMB. However, some universities, like LASU and AAU, require a credit pass in Mathematics at the O’Level.
Can I use Literature in English as one of the additional subjects?
Yes, Literature in English is an acceptable Social Science/Arts subject for Political Science in most universities, though it is not mandatory. Check your chosen university’s requirements.
Can I combine Biology or Chemistry for Political Science in JAMB?
No, Biology and Chemistry are not recommended subjects for Political Science in JAMB, as they are Science subjects. You should choose Social Science or Arts subjects like Economics, CRS, or Geography.
What is the minimum JAMB score for Political Science?
The general minimum JAMB score is 180, but competitive universities may require 200 or higher. Scoring above 250 is advisable for better admission prospects.
Can I study Political Science with a D7 in Government in WAEC?
No, a credit pass in Government or History is mandatory for Political Science at the O’Level. A D7 will not qualify you for admission.
Is CRS or IRS compulsory for Political Science?
No, CRS or IRS is not compulsory but can be chosen as one of the two additional Social Science/Arts subjects in JAMB or WAEC.
What are the best universities to study Political Science in Nigeria?
Some top universities offering Political Science include the University of Ibadan (UI), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Always confirm their specific subject requirements.
