The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is a pivotal examination body that conducts the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for senior secondary school students in West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia. For students aspiring to pursue Economics at the tertiary level, selecting the right subject combination during their WASSCE is crucial. This choice not only ensures eligibility for admission into Economics-related courses but also lays a strong academic foundation for university studies. Economics, as a social science discipline, requires a blend of analytical, mathematical, and social science skills, and the WAEC subject combination reflects this balance.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the recommended and compulsory WAEC subject combinations for students aiming to study Economics at the university level.
WAEC Subject Combination for Economics
To qualify for admission into an Economics program at a university, students must register for and pass a minimum of five subjects in their WAEC examination, with specific subjects being mandatory. The subject combination typically includes a mix of compulsory and elective subjects tailored to meet the requirements of most universities in West Africa.
Compulsory Subjects
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English Language: This is a mandatory subject for all WAEC candidates, as it is the primary medium of instruction in tertiary institutions. A credit pass (C6 or better) is typically required.
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Mathematics: Economics involves quantitative analysis, and a strong foundation in Mathematics is essential. A credit pass is required by most universities.
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Economics: As the core subject for aspiring Economics students, a credit pass in Economics is non-negotiable. It introduces students to basic economic principles, theories, and concepts.
Elective Subjects
In addition to the compulsory subjects, students must choose at least two other subjects from the following list to meet the minimum requirement of five credits. These electives should align with the demands of Economics as a course of study:
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Government: This subject complements Economics by providing insights into political systems, governance, and public policy, which are often intertwined with economic principles.
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Geography: Geography offers knowledge of resource distribution, economic geography, and environmental factors that influence economic activities.
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Commerce: This subject covers business and trade principles, which are relevant to understanding market dynamics and economic systems.
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Accounting/Financial Accounting: This provides foundational knowledge in financial management and accounting principles, which are useful for economic analysis.
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Civic Education: This subject fosters an understanding of civic responsibilities and governance, which can be relevant to economic policy studies.
Recommended Subject Combination
A typical and widely accepted WAEC subject combination for Economics students is:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Economics
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Government
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Geography or Accounting
This combination ensures that students meet the requirements of most universities while gaining a broad foundation in both social sciences and quantitative skills.
Additional Notes
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Minimum Requirements: Most universities require at least five credit passes (C6 or better) in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, in no more than two sittings.
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Subject Relevance: While the above combination is widely accepted, students should verify the specific requirements of their target universities, as some institutions may prioritize certain electives (e.g., Accounting over Geography).
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Science Subjects: Although Economics is a social science, some students opt to include a science subject like Biology or Physics. However, this is not typically required unless the student is considering a multidisciplinary program.
Why This Subject Combination Matters
Choosing the right WAEC subject combination is critical because:
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It ensures eligibility for admission into Economics programs at universities.
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It prepares students for the rigors of university-level Economics, which often involves statistical analysis, policy evaluation, and economic modeling.
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It aligns with the prerequisites for related courses like Accounting, Business Administration, or Banking and Finance, providing flexibility in career paths.
Students are advised to consult their school counselors or check the admission requirements of their preferred institutions to confirm the acceptability of their chosen subjects.
READ ALSO: How to Check WAEC Results Online Easily
FAQs
Is Economics compulsory for studying Economics at the university?
Yes, Economics is a compulsory subject for students intending to study Economics at the tertiary level. A credit pass in Economics during WAEC is typically required by most universities.
Can I replace Mathematics with another subject?
No, Mathematics is a compulsory subject for Economics students. It is essential for understanding quantitative aspects of Economics, such as econometrics and statistical analysis.
Can I include science subjects in my WAEC combination for Economics?
While science subjects like Biology or Physics are not typically required, some universities may accept them as part of the five credits, provided the core subjects (English, Mathematics, and Economics) are included. Always confirm with your target institution.
What happens if I don’t have a credit in English Language?
A credit pass in English Language is mandatory for admission into any university program, including Economics. Without it, you may not be eligible for admission, even if you have credits in other subjects.
Can I use Commerce instead of Government?
Yes, Commerce is often an acceptable elective for Economics, as it covers business and trade principles. However, some universities prefer Government due to its relevance to economic policy. Check with your chosen institution.
How many subjects do I need to write in WAEC for Economics?
You need to register for a minimum of eight to nine subjects in WAEC, but you must have at least five credit passes, including English Language, Mathematics, and Economics, to qualify for an Economics program.
Can I combine WAEC and NECO results for admission?
Yes, many universities accept a combination of WAEC and NECO results, provided you have the required credits in the relevant subjects. Confirm this with your target university.
Is Further Mathematics required for Economics?
Further Mathematics is not typically required for Economics in WAEC. However, it can be an advantage for students planning to pursue highly quantitative Economics programs at the university level.
What if my school does not offer Economics as a subject?
If your school does not offer Economics, you may face challenges meeting university requirements for an Economics program. Consider enrolling in a private study center or discussing alternative pathways with your school counselor.
Can I study Economics with a D7 in Mathematics?
Most universities require at least a C6 in Mathematics for Economics. A D7 may disqualify you from admission, so consider retaking the exam to improve your grade.
