Choosing to study Nursing in Nigeria is one of the smartest academic decisions in 2026. Nursing is one of the most respected and employable professions in Nigeria and abroad. However, thousands of Nigerian students make a costly mistake every year because they do not understand the difference between Nursing and Nursing Science.
Many students wrongly believe both are the same. They are not.
This confusion has destroyed many admission chances. Some students apply through JAMB when they should not. Others ignore universities when they should focus on Nursing Science.
In this detailed guide, you will learn:
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The real difference between Nursing and Nursing Science
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Which one requires JAMB in 2026
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Which one is better for your future
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Full list of accredited Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria by state
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Best choice for low and high JAMB scorers
This is the most complete Nursing admission guide in Nigeria for 2026.
What Is Nursing in Nigeria?
Nursing in Nigeria refers to the professional training offered by:
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Schools of Nursing
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Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery
Graduates are awarded:
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Registered Nurse (RN)
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Registered Midwife (RM)
These schools are controlled by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Key Facts About Nursing (RN)
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Studied in Colleges of Nursing
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Does NOT usually require JAMB
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Admission through entrance exam
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Duration: 3 years
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Certificate: RN
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No NYSC
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Lower salary scale
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Limited academic progression
What Is Nursing Science in Nigeria?
Nursing Science is a university degree course.
It is offered in universities as:
B.Sc Nursing Science
Graduates become professional nurses and also hold a university degree.
Key Facts About Nursing Science
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Studied in universities
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Requires JAMB + Post-UTME
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Duration: 5 years
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Certificate: B.Sc Nursing Science
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NYSC is compulsory
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Higher salary
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Can become lecturer, professor, researcher
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Easier migration abroad
Nursing vs Nursing Science: Full Comparison Table
| Feature | Nursing (RN) | Nursing Science (B.Sc) |
|---|---|---|
| Where studied | College of Nursing | University |
| Certificate | RN | B.Sc Nursing |
| JAMB required | No | Yes |
| Duration | 3 years | 5 years |
| NYSC | No | Yes |
| Career growth | Limited | Wide |
| Salary | Lower | Higher |
| Work abroad | Possible | Easier |
Simple Meaning
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Nursing = College of Nursing
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Nursing Science = University Degree
Which Is Better in 2026?
Choose Nursing (RN) If:
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Your JAMB score is low
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You want fast admission
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You want cheaper school fees
Choose Nursing Science If:
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Your JAMB score is high
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You want NYSC
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You want international opportunities
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You want higher salary
Full List of Accredited Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria (By State) – 2026
These schools offer Nursing (RN) and are approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
Most of them do NOT require JAMB.
Accredited Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria (36 States + FCT)
| State | Accredited College / School of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Abia | Abia State College of Nursing, Umuahia |
| Adamawa | College of Nursing & Midwifery, Yola |
| Akwa Ibom | School of Nursing, Anua-Uyo |
| Anambra | School of Nursing, Iyi-Enu |
| Bauchi | School of Nursing, ATBUTH Bauchi |
| Bayelsa | School of Nursing, Tombia |
| Benue | Benue State College of Nursing, Makurdi |
| Borno | School of Nursing, Maiduguri |
| Cross River | School of Nursing, UCTH Calabar |
| Delta | School of Nursing, Agbor |
| Ebonyi | School of Nursing, FETHA Abakaliki |
| Edo | Edo State College of Nursing, Benin |
| Ekiti | Ekiti State College of Nursing, Ado-Ekiti |
| Enugu | School of Nursing, UNTH Ituku-Ozalla |
| Gombe | School of Nursing, Gombe |
| Imo | Imo State College of Nursing, Orlu |
| Jigawa | Jigawa State College of Nursing, Birnin Kudu |
| Kaduna | School of Nursing, ABUTH Zaria |
| Kano | Kano State College of Nursing, Kano |
| Katsina | Katsina State College of Nursing |
| Kebbi | Kebbi State College of Nursing, Birnin Kebbi |
| Kogi | Kogi State College of Nursing, Obangede |
| Kwara | School of Nursing, UITH Ilorin |
| Lagos | College of Nursing, LUTH Idi-Araba |
| Nasarawa | Nasarawa State College of Nursing, Lafia |
| Niger | Niger State College of Nursing, Minna |
| Ogun | Ogun State College of Nursing, Abeokuta |
| Ondo | Ondo State College of Nursing, Akure |
| Osun | Osun State College of Nursing, Osogbo |
| Oyo | School of Nursing, UCH Ibadan |
| Plateau | Plateau State College of Nursing, Jos |
| Rivers | Rivers State College of Nursing, Port Harcourt |
| Sokoto | Sokoto State College of Nursing |
| Taraba | Taraba State College of Nursing, Jalingo |
| Yobe | Yobe State College of Nursing, Damaturu |
| Zamfara | Zamfara State College of Nursing, Gusau |
| FCT | College of Nursing, Gwagwalada Abuja |
Do Colleges of Nursing Use JAMB in 2026?
NO.
Most Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria do not use JAMB.
They conduct:
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Their own entrance exams
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Oral interviews
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O’level screening
That is why many students with low JAMB scores still become nurses.
JAMB Requirements for Nursing Science 2026
Universities offering Nursing Science require:
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JAMB UTME
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Cut-off mark: 200 – 280
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Subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
Career Opportunities
Nursing (RN)
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Hospital Nurse
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Clinic Nurse
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NGO Health Worker
Nursing Science (B.Sc)
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Hospital Nurse
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University Lecturer
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Researcher
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Hospital Administrator
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International Nurse
Salary Difference
| Category | Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| RN Nurse | ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 |
| B.Sc Nurse | ₦200,000 – ₦350,000 |
Can RN Upgrade to B.Sc Nursing?
Yes.
RN holders can later apply for:
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Direct Entry Nursing Science
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Post-basic Nursing programs
Common Mistakes Students Make
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Applying for College of Nursing through JAMB
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Choosing wrong subject combination
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Not checking accreditation
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Waiting too long to apply
Final Advice to 2026 Candidates
If your JAMB score is low, do not waste a year. Choose College of Nursing.
If your JAMB score is high, go for Nursing Science for a stronger future.
Both are good — but they are not the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nursing better than Nursing Science?
No. Nursing Science offers more opportunities.
Can I work abroad with RN?
Yes, but B.Sc is easier.
Is Nursing competitive?
Yes. Forms sell out fast.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Nursing and Nursing Science can save your academic future.
Thousands fail yearly due to ignorance.
Now you know better.
Choose wisely and secure your admission in 2026.
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