What Nigerian students wish they knew before picking their course

Many undergraduates realize too late that factors like industry demand, practical training opportunities and curriculum workload should influence their decision as much as personal interests.

In 2025, job markets are evolving rapidly, and the wrong choice can lead to wasted time, mounting debt and the scramble for additional qualifications. By understanding key considerations, from accreditation and teaching quality to internship access and future skills, you can make a more informed decision and avoid common regrets.

Below are the insights that current students wish they had known before enrolling.  

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Research employment projections for your field before deciding. Degrees in data analytics, fintech and renewable energy are in high demand, while some traditional programmes face oversupply. Aligning your choice with growth sectors improves job prospects and can justify the cost and effort of your studies.

Not all programmes hold the same standing with professional bodies. Graduates of unaccredited courses may face additional exams or fail to qualify for licensing.

Verify that your intended course is recognized by relevant councils, such as the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria or the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, before committing.

Some degrees demand continuous assessments, laboratory assignments and group projects, whereas others focus on end‑of‑session exams. Speak with current students and review course outlines to gauge the pace and intensity.

Choosing a programme that matches your study style helps you maintain grades without sacrificing wellbeing.

Hands‑on experience sets you apart in a competitive job market. Look for courses that include mandatory industrial attachments, collaborations with industry partners or campus incubators. Early exposure builds skills, networks and references, critical assets when you graduate.

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The reputation and research activity of your lecturers shape the quality of instruction. Investigate faculty profiles, publication records and lab facilities. A department that invests in modern equipment, software licences and guest lectures provides a richer learning environment than one reliant on outdated materials.

Tuition fees often represent just part of your expense. Factor in accommodation availability, transport costs and local living standards. A lower‑tuition course in an expensive city may cost more overall than a mid‑range programme elsewhere.

Some degrees lock you into narrow career paths, while others develop versatile skills, communication, critical thinking, project management, that apply across sectors. If your interests evolve, a course with broad applicability lets you pivot without starting over.

Choosing a course with eyes wide open, from practical requirements and professional recognition to lifestyle fit and future trends, lays the groundwork for both academic success and a fulfilling career.

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