2025 Update: How Many Years Is School Of Nursing In Nigeria - Programs and Duration?

Becoming a nurse in Nigeria is a rewarding career path with great opportunities in healthcare. If you are thinking about studying nursing in Nigeria, one important question that may come to mind is: "How many years does it take to complete nursing school?" The answer depends on the type of nursing program you choose. Here is a detailed look at the different programs and their durations.

1. Basic Nursing Program

The most common path for aspiring nurses is the basic nursing program. This program is offered by many schools of nursing across Nigeria. It is a 3-year course where students are trained to become Registered Nurses (RN). After completing the program, graduates must pass the licensing exam from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to practice as nurses.

During the 3 years, students are taught subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing care. They also spend time in hospitals gaining practical experience. The program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to work in various healthcare settings.

2. Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.) Degree

For those who prefer to attend a university, there is the Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.) degree program. This is a 5-year course for students who enter through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The course covers a wide range of nursing topics, including health systems management, research, and leadership.

For students who already hold a diploma in nursing, there is an option to enter the program through Direct Entry, reducing the duration to 4 years. Graduates of this program earn a degree and can pursue higher studies or specialized fields in nursing.

3. Post-Basic Nursing Programs

For Registered Nurses who want to specialize in certain areas of nursing, there are Post-Basic Nursing Programs. These are advanced courses that take about 12 to 18 months to complete. These programs allow nurses to focus on specific fields such as midwifery, pediatrics, or community health. Post-basic programs are an excellent choice for nurses who want to advance their careers and gain expertise in a particular area.

4. Nursing Education at the University Level

In addition to the B.N.Sc. degree, some universities in Nigeria offer other nursing-related degrees, including Master’s and PhD programs. These advanced degrees take longer to complete and allow nurses to pursue academic careers, research, or specialized clinical practice.

Lastly....

In Nigeria, the length of time it takes to complete nursing school depends on the program you choose. For those starting with the basic nursing program, it takes about 3 years to become a Registered Nurse. If you choose the university path, the Bachelor of Nursing Science degree takes 5 years (or 4 years with Direct Entry). For Registered Nurses who want to specialize, post-basic programs usually last 12 to 18 months.

Remember, choosing the right program depends on your career goals and educational preferences. However, no matter which path you choose, a career in nursing in Nigeria offers excellent job prospects and the chance to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

If you’re considering nursing school, it's a good idea to research different programs, speak with professionals in the field, and make sure you choose a path that fits your goals and lifestyle.