Agriculture

Agriculture is the science and practice of cultivating crops and rearing animals for food, fibre and raw materials. Here is what the course involves, where it can take you, and how to get in.

Course at a glance

Degree awardedB.Agric / B.Sc Agriculture
Duration5 years (4 at some universities), then NYSC
Faculty / collegeFaculty of Agriculture
Career field / bodyAgricultural science registration; Nigerian Institute of Agricultural Science
UTME subjectsUse of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics
CompetitivenessModerately competitive

What Agriculture is about

Agriculture is the science and practice of cultivating crops and rearing animals for food, fibre and raw materials. A degree in Agriculture covers the whole food-production system, from soil and seed to market.

A brief history of the discipline

Farming is as old as civilisation, but modern agriculture applies science and technology to feed a growing population. It remains central to Nigeria’s economy, employment and food security.

What you will study

You study crop science, animal science, soil science, agricultural economics and extension, and the basics of agricultural engineering, with substantial farm practicals and industrial/farm training — and a project.

Why study Agriculture & who it suits

This course suits students interested in food, farming, science and the environment, who enjoy both fieldwork and applied science. A genuine interest in farming and food systems is ideal.

Careers & where graduates work

Graduates work in agribusiness and farm management, agricultural research and extension, the agro-allied industry, agricultural banking and finance, government and NGOs, and increasingly in agri-entrepreneurship.

Salary outlook in Nigeria

Agriculture pay grows in agribusiness, agro-industry and management; the field also strongly supports entrepreneurship.

Career stageTypical monthly pay (approx.)
Entry (graduate)₦100,000 – ₦250,000
Mid-level₦250,000 – ₦550,000
Senior / management & agribusiness₦600,000 – ₦1,200,000+

Figures are rough approximations (monthly gross) as of 2026, drawn from Nigerian salary aggregators. Actual pay varies widely by sector (oil & gas, fintech and multinationals pay far above the public service), employer, location (Lagos and Abuja pay more) and experience — treat these as a guide, not a guarantee.

Where it’s offered: notable universities

Agriculture is offered at many Nigerian universities, including the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, the University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Nigeria, the Federal University of Technology Akure and the University of Ilorin.

This is not a ranked or exhaustive list — always confirm the current institutions and their requirements in the official JAMB brochure, or use our subject combination checker and the Agriculture admission guide.

Is Agriculture a good course to study in Nigeria?

Agriculture is a broad, practical degree central to food security, with strong agribusiness and entrepreneurship potential.

Why it’s a strong choice:

Challenges to weigh:

It suits students interested in food, farming, science and business.

Skills you’ll gain

Beyond subject knowledge, Agriculture builds transferable skills valued across many careers:

Licensing, professional bodies & further study

B.Agric / B.Sc Agriculture (about 5 years) → NYSC → roles across agribusiness, research, extension and the agro-industry, with registration as an agricultural scientist for professional practice.

How to get in: Agriculture UTME requirements

The JAMB UTME combination for Agriculture is Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.

Full admission details: see the complete Agriculture subject combination, cut-off & O’Level guide, or confirm any course with our subject combination checker.

Practise the UTME subjects free

Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:

Ready to practise? Take a free mock exam or focused CBT practice with worked explanations.

Related guides

If you like Agriculture, you may also want to explore these related courses:

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Frequently asked questions

How long is Agriculture in Nigeria?

It typically takes 5 years (4 at some universities), followed by the one-year NYSC.

What are the JAMB subjects for Agriculture?

Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics

Is Agriculture a good course in Nigeria?

Yes — with strong national focus on food security and agribusiness, it offers wide opportunities in farming, agro-industry, finance and entrepreneurship.

What can I do with an Agriculture degree?

Work in agribusiness and farm management, research and extension, the agro-allied industry, agricultural banking, government and NGOs, or start your own agri-business.

Is Agriculture a good course to study in Nigeria?

Yes — with strong national focus on food security and agribusiness, it offers wide opportunities in farming, agro-industry, finance and entrepreneurship.

What jobs can I get with Agriculture?

Agribusiness and farm management, research and extension, the agro-allied industry, agricultural banking, government and NGOs — or your own agri-business.

Does Agriculture pay well?

Employed pay is modest versus oil & gas, but agribusiness and successful farming enterprises can be very rewarding.

Can I start a farm business with this degree?

Yes — the degree is well suited to founding and running farms and agribusinesses.

Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties and the relevant professional/registration bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.