Course at a glance
| Degree awarded | Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Biology |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years, then NYSC |
| Faculty / college | Faculty of Science |
| Career field / body | Teaching, research, conservation, health and agriculture |
| UTME subjects | Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics |
| Competitiveness | Moderately competitive |
On this page
- What Biology is about
- A brief history of the discipline
- What you will study
- Why study Biology & who it suits
- Careers & where graduates work
- Salary outlook in Nigeria
- Where it’s offered
- Is it a good course?
- Skills you’ll gain
- Licensing, professional bodies & further study
- How to get in (UTME requirements)
- Practise the UTME subjects free
- Related & alternative courses
- Frequently asked questions
What Biology is about
Biology is the study of living organisms — their structure, function, growth, evolution and interactions with each other and the environment. It is the broad foundation of the life sciences.
A brief history of the discipline
From classifying life to decoding DNA, biology has grown into a vast field underpinning medicine, agriculture, conservation and biotechnology.
What you will study
You study cell biology, genetics, ecology, plant and animal biology, physiology, microbiology and evolution, with laboratory and field work — and a research project.
Why study Biology & who it suits
This course suits curious, analytical students who enjoy science and laboratory or field work. A genuine interest in living things and the natural world is ideal.
Careers & where graduates work
Graduates work in teaching, research, conservation and the environment, health and laboratories, and agriculture. It is also a broad base for further study across the life and health sciences.
Salary outlook in Nigeria
Biology is a broad life-science foundation; pay depends on the path — teaching, research, health or industry.
| Career stage | Typical monthly pay (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry (graduate) | ₦100,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Mid-level (labs / teaching) | ₦250,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Senior / research / industry | ₦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
Biology is offered at virtually every Nigerian university, including the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin 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 Biology admission guide.
Is Biology a good course to study in Nigeria?
Biology is a broad, versatile life-science foundation; its value depends on the path you take and the skills you add, and it is a common route into health, education and research.
Why it’s a strong choice:
- A versatile foundation — health, research, conservation and education.
- Broad options and an excellent base for further study.
- Relevant to the growing biotech and health sectors.
- Steady teaching demand.
Challenges to weigh:
- A general degree — specialise or add skills for the best pay.
- Entry pay is modest.
- Top roles usually need postgraduate study.
- Competitive.
It suits students who love living things and want to keep their options open.
Skills you’ll gain
Beyond subject knowledge, Biology builds transferable skills valued across many careers:
- Biological knowledge
- Laboratory and field skills
- The scientific method
- Data analysis
- Research
- Attention to detail
Licensing, professional bodies & further study
B.Sc Biology (4 years) → NYSC → roles in education, research, conservation and health, or postgraduate specialisation.
How to get in: Biology UTME requirements
The JAMB UTME combination for Biology is Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language, Mathematics and the core science subjects. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.
Practise the UTME subjects free
Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:
Related guides
- How to choose the right course for JAMB
- Good courses you can study with a low JAMB score
- Understanding the JAMB brochure & subject combinations
- How to use the JAMB eligibility checker
- How to change your course or institution on JAMB
Related & alternative courses
If you like Biology, you may also want to explore these related courses:
Frequently asked questions
How long is Biology in Nigeria?
The B.Sc typically takes 4 years, followed by the one-year NYSC.
What are the JAMB subjects for Biology?
Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics
What can I do with a Biology degree?
Teaching, research, conservation, health and laboratory work, and agriculture — plus a foundation for further study across the life and health sciences.
Is Biology a good course to study?
Yes — it is a versatile life-science foundation that opens many paths, from education and research to health and the environment.
Is Biology a good course to study in Nigeria?
Yes — it is a versatile life-science foundation leading into health, research, conservation and education, and a route toward further study, though specialising helps the pay.
What jobs can I get with a Biology degree?
Teaching, research, conservation and the environment, health and laboratory work, and agriculture — plus a base for further study.
Biology vs Microbiology vs Biochemistry?
Biology is the broad study of living things; Microbiology focuses on micro-organisms; Biochemistry on the chemistry of life. Biology is the widest foundation.
Can I study Medicine after Biology?
Yes — it is a common route to apply for Medicine or allied health courses through further study.
Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties of science and relevant professional/learned 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.