Ever wondered who ensures that governments function smoothly, that policies are implemented effectively, or that public resources reach the people? That’s exactly where Public Administration is introduced, and if you have interest in studying it as a course in the university, the first step you will need to take is to register for the right JAMB subject combination for Public Administration.
What is Public Administration?
Public Administration is the field that deals with the organization, direction, and oversight of government operations. It involves planning, budgeting, staffing, implementing policies, and delivering services to the public. Students in this field are trained in governance, public policy, administrative law, ethics, and human resource management.
The course blends elements of political science, management, economics, and law to develop professionals who can serve in civil service, local government, international agencies, and NGOs.
JAMB subject combination for Public Administration 2026
To study Public Administration, JAMB requires you to select the right combination of subjects. Here’s a breakdown along with the reasons:
| 1 | English Language | Mandatory for all UTME candidates and essential for public communication and report writing. |
| 2 | Government | Offers direct insight into the workings of political institutions, law-making, and governance. |
| 3 | Economics | Helps in understanding budgeting, resource allocation, and economic policies within public institutions. |
| 4 | Any other Social Science subject (e.g., CRS, Geography, Commerce) | Adds depth to your social understanding and analytical skills for managing public systems. |
Why are These subjects important to Public Administration?
Just so you know, these subjects are not merely selected, however based on the following reasons which is to help aspirants have the understanding of the foundation of the discipline:
| 1 | English Language | Strengthens written and verbal communication skills needed for report writing, documentation, and presentations. |
| 2 | Government | Builds foundational knowledge of governance structures and administrative procedures. |
| 3 | Economics | Enables understanding of financial management, budgeting, and economic planning in the public sector. |
| 4 | Other Social Science Subjects | Encourages broader critical thinking and cultural understanding—important for serving diverse populations. |
List of Institutions offering the course in Nigeria
Here are some of the top Nigerian institutions where Public Administration is offered:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- Kaduna State University (KASU)
- Nasarawa State University (NSUK)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
Other Admission requirements
Note that the requirement does not only stop at selecting the right UTME subjects during your JAMB registration, you as well need to have the following in your possession:
- O’Level Requirements: Five (5) SSCE credit passes including English Language, Mathematics, Government or History, Economics, and any other relevant subject.
- UTME Cut-off Mark: Usually between 180–220 depending on the institution.
- Post-UTME Screening: Most universities require you to pass a screening exam or aptitude test.
- Direct Entry (DE): Candidates with NCE, OND, or HND in related fields like Political Science, Business Administration, or Public Administration may apply for 200 level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Government compulsory for Public Administration in JAMB?
A: Yes, it is one of the core subjects and is required by most universities.
Q: Can I study Public Administration without Economics?
A: Some schools accept substitutes like Commerce or Geography, but Economics is widely preferred.
Q: What jobs can I get with a Public Administration degree?
A: Civil servant, administrative officer, policy analyst, public affairs manager, NGO coordinator, etc.
Q: Is Public Administration a social science course?
A: Yes, it falls under the Social Sciences faculty in most Nigerian universities.
Q: Do polytechnics offer Public Administration?
A: Yes, many offer ND and HND programs in Public Administration.
Q: Can I study Public Administration without Mathematics in JAMB?
A: Yes, but you must have a credit pass in Mathematics at O’Level.
Q: How competitive is Public Administration in Nigeria?
A: It’s moderately competitive, especially in top federal and state universities.
Q: Can I combine Public Administration with another course?
A: Some institutions offer combinations like Public Administration with Political Science or Education.
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