Following the 2026/2027 academic cycle, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has issued the JAMB subject combination for Public Law, so without further ado, find out already what subjects you need to combine as an aspirant of Public Law, and then you can proceed to scoring high in the UTME and apply for admission into any institution of your choice.
What is Public Law?
Public Law is a field of legal study focused on the relationship between individuals and the state. It includes Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Criminal Law, and International Law. Public Law ensures that government actions conform to established rules and guarantees the protection of civil rights.
Students interested in Public Law often pursue careers such as:
- Human Rights Lawyers
- Policy Analysts
- Constitutional Lawyers
- Public Defenders
- International Legal Advisors
- Civil Service Legal Experts
JAMB Subject Combination for Public Law 2026
| 1 | Use of English | Core subject for all courses; crucial for legal writing, communication, and reasoning. |
| 2 | Literature in English | Trains comprehension and analysis, foundational for reading statutes and case law. |
| 3 | Government or History | Builds understanding of legal systems, political structures, and historical precedents. |
| 4 | CRS/IRS or Economics | Encourages moral reasoning and economic awareness, key in justice and legal policymaking. |
Note: Literature in English is compulsory for all Law aspirants.
Why are These Subjects Important to Public Law?
You also should note that these subjects are not merely selected rather based on certain reasons which are of important to the discipline itself.
| 1 | Use of English | Law relies on precise language; strong command of English is essential. |
| 2 | Literature in English | Enhances critical reading and argument construction — vital skills for legal professionals. |
| 3 | Government | Offers insight into democratic systems, separation of powers, and rule of law. |
| 4 | History | Helps understand legal evolution, colonial legacies, and current systems of justice. |
| 5 | CRS/IRS | Supports ethical judgment and social justice — pillars of public interest law. |
| 6 | Economics | Useful for understanding public policy, regulation, and socio-economic justice. |
Institutions Offering Public Law in Nigeria
Although students apply generally for Law, universities offer specializations (like Public Law) from 300-level or 400-level. Below are some Nigerian institutions that provide solid grounding in Public Law:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
- Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Additional Requirements for Admission
1. O’Level Requirements
You need a minimum of five (5) credits including:
- English Language
- Literature in English
- Government or History
- Any other two relevant subjects (e.g. CRS/IRS, Economics, Civic Education)
A credit in Mathematics is often required for eligibility, especially in top-ranking schools.
2. Direct Entry Requirements
- Two A-Level passes in Literature in English and Government/History
- Acceptable alternatives: JUPEB, IJMB, or NCE with appropriate subject combinations
- A good First Degree may also be accepted for conversion programs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Public Law offered directly in JAMB?
A: No. You apply for Law, and later specialize in Public Law during your undergraduate studies.
Q: Is Literature in English compulsory for Law?
A: Yes. It is non-negotiable across all institutions.
Q: Can I choose both Government and History?
A: You can, but only one is required in JAMB. The other can support your O’Level result.
Q: Is CRS or IRS necessary?
A: Not mandatory, but often accepted as the fourth subject.
Q: What is the minimum JAMB score for Law?
A: Most top universities require 250 and above.
Q: Can I study Law without passing Mathematics?
A: No. Most schools require at least a credit in O’Level Mathematics, even though it’s not a JAMB subject.
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