Social Workers are the unsung heroes who mend broken systems, empower vulnerable individuals, and bring healing to fractured communities. If you’ve ever felt the urge to do something of sort, then this field is calling for you, and to actualize you goal of being an expert in the field, you first need to gain admission into any Nigerian university to study the course which eventually begins with selecting the right JAMB subject combination for Social Work.
What is Social Work?
Social Work is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on supporting individuals, families, and communities to improve their well-being, especially those experiencing challenges like poverty, abuse, illness, mental health issues, or discrimination.
Students of Social Work are trained in psychology, sociology, human behavior, public policy, and counseling to make meaningful interventions across a range of sectors like healthcare, justice, education, and community development.
JAMB Subject Combination for Social Work 2026
| 1 | English Language | Essential for effective communication, report writing, and client interaction. |
| 2 | Government or History | Builds understanding of social structures, policy-making, and civic responsibilities. |
| 3 | Economics or Geography | Helps explain economic inequality and environmental challenges facing communities. |
| 4 | Any relevant subject | Options include CRS/IRS, Literature, or Sociology – adds depth to human understanding. |
Note: While Government is the most recommended, CRS, Literature, or any other Arts/Social Science subject may be accepted depending on the institution.
Why are These Subjects Important to Social Work?
| 1 | English Language | Crucial for documentation, counseling, advocacy, and writing client case reports. |
| 2 | Government/History | Provides knowledge about social policies, law, governance, and power dynamics. |
| 3 | Economics/Geography | Offers insights into poverty, development, urban planning, and social resources. |
| 4 | CRS/Literature/Sociology | Encourages empathy, moral reasoning, and a better grasp of human behavior. |
Institutions Offering Social Work in Nigeria
Here’s a list of universities and colleges currently offering Social Work as a course:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- Federal University, Lafia
- Babcock University, Ogun State
- Adeleke University, Ede
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- Federal University, Wukari
- Niger Delta University (NDU)
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) – Under Public Health or related
- Bowen University, Iwo
Some institutions offer it under related programs such as Community Development or Human Services.
Additional Admission Requirements
1. UTME Entry Requirements
Candidates applying for admission through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination are to have at least 5 O’Level credit passes, which must include:
- English Language
- Mathematics (some schools may accept a pass)
- Government or History
- Any other relevant Social Science or Arts subject (like Literature, CRS, Economics)
In addition to the O’Level, they are also to score a minimum of 160 to 200 in the UTME depending on the university.
2. Direct Entry
Application through direct entry is possible with NCE, ND, or Diploma in related fields like:
- Social Studies
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Community Development
Also, a minimum of Upper Credit or Merit Grade
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I study Social Work without Government in JAMB?
A: Yes, but Government is highly recommended. Some institutions accept alternatives like History or CRS.
Q: Is Social Work only offered in universities?
A: Mostly, yes. Some polytechnics offer related programs like Social Development or Community Work.
Q: Is Literature in English accepted for Social Work?
A: Yes, Literature is accepted as a relevant subject in many institutions.
Q: Can I apply for Social Work with a science background?
A: No, it’s best suited for Arts or Social Science students due to subject requirements.
Q: What jobs can I do with a Social Work degree?
A: Social Worker, Counselor, NGO Program Officer, Welfare Officer, Human Rights Advocate, Case Manager, etc.
Q: Is Mathematics compulsory for Social Work?
A: Some institutions require it; others may accept a pass. Check specific school requirements.
Q: What is the best university to study Social Work in Nigeria?
A: Top-rated options include UNN, UNILAG, and UNIBEN.
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