If you are much interested or passionate towards achieving a dream in Urban & Regional Planning field, the best approach is gaining admission into any Nigerian institution to study the course. However, for things to work, you first of all need to register for UTME following the JAMB subject combination for Urban & Regional Planning.
What is Urban & Regional Planning?
Urban and Regional Planning is a professional field that focuses on the organization, development, and management of land, infrastructure, and resources in urban and rural environments. It combines principles from architecture, environmental science, geography, economics, law, and public policy.
Planners assess community needs, forecast growth, design layouts for cities and regions, and ensure that developments are sustainable, efficient, and equitable. This course plays a vital role in tackling urban sprawl, slums, transportation challenges, and environmental degradation.
JAMB subject combination for Urban & Regional Planning 2026
To gain admission into Urban & Regional Planning in any Nigerian university, candidates must select the correct UTME subjects. Below is the approved JAMB combination and their justifications:
| 1 | English Language | Mandatory for all JAMB candidates; crucial for communication and report writing. |
| 2 | Mathematics | Essential for calculations, spatial analysis, and statistical forecasting used in planning. |
| 3 | Geography | Core subject that deals with physical and human spatial distribution—central to urban development. |
| 4 | One of Physics, Economics, or Chemistry | Supports analytical and scientific knowledge useful in infrastructure planning and environmental assessments. |
Why are These subjects important to Urban & Regional Planning?
| 1 | English Language | Planning proposals, technical writing, and public reports must be clearly communicated. |
| 2 | Mathematics | Used in land measurement, demographic analysis, and modeling growth trends. |
| 3 | Geography | Offers spatial awareness and knowledge of natural and human environments. |
| 4 | Physics/Economics/Chemistry | Physics aids infrastructure design, Economics informs cost-benefit analysis, Chemistry supports environmental studies. |
List of Institutions offering the course in Nigeria
Below are universities that currently offer Urban & Regional Planning:
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)
- Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH)
- Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) – HND/ND programs
Note: Many polytechnics also offer ND and HND programs in Urban and Regional Planning.
Other Admission requirements
Urban and Regional Planning aspirants are to meet the requirements stated below as the right UTME subject combination:
Five (5) SSC credit passes including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Geography
- And any two of Physics, Chemistry, Economics, Biology, Technical Drawing, or Fine Art
2. Direct Entry:
- Two A-Level passes in Mathematics and Geography or one other science/social science subject.
- ND or HND in Urban & Regional Planning or related field with at least upper credit.
Note that only of the qualifications is needed from the list above to apply for admission through direct entry.
3. Post-UTME:
- Institutions may conduct internal tests or screenings. Performance here also determines your admission chance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Geography compulsory for Urban and Regional Planning?
A: Yes, most universities require it due to its central role in planning concepts.
Q: Can I use Economics instead of Geography?
A: No. While Economics is relevant, Geography is generally compulsory.
Q: What’s the JAMB cut-off mark for Urban & Regional Planning?
A: A minimum of 180 is typical, but competitive schools like OAU or UNILAG may require 200+.
Q: Can science students apply for Urban & Regional Planning?
A: Absolutely, especially those with Geography and Mathematics backgrounds.
Q: Is Physics compulsory in JAMB for this course?
A: It’s optional but can be selected alongside Mathematics and Geography.
Q: Do polytechnics offer Urban & Regional Planning?
A: Yes, many polytechnics offer it at ND and HND levels.
Q: Which is better: University or Polytechnic for this course?
A: Universities offer B.Sc or B.Tech degrees, while polytechnics focus on technical training. Both are valuable depending on your career goals.
Q: Can I switch to Urban & Regional Planning from Architecture?
A: Yes, through transfer or postgraduate options, especially if you have overlapping subjects.
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